This paper presents the conclusions of a PhD study devoted to linear atrium buildings, a common building type in Scandinavia. The high daylight level in an atrium has crucial importance, since it functions as a daylight source for adjacent buildings. The daylight level in a typical Scandinavian atrium is considerably reduced by the glazed roof. In the current study many strategies for improving the daylight distribution and increasing the daylight level were developed and examined. The strategies were divided into: 1. The atrium space and facades as light conductor or reflector, 2. The glass roof as a light conductor. 3. Reflectors on the neighbouring roof, They were examined in a physical model and modelled using the Radiance simulation program. The study showed that it is possible to utilise daylight more effectively by changing the overall distribution of daylight in the atrium space. This can be achieved using passive strategies, such as varying the glazing area or varying the glazing type with floor level, or by active strategies, i.e. placing daylighting systems in the atrium space or on the facades. Sunlight can be effectively redirected down into the atrium space by daylighting systems placed on the roof that can multiply the daylight level in the lower part of the atrium space on sunny days. The study showed also that it is not possible to entirely balance the reduction of daylight due to the glazed roof by any daylighting system under the overcast sky conditions.
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