ARCHITECTURAL
THESIS

   My thesis was inspired by prior research on the topic of light during my Part II studies. Given that the majority of our time is spent indoors, I focused on designing buildings that prioritize the well-being of their users. The experience of a building is profoundly influenced by how it is lit, making this thesis an opportunity to deepen my understanding of light’s role in architecture, particularly in the design of art buildings.

The initial research explored how light enters a building, passive daylighting strategies, the qualities of northern light, and how these differ from other lighting conditions. The study was then divided into two threads: Technical and Atmospheric.

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• Technical Thread: Focused on measurable elements, such as light intensity, color temperature, lux levels, orientation, opening types, and reflective materials. It also included specific requirements for displaying art, addressing the lighting needs of paintings and sculptures.

• Atmospheric Thread: Examined how light interacts with space to create mood and narrative. Themes included the interplay of light and shadow, using light to tell a story, guide movement, highlight objects, add depth, and alter spatial perception.

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These explorations informed the design criteria for key building spaces: the circulation staircases, the painting gallery, and the top-floor sculpture galleries. Each space was crafted to harmonize technical precision with atmospheric impact, ensuring a compelling and user-focused experience.