Testing the complete facade
Thornton Tomasetti has published guidance on evaluating daylight, glare and exterior solar reflections during early design. The October 15 article, authored by director Duncan Cox, explains that adequate natural light does not necessarily mean comfortable conditions: occupants can still face bright sources or excessive contrast at particular times. [1]
The firm recommends considering glazing, surface reflectance, facade geometry and shading together. Curved or angled surfaces can redirect sunlight toward adjacent buildings or public areas, while interior layouts influence how occupants experience it. Testing during concept and schematic design leaves more room to compare alternatives before materials and geometry are fixed. [1]
Editorial analysis: for a glass-clad tower, this makes solar modelling a useful companion to structural and envelope design. The relevant question is how the assembled facade behaves across seasons, including its effects beyond the property boundary.
Sources & references
Sources reviewed 17 October 2026. Undated guidance and product pages can change. Dated research and announcements retain their original context; technical principles do not substitute for locally adopted project standards.