AN APPRAISAL OF SHADING DEVICES IN INSTITUTIONAL BUILDINGS

O. Onazi, N. S. Gaiya, E. O. Ola-Adisa and D. G. Yilme

Department of Architecture

University of Jos, Jos

Email: olaefeadisa@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

This study addresses user comfort and performance of shading devices systems in an institutional building. It also shows that the architect can improve the shading and thermal comfort of the building by way of proper building materials, effective landscape, types of sizes of fenestration among many other design considerations right from design state. Information and data were obtained from on the spot assessment. These assessments were basically field observations of physical characteristics and prevailing conditions carried out within study area. Also data was obtained from relevant literatures such as books and journals. Results reveal that a wide range of methods can be used in analysing the performance of shading devices in institutional buildings. It further shows that even without software, designers can put in place some measures and design considerations right from the preliminary design stage such as proper building orientation, choice of building materials, effective landscaping, types and sizes of the fenestrations among many other design consideration.

Keywords: Energy Saving Fenestrations, Shading Devices, User Comfort