The Daylighting Performance of Indoor Sports Arenas in Nairo

THE UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI
SCHOOL OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE AND BUILDING SCIENCE
THE DAYLIGHTING PERFORMANCE OF INDOOR SPORTS ARENAS IN

NAIROBI.
AUTHOR: Nyakundi Makana Chrispine (Reg. Number: B02/0261/2006).

TUTOR: Arch. Yusuf Hazara Ibrahim
Page i
And God said, Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons
and days in years, Genesis 1:14.
Daylight is a basic human right, Author.
Page ii
DECLARATION
I declare that this thesis is my original work, and to the best of my knowledge, has never been presented to any other institution of
higher learning for the purpose of awarding a degree or any other academic credentials. This thesis is submitted in partial fulfilment
of the examination requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Architecture at the University of Nairobi.
Author: ----------------------------Date: --------------------------Nyakundi Makana Chrispine.
Tutor: ------------------------------Date: -------------------------Arch. Yusuf Hazara Ibrahim.
Year Master: ---------------------Date: --------------------------Arch. Musau Kimeu
Chairman:-------------------------Date:--------------------------Arch. Erastus O. Abonyo
Page iii
DEDICATION
I dedicate this thesis to the late Steve Ondeyo Nyakundi, a brother, mentor, teacher, physicist, mathematician, rap and martial arts
enthusiast.
Page iv
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I express my gratitude to the University of Nairobi for having given me this rare opportunity to explore the science and art that lies
behind buildings, the culmination of which is this research.
The long journey at the University of Nairobi could have been tougher, but what with people to fall back to?
The first dignitary on this list is God, the greatest architect of all time, for his unforseen insights and protective measures.
Secondly, the staff, led by my tutor, Arch. Yusuf Hazara Ebrahim, and the year master, Arch. Musau Kimeu, played a very
important role towards the realization of this paper! No amount of words will suffice to thank you.
Thirdly comes a very strong and beautiful woman who goes by the name of Eucabeth Kwamboka, for her motherly support that
empowered me to do what a man has to do to become an architect.
The immediate friends and family also served as an inspiration. Encouraging words from the mouths of Sister Magoma, Brother
Maurice, Brother Ondeyo, Sister Moraa, Brother Babu, Brother Matayo and my beloved girlfriend ,Rosie,are some of the building
blocks of this intellectual development.
Last but not least on this list are all the comrades and staff at A.D.D and elsewhere, the list of which would not fit in this paper, just
know that your input, small and large alike, shall surely not go down the drain.
May the Almighty God shower you with his light.
Amen.
Page v
CONTENTS
Front Page----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(i)
Quotes---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(ii)
Declaration---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(iii)
Dedication---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(iv)
Acknowledgements----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(v)
Table of Contents----- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(vi)
List of Figures----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(xv)
Abstract-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------20
1.0 :CHAPTER ONE :Introduction-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------21
1.1.:
Background Information-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------21
1.1.1.: The Definitions of Daylight-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------21
1.1.2.: Brief History of Day lighting in Indoor Sports Arenas------------------------------------------------------------21
1.1.3.: The Salient Qualities of Daylight------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------22
1.2.:Problem Statement------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------23
1.3.:Objectives of the Study-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------24
1.4.:Research Questions----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------25
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1.5.:Significance of the Study----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------26

1.6.:Scope of the Study------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------27
1.7.:Methodology of the Study----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
1.8.:Case Study Selection Criteria---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------27

2.0.:CHAPTER TWO: Literature Review----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28
2.1.: Definition of Day lighting Design for Indoor Sports Arenas------------------------------------------------------------------28
2.2.:Why Daylight Indoor Sports Arenas?----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28
2.3.: Key Areas of Day lighting Design for Indoor Sports Arenas-----------------------------------------------------------------29
2.3.1.:Glazing---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------29
2.3.1(a) Side Windows-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------29
2.3.1(b) Clerestory Windows------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------29
2.3.1(c) Roof lights-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------30
2.3.2.:Surface Finishes---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------32
2.3.3.:Sport-Specific Guidelines----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------33
2.3.3(i) Badminton-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------33
2.3.3(ii)Basketball--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------34
2.3.3(iii)Volleyball--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------35
2.3.3(iv)Handball---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------35
Page vii
2.3.3(v)Table Tennis----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------36
2.3.3(vi)Squash----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------36
2.3.3(vii)The Martial Arts-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------37
2.3.3(viii)Weightlifting--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------37
3.0.: CHAPTER THREE: Research Design--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------38
3.1.: Research Purpose--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------38
3.2.: Research Strategy---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------38
3.3.: Time Horizon---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------38
3.4.: Population------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------39
3.5.: Elements--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------39
3.6.: Sampling Method---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------39
3.7.: Data Sources--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------39
3.7.1.:Primary Data-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------39
3.7.2.:Secondary Data----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------40
3.7.3.:Primary Data Collection Methods------------------------------------------------------------------------------------40
3.7.4.:Data Processing and Analysis---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------40
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4.0.:CHAPTER FOUR: Fieldwork----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------41

4.1.:The Nyayo National Stadium Indoor Arena--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------41
4.1.1.:Historical Background-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------41
4.1.2.:Geographical Context-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------41
4.1.3.:The Distribution of Daylight at 9.00 a.m.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------42
4.1.3 (a) 9.00 a.m. Luminance Data-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------42
4.1.3 (b) Analysis of the 9.00 a.m. Luminance Data-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------42
4.1.4.:The Distribution of Daylight at 12.00 p.m. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------43
4.1.4(a) 12.00 p.m. Luminance Data-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------43
4.1.4(b) Analysis of the 12.00 p.m. Luminance Data----------------------------------------------------------------------------------43
4.1.5.:The Distribution of Daylight at 3.00 p.m.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------44
4.1.5(a) 3.00 p.m. Luminance Data---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------44
4.1.5(b) Analysis of the 3.00 p.m. Luminance Data-----------------------------------------------------------------44
4.1.6.:Factors Influencing the Distribution of Daylight in
the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena-----------------------------------------------------------------45
4.1.6(a) The Day lighting Design of the Moi International
Sports Centre Indoor Arena-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------45
4.1.6(a) (i) Glazing---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------45
4.1.6(a) (ii) Surface Finishes---------------------------------------------------------------------------------45
Page ix
4.1.7.:Implication of the Distribution of Daylight in the Nyayo National Stadium

Indoor Arena---------------------------------------------------------------------------------=------------------------------46
4.1.7(a) Environmental Implications--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------46
4.1.7(b) Cost Implications----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------46
4.2.: The Moi International Sports Complex lndoor Arena------------------------------------------------------------------47
4.2.1.:Historical Background---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------47
4.2.2.:Geographical Context----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------47
4.2.3.:The Distribution of Daylight at 9.00 a.m.------------------------------------------------------------------------------48
4.2.3(a)9.00 a.m. Luminance Data-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------48

4.2.3(b)Analysis of the 9.00 a.m. Luminance Data------------------------------------------------------------------48
4.2.4.:The Distribution of Daylight at 12.00 p.m.--------------------------------------------------------------------49
4.2.4(a) 12.00 p.m. Luminance Data-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------49
4.2.4(b) Analysis of the 12.00 p.m. Luminance Data----------------------------------------------------------------49
4.2.5.:The Distribution of Daylight at 3.00 p.m.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------50
4.2.5(a) 3.00 p.m. Luminance Data----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------50
4.2.5(b)Analysis of the 3.00 p.m. Luminance Data---------------------------------------------------------------------------50
4.2.6.:Factors Influencing the Distribution of Daylight
in the Indoor Arena---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------51
Page x
4.2.6(a)The Day lighting Design of the Moi International

Sports Centre Indoor Arena------------------------------------ -----------------------------------------------------------51
4.2.6(a) (i) Glazing-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------51
4.2.6(a) (ii) Surface Finishes-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------51
4.2.7.Implications of the Distribution of Daylight in the Moi
International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall-----------------------------------------------------------------------------52
4.2.7(a)Environmental Implications--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------52
4.2.7(b)Cost Implications---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------52
4.3.:The Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall-------------------------------------------------------------------------53
4.3.1.:Historical Background-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------53
4.3.2.:Geographical Context-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------53
4.3.3.:The Distribution of Daylight at 9.00 a.m.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------54
4.3.3 (a) 9.00 Luminance Data----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------54
4.3.3 (b) Analysis of the 9.00 a.m. Luminance Data---------------------------------------------------------------------54
4.3.4.:The Distribution of Daylight at 12.00 p.m.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------55
4.3.4(a) 12.00 p.m. Luminance Date----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------55
4.3.4(b)Analysis of the 12.00 p.m. Luminance Data---------------------------------------------------------------------55
4.3.5.:The Distribution of Daylight at 3.00 p.m.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------56

Page xi
4.3.5(a) 3.00 p.m. Luminance Data-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------56

4.3.5(b) Analysis of the 3.00 p.m. Luminance Data---------------------------------------------------------------------------------56
4.3.6.:Factors Affecting the Distribution of Daylight in the Moi

International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall------------------------------------------------------------------------------------57
4.3.6(a) The Day lighting Design of the Moi International

Sports Centre Warm Up Hall --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------57
4.3.6(a)(i) Glazing-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------57
4.3.6(a)(ii)Surface Finishes-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------58
4.3.7.:Implication of the Distribution of Daylight in the Moi
International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------58
4.3.7(a) Environmental Implications------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------58
4.3.7(b) Cost Implications----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------58
4.4.:The Bolivarian Dome, Barquisimeto, Venezuela------------------------------------------------------------------------59

4.4.1.: Historical Background------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------59
4.4.2.:Geographical Context---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------59
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4.4.3.:The Distribution of Daylight in the Bolivarian Dome---------------------------------------------------60

4.4.4.:Factors Influencing the Distribution of Daylight in the Bolivarian Dome-----------------------61
4.4.4(a)The Day lighting Design of the Bolivarian Dome-----------------------------------------------------61

4.4.4(a)(i) Glazing---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------61
4.4.4(a)(ii)Surface Finishes---------------------------------------------------------------------------61
4.4.5.:Implications of the Distribution of Daylight in the Bolivarian Dome-----------------------------61
4.4.5(a) Cost Implications---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------61
4.4.5(b)Environmental Implications---------------------------------------------------------------------------61
4.5.:The University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena----------------------------------------------------62
4.5.1.:Historical Background--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------62
4.5.2.:Geographical Context--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------62
4.5.3.:The Distribution of Daylight in the University of
Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena--------------------------------------------------------------------------------63
in the University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena------------------------------------------------64
4.5.4(a)The Day lighting Design of the University of
Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena-----------------------------------------------------------------64
Page xiii
4.5.4(a) (i)Glazing----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------64
4.5.4(b)(ii)Surface Finishes-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------64
4.5.5.:Implication of the Distribution of Daylight--------------------------------------------------------------64
4.5.5(a)Cost Implication-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------64
4.5.5(b)Environmental Implications----------------------------------------------------------------------64
4.6.:A Comparative Analysis of the Five Case Studies------------------------------------------------65
5.0.:CHAPTER FIVE: Summary and Recommendations of the Study----------------------------68
5.1.:Chapter One: Introduction------------------------------------------------------------------------------------68
5.2.:Chapter Two: Literature Review-----------------------------------------------------------------------------70

5.3.:Chapter Three: Research Design---------------------------------------------------------------------------74
5.4.:Chapter Four: Fieldwork/ Case Studies-------------------------------------------------------------------76
5.5.:Recommendations----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------83
5.5.1.:Recommendations for the rehabilitiation
of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena----------------------------------------------83
5.5.2:Recommendations for the rehabilitation of the Moi International
Sports Centre Warm Up Hall.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------84
5.5.3.:Recommendations for the rehabilitation of the Nyayo National Stadium Indoor Arena-----------------85
5.6.:Recommendations for further studies---------------------------------------------------------------------86
Page xiv
List of Figures
Figure 1.A depiction of the verse And God said, Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons
and days in years, page18
Figure 2.The Universal Master plan with the Sun at the centre of all the other bodies, supplying them with daylight, page 18.
Figure 3.:An interior view taken off the Pantheon depicting the drama staged by daylight, page 19.
Figure 4.:An interior view taken off the David L. Lawrence convention centre at Pittsburg.Unlike most of such spaces elsewhere, the users here are usually aware of the passage
of time through the continuous presence of daylight, page 19.
Figure 5.:Interior view of the Moi International Sports Centre indoor arena. Showing the inadequate levels of daylight as well as high contrast effects, page 20.
Figure 6.:Interior of the Moi International Sports Centre indoor arena depicting the highly unsustainable intervention (that is artificial lighting) that has been applied therein as a
result of poor day lighting design, page 20.Figure 7.:Interior view of the Nyayo International Sports Centre Indoor Arena showing the inadequate levels of daylight as well as
high contrast effects that will disturb your eyes, page 20.Figure 8.:Interior view of the Nyayo National Stadium indoor arena depicting the highly unsustainable intervention (that
is artificial lighting) that has been applied therein as a result of poor day lighting design, page 20.
Figure 9.:Artistic impression of the University of Cambridge Sports Centre demonstrating one way of killing two birds using one stone, i.e., delighting of the interior and saving on
energy use simultaneously, page 25.
Figure 10.Artistic impression of the University of Cambridge Sports Arena demonstrating one way of killing two birds using one stone, page 25.
Figure 11.:An architectural crime! This is a live application of side windows at the Moi International Sports Complex indoor arena. They hardly admit adequate and evenly
distributed daylight into this arena, page 26.Figure 12.:Interior view of the sports hall at the Toll crosses Leisure Park Recreational Centre, Glasgow, illustrating the use of
clerestories,. Such designs should be criminalised as they give rise to disability glare, page 26.
Figure 13.:Interior view of the Tollcross Leisure Park Flat sports hall demonstrating the application of flat rooflights,page 27.
Figure 14.:Interior view of the University of Cambridge sports hall demonstrating the use of north lights type of roof lights, page 27.
Figure 15.:Interior view of the Nyayo International Sports Centre indoor arena, demonstrating the use of flat roof lights, page 28.
Figure 16.: Interior view of the Yao Yuan County Arena demonstrating the merits of membrane roofing systems for such buildings, page 28.
Figure 17.: Interior view of the multipurpose hall at the Cambridge University demonstrating the bare minimums expected of surface finishes in other such facilities elsewhere,
page 29.
Figure 18.:Interior view of the Parklands Sports Club Multipurpose Hall showing a very poor selection of surface finishes. page 29.
Figure 19.:The interior view of Qingdao Guoxin Gymnasium at Qingdao, China, demonstrating the correct surface finishes for a badminton court, page 30.
Figure 20.:Interior view the of the Scarborough Badminton Club demonstrating the wrong application of surface finishes for a badminton court, page 30.
Figure 21.:Interior view of the South Wales Basketball Club demonstrating the recommended type of surface finishes for an indoor basketball court, page 31.
Figure 22.:Interior view of the Kampala International University indoor basketball court demonstrating the application of the wrong type of surface finishes for such a space. The
surfaces are glossy resulting in specular reflections. The ceiling is dark and there is no sufficient contrast for the basketball, page 31.
Page xv
Figure 37 World map showing the global positioning of the Nyayo National Stadium Indoor Arena, page 42.
Figure 38.:Map of Kenya showing the national positioning of the Nyayo National Stadium, page 42.
Figure39.:Map of Nairobi showing the provincial positioning of the Nyayo National Stadium, page 42.
Figure 40.: Neighbourhood map of the Nyayo National Stadium, page 42.
Figure 41.: Neighbourhood map of the Nyayo National Stadium, page 42.
Figure 41.: Photograph of the interior of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium taken at 9.00 a.m,showing the distribution of daylight, with all artificial
lights switched off, page 43.Figure42.: Section through X-X of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00
a.m,with all artificial lights switched off, page 43.
Figure43.:The First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium, showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00a.m, with all the artificial lights
switched off, page 43.Figure44.:This is the Ground Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium, showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00a.m,
with all the artificial lights switched off, page 43.Figure 45.: Photograph of the interior of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium taken at 12.00
p.m,showing the distribution of daylight, with all artificial lights switched off. Page 44.
Figure 46.: Section through X-X of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m., with all artificial lights
switched off, page 44.
Figure 47.:The First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m., with all the artificial lights off,
page 44.
Figure 48.: The Ground Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m,with all artificial lights
switched off, page 44Figure 49.: Photograph of the interior of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m.,
with all artificial lights switched off, page 45.
Figure 50.:Section through X-X of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m., with all the artificial lights
Figure 51.:The First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium, showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights off,
page 45.
Figure 52.: The Ground Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m. with all artificial lights
Figure 54.:The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the different surface finishes applied and their respective reflectance
values, page 46.
Figure 55.:The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi, showing the shameful intervention taken in order to raise the luminance
levels therein, page 47.
Figure 56.:Photograph of the diesel guzzling generator installed at the Nyayo National Stadium as a backup strategy , page 47.
Page xvi
Figure 57.: World map showing the global positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena, page 48.
Figure 58.: Map of Kenya showing the national positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena, page 48.
Figure 59.: Map of Nairobi showing the provincial positioning of the Moi international Sports Centre Indoor Arena, page 48.
Figure 60.: Neighbourhood map showing the immediate positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre indoor arena, page 48.
Figure 61.: Neighbourhood map showing the immediate positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre indoor arena, page 48.
Figure 62.: This is the interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 am with all the artificial
lights switched off, page 49.Figure 63.:Cross-Section through x-x(see figure 64) of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution
of daylight at 9.00 a.m., with all the artificial lights switched off, page 49.
Figure 64.: The First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m. with all the artificial lights
switched off, page 49.Figure 65.: The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight 12.00 p.m. with all
the artificial lights switched off, page 50.
Figure 66.:Cross-Section through x-x(see fig 67) of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m., with all
the artificial lights switched off, page 50
Figure 67.: The First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m. with all the artificial
lights switched off, page 50.Figure 68.: The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m.
with all the artificial lights switched off, page 51.
Figure 69.:Cross-Section through x-x(see figure 70) of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m., with
all the artificial lights switched off, page 51.Figure 70.: First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight
at 3.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights switched off, page 51.Figure 71.:3-D view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre, Nairobi, showing the
different glazing techniques applied, page 52.
Figure 72.:The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre, Nairobi, showing the different surface finishes applied therein together with
their surface reflectances,page 52.
Figure 73: The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre, during daytime, showing what the author believes to be a shameful
intervention taken in order to raise the luminance levels therein, page 53.
Figure 74: The diesel guzzling generator installed at the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena, as a backup strategy, page 53.
Figure 75: World map showing the global positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm up Hall, page 54.
Figure 76. Map of Kenya showing the national positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall, page 54.
Figure 77: Map of Nairobi showing the provincial positioning of the Moi international Sports Centre Warm up Hall, page 54.
Page 17
Figure 78.: Neighbourhood map showing the immediate positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall, page 54.
Figure 79: Neighbourhood map showing the immediate positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm up Hall, page 54.
Figure 80: Interior view of the Warm up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre, showing the distribution of daylight at 9.am with all artificial lights switched off, and
page 55.
Figure 81: Section through the Warm up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m. with all the artificial lights switched
off, page 55.
Figure 82.: Ground Floor Plan of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m. with all the artificial lights
Figure 83.: First Floor Plan of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m,with all the artificial lights
Figure 84: Interior view of the warm up hall at the Moi International Sports Centre, showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m. with all artificial lights switched off,
and page 56.
Figure 85.: Section through the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights
Figure 86.: Ground Floor Plan of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights
Figure 87.: First Floor Plan of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m,with all the artificial lights
switched off, page 56.Figure 88.: Interior view of the warm up hall at the Moi International Sports Centre, showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m,page 57.
Figure 89.: Section through X-X(see figure 90 and figure 91) of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00
p.m. with all the artificial lights switched off, page 57.)
Figure 90.: Ground Floor Plan of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights
Figure 91.: First Floor Plan of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m,with all the artificial lights
Figure 92:3-D view of the Warm up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre, Nairobi, showing the different glazing techniques applied, page 58.
Page 18
Figure 93: Interior view of the Warm up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre, showing the various surface finishes applied therein and the resultant effects, p 58.
Figure 94: The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo Sports Complex, Nairobi, during daytime, showing what the author believes to be a shameful intervention
taken in order to raise the luminance levels therein, page 59.
Figure 95: The diesel guzzling generator installed at the Warm up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre, Nairobi as a backup strategy, page 59.
Figure 96: World map showing the global positioning of the Bolivarian Dome,page 59.
Figure 97: Map showing the national positioning of the Bolivarian Dome,page 59.
Figure 98: Map showing the immediate context of the Bolivarian Dome,page 59.
Figure 99.Map showing the immediate neighbourhood of the Bolivarian Dome,page 59
Figure 100.Weather data showing the number of sun hours experienced at the site on which the Bolivarian Dome sits,page 59.
Figure 100.: Interior view of the Bolivarian Dome depicting adequate and evenly distributed daylight,page 60
Figure 101.: This is the First Floor Plan of the Bolivarian Dome , showing the deep dimensions spanned by this indoor sports arena,page 60
Figure 102:3-D view of the Bolivarian Dome showing the different glazing techniques applied,page 61
Figure 103: Interior view of the Bolivarian Dome showing the different surface finishes and the resultant effect to the interior of this indoor sports arena,page 61
Figure 104.:World map showing the global positioning of the University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena,page 62
Figure 105: Map showing the national positioning of the University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena,page 62.
Figure 107: Map showing the immediate neighbourhood of the University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena,page 62
Figure 106.Map showing the immediate neighbourhood of the University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena,page 62
Fig 109:The first floor plan of the University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena.page 63
Figure 108:An interior view of the University of Cambridge Sports Centre showing the adequate and even distribution of daylight from the north lights installed on the
roof,page 63
Figure 110:3-D view of the University of Cambridge Sports Hall showing the different glazing techniques applied,page 64
Figure 111: Interior view of the University of Cambridge Sports Hall showing the different Surface finishes,page 64.
Figure 118: Existing exterior view of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014)
Figure 119: Recommended exterior view of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena(Source:Author,2014).
Figure 120: Existing interior view of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014).
Figure 121:Recommended interior view of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014).
Figure 122: Existing floor plan of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena (Source:Author.2014).
Figure 123: Recommended floor plan of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena (Source:Author.2014).
Figure 124: Existing section of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena (Source:Author.2014).
Figure 125: Recommended section of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena (Source:Author.2014).
Figure 126: Existing exterior view of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall,page 85.
Figure 127: Recommended exterior view of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall,page 85
Figure 128: Existing interior view of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall,page 85.
Figure 129:Recommended interior view of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall,page 85
Figure 130: Existing floor plan of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up Hall ,page 85
Figure 131: Recommended floor plan of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena ,page 85
Figure 132: Existing section of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena ,page 85
Figure 133: Recommended section of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena ,page 85.
Page 19
Abstract.
Sports have in the recent past joined the long list of income generating activities both in Kenya and abroad. This is a big addition to
their traditional function of nurturing healthy bodies and in effect healthy minds. The type of sports popular with Kenyans and abroad
can be classified as either indoor or outdoor, the fundamental difference being that whereas the latter take place in contact with the
elements of the weather, the former take place in controlled environments away from the sun, rain and wind. This thesis is biased
towards the control of sunlight in indoor sports buildings, leaving out the control of the remaining two weather elements for future
studies. An insight into various day lighting techniques that are in application in indoor sports arena will be sought so as to ascertain
whether they provide the sportsmen and sportswomen who use the said arenas the recommended visual comfort levels. It is
therefore going to take the case study method of research whereby indoor sports arenas in similar locations will be compared
against each other and lessons picked for transfer in either direction of the divide. By the end of the thesis, we shall see a national
shame that is our Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena, its Warm up Hall, and their counterpart, the Nyayo National
Stadium. Compared to other practices, these indoor sports arenas are unfit for the visual consumption of our ambitious sportsmen
and sportswomen.
The Government of Kenya has stepped up efforts to promote sports, more especially through the promise to oversee the
construction of at least one sports stadium in every county. Recommendations at the last chapter of this thesis are deemed to be of
benefit to both the public and private stakeholders in such projects. Suggestions are also made on how to improve the existing
facilities in order that they take a modern, sustainable outlook that will both be good for the environment and visual health of
spectators and sportsmen and sportswomen using these facilities.
Page 20
1.0.:CHAPTER ONE:INTRODUCTION
1.1.:Background Information
1.1.1.: The Definitions of Daylight
It is the natural light of the day; the first appearance of light in the morning, so
says the Oxford dictionary while its counterpart, The Free Merriam Webster
Dictionary, defines it as the light of the sun and sky during the day.
Figure 1.A depiction of the verseAnd God said, Let there

