The Review of the Selected Challenges for an Incorporation of Daylight Assessment Methods into Urban Planning in Poland

Abstract

The main objectives of this research it to find out if modern daylight assessment and design methods can be useful for urban residential planning in Poland. The study gives a chance to describe and appraise modern daylight design techniques. The other purpose is to illustrate how daylight knowledge could be used as an incentive to rethink the way urban environments are created. Although daylight design is acknowledged in literature and case studies as a tool for fostering residents’ well-being, daylight design techniques are not common practice in Poland. A review of current Polish building and lighting regulations regarding daylight is presented. The results of the two pilot questionnaires show a lack of daylight training among future architects and urban specialists. The first survey carried out among 54 students illustrates the importance of daylight as a natural resource which is essential in sustainable approaches to urban planning. It also highlights the belief that daylight and electric light projects should be holistically integrated in the implementation of the city lighting plans. The results of the second pilot study show a growing demand for better daylight education and an urgent need for revision of the existing recommendations in Poland.