– Rajat Kumar, Founder & Principal Architect, Recro Kardo

Over the years, architects have been learning how to harness natural light not just for functionality, but to create emotional and sensory impact within homes and buildings. Today, as the world moves towards sustainable living, natural daylighting is making a strong comeback in building design. Architects are reimagining how homes can depend less on artificial lighting and more on sunlight to brighten spaces, reduce energy bills, and manage temperatures better. When used thoughtfully, natural light not only helps cool the interiors and exteriors but also softens glare and brings a dynamic play of light and shadow that changes beautifully throughout the day.

There are a few fundamental principles for harnessing sunlight. The way a home is placed on a plot, with the sun’s path, affects how much sunlight enters inside. For example, north-facing rooms receive consistent, indirect light throughout the day, making them ideal for living areas or studios. East-facing spaces get beautiful morning light, while west-facing rooms receive strong afternoon sun. Smart architectural planning ensures that each room gets the kind of light it needs.

The shape and structure of a building can guide light in surprising ways. By designing sloped roofs, curved walls, or staggered levels, architects allow sunlight to bounce and spread across different parts of a home. Varying ceiling heights can also create light wells, funnelling light deep into the home where it’s needed most. Windows, skylights, and even floor openings can be designed to bring light from various directions. Fins, pergolas, jaali screens, or louvers can help control direct sunlight, creating soft shadows while keeping harsh heat at bay. In elevated homes, glass panels in the floor can light up the space below in a gentle, indirect way.

Materials and colours play a big part in how light behaves in a space. Light-coloured walls reflect sunlight better, making rooms feel brighter. Textured or glossy surfaces bounce light differently, adding depth and character. Even indoor plants can filter and soften light in beautiful ways.

Concludingly, to design with light is to design with life itself. It’s not just about reducing electricity use or cutting costs; it’s about creating homes that feel alive, connected to the rhythm of nature. As our awareness around sustainability, reducing carbon footprints, and well-being grows, smart use of sunlight is becoming not just a design choice but a necessity.