be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day
from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark
seasons and days in years,(Source: Genesis 1:14, New
King James Version,2000).
Figure 2.The Universal Master Plan with the Sun at the

centre of all the other bodies, supplying them with daylight.
(Source: http://www.derbyastronomy.org, 2012).
Page 21
1.1.2.: A Brief History of Day lighting for Indoor Sports Arenas.

And God said, Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day
from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days in years,
Genesis 1:14. This is one of the oldest descriptors of the coming into being of light.
The light that marked the day has since been called daylight, while its nocturnal
counterpart has since been known as the moon.
Christians and Muslims all refer to a supernatural force as being behind the
creation of the Sun and its nocturnal extension, the Moon. Scientists, in trying to
understand the process of the coming into being of daylight, have advanced
several theories regarding the same.
Derek Phillips, FCIBSE, in his article titled Day and Light; Natural Light and
Architecture, points to the recorded history of the application of daylight in
buildings as one that dates back to the stone age period when man lived in caves
when the mouth of the cave could act as a window that would admit sunlight into
the interior spaces. He further on states that after 1900, daylight was in a stiff
competition with its artificial counterpart until it reached a point when it was
deemed to be sliding into irrelevance, with its nadir being the Burdlandschaft, when
buildings could be of infinite depth and when even some schools and factories
were built without windows at all at all.
However, it is important to announce at this juncture that in the recent history of

day lighting, it has been receiving some admiration from several quarters, and,
amazingly, the admiration is because of its ability to be available freely when the
artificial counterparts have price tags on their ear lobes. Amazingly because there
exist other less tangible aspects of daylight that have got to do with matters of the
human spirit, far away from the physical mind-state.Derrek Phillips, FCIBSE, in the
same article, relates these matters with the quality of life of an individual soul.
Figure 3.:An interior view taken off the Pantheon depicting

the drama staged by daylight. (Source: Daylight as the
Basis for Design, Part 1,1999).
However, sadly, when it comes to daylight and its application in indoor sports and
recreation throughout history, there hasnt been a single historian that has
committed himself or herself to research and publish some of the findings on this
subject.
1.1.3.:The Salient Qualities of Daylight
Figure 4.:An interior view taken off the David L. Lawrence

convention centre at Pittsburg.Unlike most of such spaces
elsewhere, the users here are usually aware of the
passage of time through the continuous presence of
daylight.(Source: Daylight as The Basis for Design, Part
2,1999)
Page 22
First of all, daylight is always undergoing dramatic changes courtesy of the hands
of the Almighty(see figure 3).Some technologists have simulated this
phenomenon, but it is never the same. Second of all, daylight renders a very
natural form to exteriors as well as interiors, just like it happens in the
Pantheon(figure 4). Thirdly, daylight is a freely available resource. It is such divine
qualities of daylight that lead the author to believe that daylight is of supreme
significance for all indoor sports arenas and any Sports Architect that admits it into
these arenas in a format that is not fit for consumption by the human eye(as we
shall see in the next page) should be arraigned in a court of law for crimes against
humanity.
1.2.:Problem Statement.
There exist two indoor sports arenas in the capital city of
Kenya, Nairobi. The first and largest of these( figure 5
and figure 6)is situated at the Moi International Sports
Complex, Kasarani, while the second and smallest of
these(figure 7 and figure 8) is situated at the Nyayo
National Stadium), located at the junction between
Uhuru Highway and Langata Road.
Figure 5.:Interior view of the Moi
International Sports Centre indoor
arena,showing the inadequate levels
of daylight as well as high contrast
effects that will disturb your eyes.
(Source: Author, 2014).
Figure 7.: Interior view of the Nyayo

Nationa Stadium Indoor Arena
showing the inadequate levels of
daylight as well as high contrast
effects that will disturb your
eyes.(Source: Author, 2014).
Figure 6.:Interior of the Moi International

Sports Centre indoor arena depicting the
highly unsustainable intervention (that is
artificial lighting) that has been applied
therein as a result of poor day lighting
design.(Source:Author,2014).
Figure 8.:Interior view of the Nyayo

National Stadium indoor arena depicting
the highly unsustainable intervention (that
is artificial lighting) that has been applied
therein as a result of poor day lighting
design.(Source:Author,2014).
Page 23
The photographs to the left are enough evidence that

the quality as well as the quantity of daylight in the two
arenas is both poor and low, respectively. This problem
is emphasized more especially by the fact that the two
arenas are all of international standard and hence one
expects sustainable day lighting examples from them.
In as much these arenas have passed for excellence in
the eyes of the layman, those with a sharp architectural
eye will feel slapped in the face by serious day lighting
design flaws. The day lighting design flaws have got
both cost and environmental implications, aspects that
will be discussed in more detail in the succeeding
chapters of this thesis. This thesis aims to confirm the
above mentioned observations so that they dont pass
for hearsay but argue a strong case that will inform
future designs of such important facilities.
1.3.:Objectives of the Study
It is the intention of this thesis to

i)Study and document the day lighting guidelines for indoor sports arenas as established by authorities in the esteemed field of
Sports Architecture.
ii) Study and document the existing indoor sports arenas in the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi, paying special attention to their day
lighting design and thereafter, day lighting performance.
iii)Compare the day lighting design and performance of the existing indoor sports arenas in the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi,
against best practices elsewhere in the tropics.
iv) Compare the above findings (ii) and (iii) against the day lighting design guidelines for indoor sports arenas in (i) above, as a
post occupancy performance analysis, with a view to establish the success of their day lighting design.
v)To recommend to the Stadia Management Board(together with its private sector affiliates like Safaricom Ltd.) suitable day
lighting design guidelines for their application in future renovations as well as new developments of indoor sports arenas in
Nairobi, and elsewhere.
Page 24
1.4.:Research Questions
It is the intention of this research project to provide answers to the following questions:i) What are the day lighting guidelines for indoor sports arenas that have been established by authorities?
ii) What is the day lighting design and in effect, the day lighting performance of the existing indoor sports arenas in the capital
city of Kenya, Nairobi?
iii) What is the day lighting design and in effect, the day lighting performance of other best practices of similar indoor sports
arenas situated elsewhere, more especially in the tropics?
iv) What are the success levels of the day lighting design and in effect, the day lighting performance of both the indoor sports
arenas in the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi, as compared to the established guidelines for the same?
v)What are the day lighting design guidelines that can be recommended to the Stadia Management Board that will guide it on
possible renovations as well as new developments of indoor sports arenas in Nairobi and elsewhere?
Page 25
1.5.:Significance of the Study
Dr. Debby Mitchelle,Ed. D, Associate Professor of Physical Education, Sports and Fitness at the University of Central Florida,
Orlando, U.S.A, in her research paper, Does Physical Activity Influence Academic Performance? makes a very important
revelation that links physical activity with the mental well-being of an individual.
Also, writing in The Archives of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Dr Amika Singh and others, say that they have found a
strong link between academic excellence and physical exercise. Children who participate in games also learn how to obey
rules. This means that they are more disciplined and are therefore able to concentrate, so they say.
The Government of Kenya, in its Vision 2030, also identified sports as possible economic sector.
The findings of the study will go a long way in guiding the players in the Ministry of Sports on the design of new sports facilities
as well as in future renovations and maintenance of the existing ones. This will in turn give birth to a well-motivated and
professional generation of sportsmen and sportswomen.
Also, as will be seen later on in this study, these Indoor Sports Arenas also double up as conference halls hosting various
national as well as international social, political and academic functions. Proper day lighting design of these arenas will
therefore improve on the visual experience of the users.
From a different point of view, a proper or an improper day lighting design of any given indoor sports arena will determine
whether such an arena is sustainable or not. The findings of this study will shed light on ways of saving energy by a good
application of the all-free daylight and such is deemed to be particularly beneficial to the Sports Management Board as well as
its private sector affiliates like Safaricom Kenya Ltd.
Page 26
1.6.:Scope of the Study.
As the author is being looked in the face by exceedingly limited time, money and energy, this study is designed to focus on all
the indoor sports arenas that can be found within the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi, with a special emphasis on their day
lighting performance only.
1.7.:Methodology of Study.
Literature Review:
Relevant information about the day lighting design of indoor sports arenas shall be briefly put under the microscope so
as to give us a sense of orientation as to what are the key areas of consideration when it comes to the day lighting
design of indoor sports arenas
1.8.:Case Study Selection Criteria.

Both local and international case studies will be selected for a detailed analysis of each. The criteria for their selection
shall be as follows:
Local Case Studies: As there are only three Indoor Sports Arenas within the capital of Kenya, Nairobi, the author will
have no other alternatives but to study all of them.
International Case Studies: Two case studies from the tropics will suffice. The lessons derived thereof will then be
relevant for transfer to Nairobi as well as other tropical cities.
Page 27
2.0 CHAPTER TWO: THE DAYLIGHTING DESIGN FOR INDOOR

SPORTS HALLS AND ARENAS.
2.1.: Definition of Day lighting Design of Indoor Sports Arenas.
Http://www.wbdg.org/resources/daylighting.php well puts day lighting design as the
controlled admission of natural lightdirect sunlight and diffuse skylight into buildings.
Therefore, in its application to the design of indoor sports arenas, it will entail the
application of various strategies that a designer has at his or her disposal that will aid
Figure 9.:Artistic impression of the University of
them in delivering the desired quality and quantity of daylight into the interior of these
Cambridge Sports Centre demonstrating one way of
killing two birds using one stone, i.e., daylighting of the sports arenas, as exemplified by figure 9 and figure 10.
interior and saving on energy use simultaneously
(Source.www.cambridgesports.edu).
2.2.:Why Daylight Indoor Sports Arenas?
It is like killing two birds using one stone, so thinks the author. Why?
It is simply because, while the designer is admitting the healthiest, natural light of the
sun, he/she is at the same time cutting significant amounts of spending on artificial
lighting.
http://www.wbdg.org/resources/daylighting.php informs us that by providing a direct link
to the dynamic and perpetually evolving patterns of outdoor illumination, day lighting
design will aid in creating a visually stimulating and productive environment for sports
buildings occupants(sportsmen, sportswomen and their spectators), while at the same
Figure 10.Artistic impression of the University of
time reducing as much as one-third of the total building energy costs.
Cambridge Sports Arena demonstrating one way of killing
two
birds
using
one
stone.(Source.www.cambridgesports.edu).
Page 28
2.3.:Key Areas of Day lighting Design for Indoor Sports

