What is the goal of the Solar Envelope & Shadow Impact Analysis?

• A. To maximize window area.
• B. To ensure a building does not rob its neighbors of sunlight.
• C. To evaluate wind impacts.
• D. To measure interior daylight.

Answer: (D)

The goal is to ensure interior daylight. Solar Envelope defines the largest allowable building form that can receive sun without unduly shading neighboring parcels, and Shadow Impact Analysis tracks how the building’s shadows move across the site and adjacent properties through the year. Together, they are used to verify that the design will bring enough natural light into interior spaces across seasons, supporting comfortable, energy-efficient daylighting. This focus on interior daylight is what guides decisions about where and how large windows and openings should be, while still respecting shade constraints for neighbors.