Optimizing Library Facade Design in Zanjan Climate through Daylight Simulation and Metaheuristic Approaches

This research investigates the optimization of library facade design in Zanjan's climate, focusing on maximizing daylight utilization through metaheuristic approaches. By employing parametric and metaheuristic techniques, the study evaluates a range of facade elements, including window-to-wall ratios, light shelf depths, and glass transmittance, to identify optimal configurations that enhance indoor lighting while minimizing energy consumption. The findings reveal significant variations in useful daylight illuminance, ranging from 44.26% to 72.85% across different design options. Notably, the configuration with an interior depth of 1.3 meters, exterior depth of 0.6 meters, and a window-to-south-wall ratio of 0.4, coupled with a glass transmittance factor of 0.55, demonstrates the highest level of useful daylight. Furthermore, all design options exhibit excellent glare control, with glare-free percentages approaching 100%. The analysis suggests that interior depths between 0.9 and 1.3 meters, particularly 1.3 meters, are optimal for maximizing daylight penetration. Similarly, exterior depths between 0.5 and 0.7 meters, especially 0.6 and 0.7 meters, yield favorable results. These findings offer valuable insights for architects and engineers seeking to design energy-efficient and visually comfortable buildings in regions with similar climatic conditions.