2.3.1.: Glazing
The graph that you see above
illustrates how Side Windows for an
indoor sports arena can have a very
profound effect on the variation in
the daylight factor therein. This is a
very big step taken by the architects
in their wrong direction towards
sports architecture.
Figure 11.:An architectural crime! This is a live application of side windows at
the Moi International Sports Complex indoor arena. They hardly admit
adequate and evenly distributed daylight into this arena.(Source: Author).
This scene here is even uglier

because on top of the variation of
the daylight factor therein, it
introduces us to that concept called
disability glare, something the
architect here should have known
before printing the working
drawings.
Figure 12.:Interior view of the sports hall at the Tollcross Leisure Park
Recreational Centre, Glasgow, illustrating the use of clerestories. Such designs
should be
criminalised as they give rise to disability glare.(Source:
Understanding Daylight of Sports Halls, GAIA Architects,2004).
Page 29
Seven types of glazing options have traditionally been in application

in indoor sports arenas. These include side windows, clerestories,
flat roof lights, curved rooflights,roof monitors, atria and
sunpipes.However,with rapid advancements in technology, more
flexible membrane roofing systems have found their way into this list.
2.3.1(a)) Side Windows.
The use of side windows can offset perimeter lighting but is unlikely
to be adequate for full day lighting in cases whereby the sports hall
has got a deep plan without causing interference with the sporting
requirements through the lack of privacy, glare or sunlight, so say
GAIA Architects. This statement can be confirmed by the first
photograph to you left hand side(figure 11).One should therefore be
very careful when applying this day lighting strategy.
2.3.1(b)) Clerestory Windows.
The free online encyclopaedia, Wikipedia defines a clerestory as a
high level window, usually located at above 2200mm above the
reference plane, whose purpose is to bring outside light and fresh
air. In the tropics, clerestories work best when placed along the
North and South facing facades as direct sun rays are rarely
incident here.It will be an architectural suicide to place such windows
along east and west facing facades as incidents of disability glare
are highly possible(figure 12).
2.3.1(c)Roof Lights.
This rooflight application here could
easily become an example of a
successful day lighting design for
indoor sports had the architect
engaged the concept a little bit
more. But as for now, it remains
lower in the ranks of the best day lit
indoor sports halls.(Author, 2014)
Figure 13.:Flat roof lights like this one at the Tollcross Leisure Park, at
Glasgow, possess the potential to deliver adequate amounts of daylight into
deep-plan arenas. However, the use of transparent glass can easily lead to
glare.(Source: Source: Understanding Daylight of Sports Halls, GAIA
Architects,2004).
North lights! They scale the heights of

architectural excellence attained by
Arup Associates. Maybe an example of
the results of the convergence of
institutions of high stature like this
Cambridge
University
and
Arup
architects. It ranks very high in the
authors list of best day lit sports
halls(Source:Author,2014)
Figure 14.:Northlights type of roof lights can do a lot more better, However, the
use of transparent glass can easily lead to glare.(Source: Source: Understanding
Daylight of Sports Halls, GAIA Architects,2004).
Page 30
As advanced by Neufert in the Architects Data publication,the concept of

rooflights, if properly applied, can yield very beautiful results.According to
him, the quality as well as quantity of daylight in an indoor sports arena is
tightly pegged on the variance of the daylight factor therein, which in turn
is affected by the ratio of transluscen/transparent wall and roof surfaces
to that of opaque surfaces as well as the placement of these surfaces.
GAIA Architects, in the bookUnderstanding Daylighting of Sports Halls
classify rooflights into two categories
2.3.1(c)(i)Flat Rooflights.
These are flush with the opaque roof planes(figure 13).Those who know
how to read graphs will confirm that the fluctuation in the daylight factor
is pretty high ,especially since the transluscent surfaces occur as bright
strips across the opaque roof. Perhaps the best way they could work
efficiently is if they were spread at close ranges all over the roof, which
would again compromise their structural integrity.However, this type of
daylighting technique works better than side windows in that it delivers
daylight into deeper central parts of indoor sports arenas.
2.3.1(c)(ii)North South Facing Rooflights.

As the name suggests, they are roof windows, which are placed facing
the North and South in sites especially located within the tropics of
Cancer and Capricorn. Since in such locations the sun is always almost
overhead throught the yearly seasonal variations ,they only admit the
skylight into the sports hall. As you can see in figure 14 to your left hand
side, no direct sunrays can sneak into the sports hall.The north lights
rank very high in the list of excellent indoor sports daylighting
techniques.
2.3.1.(d)Combined Roof Lights and Side Windows.
This rooflight application here could

easily become an example of a
successful day lighting design for
indoor sports had the architect
engaged the concept a little bit more.
But as for now, it remains lower in the
ranks of the best day lit indoor sports
halls.
Figure 15.:Another architectural crime as found at the Nyayo International
Sports Centre indoor arena, Nairobi, Kenya. A classic case of visual clutter. The
architect could do much better by having more roof lights and no side windows
at all.(Source.Author,2014).
It is the authors belief that side windows are not suitable for indoor
sports arenas since most of these arenas are very deep in plan.
However, as you have already seen above,rooflights, when properly
designed, are very fit for the purpose.
But, there are those architects who might feel unsettled by a rooflit-only
indoor sports arena. Such people sometimes end up designing buildings
like can be seen in figure 15.The outcome, in terms of the quality of
daylight and room aesthetics, is not very excellent. However, this
combination results in lower levels of glare than each of the techniques
on their own.As it can be seen in figure 15,the patterns of the variations
of daylight factor intersect each other, the result of which is a visually
cluttered interior space, which is not very good for indoor sports.
2.3.1(e) Membrane Roofing Systems

Membrane structures are relatively new in
their application to Indoor Sports Arenas.
However, they have rapidly gained
popularity due to their ability to admit
diffused and uniformly distributed daylight
into the interior of such arenas as can be
seen in photo 2.8 to your left hand side
and the graph above. It is the authors
opinion that this is the future of day
lighting in indoor sports arenas, what is
your opinion?
Figure 16.Excellent! Interior view of the Yao Yuan County Arena demonstrating
the merits of membrane roofing systems for such buildings. Such an interior is
one of the best places for sports men and women to be.(Source: Membrane
Materials and Membrane Structures in Architecture, Di Tian, March thesis, the
University of Sheffield, School of Architecture,2011).
Page 31
It was designed in line with a tensegrity type dome using the Geiger
Cable System due to the need to allow maximum daylight within the
circular arena,so says Di Tian in his Masters Degree Thesis entitled
Membrane Materials and Membrane Structures in Architecture.These
membrane,he says, are usually transluscent polycarbornate roofing
materials that have been engineered to admit and diffuse specific
quantities and qualities of light into the buildings they roof.As you can
see in the Yao Yan County Arena,Taoyuan, Taiwan(figure 16), disability
glare is minimized to zero and the incoming diffuse daylight is evenly
distributed.This arena, constructed in the year 1993, exemplifies a very
ideal approach to daylighting indoor sports arenas, an approach which
the author believes should be taken by other sports architects .
2.3.2.:Surface Finishes
GAIA Architects further on state thus,Colours of surface finishes in a sportshall have
to be carefully considered as they will affect the playing ability as well as the comfort
levels of the users.Therefore, the color schemes applied by any sports architect
should be of sufficient contrast in order to prevent balls and shuttlecocks from
disappearing.
Figure 17.:The surfaces finishes applied to this

multipurpose hall at the Cambridge University serve as an
example of the bare minimums expected of surface
finishes in other such facilities elsewhere. Notice the matt,
light brown, beech wood floor finish contrasting the light
blue walls and the light coloured ceiling plane
above.(Source:cambridge.sports.edu,2012).
Figure 18.:Pathetic!Notice the specular reflections as a

result of a very poor selection of surface finishes at the
Parklands Sports Club Multipurpose Hall.(Source:
Author,2014.)
Page 32
The same sentiments are also echoed by Smith and Ford in their Handbook for
Sports and Recreation, whereby they assert that all the interior walls in a sports hall
should be of uniform and unbroken colours with reflectance values enough to give
sufficient contrast to small and fast moving objects such as shuttlecocks and balls as
well as for dangerous activities such as fencing and the martial arts.
To that effect, GAIA Architects recommend that all walls below three metres(3m) high
should be of uniform,medium tones of matt finishes so as to contrast with balls and
shuttlecocks while avoiding unnecessary reflections of light(figure 17).But walls above
the three metre mark should be of lighter colours so as to aid in light distribution.
Likewise, they say,floors should be of colours which give sufficient contrast to walls.
Light coloured beech timber(fugure 17)and other similar building materials of a matt
finish are recommended for this purpose.And how about ceilings?These, they
say,should be of unbroken light colours which ensure minimum contrast with sources
of illumination in order to reduce glare. To this effect, they recommend whilte colored
ceilings with all structural elements therein painted white to match the soffit(figure 17).
Colour
Reflectance
Bermuda
Blue
75 %
Light
Blue
85%
Light
Green
80 %
2.3.3: Sport Specific Guidelines

2.3.3(i)Badminton.
For an excellently day lit hall for badminton, GAIA Architects
recommend the following guidelines:-
Figure 19.:The interior view of Qingdao Guoxin Gymnasium at Qingdao, China,

demonstrating the correct surface finishes for a badminton court.(Source.
http://www.zimbio.com/pictures,2010).
Colour
Reflectance
Bermuda
Blue
75 %
Light
Blue
85%
Light
Green
80 %
Figure 20.:Interior view the of the Scarborough Badminton Club demonstrating the
wrong
application
of
surface
finishes
for
a
badminton
court.(
Source:http://www.zimbio.com/pictures,2010).
Page 33
Uniform, glare free light is vital and a designer is only

better off aiming at high levels of illumination(ranging
between 300-750 lux). Uniformity is of profound
importance as it will prevent fluctuations in brightness
from one part of the hall to another(figure 19).
The shuttle clock should be at the back of the mind of
the designer. Since it needs to be visible at a certain
height.
Wall finishes should be matt and without unnecessary
dcor(figure 20).
The ceiling also requires to be brighter than other
surfaces and devoid of any unnecessarily strong
patterns.
To provide good day lighting, roof lights are
recommended. These should be designed in such a
manner that doesnt entertain shadows and other funny
patterns. Sailcloth has been known to be handy in this
kind of situation because it diffuses the incoming
daylight thereby eliminating bright patches of light on the
ceiling plane.
Windows, like shown in figure 20, should be avoided as
they cause visual discomfort, especially when placed at
eye level like are in this case.
Colour
Reflectance
2.3.3(ii)Basketball.
For an excellently day lit hall for basketball, GAIA Architects
recommend the following guidelines:
Figure 21.:Interior view of the South Wales Basketball Club demonstrating the
recommended type of surface finishes for an indoor basketball court.(Source.
Colour
Reflectance
Figure 22.:Interior view of the Kampala International University indoor basketball court
demonstrating the application of the wrong type of surface finishes for such a space.
The surfaces are glossy resulting in specular reflections. The ceiling is dark and there
is
no
sufficient
contrast
for
the
basketball.(Source.
Page 34

from one part of the hall to another(figure 21).
The basketball should be at the back of the mind of
the designer since it needs to be visible at a certain
height.
Wall finishes should be matt and without
unnecessary decor.
surfaces and devoid of strong patterns.
To provide good day lighting then, roof lights are
recommendedd. These should be designed in such a
manner that doesnt entertain shadows and other
funny patterns. Sailcloth has been known to be
handy in this kind of situation because it diffuses the
incoming daylight.
Windows, like shown in figure 22, should be avoided
as they cause visual discomfort, especially when
placed at eye level like are in this case.
2.3.3(iii)Volleyball
2.3.3(iv)Handball
For an excellently day lit hall for volleyball, GAIA Architects

For an excellently day lit hall for handball, GAIA Architects


from one part of the hall to another.
The volleyball should be at the back of the mind of
height.
unnecessary decor.
surfaces and devoid of any unnecessary patterns.
incoming daylight.
Windows, should be avoided as they cause visual
discomfort, especially when placed at eye level.
Page 35

height.
unnecessary decor.
incoming daylight.
2.3.3(v)Table Tennis
2.3.3(vi)Squash
For an excellently day lit hall for table tennis, GAIA Architects
For an excellently day lit hall for squash, GAIA Architects


The tennis ball should be at the back of the mind of
the designer,since it needs to be visible at a certain
height.
Wall finishes should be matt and without unnecessary
decor.
surfaces and devoid of strong patterns. To provide
good day lighting, roof lights will be required. These
should be designed in such a manner that doesnt
entertain shadows and other funny patterns. Sailcloth
has been known to be handy in this kind of situation
because it diffuses the incoming daylight.
Windows should be avoided as they cause visual
Page 36

The squash ball should be at the back of the mind of
the designer,since it needs to be visible at a certain
height.
unnecessary decor.
To provide good day lighting,roof lights will be
required. These should be designed in such a
incoming daylight.
2.3.3(vii)The Martial Arts
2.3.3(viii)Weightlifting
For an excellently day lit hall for martial arts, GAIA

Architects recommend the following guidelines:-
For an excellently day lit hall for weightlifting, GAIA

Architects recommend the following guidelines:-

height.
unnecessary decor.
To provide good day lighting,roof lights will be
incoming daylight.
Page 37

height.
unnecessary decor.
To provide good day lighting, roof lights will be
incoming daylight.
3.0 CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH DESIGN

3.1.:RESEARCH PURPOSE:
It is the intention of this research to describe the daylighting performance of the indoor sports arenas situated within the capital city of
Kenya,Nairobi. An accurate profile of the quantity as well as an indication of the quality of daylight therein shall be brought to light and
compared against internationally established standards for the same types of spaces and thereby conclusions will be drawn as to whether
the users of such spaces experience visual comfort or otherwise.
3.2.:RESEARCH STRATEGY:
Local case studies of all the public indoor sports arenas will be selected from within the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi. Measurements of the
quantity and thereafter analysis will be undertaken during the course of the research.Also,a note or two will be made on the quality of
daylight.On the international scale, case studies of indoor sports arenas situated within the same tropical climatic region as Nairobi will be
selected for analysis.In as much as the author will not be able to travel there and take physical measurements of the quantity of daylight in
the said arenas, an attempt will be made to acquire the same.Likewise, a note or two will be made on the quality of daylight therein.
Both the local and international cases will be compared and contrasted with a view to establish how to and how not to daylight indoor
sports arenas.
3.3 .:TIME HORIZON
A cross-sectional study of all the public indoor sports arenas in the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi, shall be undertaken.This will be a
convenient approach as it will be able to accomplish the purpose of this research in a shorter duration of time so as to ensure the research
process lies within the limited time and money available to the author for the same. God willing, the field study is forseen to span a period
of five weeks,starting from 1st October, 2014 to 4th November, 2014.
Page 38
3.4.: POPULATION
On the local context of the study, the authors list of building earmarked for the study includes the indoor sports arena at the Moi
International Sports Complex, Kasarani,Nairobi, the indoor sports arena at the Nyayo Sports Complex, Nairobi,as well as the indoor arena
at the Bomas of Kenya. This population is deemed to be relevant for this study as both the national and some international indoor sports
competitions culminate here.
On the international context of the study,two case studies from tropical regions will constitute the population under investigation.
3.5.:ELEMENTS
Within this population, the luminance levels within the indoor sports arenas mentioned above shall be the key guiding element. These will
be taken off at various locations inside the said indoor sports arenas and recorded for the purpose of analysis. The lux meter will come in
handy here.
3.6.: SAMPLING METHOD
Non- probability, convenient sampling shall be employed as the sampling method. The population to be sampled shall be picked from
among the existing indoor sports arenas within the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi. As such, the findings of this research are expected to be
biased against private indoor sports facilities within the same geographical context as the selected samples.
3.7.:DATA SOURCES
Both primary and secondary data will be collected for the purposes of this research. Primary data will be collected on site as the author
conducts the study while secondary data will be used in cases where the author is not able to access necessary primary data.
3.7.1 Primary Data
i)Photographs:- These will capture the spirit of the spaces under study and give an indication of the quality of light therein.
ii)Sketches:-These will be a quick way to capture the layout as well as the sectional profiles of the spaces under study.
iii)Measurements:-By the use of a lux meter, accurate lighting levels at selected points within the indoor spaces will be determined and
recorded. These will later on assist in the analysis of the distribution of daylight.Measurements of the various dimensions of the sports
buildings under study will give an indication as to the size of spaces being daylit.
Page 39
3.7.2 Secondary Data

Floor plans,Sections, Elevations, 3 dimensional impressions, and the historical and geographical information of the sports buildings under
the spotlight shall come in handy if and when available.
Whereas the primary data will be collected on site, the secondary data will be collected from the relevant persons in charge of the
design,construction and management of the facilities. The research will only be able to obtain primary data from the local case studies.
On the international scale, where time and money will be a limiting factor, secondary data from books as well as the world wide web shall
come in handy.
3.7.3 Primary Data Collection Methods
These will entail:i)
Physical measurements of the quantity of light.
ii)
Physical measurements of dimensions of the spaces under study
ii)
Photography of the spaces to give an indication of the quality of light.
3.7.4 Data Processing and Analysis

i)Photographs taken will be analysed for drawing conclusions on whether the quality of daylighting in the spaces studied is
poor,average, or good, basing the judgement on the presence or absence of incidences of disability glare.
ii)Sketches will be translated into accurately measured drawings on which various spots will marked for analysis.
iii)On the marked spots,measurements using the lux shall be undertaken and recorded. Conclusions will be made on whether the
distribution of daylight is even or uneven and an explanation to either findings be made, based on the key points of daylighting design for
indoor sports arenas that were reviewed earlier on.
Page 40
4.0. CHAPTER FOUR: FIELDWORK.

4.1.:The Nyayo National Stadium Indoor Arena
4.1.2 Historical Background.
Figure 37.: World map showing the global positioning of the Nyayo National
Stadium Indoor Arena.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 40.: Street view of the Nyayo National Stadium

indoor arena.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
The year was 1983, and Nyayo National Stadium was a vision that was to lead to greater and
bigger things for the sportsmen and sportswomen of this country,Kenya. Its completion was
what gave Kenya the very very rare opportunity to be placed in the category of nations that
possesed the muscle to bid for the 4th All African games in 1987, a bid that was awarded to
Kenya, giving it an international status. And,alas! Later on? Nyayo Stadium gave birth to the
Moi International Sports Centre.
The busy Indoor Arena sits up to 2500 spectators and it has since become became
home to the Kenyan National Basketball League. In addition to basketball, it also started
entertaining boxing, badminton and the martial arts tournaments. On top of that, social
and economic functions have since been regulars here.
4.1.1.:Geographical Context.
This 2500 seater sports building is found in Kasarani,Nairobi, Kenya, at coordinates
11347.9S 365332.6E / 1.229972S 36.892389E, which render it a tropical
climatic configuration,with average yearly sunshine duration of up to 2494 hours,(see
figure 42).Its main link to the Nairobi Central Business District is the highspeed Uhuru
Highway and it takes one a forty five minute time duration to commute between the
two important destinations.
Figure 38.: Map of Kenya showing

the national positioning of the Nyayo
National
Stadium.(Source:
www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 39.: Map of Nairobi showing the provincial

positioning
of
the
Nyayo
National
Stadium.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Page 41
Figure 41.: Neighbourhood map of the Nyayo National

Stadium.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 42.: Weather data for the site at which the Nyayo National Stadium indoor arena sits, showing the
average number of sunshine hours.(Source:BBC Weather,2013)
4.1.3.: The Distribution of Daylight @ 9.00 a.m
Figure 41.: This is a photograph of the interior of the Indoor

Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium taken at 9.00
a.m,showing the distribution of daylight, with all artificial
lights switched off. (Source:Author,2014).
Figure 42.: Section through X-X(see figure 43 and figure 44)

of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing
the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m,with all artificial lights
switched off. (Source: Author,2014)
Page 42
Figure 43.:This is the First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the
Nyayo National Stadium, showing the distribution of daylight at
9.00a.m,
with
all
the
artificial
lights
switched
off.(Source:Author,2014).
Figure 44.:This is the Ground Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at

the Nyayo National Stadium, showing the distribution of
daylight at 9.00a.m, with all the artificial lights switched
4.1.3(a).: 9.00 a.m Luminance Data.

