Clerestory Windows

ELEMENT:

'Breezway' Louvres with timber and glass blades

AIM:

Clerestory windows are used to allow natural light to enter the house and provide natural ventilation.

The clerestory windows are positioned high in the roof as this adds to the natural airflow effect from low to high. As the air becomes warmer it rises and escapes through the high window opening creating a natural circulation pattern in the house (a thermal stack effect) as new "colder" air is drawn into the house from external shaded areas.

Louvred windows are used as they provide a large surface area opening for airflow into the building. Adjusting the angles of the lourvred blades can control the direction and amount of air that enters the building.

Timber blades are used for the clerestory windows that face north to reduce the direct sunlight penetrating into the house. Direct sunlight can cause unwanted heat gain especially during summer. Glass blades are used for the clerestory windows facing south to increase day lighting of the atrium space. The light from the south is diffuse (reflected) light rather than direct sunlight.

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