Daylight Design
Wood Wharf, London
British Waterways / Ballymore Properties Limited / Canary Wharf Contractors Limited
Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners
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The brief
The brief was to provide daylight and sunlight analysis for this major mixed-use, multiple tower-block scheme in Canary Wharf. It was a demanding project which required the team to work quickly within a tight time-frame. The advice, which was dependant on the often changeable concept designs, informed the masterplan proposals to ensure the required regulatory compliance was achieved.
The solution
Using specialist 3D computer modelling, we produced clear colour mapping at the masterplan stage to illustrate the large-scale impact of the various buildings in relation to each other. Our findings provided the architect with a clear visualisation of the site which allowed them to adapt the concept designs to minimise adverse effects, both within the site itself and on surrounding properties.
We analysed every rooftop and façade within the scheme to identify those which were best suited for the installation of 4000 square metres of photovoltaic panels (energy solar panels). ‘PV' panels are among the technologies that enable developments to comply with the requirements for renewable energy. These colour maps also helped to illustrate the areas of each façade obstructed by overshadowing towers which enabled the architects to ensure the overall maximum efficiency of the site, particularly taking advantage of solar gain.
Often a site's daylight/sunlight potential is not considered early enough, resulting in the time-consuming and costly need for changes at the detailed design phase. Understanding early on where sunlight will be, when and for how long was a very beneficial tool in the overall design of this masterplan.
Special features
1. Façade analysis and colour mapping at the early masterplan stage facilitated the design process, enabled a preview of the final detailed design and ensured the best results at completion.
2. Detailed colour mapping revealed the most suitable areas for solar panelling to ensure the building was compliant with renewable energy guidelines.