With all the artificial lights killed, readings of various illuminance levels were taken
at various locations within the indoor sports arena at the Nyayo National
Stadium,Nairobi, Kenya.The highest recordings were >500 lux, which occured near
the windows at the first floor level(see figures 41- 44).These recordings satisfied
the levels recommended previously in the literature review(an average of 500 lux
for the kind of space). However, away from the windows, reductions from 500 lux
downwards were witnessed, with an average range of 112 lux, the lowest recording
being 388 lux.Lastly, though immeasurable, the quality of the incoming daylight was
quite poor, with incidences of glare, which not only disturb the eyes of the users of
this facility but lead to unfair game play.
(see figure 43).
4.1.3(b) 9.00 a.m. Luminance Data Analysis.
The low average range of 112 lux that was observed above can be attributed to the
presence of roof lights installed overhead this indoor sports arena, which permeate
light into the deeper locations of the hall. Also, the lowest luminance level(388lux)
was recorded along the western facade of the arena. This can be attributed to the
suns eastward position at that time and hence a low daylight factor along the other
faades as well as the absence of a window at the same point.
4.1.3(c) The Day lighting Performance of the Nyayo National Stadium Indoor
Sports Arena at 9.00 a.m.
The distribution and levels of luminance the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo Sports
Complex in Nairobi, Kenya at 9.00 a.m. is below that recommended. From the
literature reviewed, and more especially from Understanding Daylighting of Sports
Halls by GAIA Architects, where we learnt that a well day lit indoor sports arena
should be free of fluctuations that would see incidences of glare, an important
lesson which this indoor sports arena seems to contradict. Sportsmen as well as
sportswomen either working out or competing here at such a time suffer(either
consciously or unconsciously) from the work of the hands of a Sports Architect who
could do better.

Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium, showing the
distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m., with all artificial lights
switched off. (Source:Author,2014).
Figure 46.: Section through X-X(see figure 47 and figure 48)

the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m., with all artificial
lights switched off.(Source: Author,2014).
Page 43
Figure 47.:This is the First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena

at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the distribution of
daylight at 12.00 p.m., with all the artificial lights
off..(Source:Author,2014).
Figure 48.: This is the Ground Floor Plan of the Indoor

Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium showing the
distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m. with all artificial lights
4.1.4.: The Distribution of Daylight @ 12.00 p.m

4.1.4(a).: 12.00 p.m Luminance Data.
With all the artificial lights killed, readings of various illuminance levels were
taken at various locations within the Nyayo National Stadium indoor sports
arena.The highest recordings were >500 lux, which occured near the windows at
the first floor level(see figures 45- 48).These recordings satisfied the levels
recommended previously in the literature review(an average of 500 lux for the
kind of space). However, away from the windows, reductions from 500 lux
downwards were witnessed, with an average range of 150 lux, the lowest
recording being 350 lux.Lastly, though immeasurable, the quality of the incoming
daylight was quite poor, with incidences of glare, which not only disturbed the
eyes of the author and other users of this facility, but lead to unfair game
play(see figure 45).
4.1.4(b) 12.00 p.m. Luminance Data Analysis.
The low average range of 150 lux that was observed above can be attributed to
the presence of roof lights installed overhead this indoor sports arena, which
permeate light into the deeper locations of the hall. Also, the lowest luminance
level(350lux,down from 388lux at 9.00 a.m.) was recorded along the western
facade of the arena. This can be attributed to the suns overhead position at that
time and hence a low daylight factor along other faades as well as the absence
of a window at the same point.
4.1.4(c) The Day lighting Performance of the Nyayo National Stadium
indoor sports arena at 12.00 p.m.
literature reviewed, and more especially from Understanding Daylighting of
Sports Halls by GAIA Architects, where we learnt that a well day lit indoor sports
arena should be free of fluctuations that would see incidences of glare, an
important lesson which this indoor sports arena seems to contradict. Sportsmen
as well as sportswomen either working out or competing here at such a time
suffer(either consciously or unconsciously) from the work of the hands of a
Sports Architect who could do better.

distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m., with all artificial lights
Figure 50.:Section through X-X(see figure 51 and figure 52)

the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m., with all the artificial
lights switched off. (Source: Author,2014)
Page 44
Figure 51.:This is the First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at

the Nyayo National Stadium, showing the distribution of
daylight at
3.00 p.m., with all the artificial lights
Figure 52.: This is the Ground Floor Plan of the Indoor

distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m. with all artificial lights

4.1.5(a).: 3.00 p.m Luminance Data.
at various locations within the Nyayo National Stadium indoor sports arena.The
highest recordings were >500 lux, which occured near the windows at the first
floor level(see figures 45- 48).These recordings satisfied the levels recommended
previously in the literature review(an average of 500 lux for the kind of space).
However, away from the windows, reductions from 500 lux downwards were
witnessed, with an average range of 100 lux, the lowest recording being 400
lux.Lastly, though immeasurable, the quality of the incoming daylight was quite
poor, with incidences of glare, which not only disturbed the eyes of the author and
other users of this facility, but lead to unfair game play(see figure 49).
the presence of roof lights installed overhead this indoor sports arena, which
permeate light into the deeper locations of the hall. Also, the lowest luminance
level(400lux up from 350lux at 12.00 p.m.) was recorded along the northern
facade of the arena. This can be attributed to the suns westward position at that
time and hence a low daylight factor along the other faades, as well as the
absence of a window at the same point.
4.1.5(c) The Day lighting Performance of the Nyayo National Stadium indoor
sports arena at 3.00 p.m.
literature reviewed, and more especially from Understanding Daylighting of
Sports Halls by GAIA Architects, where we learnt that a well day lit indoor sports
arena should be free of fluctuations that would see incidences of glare, an
important lesson which this indoor sports arena seems to contradict. Sportsmen
as well as sportswomen either working out or competing here at such a time
suffer(either consciously or unconsciously) from the work of the hands of a Sports
Architect who could do better.
Transparent glass flat rooflight
Translucent polycarbonate flat

rooflight
Transparent glass clerestory
Transparent glass full height

side window
Figure 53.:3-D view of the Nyayo National Stadium indoor arena showing the different
glazing techniques employed by the architect. (Source: Author,2014).
Transparent glass(7%)
Translucent
polycarbonate(4.7)
Grey Iron Sheets 5%
Stucco White 75%
Dark Brown-45%
Dark Brown-45%
Figure 54.:The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Nyayo National Stadium, showing
the different surface finishes applied and their respective reflectance values.(Source:
Author,2014).

in the Indoor Arena.
4.1.6.(a)The Day lighting Design of the Nyayo National
Stadium Indoor Arena.
4.1.6(a)(i)Glazing
A mix of clerestory windows(high level windows) and full
height windows with column breaks at 3m intervals and
height variations at same intervals adorned the walls of the
hall with light while roof lights admitted rays of light from
the sun(see figure 53 on the left pane).The combination
resulted in a near adequately and evenly lit interior. At eye
level, there was no incidence of glare. However, at higher
levels, there was remarkable high contrast between the
daylight and the darkly coloured roof and wall surfaces, a
phenomenon described by Gaia Architects as Disability
Glare.(See figure 54 on the left pane).Also, the ratio of the
daylight admitting surfaces to the daylight excluding
surfaces was approximately 1:3(see figures 53-54)),reason
why we witnessed those low luminance levels below 500
lux.
4.1.6(a)(ii)Surface Finishes
Six different materials of distinct colour surfaces and
reflective indices were observed in the interior of this
arena(see figure 54).
1. The floor was made of a matt,dark brown cement
screed. Whereas the matiness eliminated specular
reflections of daylight within the sports hall, the darkness
of the same absorbed 55 % of the daylight , contributing to
the low daylight levels witnessed at various points in the
hall. (see figure 54).
2. The ground floor terraces, which extended up to two
meters high were made of a dark brown cement screed
with a matt finish. Likewise, whereas the matiness
minimised specular reflections of daylight within the
sports hall, the darkness of the same absorbed 55%of the
daylight.(See figure 54).
Page 45
3. The first floor wall was made of a stucco white vinyl matt emulsion paint on
cement screed which absorbed 25% of the daylight.(see figure 54).
4. 50 per cent of the roof was made up of galvanized iron sheets with dark grey
vinyl matt emulsion painted surfaces. Whereas the matiness minimised
specular reflections of daylight within the sports hall, the darkness of the same
absorbed 95% of the daylight.
5. 25 per cent of the roof was made up of translucent roofing sheets, which diffused
sunrays into the hall.(see figures 54-55)).
6. 25 per cent of the roof was made up of transparent roofing sheets which
admitted direct sun rays into the sports hall and resulted in glare.
Figure 55.:The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the
Nyayo National Stadium, showing the shameful
intervention i.e. artificial lighting in broad daylight, the
resultant effect of poor quality and low quantities of
daylight in the arena. (Source:Author,2014).
4.1.7.:Implication of the Distribution of Daylight in the

Indoor Arena.
4.1.7 (a) Environmental Implications.
With the poor quality as well as the low quantity of daylight in the Nyayo National
Stadium Indoor arena , artificial lighting systems have been installed, which rely on
hydro-electric power for their operation. And what with the regular power outages
rocking the city of Nairobi? A diesel generator was to stand by, just in case(see
figure 66) Emissions from the engine have so far been playing a big role in warming
the globe whereas the mining of diesel itself has been termed as the depletion of
limited natural reserves.
4.1.7 (b) Cost Implications.
To run such a busy facility with artificial lights on for most part of its life can prove to
be a costly affair. This is because it not only entails the non-stop sucking of electricity
from the national grid, but also the maintenance of specialised electrical accessories.
Likewise, the diesel generator survives on diesel which has nowadays become quite
expensive.
Figure 56.:Photograph of the diesel guzzling generator

installed at the Nyayo National Stadium as a backup
strategy (Source: Author, 2014).
Page 46
Figure 57.: World map showing the global positioning of the Moi International Sports
Centre Indoor Arena.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 58.: Map of Kenya showing the

national positioning of the Moi International
Sports
Centre
Indoor
Arena.(www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 59.: Map of Nairobi showing the provincial

positioning of the Moi international Sports Centre
indoor
arena
.(Source:
Page 47
Figure 60.: The exterior view of the Moi International

Sports Centre indoor arena.(Source: www.google.com).
Figure 61.: Neighbourhood map showing the immediate

positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre indoor
arena.(Source: www.google.com).
4.2.:The Moi International Sports Complex(M.I.S.C) Indoor Arena.

We
learn
from
the
Stadia
Mangement
Board
website,
www.stadiumskenya.co.ke, that once upon a time, in the late 1980's, small
countries in the East African block, Kenya, was invited to bid for the all
African games, which were to be held towards the end of that decade. And
just like any other reasonable African Nation, Kenya submitted, and to the
surprise of many, it won the bid to host the 4th All African Games which were
to be held in 1987. And in preparation for the games, Kenya entered into a
bilateral agreement with the Chinese government to build a state of the art
sports complex at Kasarani, in the capital city Nairobi. The envisioned Sports
Complex would be used to host these upcoming prestigious games.
4.2.2.:Geographical Context
This 5000 seater sports building is found in Kasarani,Nairobi, Kenya, at
coordinates 11347.9S 365332.6E / 1.229972S 36.892389E, which
render it a tropical climatic configuration,with average yearly sunshine
duration of up to 2494 hours,(see figure 62),potential for harnessing for
daylighting the interior of this indoor sports arena.Its main link to the Nairobi
Central Business District is the newly refurbished Thika superhighway and it
takes one a thirty minute time duration to commute between the two
important destinations.
Figure 62.: Weather data for the site at which the Moi International Sports Centre warm up hall
is situated, showing the average number of sunshine hours.(Source:BBC Weather,2013)
Figure 62.: This is the interior view of the Indoor Arena at

the Moi International Sports Centre showing the
distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m. with all the artificial
Figure 63.:Cross-Section through x-x(see figure 64) of the

Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre
showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m., with all
the artificial lights switched off. (Source: Author, 2014).
Page 48
Figure 64.: This is the First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Moi
International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m.
with all the artificial lights switched off. (Source: Author, 2014)

at various locations within the Moi International Sports Centre indoor sports
recording being 50 lux. Higher luminance levels were witnessed along the
eastern facing facades. Lastly, though immeasurable, the quality of the incoming
eyes of the author and other users of this facility, but lead to unfair game play(see
figure 62).
The high average range of 450 lux that was observed above can be attributed to
use of side windows as the day lighting technique for this deep plan(72.8m
diameter) indoor arena and the. Also, the lowest luminance levels(50 lux) were
recorded along the centre of the arena. This can be attributed to the long distance
of these locations from the source of day light(side windows).Higher luminance
values were witnessed along the eastern facing faade due to the suns eastward
position at such a time.
4.3.3(c) The Day lighting Performance of the Moi International Sports Centre
indoor sports arena at 9.00 a.m.
The distribution and levels of luminance the Moi International Sports Centre
Indoor Arena at 9.00 a.m. was below that recommended from the literature
reviewed, and more especially from Understanding Daylighting of Sports Halls
by GAIA Architects, where we learnt that a well day lit indoor sports arena should
be free of fluctuations that would see incidences of glare, an important lesson
which this indoor sports arena seems to contradict. Sportsmen as well as
consciously or unconsciously) from the work of the hands of a Sports Architect
who could do better.

distribution of daylight 12.00 p.m. with all the artificial
Figure 66.:Cross-Section through x-x(see fig 67) of the

Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre
showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m., with all
Page 49
Figure 67.: This is the First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Moi
International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m.
with all the artificial lights switched off. (Source: Author, 2014)
4.2.4(a).: 12.00 p.m Illuminance Data.

recording being 50 lux. Drops in luminance levels were witnessed along the
eastern facing facades. Lastly, though immeasurable, the quality of the incoming
figure 65).
diameter) indoor arena and the. Also, the lowest luminance levels(50 lux) were
recorded along the centre of the arena. This can be attributed to the long distance
of these locations from the source of day light(side windows).Drops in luminance
values were witnessed along the eastern facing faade due to the suns shifting
position from the east to overhead at such a time.
Indoor Arena at 12.00 p.m. was below that recommended from the literature

distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m. with all the artificial
Figure 69.:Cross-Section through x-x(see figure 70) of

the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre
showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m., with all
Page 50
Figure 70.: This is the First Floor Plan of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International
Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights
switched off. (Source: Author, 2014).

4.2.5(a).: 3.00 p.m Illuminance Data
recording being 50 lux. A rise in luminance levels was witnessed along the
western facing facades. Lastly, though immeasurable, the quality of the incoming
figure 68).
diameter) indoor arena. Also, the lowest luminance levels(50 lux) recorded along
the centre of the arena can be attributed to the long distance of these locations
from the source of day light(side windows).A rise in luminance levels was
witnessed along the western facing faade due to the suns shifting position from
the overhead to the west at such a time.
Indoor Arena at 3.00 p.m. were below that recommended from the literature
glass full
height side windows
Transparent
Figure 71.:3-D view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports Centre,
Nairobi, showing the different glazing techniques applied.(Source: Author,2014).
Black
0.1%
Silver
90%
Transpar
ent
6%
Dark Blue
65%
Cream
White
0.1%
Dark
Brown
35%
Figure 72.:The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi International Sports
Centre, Nairobi, showing the different surface finishes applied therein together with
their surface reflectance values.(Source: Author,2014)
4.2.6.:Factors Influencing the Distribution of Daylight in the

Indoor Arena.
4.2.6.(a)The Day lighting Design of the Indoor Arena.
4.2.6(a)(i)Glazing
Full height windows adorned the walls of the hall with daylight
but the daylight could not effectively travel all the way to the
centre of the indoor arena. At eye level, there was no high
contrast effect. However, at higher levels, there was remarkably
high contrast between the daylight and the darkly coloured roof
and wall surfaces, a phenomenon described by Gaia Architects
as Disability Glare.(See figure 72).
Also, the ratio of the daylight admitting surfaces to the daylight
excluding surfaces was approximately 1:3(see figures 71-72),
reason why we witnessed those low luminance levels below
500 lux.
Six different materials, of distinct colours and reflectance
values, were observed in the interior of this arena.
1. The floor was made up of a dark brown hardwood with a
glossy finish, which absorbed up to 65% of daylight and
resulted in specular reflections.
2. The spectator seats ranged in colours from dark blue(65%)

to light blue(75%) to cream white(85%). The mix of different
colours resulted in unnecessary visual clutter that was
prohibited in the literature reviewed.
3.75% of the wall was made up of a dark blue vinyl matt
emulsion paint(65%) which absorbed up to 35 % of daylight but
was devoid of any specular reflections.
Page 51
4. 25% of the walls were made up of transparent glass(6%)which admitted 94 % of

daylight incident upon it.
5. 80 % of the ceiling plane was made up of glossy silver white(95%) coloured sound
propagation panels which resulted in specular reflections.
6. 20 % of the ceiling was made up of black rubber paint(0.1%) on cement screed,
which absorbed 99.9 % of daylight incident upon it.
Figure 73.:The interior view of the Indoor Arena at the Moi

International Sports Centre, Nairobi, during daytime,
showing what the author believes to be a shameful
intervention taken in order to increase the luminance
levels therein(Source:Author,2014).
4.2.7.: Implications of the Distribution of Daylight:

