ABSTRACT
Blinds and shades provide several methods to control direct sunlight and redirect diffuse daylight. However, blind type and use play a paramount role in how the daylighting actually performs on an annual basis. This chapter presents a case study which examines the use of multiple blind types and positions given various sky conditions to illustrate an often overlooked, but absolutely critical, aspect of daylighting design. The case study example is the Genzyme Building at 500 Kendall Street in Cambridge, designed by Behnisch Architekten. While fixed external shading provides significant benefits, it is rare that glare can be completely mitigated without some form of blinds. Light redirecting blinds allow for independent control of the top and bottom of the window. The blinds redirect light toward the ceiling plane, improving the perception of brightness within a space while eliminating direct sun and glare from the view window.
