A custom skylight system was installed over an approximately 8 × 8 m opening formed in the floor slab to introduce natural daylight into the shared area on the top floor of Açı College. The glass roof application completed by Optimal Mimarlık was intended to help the interior common area benefit more effectively from daylight.
In accordance with the architectural requirements of the project, the glass specifications, compatibility with the supporting system and perimeter connections to the floor opening were evaluated together. The completed application created a bright and spacious common area that integrates with the existing architectural layout of the educational building.
Glass Roof Solution for an Approximate 8 × 8 m Opening
The floor opening, covering an area of approximately 64 m², required a project-specific approach to the dimensions of the skylight system and the arrangement of the glass modules. Covering this large opening with a glass roof allowed daylight to reach the interior areas while preserving the visual continuity of the shared space.
The glass module layout was arranged according to the dimensions of the opening, the requirements of the supporting system and the intended architectural appearance. The connection between the skylight and the surrounding floor structure, together with the compatibility of the glass modules and supporting system, was considered as part of the application’s safety and continuity.
Solar-Control Tempered Laminated Insulating Glass
Solar-control, tempered and specially laminated insulating glass was used in the skylight application. The solar-control properties help limit excessive solar heat gain and intense overhead sunlight while supporting visual comfort within the interior.
Tempering increases the resistance of the glass to thermal and mechanical effects. The laminated construction helps retain glass fragments on the interlayer in the event of breakage, supporting safety in overhead glazing applications. The insulating glass configuration also contributes to controlling heat transfer between the indoor and outdoor environments while allowing natural daylight into the building.
Daylighting and Indoor Comfort in an Educational Building
The skylight was designed not only as a building element covering the floor opening but also as an architectural solution that improves the daylighting performance of the shared area. Daylight entering through the glass roof contributes to a brighter, more spacious perception of the building’s interior.
Controlled use of natural daylight can help reduce the need for artificial lighting during daytime hours. Solar-control glazing also supports a more balanced indoor environment by helping manage light transmission, solar heat gain and glare.
Project-Specific Skylight Application
Large-span glass roof systems require the glass specification, supporting system, slope, drainage, weather sealing and building interface details to be evaluated as an integrated solution. The Açı College project is an educational building skylight application in which daylighting, safety, solar control and architectural integration were considered together.
Optimal Mimarlık develops project-specific rooflight and glass roof solutions through accurate dimensioning, appropriate glass selection and coordinated application details. For further information about similar systems, visit the Roof Skylight and Winter Garden page.
