22/06/2025
We are currently observing the Winter Solstice, an astronomical event which occurs between 21st-23rd June every year in the Southern Hemisphere. This marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year. Have you ever noticed how the shadows of buildings change during this time? 🌙
Planners use this date to assess how buildings and public spaces interact with natural light, ensuring urban areas remain functional and comfortable even in the coldest months. ❄
Since the solstice brings the sun to the lowest angle, planners study how light falls across public spaces and buildings.
By understanding the sun's lowest path, planners and architects can optimise building orientations for passive solar heating in winter and natural cooling in summer, ensuring future residents live in comfortable and sustainable homes 🏡
Shadow diagrams are typically required for developments over 1 storey and provide a graphical presentation of the shadows that are cast by the development similar to this image.
