Category

Region

2024 - Same light, Another life

Category
Daylight in Buildings - Region 1: Western Europe

Students
Van Minh Tang


Teacher
Stephan Forestier

School
Toulouse school of design and crafts

Country
France

Download
Download project board

As climate change casts a shadow on our planet, the construction industry’s impact on the environment demands a new approach. By prioritizing the renewal of existing buildings over demolition, we can significantly reduce our environmental footprint. This shift exemplifies a sustainable and cost-effective solution to revitalize aging structures, particularly those built with 1960s concrete facades. These facades often blocked natural light, leading to a reliance on artificial lighting and creating a gloomy atmosphere within buildings. While the thermal mass of concrete is beneficial in cold climates, it can cause overheating in warmer environments if not addressed with proper insulation or ventilation strategies.

This innovative system utilizes recycled glass bottles, transforming them into light-channeling elements that enhance aesthetics and illuminate interiors with natural light. Minimally disruptive and resource-conserving, the project breathes new life into buildings while promoting energy efficiency and occupant well-being. Let’s rewrite the story of our built environment, transforming concrete giants into beacons of sustainability.