Assessing the Visual Comfort, Visual Interest of Sunlight Patterns, and View Quality under Different Window Conditions in an Open-Plan Office

Abstract

ABSTRACT Sunlight is a multisensory phenomenon that can enhance occupant’s comfort, health, and connection to the outside environment through its dynamic luminous and thermal attributes. One gap in the existing literature on sunlight exposure is in addressing the visual interest of sunlight patterns and its potential effects on visual comfort. This study employed an experimental procedure where 33 office workers were subjected to three different window and sunlight patterns: fractal pattern, striped pattern, and clear at an office building over three days (one condition per day). Subjective ratings and physical environmental measurements were collected and analyzed to understand differences among the three conditions. Results showed no significant differences in visual comfort or visual interest of sunlight patterns among the three conditions. Desk layout influenced visual interest and view quality ratings. The fractal and striped patterns negatively influenced view quality compared to the clear condition. These results suggest that the shape of window and sunlight patterns might have limited to no impact on visual comfort and interest in offices when workers are preoccupied performing typical office work.