4.2.7(a)Environmental Implications
With the poor quality as well as the low quantity of daylight in the Moi International
Sports Centre indoor arena , artificial lighting systems have been installed, which
heavily rely on hydro-electric power for their operation. And what with the regular
power outages rocking the city of Nairobi? A diesel generator stands by, just in
case(see figure 77) Emissions from the engine have so far been playing a big role in
warming the globe whereas the mining of diesel itself has been termed as the
depletion of limited natural reserves.
To run such a busy facility with artificial lights on for most part of its life can prove to
be a costly affair. This is because it not only entails the non-stop sucking of electricity
expensive.
Figure 74.:The diesel guzzling generator installed at the

Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena, as a
backup strategy (Source: Author, 2014).
Page 52
4.3.:The Moi International Sports Complex(M.I.S.C) Warm Up Hall

An annexe to the main Indoor Arena, it serves as the warm-up hall for
the main facility. It also doubles up as the training hall. The warm-up hall
can host indoor basketball, netball, volleyball, table tennis as well as the
martial arts. Unlike the main Indoor Arena, it is small in size, it sits
on an 850 square meters footprint and lacks terraced seating. Spectators
can only view the game from a balcony that overlooks the court.
Figure 75.: World map showing the global positioning of the Moi International Sports
Centre Warm Up Hall.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 77.: Neighbourhood map showing the immediate

positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm
Up Hall.(Source: www.maps.google.com).
Figure 76.: Map of Kenya showing the Figure 77.: Map of Nairobi showing the provincial Figure 78.: Neighbourhood map showing the immediate
national positioning of the Moi International positioning of the Moi international Sports Centre Warm positioning of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm Up
Sports
Centre
Warm
Up Up Hall.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Hall.(Source: www.maps.google.com).
Hall.(www.maps.google.com,2014).
Page 53
This sports building is found in Kasarani,Nairobi, Kenya, at
coordinates 11347.9S 365332.6E / 1.229972S 36.892389E,
which render it a tropical climatic configuration.Its main link to the
Nairobi Central Business District is the newly refurbished Thika
superhighway and it takes one a thirty minute time duration to
commute between the two important destinations.
On average, it receives 2494.3 hours of sunshine in a year, a good
number of daylight hours that if harnessed can save on building
energy costs as well as conserve resources
Figure 79.: Weather data for the site at which the Moi International Sports Centre
warm up hall is situated, showing the average number of sunshine
hours.(Source:BBC Weather,2013)
Figure 80.: Interior view of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports
Centre, showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m. with all artificial
lights switched off.(Source: Author, 2014).
Figure 82.: Ground Floor Plan of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi
International Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at
9.00 a.m. with all the artificial lights switched off(Source:
Author,2014).
Figure 81.: Section through the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports
Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 9.00 a.m. with all the artificial
lights switched off(Source: Author,2014)
Figure 83.: First Floor Plan of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi
9.00 a.m,with
all the artificial lights switched off(Source:
Author,2014).
Page 54

at various locations within the Moi International Sports Centre warm up hall.The
witnessed, with an average range of 200 lux, the lowest recording being 300 lux.
Higher luminance levels were witnessed along the eastern facing facades(see
figures 80-83).Lastly, though immeasurable, the quality of the incoming daylight
was quite poor, with incidences of glare, which not only disturbed the eyes of the
author and other users of this facility, but lead to unfair game play(see figure 80).
short span of this indoor arena. Also, the lowest luminance levels(300 lux) were
recorded along the centre of the arena, an observation which can can be
attributed to the long distance of these locations from the source of day light(side
windows) and the absence of rooflights.Higher luminance values were witnessed
along the eastern facing faade due to the suns eastward position at such a time.
Warm up Hall at 9.00 a.m.
The distribution and levels of luminance in the Moi International Sports Centre
warm-up hall at 9.00 a.m. was below that recommended from the literature
Figure 84.: Interior view of the warm up hall at the Moi International Sports
Centre, showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m. with all artificial
lights switched off.(Source: Author, 2014).
12.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights switched off(Source:
Author,2014).
Figure 85.: Section through the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International
Sports Centre showing the distribution of daylight at 12.00 p.m. with all the
artificial lights switched off(Source: Author,2014)
12.00 p.m,with
Autho,2014).
Page 55

4.3.4(a).: 12.00 p.m Illuminance Data.
A reduction in luminance levels were witnessed along the eastern facing
facades(see figures 85-83).Lastly, though immeasurable, the quality of the
incoming daylight was quite poor, with incidences of glare, which not only
disturbed the eyes of the author and other users of this facility, but lead to unfair
game play(see figure 84).
relatively short span of this indoor arena(36mx23m). Also, the lowest luminance
levels(300 lux) were recorded along the centre of the arena, an observation which
can be attributed to the distance of these locations from the source of day
light(side windows) and the absence of roof lights. Drops in the luminance values
along the eastern facing faade were due to the suns shift of position from the
east to overhead.
Warm up Hall at 12.00 p.m.
warm-up hall at 12.00 p.m. was below that recommended from the literature
Figure 88.: Interior view of the warm up hall at the Moi International
Sports Centre, showing the distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m.(Source:
Author, 2014).
3.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights switched off(Source:
Author,2014).
Figure 89.: Section through X-X(see figure 90 and figure 91) of the
Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre showing the
distribution of daylight at 3.00 p.m. with all the artificial lights switched
off(Source: Author,2014)
3.00 p.m,with
Author,2014)
Page 56

4.3.5(a)3.00 p.m Luminance Data
A reduction in luminance levels were witnessed along the eastern facing
facades(see figures 88-91),while there was a remarkable increase in the
luminance levels along the western facing facade. Lastly, though immeasurable,
the quality of the incoming daylight was quite poor, with incidences of glare,
which not only disturbed the eyes of the author and other users of this facility, but
lead to unfair game play(see figure 88).
relatively short span of this indoor arena(36mx23m). Also, the lowest luminance
levels(300 lux) were recorded along the centre of the arena, an observation which
can be attributed to the distance of these locations from the source of day
light(side windows) and the absence of roof lights. Drops in the luminance values
along the eastern facing faade were due to the suns shift of position from the
east to the west.
Warm up Hall at 3.00 p.m.
warm-up hall at 3.00 p.m. was below that recommended from the literature
Clerestory windows. These

were highly prohibited in in
foregoing literature on day
lighting design for indoor
sports arenas. The resultant
effect of their application in
this hall is evident in figure
93 below.
4.3.6.: Factors affecting the Distribution of Daylight

4.3.6.(a)The Day lighting Design of the Indoor Arena.
4.3.6(a)(i)Glazing
There were alternating narrow ribbon window openings and
solid walls areas along the perimeter of the arena. As a result,
there are bright patches of daylight against dark background of
the solid walls.
Five types of materials surfaces of different colours and
reflectance values finished the interior of this warm up hall(see
figure 93).
1.The floor was finished with a glossy light brown hardwood of

65% surface reflectance value. In addition to creating specular
Figure 92.:3-D view of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre,
reflections of daylight, it absorbs 35% of the daylight incident
Nairobi, showing the different glazing techniques applied. (Source: Author,2014).
upon it.
Grey
5%
Transpar
ent
6%
Stucco
White
75%
Egg
White
85%
Light
Brown
65%
2.The ground floor wall was made of cement screed finished

with an egg white vinyl matt emulsion paint of 85% surface
reflectance, absorbing 15% of daylight incident upon it.
3.The first floor wall was made of cement screed finished with a
matt stucco white vinyl matt emulsion paint of 75% surface
reflectance, which absorbed 26%of the daylight incident upon
it.The underside of the roof was made up of galvanised iron
sheets finished with a dark grey vinyl matt emulsion paint of 5%
reflectance. Whereas the matiness avoided specular reflections,
the dark colour absorbed 95 % of the daylight incident upon it.
Figure 93.: Interior view of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre,
showing the various surface finishes applied therein and the resultant
effects.(Source: Author,2014).
Page 57
4.3.7.: Implications of the Distribution of Daylight:

4.3.7(a)Environmental Implications
With the poor quality as well as the low quantity of daylight in the Moi International
Sports Centre indoor arena , artificial lighting systems have been installed, which
heavily rely on hydro-electric power for their operation. And what with the regular
power outages rocking the city of Nairobi? A diesel generator stands by, just in
case(see figure 95). Emissions from the engine have so far been playing a big role in
warming the globe whereas the mining of diesel itself has been termed as the
depletion of limited natural reserves.
Figure 94.:The interior view of the Warm Up Hall at the Moi

International Sports Centre during daytime, showing what
the author believes to be a shameful intervention taken in
order to raise the luminance levels therein, (Source:
Author,2014)

To run such a busy facility with artificial lights on for most part of its life can prove to be
a costly affair. This is because it not only entails the non-stop sucking of electricity
expensive.
Figure 95.:The diesel guzzling generator installed at the

Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Centre,
Nairobi as a backup strategy (Source: Author, 2014).
Page 58
4.4.:The Bolivarian Dome, Berquesimeto, Venezuela

4.4.1.: Historical Background.
Located in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, the Bolivarian Dome is a membrane structured
indoor sports arena with a seating capacity of up to 10,000 people. The arena is
mostly used for basketball games. It is at this indoor arena that Coach Wolfgang
Lucena (Now at NCAA level) used
to coach.
Figure 96: World map showing the global positioning of the Bolivarian
Dome.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 98: Map showing the immediate context of the

Bolivarian Dome.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 97: Map showing the national positioning

Dome.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 99.Map showing the immediate neighbourhood of

the Bolivarian Dome.(Source: maps.google.com,2014).
Page 59
of
the
Bolivarian
This sports building is found in Barquisimeto,Venezuela, at coordinates which
render it a tropical climatic configuration,with annual sun duration averaging at 250
hours, sunhours if well harnessed can make a sports building very sustainable.
Figure 100.Weather data showing of the number of sun hours experienced at the site in which the
Bolivarian Dome sits(Source: www.weather-and-climate.com,2014).
Figure 100.: Interior view of the Bolivarian Dome depicting

adequate and evenly distributed daylight.(Google
Images,2013).
Figure 101.: This is the First Floor Plan of the Bolivarian

Dome , showing the deep dimensions spanned by this
indoor sports arena.(Source: Google Images,2013).
4.4.3.: The Distribution of Daylight

On this one, the author was limited by the time factor.As such, an empirical
analysis of the Distribution of Daylight was out of the question. However, life had
to go on.Like the sages of old said, a picture speaks more than a thousand
words. And so does figure 100, which is said to have been shot during midday,
with the sun hovering directly overhead.It is an echo to earlier sentiments by Gaia
Architects and others regarding the desired quality and quantity of daylight in
Indoor Sports Arenas. It clearly captures an interior sporting environment that is
endowed with adequate, uniformly distributed daylight. Unlike in the foregoing
local cases where incidences of glare were the order of the day, no such thing
can be witnessed in this state-of-the-art Indoor Sports Arena. This is despite the
fact that it spans a whooping 80 metre at its longest axis and 55 metres at its
shortest axis.It is perhaps one of the best daylit Indoor Sports Arenas in the
region and the world at large and exemplifies a daylighting design that should be
emulated by all Sports Architects who not only aspire to be called great but also
to provide indoor sporting environments that appear as natural as possible,
thereby promoting the physical and thereafter mental well being of sportment
and sportswomen alike, who will in turn soar to great heights in their respective
professions.
Figure 102.: Cross section of the Bolivarian Dome , showing the deep dimensions spanned by
this indoor sports arena.(Source: Google Images,2013).
Page 60
Egg White light diffusing

translucent
polycarbonate
membrane overhead the
indoor sports arena is an
ingenious application that
creates
a
naturally,adequately
and
evenly daylit indoor sports
arena.
The absence of side windows

ensures that incidences of
disability glare like we saw in
some foregoing cases are
eliminated thereby ensuring
Visual comfort as well as fair
gameplay.
Figure 102:3-D view of the Bolivarian Dome showing the different glazing techniques
applied (Source: maps.google.com,2014).
Cream White
87%
Translucent
0.5%
Yellow
75%
Grey
28%
Maroon
45%
Sky Blue
75%
Figure 103: Interior view of the Bolivarian Dome showing the different surface finishes
and the resultant effect to the interior of this indoor sports arena(maps.google.com)
Page 61
4.4.4.:Factors Influencing the Distribution of Daylight.

4.4.4(a).: The Day lighting Design of the Indoor Arena.
4.4.4(a)(i)Glazing
The indoor arena has been roofed with a translucent
membrane roof. The highly elastic fibreglass roof covering
admits
luminance levels of 500 lux, same as the
recommended values for the kind of space.
4.4.4(a)(ii)Surface Finishes.
Three distinct surfaces of different colours finish the interior of
this warm up hall(see figure 103).
1.The court is made up of a matt sky blue
polyvinylchloride of 75% surface reflectance. While the
blue colour diffuses the daylight incident upon it, its
matiness avoids specular reflections of the same
2.The ground floor walls are made up of a dark grey
coloured acoustic panels which absorb the daylight falling
on the surfaces.
3.The matt maroon, grey and amber coloured seats
absorb the incoming daylight but avoid specular
reflections
4.The egg-white coloured translucent roof covering admit
and diffuse 99.5 % of the daylight.
5.The egg-white coloured roof structure diffuses the
incoming daylight.
4.4.5.:The Daylighting Performance of the Bolivarian
Dome
The Day lighting Performance of the Bolivarian Dome is
excellent as it is in line with the guidelines set forth in the
previous chapters of this paper. There is uniform and glare
free daylight inside the arena during daytime, the benefits of
which are an overall reduction in the energy consumption of
the building in addition to conservation of natural resources
that are fossil fuels. This is a good case to be emulated.
4.4.6.: Implications of the Distribution of Daylight.

The implications of the distribution of daylight in this
Indoor Arena are:4.4.6(i)Cost Implications
Since the quality as well as the quantity in the arena were
of the recommended levels, artificial lighting was not
necessary during daytime. It is only at night that artificial
lights were switched on. As such, the electricity
consumption of the building was significantly reduced.
This is perhaps what was being referred to in chapter
one by Derek Philips that the overall cost of running a
sports building can be reduced by up to a third if that
building utilizes daylight during daytime. Along the same
line, the lifespan of the specialized light bulbs is doubled as
opposed to a scenario whereby they have to be switched on
throughout the day and night.
4.4.6(ii)Environmental Implications
According to Derek Philips, the use of natural resources(
that are sustainable) is what qualifies a sports building to be
green. The Bolivarian Dome, by way of its application of
daylight through the light diffusing roof membrane, becomes
a green building whose benefits are zero emissions to the
environment, more especially during daytime. Also, since it
purely depends on the natural light of the day during such
times, the possibility of power outages does not translate to
the burning of diesel for the purpose of generating electricity
to light up the indoor arena. This way, the Bolivarian Dome
can rightly be said to be contributing towards the
conservation of natural resource that are fossil fuels.
4.5.:The University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena,
Figure 104.:World map showing the global positioning of the University of

Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena(.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).)
Figure 107: Exterior view of the University of Cambridge

Indoor
Sports
Arena.(Source:
Figure 105: Map showing the national positioning of the University of Cambridge
Indoor Sports Arena.(Source: www.maps.google.com,2014).
Figure 106.Map showing the immediate neighbourhood

of the University of Cambridge Indoor Sports
Arena.(Source: maps.google.com)
Page 62
4.5.1.: Historical Background.

Located in Cambridge, this indoor sports hall was designed by Arup Associates at a
whooping cost of 16million and its construction was completed in 1995.It has a
capacity of up to 1000 people. A t the core of the centre is an 8-court multipurpose
sports hall, with court markings for basketball,volleyball,netball and korfball. Catering
for the martial arts, yoga, fencing, gymnastics, dancing and gymnastics is a large
multipurpose room.
According to en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge,the University of Cambridge Indoor
Sports Arena is found in the United Kingdom,at co-ordinates 521218N
00708E / 52.205N 0.119E / 52.205,and lies in East Anglia, on the River Cam,
about 50 miles (80 km) north from London. According to the United Kingdom
Census 2011, its population was 123,867 (including 24,488 students).It
experiences up to 1,494.5 sun hours per year,a great potential for daylighting,
which if well harnessed, can offset daily operation costs of buildings by a great
deal.
Figure 108.Climatic Data of the University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena(Source:

maps.google.com)
Figure 108:An interior view of the University of Cambridge Sports

Centre showing the adequate and even distribution of daylight from
the north lights installed on the roof. (Source: Google Images,2014).
Fig 109:The ground floor plan of the University of Cambridge Indoor

Sports Arena.(Source: University of Cambridge Building User
Guide,2004)
4.5.3.: The Distribution of Daylight

This is the same script of the just concluded case, but of a slightly different
cast in that it employs the ingenuous concept of admitting daylight into an
Indoor Sports Arena from above(sky lighting).
Figure 108 was taken at midday when the sun was overhead. It clearly
indicates an even distribution of daylight within the arena. There is no high
contrast between dark and light tones the result of which is a well-lit arena.
However, at higher levels, some levels of glare can be witnessed. Going by
the recommendations by GAIA Architects, this condition could be dealt with
by the introduction of a light colored satin cloth ceiling plane that would in
effect diffuse the incoming daylight before it reaches the interior of this
indoor arena.
4.5.4.:The
Daylighting
Performance of the University
of Cambridge Indoor Sports
Arena.
The Day lighting Performance of
the Bolivarian Dome is excellent
as it is in line with the guidelines
set forth in the previous chapters
of this paper. There was uniform
and glare free daylight inside the
arena during daytime, the
benefits of which are an overall
reduction
in
the
energy
consumption of the building in
addition to conservation of
natural resources that are fossil
fuels.
Fig 110:The first floor plan of the University of
Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena.(Source: University of
Cambridge Building User Guide,2004).
Page 63
North-lights installed along the

entire span of the roof admit
daylight into the indoor sports
arena while omitting direct sun
rays.
These windows only serve the

purpose of daylighting and
ventilating the auxiliary rooms
and no from them daylight
penetraters the arena hence
avoiding incidences of glare.
Figure 110:3-D view of the University of Cambridge Sports Hall showing

the different glazing techniques applied.(Source: University of Cambridge
Building User Guide,2004)
Egg White
85%
Light Blue
45%
Light Brown
7%
Figure 111: Interior view of the University of Cambridge Sports Hall showing
the different Surface finishes.(Source: University of Cambridge Building
User Guide,2004)
4.5.5.: Factors Influencing the Distribution of Daylight in the

University of Cambridge Indoor Sports Arena.
4.5.5(i)The Day lighting Design.
4.5.5(i)(a)Glazing
North lights along the entire span of its curved roof structure admit indirect
daylight into the indoor sports hall. At higher levels, there was some glare
on the walls due to higher concentration of daylight there than at lower
levels. This could be as a result of the proximity to the source of daylight.
4.5.5(i)(b)Surface Finishes
Three distinct surfaces of different colours finish the interior of this warm up
hall(figure 111).
1.The court is made up a of a matt light brown hardwood of 7% reflectance
value. While the light brown colour absorbs 93% of the incoming daylight,
its matiness avoids specular reflections of the daylight.
2.The walls are made up of matt blue vinyl emulsion paint, of 45%
reflectance value, which absorbs 55% of the daylight incident upon its
surface.
3.70 % of the underside of the roof together with the structure is made up
of egg white surfaces of 85% reflectance value which absorbs 15% of the
daylight incident upon it.
4.30% of the roof is made up of glass which admits daylight into the sports
hall.
4.5.5.: Implications of the Distribution of Daylight.
4.5.5(i) Cost Implications
Since the quantity of light in the sports hall was as per the recommended
levels, artificial lighting is not necessary during daytime. It is only at night
that artificial lights are switched on. As such, the electricity consumption of
the building is reduced significantly.
4.5.5(ii)Environmental Implications
Since the electricity consumption of this sports building is reduced
significantly, the same reduction extends to its impact on the environment.
Page 64
4.6.:A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE FIVE CASES.

