The importance of designing climate-resilient buildings and maximizing daylighting

Kim Verhiling, president of National Buildings Practice at STV, emphasizes the importance of climate change integration in building design and renovation. With a focus on energy efficiency and resilience, STV is dedicated to creating buildings that can withstand storm conditions and minimize environmental impacts. Verhiling highlights the concept of daylighting, which involves incorporating natural sunlight into buildings to enhance occupant well-being. Daylighting is found to improve student health and achievement in educational settings, while in correctional facilities, it plays a crucial role in creating a normative and safe environment. New construction allows for easier integration of daylighting strategies, while retrofitting presents challenges that can be addressed through the optimization of windows, shading controls, and energy-efficient artificial lighting.