Investigating the Impact of Skylights and Atrium Configurations on Visual Comfort and Daylight Performance in Dubai Shopping Malls

Abstract

The city of Dubai enjoys a plethora of shopping malls and retail centres. Due to harsh weather in the outdoor areas, visitors and residents prefer indoor spaces, especially areas such as central atriums in the shopping malls where people can socialise, dine and engage in daily activities. Such an atrium features skylights as these are considered the main source of natural light due to the absence of side windows in this type of building. This research investigates the impact of atrium and skylight configurations on daylight performance and visual comfort in shopping malls. The study begins with a comprehensive literature review to build a theoretical foundation and identify research gaps. Key variables and target metrics are identified, followed by a selection of representative case studies. Field measurements and computer simulations are conducted to model and validate daylight performance. Annual simulations are used to assess seasonal variations, while sensitivity analysis identifies key parameters. A genetic algorithm and multi-objective optimisation (MOO) simulations are used to generate optimal configurations, summarised in the form of a Pareto front selection criteria guide the choice of the optimum solution, which is then applied and analysed in a case study. Comparative analysis quantifies such improvements, and generic guidelines are developed for broader application, along with a discussion of future steps and possible research opportunities.