Date of Award

Spring 2026

Thesis Type

Open Access

Degree Name

Honors Bachelor of Arts

Department

Environmental Science

Sponsor

Dr. Lee Lines

Committee Member

Dr. Leslie Poole

Committee Member

Dr. Paul Harris

Abstract

This thesis explores the trade-offs between daylighting, quality viewpoints, and energy efficiency in sustainable architectural design. The initial goal of the project was to determine if there was a single building design that would optimize the trade-offs between these three design elements. Three buildings on the Rollins College campus were selected as case study sites for detailed analysis (Bush Science Center, Kathleen W. Rollins Hall, and the Rice Family Pavilion). Rollins College was chosen as the primary location for this study because of its accessible public buildings and consistent Mediterranean revival architectural style. Analysis of each building’s design and composition revealed varying levels of energy efficiency and occupant experience. By applying LEED certification criteria, I was able to assess how effectively these buildings address the associated trade-offs. The data that served as the base of the study consisted mostly of field measurements (e.g., daylighting and quality views), architectural observations (e.g., window configuration and architectural features), and assumed energy cost assessments. My project determined that although there is no single optimized design solution, there are optimal design characteristics that tend to improve outcomes across all three design elements.

Rights Holder

Paula Cabanas

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