A large glazed space is a large, glass-covered area within a building. Well-known examples are an atrium, a conservatory and a covered arcade.
Characteristics
A space qualifies as a large glazed space when it has one or more of the following properties:
- at least 3 storeys high;
- entirely enclosed by a building;
- fitted with one or more glass facades;
- elongated in shape.
Its defining feature is that it visually connects storeys and admits plenty of daylight into the building.
Applications
Large glazed spaces are used in offices, shopping centres, stations and residential buildings to create a sense of openness and bring in daylight. During design, several points require extra attention:
- Fire and smoke control: because the space connects several storeys, smoke can spread quickly and vertically across those storeys, so smoke and heat exhaust and compartmentation are important.
- Solar gain and overheating: the large glazed area can cause strong heat build-up, making solar shading and solar-control glazing necessary.
- Ventilation: the large air volume calls for a well-considered ventilation and climate concept.
Addressing these aspects early in the design keeps the space comfortable, safe and energy-efficient.
Related terms
- Atrium
- Conservatory
- Arcade
- Fire compartment
- Daylight
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