If a building employs a high fenestration ratio, what design measure is often required?

• A. Increased structural mass
• B. More interior partitions
• C. Shading strategies
• D. Higher number of mechanical systems

Answer: (C)

When a building uses a lot of window area, it faces more solar heat gain and potential glare even as it offers better daylight and views. The design measure most often required to manage this is shading strategies. Exterior shading devices like louvers, fins, or brise-soleil (or dynamic interior shades) help block or modulate sunlight before it enters, reducing cooling loads and glare while preserving daylight quality. This approach is typically more effective than simply increasing structural mass or adding interior partitions, and it’s a proactive way to balance abundant fenestration with occupant comfort. Adding more mechanical systems might be used in some cases, but shading directly addresses the sun-control issue that high fenestration creates.