Examination of Day Lighting and the Glare Problem: The Case of Primary Schools in Famagusta

The objective of the current investigation is to examine the effect of daylighting based on the direction of the openings and class organization on students in primary schools. Daylighting within the built environment is a critical factor in human expansion and functioning. Daylighting is an essential factor in the design of education buildings as it creates a pleasant environment; it promotes healthier conditions and ensures energy saving. Qualitative research is carried out through review of various theoretical sources on the subject and the case study assessment to define the appropriate daylighting system and the ways to reduce visual comfort issues. The data collection of the case study is based on observation, photography, plan and section drawings, and 3D modeling of classes. For filling the aim of the present thesis, an in-depth daylighting performance analysis was carried out in typical classrooms of primary schools in Famagusta, North Cyprus, in which the selected classrooms have south direction windows with direct light which cause glare. The thesisshows sufficient lighting levels in the case of Famagusta primary schools; however, high lighting contrast and bright visible light source in the field of view can cause glare issues, which will reduce comfort and hence the level of learning among students. Conclusions regarding potential improvements are proposed to achieve better visual comfort in typical educational school premises in North Cyprus with similar climatic characteristics and typologies in educational architecture.