Why are daylighting and ventilation important in architectural design?

Let's put it this way: natural light and ventilation are like a house's "sunshine" and "breathing." Without either, the people living inside won't be comfortable.

First, let's talk about natural light, which is about letting sunlight in.

Imagine a house that's dark all day. No matter how luxuriously it's decorated, wouldn't you feel stifled and low-spirited staying there?

1. Affects Mood and Health: People need sunlight. A bright room during the day naturally lifts one's mood. Sunlight also sterilizes and helps our bodies synthesize Vitamin D, offering tangible health benefits. Constantly staying in a dim environment not only strains the eyes but can also lead to feelings of depression.

2. Saves Money and is Eco-friendly: When there's ample light during the day, you don't need to turn on the lights. This isn't a small sum; over time, it can save a significant amount on electricity bills. Using less electricity also contributes to the overall environment.

3. Makes Space Feel Larger: A room bathed in sunlight feels larger, more open, and cleaner than its actual size. Conversely, dark corners often give a cramped, cluttered impression.

Next, let's discuss ventilation, which is about allowing air to circulate.

Ventilation is like a house's "respiratory system," responsible for expelling stale air and bringing in fresh air.

1. Ensures Fresh Air: As we live in our homes, cooking produces fumes, showering creates moisture, people and pets exhale carbon dioxide, and furniture might release imperceptible chemical substances. Without good ventilation, all these "waste gases" get trapped indoors. Over time, the air not only becomes unpleasant but also easily breeds bacteria and mold, affecting health.

2. Regulates Temperature, Enhances Comfort: Especially in summer, why are houses with good cross-ventilation so popular? It's because air can flow through, creating a "through breeze." A breeze blowing through is much more comfortable than air conditioning, and it's natural and energy-saving. Proper ventilation in winter can also prevent excessive temperature differences between indoors and outdoors, which causes condensation on windows.

3. Protects the House Itself: Damp air is a major enemy of building materials. Walls, wooden floors, and furniture, if constantly exposed to damp, unventilated conditions, are prone to mold, deformation, and rot, significantly shortening the house's lifespan.

So, you see, natural light and ventilation aren't complex concepts. They directly relate to the two most fundamental aspects of living in a house: comfort and health. A good architectural design will always prioritize how to let more sunlight in and how to allow air to flow better. This is far more important than merely pursuing an attractive appearance.