1.NYAYO NATIONAL
STADIUM(INDOOR ARENA)
2.MOI INTERNATIONAL STADIUM

(MAIN INDOOR ARENA)
1. The
Distribution of
Daylight.
-An even distribution of

daylight within the arena.
-An uneven distribution

of -An even distribution of daylight

within the arena.
-An even distribution of daylight

within the arena.
2. Effect of the
Distribution of
Daylight.
3. Factors
Affecting the
Distribution of
Daylight.
3.1 Day lighting
Design
-Low contrast between light -High contrast between light -High contrast between light -Low contrast between light and
and dark tones.
and dark tones
and dark tones
dark tones.
-Low contrast between light and

dark tones.
3.2.:Surface
Finishes
-High level continuous spans

of windows of varying heights
only broken by 300mm thick
columns at 6m intervals.
1.Floor-Dark brown cement

screed with a matt finish.
Page 65
-High level, non- continuous

spans of windows.
1. Floor -Dark brown

hardwood with a gloss
finish.
3.MOI INTERNATIONAL
SPORTS CENTRE
(WARM UP HALL)
of -An uneven distribution

4.THE BOLIVARIAN DOME
-High level, non- continuous

spans of windows.
1. Floor-Dark brown
hardwood with
a matt finish.
5.THE UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE

INDOOR SPORTS ARENA
-A light diffusing egg white North lights span the entire roof
translucent membrane over the of this indoor sports arena.
entire surface of the roof
structure only broken by 250mm
thick frames.
1.The court is made up a dark
1.Floor-Sky blue & yellow brown hardwood with a matt
polyvinyl chloride with a matt finish. While the dark brown
colour absorbs some of the
finish.
incoming daylight, its matiness
avoids multiple reflections
3.2.:Surface
Finishes
(Contd).
1.NYAYO NATIONAL

(MAIN INDOOR ARENA)
2
.2.Ground Floor Wall- Dark
brown cement screed with a
matt finish.
2. First Floor Wall- Brown hard

wood with a matt finish.
3. RoofSeventy five(75%)made of
highly reflective sound
propagating panels.
4. Roof
Twenty five(25%) of the roof
Forty per cent(40%) made of
finished with a dark blue paint
translucent roofing sheets.
with a matt finish.
Sixty per cent(60%) made of
dark brown roofing sheets.
3. First Floor Wall-Egg white

paint with a matt finish.
Page 66
3.MOI INTERNATIONAL
SPORTS CENTRE
(WARM UP HALL)
2. Ground Floor Wall -Egg

white paint with a matt finish.
2. Seats-Amber, grey and

red paint with matt finishes.
3.First Floor Wall-Stucco white

paint with a matt finish.
3.The railing is painted yellow.
4.Roof
Hundred per cent(100%)
made up of dark grey roofing
sheets with a matt finish.
4. RoofFrame- Egg-white paint with a

matt finish.
Covering- Egg-white
translucent membrane.

INDOOR SPORTS ARENA
2.The walls are made up of matt

blue vinyl emulsion paint, of 80%
reflectance value, which reflects a
significant amount of daylight
incident upon its surface.
3.70 % of the underside of the
roof together with the structure is
made up of egg white surfaces of
85% reflectance value
which
reflect a significant amount of the
incoming daylight.
4.30% of the roof is made up of
glass which admits daylight into
the sports hall.
4.Implications of
the Distribution of
Daylight.
4.1.Cost
4.2. Environmental
1.NYAYO NATIONAL

(MAIN INDOOR ARENA)
3.MOI INTERNATIONAL
SPORTS CENTRE
(WARM UP HALL)
To run such a busy facility with

artificial lights on for most part of
its life can prove to be a costly
affair. This is because it not only
entails the non-stop sucking of
electricity from the national grid,
but also the maintenance of
specialised
electrical
accessories.
Likewise, the diesel generator
survives on diesel which has
nowadays
become
quite
expensive.
The specialised light bulbs are

expensive to maintain. In
addition, they consume a
significant
amount of electricity thereby
raising the operation costs of the
facility.
Also, diesel guzzled by the
generator is getting more and
more expensive by the day.
Specialized light fittings

installed in this heavily used
warm-up
hall
are
quite
expensive and the bills incurred
thereof increase the
cost of running the facility.
Also, as mentioned in the
earlier cases, fuel guzzled by
the
generator is becoming more
and more expensive.
Mechanisms used to deliver

artificial light into the indoor
arena contribute towards global
warming.
The mechanisms to deliver

artificial light into the indoor
arena contribute towards global
warming.
Page 67
Mechanisms to deliver artificial

light into the indoor arena
contribute towards global
warming.

INDOOR SPORTS ARENA
Since the quality as well as the

quantity in the arena were of the
recommended levels, artificial
lighting was not
necessary during daytime. It is
only at night that artificial lights
were switched on. As such, the
electricity
consumption of the building was
reduced significantly.
Since the quantity of light in the

sports hall was as per the
recommended levels, artificial
lighting is not necessary during
daytime. It is only at night that
artificial lights are switched on. As
such, the electricity consumption
of the building is reduced
significantly.
The facility relies mainly on

daylight during daytime hours,
thereby minimizing its impact on
the environment.
Since the electricity consumption

of this sports building is reduced
significantly, the same reduction
extends to its impact on the
environment.
5.0. CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY OF THE STUDY

5.1.:Chapter 1:Introduction
1.1
This painted us the background information against which to see this research paper.
1.1.1
From the Oxford dictionary, we learnt that daylight is the natural light of the sun and sky during daytime. The bible, in its book of
Genesis, chapter one, verse fourteen, gave us the 1.1.2 history of daylight thus, And God said, Let there be lights in the expanse of the
sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark the seasons and days of the year. Derek Phillips, FCIBSE, in
his article titled Day and Light; Natural Light and Architecture, pointed to the recorded history of the application of daylight in buildings as
one that dates back to the stone age period when man lived in caves whereby the mouth of the cave acted as a window that would admit
sunlight into the interior spaces. He further on illustrated to us the 1.1.3 salient qualities of daylight as being its ability to undergo dramatic
changes, its ability to render forms with a very natural outlook, as well as its freely available nature. Such divine qualities of daylight led the
author to believe that Sports Architects who deal with daylight in Indoor Sports Arenas in manners that are not fit for the visual consumption
of both the players and their spectators(see photos 1.2.1 and 1.2.3) should be arraigned in a court of law (as soon as possible)to answer to
charges of crimes against humanity.
1.2
It is against this belief that the problem was stated as, all the Olympic Standard Public Indoor Sports Arenas located within the Kenyan
capital, Nairobi, seem to be in contradiction to the foregoing wisdom. The author, in visits to the above mentioned Indoor Sports
Arenas(prior to this research paper) noted that in spite of the long daytime hours usually experienced in that climatic region, all of these
sports facilities felt thoroughly inadequate without the support of artificial lights(see photos 1.2.1, 1.2.2, 1.2.3 and 1.2.4), which not only
guzzled hydroelectricity from the National Grid but also diesel, especially during the frequent power blackouts that usually rock the august
city. The resultant effects of such an unnecessary application of artificial lights was then observed as being a plastic indoor sporting
environment, environmental degradation as well as the depletion of natural resources.But,in order for the foregoing observations to
graduate from hearsay to scientific statements, a research on the Day lighting Performance of Indoor Sports Arenas in Nairibi City was
justified.
1.3
Five objectives of the study were identified as to study and document day lighting design guidelines for Indoor Sports Arenas as
established by authorities in the field, to study and document all the Indoor Sports Arenas in the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi, paying
special attention to their day lighting performance, to study and document some other Indoor Sports Arenas elsewhere(more preferably in
the same tropical disposition), paying special attention to their day lighting performance, to compare the above findings against the day
lighting design guidelines for Indoor Sports Arenas in (i) above, with the ultimate view to establish their success or failure, and afterwards to
recommend to the Stadia Management Board of Kenya(and its private sector affiliates such as Safaricom Ltd)
Page 68
suitable day lighting design guidelines for application in future renovations as well as new developments of Indoor Sports Arenas in
Nairobi, and elsewhere.
1.4
Research questions that would guide the author along the path to the discovery of the foregoing objectives were formulated as thus;
What are the day lighting design guidelines for Indoor Sports Arenas as laid down by authorities in Sports Architecture? What is the day
lighting design and in effect, the day lighting performance of the Indoor Sports Arenas in the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi? What is the day
lighting design and in effect, the day lighting performance of other Indoor Sports Arenas elsewhere(preferably in the tropics)?How do the
day lighting designs and performances of the Indoor Sports Arenas in question compare to laid down day lighting design guidelines for
such arenas? What are the day lighting design guidelines that can be recommended to the Stadia Management Board(as wells as its
private sector affiliates like Safaricom Ltd) that will guide in renovations as well as new developments of Indoor Sports Arenas in Nairobi
and elsewhere?
1.5
The significance of the answers to the above questions could not be emphasised more than did Dr. Debby Mitchelle,Ed. D, Associate
Professor of Physical Education, Sports and Fitness at the University of Central Florida, Orlando, and U.S.A, who has published material
linking mental fitness to physical fitness. In addition to that, they will ensure that the Kenya Vision 2030s objective of creating jobs(sports
included) for the youth yields in decent working environments. 1.6 The scope of the study was influenced by the limited resources of time
and money that were available to the author. Therefore, only the Day lighting Performance of Olympic Standard Public Indoor Sports
Arenas in Nairobi, Kenya, were chosen as the areas of analysis.(However, future students would do good to study the thermal, acoustic as
well as spatial performance of Public and Private Indoor Sports Halls not only just in Nairobi but also elsewhere in the region).
1.7
The methodology for undertaking the research was designed to entail literature reviews, case studies as well as book studies. Literature
Review was chosen as one of the methodologies of study as it would unearth established day lighting design guidelines for indoor sports
arenas as well as other information that would be deemed relevant in bringing us closer to achieving the objectives stated earlier on in
paragraph 1.3 above. Case Study and Book Study methods were picked as they would enable us relate the Literature Review with living
examples of Indoor Sports Arenas and their application of daylight
1.8
Case/Book Study Selection Criteria was as follows:- i)Local Indoor Sports Arenas were to be picked from within the Kenyan Capital,
Nairobi, since it is here that both local and some international sports ( as well as political and social) events have culminated in the recent
past)At least one of the International Indoor Sports Arenas should be a best practice lying along the same geographical disposition as its
Nairobi counterparts, so that lessons drawn thereof could easily be transferred to such building projects in Nairobi. Also, lessons drawn
from Nairobi(the author foresees very many lessons on hownot-to-daylight Indoor Sports Arenas here)could easily be transferred to
counterpart for their application. That way, we would be putting the findings of the study into some meaningful use.
Page 69
5.2.:Chapter 2.0.:Literature Review

In this second chapter of this paper, various literature touching on the Day lighting Design of Indoor Sports Arenas was reviewed.
2.1
Http://www.wbdg.org/resources/daylighting.php defined Day lighting Design as the controlled admission of natural light(direct sunlight
and diffuse skylight) into a building. Daylighting Design for Indoor Sports Arenas was therefore defined as the controlled admission of
natural light(Direct Sunlight and Diffuse Skylight) into the said arenas.
2.2
Further down the same webpage, we learnt that by providing a direct link to the dynamic and perpetually evolving patterns of outdoor
illumination, day lighting design will aid in creating a visually stimulating and productive environment for sports buildings
occupants(sportsmen, sportswomen and their spectators), while at the same time reducing as much as one-third of the total building
energy costs, what led the author to view Day lighting Design for Indoor Sports Arenas as a killing two birds using one stone exercise.
2.3
Gaia Architects, in their article Understanding Day lighting of Sports Halls, identified glazing and surface finishes as the key areas of
consideration whenever one is undertaking a Day lighting Design for Indoor Sports Arena project. Under glazing, they identified side
windows, clerestory windows, and roof lights, a combination of roof lights and side windows as well as membrane roofing systems as
some of the ways of admitting daylight into an Indoor Sports Arena. 2.3.1 Under glazing, GAIA Architects listed Side Windows, Clerestory
Windows, Flat Rooflights,North-South Facing Rooflights,Combined Roof Lights and Side Windows, as well as Membrane Roofing
Systems as some of the daylighting paths that can be trodden by a Sports Architect in the design of an Indoor Sports Arena.
On the use of Side Windows, they saidThe use of side windows can offset perimeter lighting, but , it is unlikely to be adequate for
full day lighting(in cases where the sports hall has got a deep plan) without falling well below the sporting requirements, through the lack
of privacy, glare or sunlight.Their statement was best illustrated by photo 2.3.This led the author to believe that this is a very dangerous
path to tread and s/he who chooses it can easily commit crimes against the Indoor Sporting Humanity that s/he intended to serve.
2.3.1(a)
2.3.1(b)
On the use of Clerestory Windows, they were of the opinion that in the tropics, clerestories work best when placed along the North
and South facing facades as direct sun rays are rarely incident here, but it would be an architectural crime to place such windows along
the east and west facing faces as incidents of disability glare would be highly possible.
2.3.1(c)
On Roof Lights,Neufert(another architectural authority), in his Architects Data publication,said that if properly applied, they can
yield very beautiful results.According to him, the quality as well as quantity of daylight in an indoor sports arena is tightly pegged on the
variance of the daylight factor therein, which in turn is affected by the ratio of transluscen/transparent wall and
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roof surfaces to that of opaque surfaces as well as the placement of these surfaces.Elsewhere, GAIA Architects classified Roof Lights
as either Flat Rooflights or North-South facing Rooflights.
Flat Rooflights, GAIA Architects said, are those rooflights that are flush with the opaque roof plane.Graphs from Neuferts
Architects Data illustrated to us that with this kind of rooflights, the fluctuation in the daylight factor is pretty high ,especially since the
transluscent surfaces occur as strips across the opaque roof plane. We learnt that,perhaps, the best way they could work efficiently is if
they were spaced at close ranges all over the roof, the disadvantage of which would be a compromise of their structural integrity.
2.3.1(c)(i)
2.3.1(c)(ii).
North-South Facing Rooflights were described as roof windows, which are placed facing the North and South in buildings
specifically located within the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, thereby taking advantage of the fact that in such locations the sun is
always almost overhead throught the yearly seasonal variations . As such,they only admit skylight into the sports hall and omit direct
sunlight, characteristics which led the author to rank them highly on the list of daylighting techniques for Indoor Sports Arenas.
2.3.1.(d)
Combined Roof Lights and Side Windows,were described as a combination of both Roof Lights and Side Windows. Graphs from
Neuferts Architects Data illustrated to us that with this kind of arrangement, there is a high likelihood of visual clutter as a result of
intersecting and fluctuating curves of the Daylight Factor thereof the glazed surfaces, characteristics that led us to believe that they are
not the best way to daylight an Indoor Sports Arena.
Membrane Roofing Systems, as was described by Di Tian in his Masters Degree Thesis entitled Membrane Materials and
Membrane Structures in Architecture,are transluscent polycarbornate roofing materials that have been engineered to admit and diffuse
specific quantities and qualities of daylight into the buildings that they crownFurther on in the same document, we learnt that the
supporting structure for such membranes can either be based on the Geiger Cable System(as is the case in the Yao Yan County
Arena,Taoyuan, Taiwan, seen in photo 2.8), or portal frame system( as is the case in the Bolivarian Dome, Berquimisto,
Venezuela,seen in photo).
2.3.1(e)
2.3.2(b)
Surface Finishes colours in a sports hall have to be carefully considered as they will affect the playing ability as well as the
comfort levels of the users.Therefore, the color schemes applied by any sports architect should be of sufficient contrast in order to
prevent balls and shuttlecocks from disappearing, said GAIA Architects.The same sentiments were also echoed by Smith and Ford in
their Handbook for Sports and Recreation, whereby they asserted that all the interior walls in a sports hall should be of uniform and
unbroken colours with reflectance values enought to give sufficient contrast to small and fast moving objects such as shuttlecocks and
balls as well as for dangerous activities such as fencing and the martial arts.
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To that effect, GAIA Architects recommended that all walls below three metres(3m) high should be of uniform,medium tones of matt
finishes so as to contrast with balls and shuttlecocks while avoiding unnecessary reflections of light(photo 2.9),but walls above the three
metre mark should be of lighter colours so as to aid in light distribution. Likewise, they said,floors should be of colours which give
sufficient contrast to walls. Light coloured beech timber(and other similar building materials) of a matt finish was recommended for this
purpose(see photo 2.9). And how about ceilings?These, they said,should be of unbroken light colours which ensure minimum contrast
with sources of illumination in order to reduce glare. To this effect, they recommended white colored ceilings with all structural elements
therein painted white to match the soffit(see photo 2.9). Photo 2.10,taken from the multipurpose hall at the Parklands Sports
Club,Nairobi,illustrated to us how not to specify surface finishes for an Indoor Sports Arena.
2.3.3
A Sport Specific Surface Finishes Selection Criteria was outlined by GAIA Architects as follows:-2.3.3(i)Badminton requires
uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in brightness from one part of the hall to
another.Furthermore, the shuttle cock should be at the back of the mind of the designer as it needs to be visible at a certain height. Wall
finishes should be matt and without unnecessary decor. The ceiling requires to be brighter than other surfaces and devoid of strong
patterns. Sports Architects should always aim at high levels of illumination(ranging between 300-750 lux), and roof lights are
recommended for this purpose.
2.3.3(ii)
Basketball requires uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in brightness from one
part of the hall to another.Furthermore ,the basketball should be at the back of the mind of the designer as it needs to be visible at a
certain height. Wall finishes should be matt and without unnecessary decor. The ceiling requires to be brighter than other surfaces and
devoid of strong patterns. Sports Architects should aim at high levels of illumination(ranging between 300-750 lux), and roof lights were
recommended for this purpose.
2.3.3(iii)
Volleyball requires uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in brightness from one
part of the hall to another.Furthermore , the volleyball should be at the back of the mind of the designer as it needs to be visible at a
devoid of strong patterns. Sports Architects should always aim at high levels of illumination(ranging between 300-750 lux), and roof
lights are recommended for this purpose.
2.3.3(iv)
Handball requires uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in brightness from one
part of the hall to another.Furthermore , the handball should be at the back of the mind of the designer as it needs to be visible at a
devoid of strong patterns.
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Sports Architects should always aim at high levels of illumination(ranging between 300-750 lux), and roof lights are recommended
for this purpose.2.3.3(v)Table Tennis requires uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in
brightness from one part of the hall to another.Furthermore , the tennis ball should be at the back of the mind of the designer as it
needs to be visible at a certain height. Wall finishes should be matt and without unnecessary decor. The ceiling requires to be
brighter than other surfaces and devoid of strong patterns. Sports Architects should always aim at high levels of illumination(ranging
between 300-750 lux), and roof lights are recommended for this purpose.
2.3.3(vi)
Squash requires uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in brightness from one
part of the hall to another.Furthermore , the squashball should be at the back of the mind of the designer as it needs to be visible at a
certain height. Wall finishes should be matt and without unnecessary decor. The ceiling requires to be brighter than other surfaces
and devoid of strong patterns. Sports Architects should always aim at high levels of illumination(ranging between 300-750 lux), and
roof lights are recommended for this purpose.
2.3.3(vii)
Martial Arts Squash requires uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in
brightness from one part of the hall to another.Furthermore , swords, chains,poles,gloves and other accessories should be at the
back of the mind of the designer as they need to be visible at a certain height. Wall finishes should be matt and without unnecessary
decor. The ceiling requires to be brighter than other surfaces and devoid of strong patterns. Sports Architects should always aim at
high levels of illumination(ranging between 300-750 lux), and roof lights are recommended for this purpose.
2.3.3(viii)
Weightlifting requires uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in brightness from
one part of the hall to another.Furthermore , the weightlifting equipment should be at the back of the mind of the designer as it needs
to be visible at a certain height. Wall finishes should be matt and without unnecessary decor. The ceiling requires to be brighter than
other surfaces and devoid of strong patterns. Sports Architects should always aim at high levels of illumination(ranging between 300750 lux), and roof lights are recommended for this purpose.
ix)Boardgames require uniform,glare free light. Uniformity is of profound importance as it prevents fluctuations in brightness from one
part of the hall to another.Furthermore , the opponent should be at the back of the mind of the designer as he/she needs to be visible
at a certain height. Wall finishes should be matt and without unnecessary decor. The ceiling requires to be brighter than other
surfaces and devoid of strong patterns. Sports Architects should always aim at high levels of illumination(ranging between 300-750),
and roof lights are recommended for this purpose.
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5.3.:Chapter 3.0.:Research Design

