A simulation-based case study of deciduous tree impacts on office building daylighting

Abstract

The presence of full-grown trees near buildings affects daylight availability and reduces glare. This study presents dynamic simulations that assess how deciduous trees at various distances (10 m, 15 m, 20 m) from the façade of an office building impact Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI) and Daylight Glare Probability (DGP). The results show that closer trees (10 m) reduce glare significantly but also decrease desirable daylight levels to a large extent. Careful tree placement is crucial to balance daylighting and visual comfort in buildings. By considering trees early in the design process and utilising available calculation methods, we can effectively integrate them so as to enhance both the building and its surroundings.