This message has been cross posted to the following Discussion Forums: Residential Knowledge Community and Committee on Design .
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Although we all agree that view is essential to quality of life, our lowest common denominator - the code - does not require it because it is not seen as a life safety risk. It requires natural light, not view, and even allows artificial light to be substituted for that. If we as a profession want to take a stand against that (before our clients request it of us), we need to either work to modify the code or develop some kind of better-than-code Design Standard that the AIA endorses.
ICC 1205.1 General. Every space intended for human occupancy shall be provided with natural light by means of exterior glazed openings in accordance with Section 1205.2 or shall be provided with artificial light in accordance with Section 1205.3. 1205.2 Natural light. The minimum net glazed area shall not be less than 8 percent of the floor area of the room served. 1205.3 Artificial light. Artificial light shall be provided that is adequate to provide an average illumination of 10 foot-candles (107 lux) over the area of the room at a height of 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor level.
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Scott Knudson AIA
VP
Wiencek+Associates Architects+Planners
Gaithersburg MD
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