3.1
Having undertaking the foregoing review of Day lighting Design for Indoor Sports Arenas literature, the research purpose began to
take the shape of describing the daylighting performance of all the Indoor Sports Arenas that could be found lying within the capital
city of Kenya,Nairobi. An accurate profile of the quantity as well as an indication of the quality of light therein should be brought to
light and compared against internationally established standards for the same types of spaces and thereby conclusions would be
drawn as to whether the users of such spaces experience visual comfort or otherwise.
3.2
The Research Strategy then became obvious. Given the empirical and non-empirical nature of the quality as well as the
quantity(respectively) of daylight in Indoor Sports Arenas,local case studies of all the Public Indoor Sports Arenas would be selected
from within the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi.These would become a very important asset that would enable us to start engaging
empirically with matters to do with Daylighting Design for Indoor Sports Arenas in Nairobi, Kenya.We could easily walk there with a
Lux meter, a Sketch Pad, a Pencil and a Tape Measure and measure the quantity of daylight therein at various locations within the
hall under the microscope! However, we would either be hallucinating or too ambitious to picture ourselves taking flights to two or
three Capitals elsewhere for the foregoing intentions. A photo analysis session then became strategic. Like the sages said, a picture
speaks more than a thousand words.And so they would about the quality of daylight in the sports halls under the microscope.A note
or two would be made on uniformity and glare conditions as would be witnessed by a working eye.That way, an international picture
of some best and worst practices would be painted. The criteria for the selection of these practices would still remain to be that
atleast one best practice should be based within the tropics so that meaningful comparisons could be made for future reference by
Sports Architecture practitioners within the climatic region.
3.3
The Time Horizon that was envisioned for the foregoing undertaking spanned from 1 st October 2013 to 30th November 2013. As
the elements that would be under the microscope would take a thousand and one years to start behaving differently, a cross
sectional study of the population would be in order.
3.4
The Local Population earmarked for the study included the two Indoor Sports Arenas at the Moi International Sports Complex,
Kasarani,Nairobi, the Indoor Sports Arena at the Nyayo Sports Complex, Nairobi,as well as the Indoor Arena at the Bomas of
Kenya. This population was deemed to be relevant for this study as both national and some international Indoor Sports (as well as
other social and economic) fora have in the past culminated there.The International Population earmarked for the study included the
Bolivarian Dome at Berquimisto, Venezuela, the Yao Yan County Arena,Taoyuan, Taiwan and the Cambrige University Sports Hall,
all of which happened to be of similar standards in addition to hosting similar events as the local ones.
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3.5
The elements to be watched out for in the foregoing population were the illuminance levels as well as disability glare
levels.Whereas illuminance levels could be measured in a digital format, the author vowed to use the eyes to the best of their ability
so as to paint an almost accurate picture of of the quality of daylight inside the spaces under scrutiny.
3.7
Data Sources that the author banked his hopes on were classified as primary and secondary.
Primary data sources Included photographs, pencil sketches and physical measurements of light and distance.Photographs
would capture the spirit of the spaces under the microscope and give an indication of the quality of light therein.Pencil Sketches
would by-pass stingy custodians of as built drawings of the Indoor Sports Arenas. They would turn out to be a quick way of capturing
the layout as well as the sectional profiles of the spaces under study. Measurements by the use of a lux meter would give accurate
daylight levels at selected points within the Indoor Sports Arenas while distances measured would aid in graphical analysis of the
distribution of daylight.
3.7.1
3.7.2
Secondary data referred to included the Bible,and more especially the book of Genesis 1:14, which gave us an insight into the
supernatural origins of daylight dating back to the time of the Creation of the Universe by the hand of the Almighty. Floor
plans,Sections, Elevations, 3 dimensional impressions, and the historical information of the sports buildings under the spotlight, things
that have traditionally been found in hardcopy books and recently soft copy books.However, it was very disappointing to discover that
in our ISO 9001 Certified libraries, not a single serious issue on Sports Architecture could be found either on the dusty shelves or the
slow-to-open online databases.But life went on. Some other online resources from elsewhere were at hand.Understanding
Daylighting of Sports Halls by Gaia Architects and Some Indoor Sports Buildings by Birch were some of the books that were more
specific to Daylighting Design for Indoor Sports that went a long way in informing us on the Factors That Affect the Quality and
Quantity of Daylight in Indoor Sports Arenas . Other reinforcements were also extracted from websites such as
http://www.wbdg.org/resources/daylighting.php.
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5.4.:Chapter 4.0.:FIELDWORK/CASE STUDIES

