Sky View Factors

This simulation quantifies the fraction of visible sky hemisphere at pedestrian level, expressed as a percentage representing sky dome exposure from each point across the site. Employing the Tregenza sky subdivision method with 145 discrete sky patches, the analysis uses Radiance-based ray-tracing algorithms to determine which portions of the sky remain visible after accounting for obstruction by building geometry and vegetation canopies.

SVF values provide a fundamental geometric description of spatial enclosure created by urban morphology, ranging from 20-40% in dense urban canyons to approaching 100% in open plazas. This dimensionless metric strongly influences multiple environmental performance criteria: high SVF values indicate greater exposure to both incoming solar radiation during daytime and radiative cooling to the night sky, directly affecting thermal comfort and energy exchange patterns.

In urban climatology, SVF correlates with urban heat island intensity—areas with low SVF experience reduced nocturnal cooling due to limited longwave radiation loss to the sky dome. The metric provides critical geometric input for advanced microclimate modeling and Mean Radiant Temperature calculations, while offering standalone insights about spatial quality and environmental conditions.

Results support evidence-based decisions regarding building massing, street canyon proportions, setback requirements, and urban density strategies aimed at improving thermal comfort, enhancing daylight penetration, optimizing nighttime cooling potential, and creating balanced microclimatic conditions across dense urban environments.