Red Bricks and White Collars: Exploring the Visual Comfort Dynamics of Exposed Brick Interiors in Office Environments

Contemporary office design faces a dynamic intersection of aesthetics and functionality, with exposed brick interiors gaining prominence for their unique visual appeal. However, a critical gap exists in understanding how daylight interacts with these architectural elements, particularly visual comfort. This research delves into the intricate interplay between daylight and exposed brick interiors in contemporary office design, emphasizing the essential balance between aesthetics and functionality. This study fills a crucial gap in current understanding. Employing a meticulous mixed-methods approach, three case studies from Kerala were selected to investigate daylighting dynamics within exposed brickwork interiors comprehensively. Live lux measurements formed the quantitative backbone, consistently revealing deficient lighting levels below recommended standards for office workspaces. Qualitative insights from occupant surveys added depth, capturing user perspectives on visual comfort. The study recognized the intrinsic link between architectural design and human experience, highlighting the importance of creating spaces conducive to well-being. Utilizing Autodesk Insight 2024, daylight simulations validated against real-time measurements provided crucial insights. Comparative scenarios, including plastered walls and increased window-to-wall ratio, showcased improvements in workspace illuminance, suggesting potential energy optimization strategies. Overall, this research offers valuable contributions to the discourse on crafting visually comfortable, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing office environments. It underscores the necessity for thoughtful design interventions, acknowledging the delicate balance between architectural aesthetics and functional considerations in optimizing workplace design.