The architect remembered the light from the fifth facade

The client's wish was to transform the existing commercial and industrial building from the mid-1980s into a modern office facility. The task of the architectural firm Studio.a+v was to identify the qualities and limitations of the original building and then transform it into a structure that provides a high-quality working environment while aligning with the investor's sustainability goals. The result of the reconstruction is workspaces and conference areas for more than 30 people, which occasionally also serve as a showroom for the launch of new products.

"We are located on the edge of an industrial zone, which is one of the key points for the design. The zone ends with a forest, allowing us to work with views of the surroundings, the forest, and nature, and to connect the interior and exterior environments," says architect Anže Koren.

In designing the interior, the focus was on the comfort and needs of employees, considering the significant impact of the environment on their productivity and health. The quality of a healthy indoor environment is determined by various factors such as temperature, air quality, acoustics, and lighting. All of this contributes to creating a comfortable and efficient workplace. Therefore, one of the most significant elements in the design of the new offices was the incorporation of natural daylight.

Skylights are a source of natural light and fresh air

"We are in a central space that has a clear north-south orientation. Due to the depth of the layout, we decided to utilize the top light coming from the important 'fifth façade', the roof," explains the architect.

The installation of VELUX skylights was a great solution since they can provide up to three times more daylight than façade windows of the same size. Skylights significantly change the character of the indoor environment, co-creating a well-lit space. Additionally, with electrically powered VELUX skylights, the building not only has plenty of daylight but is also naturally ventilated and can cool down at night.

While natural light is beneficial, the ability to regulate it is equally important, especially in an office environment. "All building openings, including skylights and façade windows, are equipped with exterior blinds. These allow us to regulate the intensity of light entering the interior, and thus the temperature and atmosphere of the space," says architect Koren, adding that it is very important to distinguish between indirect and direct lighting when it comes from above.

The new design is aligned with the working processes and needs of the client, creating a bright and spacious workplace that supports both productivity and well-being.

Wide VELUX portfolio for flat roofs

The range of VELUX products for flat roofs includes solutions from designer skylights with flat or rounded glass to classic dome skylights and specialized products such as smoke vent skylights and roof hatches. With this wide selection, architects can find the ideal solution for each of their projects.

Especially in conjunction with façade windows, roof windows and VELUX skylights facilitate the flow of air and its rapid exchange through the chimney effect. This combination not only improves ventilation but also reduces reliance on artificial lighting, promotes energy efficiency, and supports a healthier indoor climate. According to the EAD 220062-00-0401 method (CE marking), newly designed VELUX skylights measuring 100 x 100 cm allow daylight to pass through 88% of the opening area, optimizing the natural distribution of light and enhancing the spatial experience.

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Architects: Studio.a+v, Anže Koren
Photographer: Fotonist d.o.o.