Evaluation of the Natural Lighting Performance of Skylights in the Circulation Areas of Building V at Istanbul Aydın University: A Digital Twin-Based Study

Abstract

Natural lighting plays a fundamental role in enhancing visual comfort, reducing energy
consumption, and supporting user well-being in sustainable architectural design. This study
aims to evaluate the daylight performance of circulation areas beneath skylights in Building V
at Istanbul Aydın University through a digital twin-based approach. A parametric digital twin
model of the building was developed, and climate-based daylight simulations were conducted
using Ladybug and Honeybee tools. Within the scope of the study, both the existing skylight
configuration and a newly proposed alternative geometry were analyzed with two different
glazing materials. A reference illuminance level of 100 lx, in accordance with TS EN 12464
1:2011 and EN 17037:2018 standards, was adopted as the baseline criterion. The simulation
results indicate that both glazing properties and skylight geometry have a significant impact
on daylight distribution, illuminance levels, and spatial uniformity. The study provides a
quantitative framework for optimizing skylight design in educational buildings and contributes
to reducing dependence on artificial lighting systems. The findings highlight the importance
of integrating digital twin methodologies with daylight performance metrics in sustainable
building design processes.