From the humble beginnings of the research, this chapter was envisioned to entail the study and analysis of four local case studies in
addition to three other international ones. The local cases, as stipulated in the foregoing chapters paragraph 3.4, included the two
Indoor Sports Arenas at the Moi International Sports Complex, Kasarani,Nairobi, the Indoor Sports Arena at the Nyayo Sports
Complex, Nairobi,as well as the Indoor Arena at the Bomas of Kenya,all of which the author had the rare opportunity to step foot into
with the bomb-like gadget(lux meter), with the exception of the Bomas one.The author made several attempts to convince the
management of this facility but all in vain.However, it was the authors believe that a 75% representation of all the Indoor Sports
Arenas in Nairobi would still give a general indication of their Daylighting Performance.
The international case studies(what other scholars call book studies), as was also outlined in the foregoing chapters paragraph 3.4,
included the Bolivarian Dome at Berquimisto, Venezuela, the Yao Yan County Arena,Taoyuan, Taiwan and the Cambrige University
Sports Hall, all which the author was priviliged to lay hands on some of their Daylighting Perfomance information.
4.1.:Local Case 1:The Nyayo Sports Complex Indoor Arena
4.1.3
At exactly 9.a.m,using the lux meter, and with all the artificial lights killed, readings of various illuminance levels were taken at
various locations within the Indoor Sports Arena at the Nyayo Sports Complex.It was observed that the highest illuminance
levels(>500 lux) occured near the windows at the first floor level(see fig.4.1.3). These luminance lied within the recommended 500
lux for the kind of space. However, away from the windows, reductions from 500 lux downwards were witnessed, but the roof lights
installed on the roof of this arena ensured that the fluctuations were minimal.
The lowest luminance level recorded was 435 lux, 65 lux short of the recommended 500 lux. Luminance levels along the eastern
facing facade exceeded those along the western facing facade by 80 lux(see fig.4.1.3(a) and 4.1.3(b) and 4.1.3(c) This was
attributed to the fact that the sun rises in the east and hence more daylight from this direction than from any other. These empirical
observations were reinforced by photograph 4.1.2, which gave us a visual indication of the Day lighting Performance of this arena at
that time.
4.1.4
The same procedure was repeated at 12.00 p.m. It was observed that luminance levels along the eastern facade of the arena
dropped by 40 lux while those along the other facades increased by 10 lux(see fig.. The 40 lux fall was attributed to the suns
overhead position which withdrew the extra amounts of daylight along the eastern facades. The 10 lux increase along the other
facades was attributed to the increase in the Daylight Factor due to the suns overhead position. Along the centre of the arena,
where the skylights were directly overhead, there was an 80 lux increase, due to the suns overhead position.
4.1.5
Again, the same procedure was repeated at 3 p.m. It was observed that luminance levels along the eastern facade dropped by
a further 40 lux while those at the other facades dropped by 10 lux.The 40 lux rise was attributed to the suns western position which
increased the Daylight Factor along this facade while the 10 lux drop was attributed to the reduced Daylight Factor due to the sun
drop in altitude as it downed to the west.
After all was said and done, a general note was in order. It was noted that there were remarkable fluctuations of the amount of
daylight both at various locations inside this Indoor Sports Arena and at various times of the day, which led the author to believe that
the users of this arena have been denied that basic human right that is good daylight.
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4.1.6
At this juncture, factors that influenced the Distribution of Daylight in the Nyayo Sports Complex Indoor Arena were worthy
taking a look at.
4.1.6(a)
These factors were put under the umbrella title The Day lighting Design of the Indoor Arena, just like they were classified in
the foregoing literature(see chapter 2.0, paragraphs 2.1 and 2.3).The factors themselves were baptized as glazing and surface
finishes.
4.1.6(a)(i)
The glazing was a mix of clerestory windows(high level windows) and full height windows with column breaks at 3m intervals and
height variations at same intervals while roof lights admitted rays of daylight from the sun above. The combination resulted in a near
adequately lit interior. At eye level, there was no high contrast effect. However, at higher levels, there is remarkable high contrast
between the daylight and the darkly coloured roof and wall surfaces, a phenomenon described by Gaia Architects as Disability Glare.(See
photo 4.1.2).
4.1.6(a)(ii)
As was seen in photo 4.1.1,the surface finish on the floor was a dark brown cement screed(of % surface reflectance) with a
matt finish. While the matiness minimised specular reflections of daylight within the sports hall, the darkness of the same absorbed
significant amounts of the daylight. The ground floor terraces extended up to two meters high and was made up of a dark brown
cement screed(of % surface reflectance )with a matt finish.Likewise,while the matiness minimised specular reflections of daylight
within the sports hall, the darkness of the same absorbed some amounts of the daylight. The wall at the first floor was finished with
cement screed painted with a stucco white paint which diffused the daylight falling on it. 50 per cent of the roof was made up of matt dark
grey iron sheets. Likewise,while the matiness minimised multiple reflections of daylight within the sports hall, the darkness of the
same absorbed some amounts of the daylight. 50 per cent of the roof was made up of translucent roofing sheets. These admitted
sunrays into the hall, and created bright patches against the background of the dark grey iron sheets. 25 per cent of the roof is made
up of transparent roofing sheets which admitted sun rays into the sports hall and created bright patches against the background of
dark grey iron sheets.
4.1.7
Lastly, the Implication of the Distribution of Daylight in the
Indoor Arena was discussed.
4.1.7(a)
Environmental Implications resulted from the compromise on the quality as well as the quantity of daylight in the Indoor Arena
thereby making artificial lighting necessary. And what with the regular power outages experienced in the area? A diesel generator
was stand by whose emissions were found to be playing a big role in warming the globe.
4.1.7 (b)
Cost Implications were also found to result from running such a busy facility with artificial lights on for most part of its life
which.This was said to be a costly affair because it not only entailed the non-stop sucking of electricity from the national grid, but
also the maintenance of specialised electrical accesories.Likewise, the diesel generator survived on diesel which was quite
expensive.
4.2.:Local Case 2:The Moi International Sports Complex(M.I.S.C) Main Indoor Arena
4.2.3
At exactly 9.a.m,using the lux meter, and with all the artificial lights killed, readings of various illuminance levels were taken at
various locations within the Indoor Sports Arena at the Moi International Sports Complex.It was observed that the highest
illuminance levels(>500 lux) occured near the windows at the first floor level(see figures 4.2.3 and 4.2.4).
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These luminance levels lied within the recommended bare minimum levels of 500 lux for the kind of space. However, away from
the windows, reductions from 500 lux downwards were witnessed, with the lowest luminance levels recorded being 50 lux, which
were witnessed at the centre of the arena. This was a whooping 450 lux difference. This huge difference was attributed to the deep
span of the arena( a radius of 40 metres) and the use of side windows as the daylighting strategy. Such windows(as opposed to
rooflights) not only failed to deliver sufficiennt amounts of daylight to all the areas within the arena but also created bright patches
of light which resulted in what was earlier on referred to as disability glare(see photo 4.4.2).It was further observed that Luminance
levels along the eastern facing facade exceeded those along the western facing facade by 80 lux(see figures 4.2.3 and 4.2.4). This
was attributed to the fact that the sun rises in the east and hence more daylight from this direction than from any other during the
morning hours. These empirical observations were reinforced by photograph 4.2.2, which gave us a visual indication of the Day
lighting Performance of this arena at that time.
4.2.4
The same procedure was repeated at 12.00 p.m. It was observed that luminance levels along the eastern facade of the arena
dropped by 40 lux while those along the other facades increased by 10 lux(see fig.4.2.3 and 4.2.4) The 40 lux fall was attributed to
the suns overhead position which withdrew the extra amounts of daylight along the eastern facades. The 10 lux increase along the
other facades was attributed to the increase in the Daylight Factor due to the suns overhead position. Along the centre of the
arena, which was at a distance of 40 metres from the side windows, there was 10 lux decrease in luminance levels, an observation
attributed to the reduced amount of daylight along the eastern facing facade that was earlier on experiencing the rising suns rays.
4.2.5
Again, the same procedure was repeated at 3 p.m. It was observed that luminance levels along the eastern facade dropped by
a further 40 lux while those at the other facades dropped by 10 lux.The 40 lux rise was attributed to the suns western position
which increased the Daylight Factor along this facade while the 10 lux drop was attributed to the reduced Daylight Factor due to the
sun drop in altitude as it downed.
After all was said and done, a general note was in order. It was noted that there were remarkable fluctuations of the amount of
daylight both at various locations inside this Indoor Sports Arena and at various times of the day, which led the author to believe that
the users of this arena have been denied that basic human right that is adequate and uniformly distributed daylight.
4.2.6
At this juncture, just like in the previous case study, factors that influenced the Distribution of Daylight in the Moi International
Sports Complex Indoor Arena were worthy taking a look at.
4.2.6(a)
These factors were put under the umbrella title The Day lighting Design of the Indoor Arena, just like they were classified in
the foregoing literature(see chapter 2.0, paragraphs 2.1 and 2.3).The factors themselves were baptized as glazing and surface
finishes.
4.2.6(a)(i)
The glazing took the form of side full height windows with 3m wide solid wall breaks. The ratio of the windows to that of other
opaque surfaces was 1:10. At eye level, there was no high contrast effect. However, at higher levels, there was a remarkably high
contrast between the incoming daylight from the windows and the darkly coloured roof and wall surfaces, a phenomenon described
by Gaia Architects as Disability Glare.(See photos 4.2.2,4.2.3 and 4.2.4).
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4.2.6(a)(ii)
As was seen in photo 4.2.5,the surface finish on the floor was a dark brown hardwood(of % surface reflectance) with a gloss finished
surface. While the glossiness of the surface resulted in specular reflections in the hall, the darkness of the surface absorbed some amounts of
the daylight. The ground floor wall extended up to two meters high and was likewise made up of a dark brown hard wood (of % surface
reflectance) with a matt finish. Whereas the matt surfaces minimised specular reflections, the darkness of the wood absorbed some amounts of
daylight.
The first floor wall was made up of cement screed finished with a dark blue paint(of x % surface reflectance)with a matt finish. Whereas the matt
surface minimised specular reflections, it absorbed (100-x)% of the total amount of daylight inside the arena.
75 per cent of the ceiling was made of highly glossy sound propagating panels( of x % surface reflectance) while 25 present of the roof was
finished with a dark grey paint(of x% surface reflectance). As such, the sound propagating panels resulted in specular reflections(up to 80 % of
daylight falling on it was reflected) while the dark grey portion of the ceiling absorbed 100-x % of daylight falling on it. 50 % of all the spectator
seat were made up of matt, Bermuda blue coloured plastics(of x% surface reflectance) which absorbed 100-x% of all the daylight incident
upon them while diffusing the rest. Another 50 % of all the spectator seats were made up of matt, cream white coloured plastics(of x% surface
reflectance) which absorbed 100-x % of all the daylight incident upon them while diffusing the rest.
4.2.7
Lastly, the Implication of the Distribution of Daylight in the
Indoor Arena was discussed.
4.2.7(a)
Environmental Implications resulted from the compromise on the quality as well as the quantity of daylight in the Indoor Arena which made
artificial lighting necessary. And what with the regular power outages experienced in the area? A diesel generator was stand by whose
emissions were found to be playing a big role in warming the globe.
4.2.7 (b)
Cost Implications were also found to result from running such a busy facility with artificial lights on for most part of its life. This was said to
be a costly affair because it not only entailed the non-stop sucking of electricity from the national grid, but also the maintenance of specialised
electrical accesories.Likewise, the above mentioned back-up generator survived on diesel which is nowadays an expensive commodity.
4.3.:Local Case 3:The Moi International Sports Complex(M.I.S.C) Warm Up Hall
4.3.3
At exactly 9.a.m,using the lux meter, and with all the artificial lights killed, readings of various illuminance levels were taken at various
locations within the Warm Up Hall at the Moi International Sports Complex.It was observed that the highest illuminance levels(>500 lux) occured
near the windows at the first floor level(see figures 4.3.3, 4.3.4 and 4.3.5). These luminance levels lay within the recommended bare minimum
levels of 500 lux for the kind of space. However, away from the windows, reductions from 500 lux downwards were witnessed, with the lowest
luminance levels recorded being 100 lux, which were witnessed at the centre of the arena. This was a whooping 400 lux difference. This huge
difference was attributed to the deep span of the arena( a radius of 15 metres) and the use of small non-continuous side windows as the
daylighting strategy. Such windows(as opposed to rooflights) not only failed to deliver sufficient amounts of daylight to all the areas within the
arena but also created bright patches of light which resulted in what was earlier on referred to as disability glare(see photo 4.3.2).
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It was further observed that Luminance levels along the eastern facing facade exceeded those along the western facing facade by 80 lux(see
figures 4.3.3, 4.3.4 and 4.3.5). This was attributed to the fact that the sun rises in the east and hence more daylight from this direction than from
any other during the morning hours. These empirical observations were reinforced by photograph 4.3.2, which gave us a visual indication of the
Day lighting Performance of this arena at that time.
4.3.4
The same procedure was repeated at 12.00 p.m. It was observed that luminance levels along the eastern facade of the arena dropped by
40 lux while those along the other facades increased by 10 lux(see figures 4.3.6, 4.3.7 and 4.3.8). The 40 lux fall was attributed to the suns
overhead position which withdrew the extra amounts of daylight along the eastern facades. The 10 lux increase along the other facades was
attributed to the increase in the Daylight Factor due to the suns overhead position. Along the centre of the arena, which was at a distance of 15
metres from the side windows, there was 10 lux decrease in luminance levels, an observation attributed to the reduced amount of daylight
along the eastern facing facade that was earlier on experiencing the rising suns rays. 4.3.5 Again, the same procedure was repeated at 3 p.m. It
was observed that illiminance levels along the eastern facade dropped by a further 40 lux while those at the other facades dropped by 10
lux.The 40 lux rise was attributed to the suns western position which increased the Daylight Factor along this facade while the 10 lux drop was
attributed to the reduced Daylight Factor due to the suns drop in altitude as it downed.
After all was said and done, a general note was in order. It was noted that there were remarkable fluctuations in the amount of daylight both at
various locations inside this Indoor Sports Arena and at various times of the day, which led the author to believe that the users of this arena
have been denied that basic human right that is adequate and uniformly distributed daylight.
4.3.6
At this juncture, just like in the previous case studies, factors that influenced the Distribution of Daylight in the Moi International Sports
Complex Warm Up Hall were worthy taking a look at.
4.3.6(a)
These factors were put under the umbrella title The Day lighting Design of the Indoor Arena, just like they were classified in the
foregoing literature(see chapter 2.0, paragraphs 2.1 and 2.3),where the individual factors were baptized as glazing and surface finishes.
4.3.6(a)(i)
The glazing took the form of small, non-continuous high level clerestory windows located at the four corners of the hall. At ground level,
there was no high contrast effect. However, at higher levels, there were bright patches of daylight against the opaque background of the
walls(see photos 4.3.2, 4.3.3 and 4.3.4), a phenomenon described by Gaia Architects as Disability Glare.(See photos 4.2.2,4.2.3 and 4.2.4).
4.3.6(a)(ii)
As was seen in photo 4.3.5, the surface finish on the floor was a dark brown hardwood(of x% surface reflectance) with a gloss finished
surface. While the glossiness of the surface resulted in specular reflections in the hall, the darkness of the surface absorbed100- x % of the
daylight incident light upon it. The ground floor wall extended up to three meters high and was made up of cement screed with an egg white
vinyl matt emulsion paint of % surface reflectance, which was good both for diffusing 100-x % of the daylight incident upon it as well as
contrasting balls and shuttlecocks as recommended earlier on in the literature review. The first floor wall was made up of cement screed
finished with a stucco white vinyl matt emulsion paint of x% surface reflectance which was non-reflective and diffused 100-x % of the daylight
incident upon it. The underside of the roof was made up of galvanised iron sheets finished with a dark grey vinyl matt emulsion paint of surface
reflectance. Whereas the matiness avoided specular reflections, the dark colour absorbed 100-x % of the daylight incident upon it.
4.3.7
Lastly, the Implication of the Distribution of Daylight in the Indoor Arena was discussed.
Page 80
4.3.7(a)
Environmental Implications resulted from the compromise on the quality as well as the quantity of daylight in the Indoor Arena which made
artificial lighting necessary. And what with the regular power outages experienced in the area? A diesel generator was stand whose emissions
were found to be playing a big role in warming the globe.
4.2.7 (b)
Cost Implications were also found to result from running such a busy facility with artificial lights on for most part of its life. This was said to be a
costly affair because it not only entailed the non-stop sucking of electricity from the National Grid, but also the maintenance of specialised electrical
accesories.Likewise, the above mentioned back-up generator survived on diesel which is an expensive commodity.
4.4.:International Case 1:The Bolivarian Dome, Berquesimeto,
Venezuela.
4.4.3
On this one, the author was limited by the time factor.,As such, an empirical analysis of the Distribution of Daylight was out of the question.
However, life had to go on.Like the sages of old said, a picture speaks more than a thousand words. And so did photograph 4.4.2, which was
said to have been shot during midday, with the sun hovering directly overhead.It was a loud echo to earlier sentiments by Gaia Architects and
others regarding the desired quality and quantity of daylight in Indoor Sports Arenas.
It clearly captured an interior sporting environment that is endowed with adequate, uniformly distributed daylight. Unlike in the foregoing local
cases where incidences of glare were the order of the day, no such thing could be witnessed in this state-of-the-art Indoor Sports Arena. This
was despite the fact that it spans a whooping 80 metre at its longest axis and 55 metres at its shortest axis.It was said to be perhaps one of the
best daylit Indoor Sports Arenas in the region and the world at large and exemplified a Daylighting Design that should be emulated by all Sports
Architects who not only aspire to be called great but also to provide indoor sporting environments that appear as natural as possible, thereby
promoting the physical and thereafter mental well being of sportmen and sportswomen alike, who will in turn soar to great heights in their
respective professions.4.4.4 At this juncture, factors that influenced the Distribution of Daylight in this Indoor Sports Arena were looked at.
4.4.4(a)
These factors were put under the umbrella title The Day lighting Design of the Indoor Arena, just like they were classified in the
foregoing literature(see chapter 2.0, paragraphs 2.1 and 2.3),where the individual factors were baptized as glazing and surface finishes.
4.4.4(a)(i)
The glazing took the form of a highly flexible polycarbonate membrane roofing system. This was engineered to admit diffuse daylight of
up to 500 lux into the arena. As such, there was no high contrast effect either at ground level or higher levels.
4.4.4(a)(ii)
As was seen in photo 4.4.3, the surface finish on the floor was a matt finished sky blue polyvinylchloride of surface reflectance. While the
blue colour diffused 100-x% of the daylight incident upon it, its matiness avoided specular reflections. The ground floor walls were made up of
a dark grey coloured sound absorbing panels which absorbed the daylight falling on the surfaces.
The maroon, grey and amber coloured seats absorbed the incoming daylight. The egg-white coloured seats diffused the incoming daylight. The
egg-white coloured translucent roof covering admitted and diffused daylight. The egg-white coloured roof structure diffused the incoming daylight.
4.4.5.
Lastly, the implications of the distribution of daylight in the indoor arena were discussed. These implications were classified into Cost
Implications as well as Environmental Implications. 4.4.5(i) Under Cost Implications, it was argued that since the quality as well as the quantity of
daylight in the indoor arena were of the recommended levels, artificial lighting was not necessary during daytime. It was only at night that
artificial lights were switched on. As such, the electricity consumption of this sports building was significantly reduced, as an echo to the
sentiments made in chapter one by Derek Philips that the overall cost of running a sports building can be reduced by up to a third if that
building utilizes daylight during daytime
Page 81
Page 82
6.0. CHAPTER SIX: RECOMMENDATIONS.
Figure 113: Recommended exterior view of the Nyayo

National Stadium Indoor Arena(Source:Author,2014).
Page 83
NEW INTERIOR
NEW EXTERIOR
Alternate
transparent
and
translucent
roof lights
along
the
entire span of
the roof
to be retained
as they are a
good
application but
all windows to
be sealed off
as they are not
a
good
application.
OLD PLAN
Figure 114: Existing interior view of the Nyayo National

Stadium Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014).
Window along
the walls of this
indoor arena
lead
to
disability glare,
which is not
very good for
the health of
sportsmen and
Women. This is
in addition to
encouraging
unfair
game
play.
Figure 116: Existing floor plan of the Nyayo National

Light diffusing
polycarbonate
membrane to
conceal
the
ugly
looking
roof structure
and intercept
direct rays of
the sun.
Light coloured
matt surfaces
to reflect a
substantial
amount
of
daylight
Figure 115:Recommended interior view of the Nyayo National

All
window
along
the
facades of this
indoor sports
arena to be
sealed off and
the
surfaces
finished with
light and matt
emulsion
paints.
Figure 117: Recommended floor plan of the Nyayo

National Stadium Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014).
Exposed
unsightly roof
structure
combined with
direct rays from
the sun cause a
cluttered
indoor sporting
environment.
Figure 118: Existing section of the Nyayo National Stadium

Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014).
NEW SECTION
Figure 112: Existing exterior view of the Nyayo National

Stadium Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014)
Dark coloured
surface finishes
absorb most of
the incoming
daylight.
NEW PLAN
Clerestory and
side windows
along the
facades of this
indoor arena.
Highly
unacceptable
Incidences of
disability glare
OLD INTERIOR
OLD EXTERIOR
Alternate
transparent,tra
nsluscent roof
lights
along
the
entire span of
the roof
OLD SECTION
6.1.:Recommendations for possible renovations of the Nyayo National Stadium Indoor Arena
Light diffusing
polycarbonate
membrane to
conceal
the
ugly
looking
roof structure
and intercept
direct rays of
the sun.
Figure 119: Recommended section of the Nyayo National

Translucent
polycarbonate
roof
membrane to
replace
the
opaque
roofing sheets
Light diffusing
polycarbonate
membrane to
intercept direct
rays of the sun.
All the side

windows
sealed off.
Figure 119: Recommended exterior view of the Moi

International
Sports
Centre
Indoor
Arena(Source:Author,2014).
Page 84
NEW INTERIOR
Figure 120: Existing interior view of the Moi International Sports

Centre Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014).
NEW EXTERIOR
Figure 118: Existing exterior view of the Moi International

Sports Centre Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014)
Light coloured
matt surfaces
to reflect a
substantial
amount
of
daylight
without
specular
reflections
Figure 121:Recommended interior view of the Moi International

Sports Centre Indoor Arena(Source:Author.2014).
OLD SECTION
All
windows
along
the
facades should
be sealed off.
1.This roof
has potential
to admit
daylight and
should
therefore be
replaced
with a
translucent
membrane.
2.All side
windows to be
sealed off.
Figure 122: Existing floor plan of the Moi International

Sports Centre Indoor Arena (Source:Author.2014).
Figure 124: Existing section of the Moi International Sports

Centre Indoor Arena (Source:Author.2014).
All
window
along
the
facades of this
indoor sports
arena to be
sealed off and
the
surfaces
finished with
light and matt
emulsion
paints.
Light diffusing
polycarbonate
membrane to
conceal
the
ugly
looking
roof structure
and intercept
direct rays of
the sun.
Figure 123: Recommended floor plan of the Moi

International
Sports
Centre
Indoor
Arena
(Source:Author.2014).
NEW SECTION
2.All side
windows to be
sealed off.
The dark and

glossy
court
should
be
replaced with a
matt
light
brown wood.
OLD PLAN
replaced
with a
translucent
membrane.
These
side
windows lead
to incidences of
glare
and
should
therefore
be
sealed off.
NEW PLAN
OLD EXTERIOR
1.This roof
has potential
to admit
daylight and
should
therefore be
OLD INTERIOR
6.2.:Recommendations for renovations of the Moi International Sports Centre Indoor Arena .
All the side

windows
sealed off
Figure 125: Recommended section of the Moi International

Introduce roof
lights
along
the entire span
of the roof.
Light diffusing
polycarbonate
membrane to
intercept and
diffuse direct
rays of the sun.
All the side

windows
sealed off.
Figure 127: Recommended exterior view of the Moi

International
Sports
Centre
Warm
Up
Hall(Source:Author,2014).
Page 85
NEW INTERIOR
Figure 128: Existing interior view of the Moi International Sports

Centre Warm Up Hall(Source:Author.2014).
NEW EXTERIOR
Figure 126: Existing exterior view of the Moi International

Sports Centre Warm Up Hall(Source:Author.2014)
New brighter
coloured matt
surfaces to
reflect a
substantial
amount of
daylight
without
specular
reflections
Figure 129:Recommended interior view of the Moi International

Sports Centre Warm Up Hall(Source:Author.2014).
OLD SECTION
All
windows
along
the
facades of this
indoor sports
arena to be
sealed off and
the
surfaces
finished with
vinyl
matt
emulsion paints
of
higher
reflectance
values
Figure 130: Existing floor plan of the Moi International

Sports Centre Warm Up Hall (Source:Author.2014).
All
window
along
the
facades of this
indoor sports
arena
sealed
off and the
surfaces
finished with
vinyl
matt
emulsion paints
of
higher
reflectance
values.
Figure 131: Recommended floor plan of the Moi

International
Sports
Centre
Indoor
Arena
(Source:Author.2014).
The roof has

potential to
admit daylight
into this hall
by way of roof
lights
Figure 132: Existing section of the Moi International Sports

Centre Indoor Arena (Source:Author.2014).
NEW SECTION
All the interior

surfaces to be
repainted with
matt and
brighter
colours
OLD PLAN
All side
windows to be
sealed off.
The roof has

potential to
admit daylight
into this hall
NEW PLAN
OLD EXTERIOR
The roof has

potential to
admit daylight
into this hall
OLD INTERIOR
6.2.:Recommendations for renovations of the Moi International Sports Centre Warm- Up Hall.
Translucent
roof lights
admit
daylight into
this arena
Light
diffusing
polycarbonat
e membrane
to intercept
and diffuse
daylight.
Figure 133: Recommended section of the Moi International

6.3.:Recommendations for further studies.

1)The acoustic performance of indoor sports arenas in Nairobi.
2)The ventilation performance of indoor sports arenas in Nairobi.
3)Form and symbolism in indoor sports arenas in Nairobi.
Page 86
References
1.Biblica,The Holy Bible, New International Version,1984.
2.The Oxford English Dictionary,second edition,Oxford University Press,1989.
3.The Merriam Webster online dictionary.
4.Mitchelle, D, Does Physical Activity Influence Academic Performance?, University of Central Florida, Orlando, U.S.A, 2004.
5.Phillips D, Daylight as the Basis for Design,FCIBSE,1998
6.Http://www.wbdg.org/resources/daylighting.php.
7.GAIA Architects,Understanding Daylighting of Sports Hall, sportscotland,2004.

8.Ernst and Peter N, Architects Data,third edition,Blackwell Science,2000.
9.Tian D , Membrane Materials and Membrane Structures in Architecture, March Thesis,University of Sheffield, School of
Architecture,2011.
10.Smith and Ford, Handbook for Sports and Recreation,Architectural Press,1992.
Page 87

The Daylighting Performance of Indoor Sports Arenas in Nairo

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THE UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI

SCHOOL OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

THE DAYLIGHTING PERFORMANCE OF INDOOR SPORTS ARENAS IN

AUTHOR: Nyakundi Makana Chrispine (Reg. Number: B02/0261/2006).

Author: ----------------------------Date: --------------------------Nyakundi Makana Chrispine.

Tutor: ------------------------------Date: -------------------------Arch. Yusuf Hazara Ibrahim.

Year Master: ---------------------Date: --------------------------Arch. Musau Kimeu

Chairman:-------------------------Date:--------------------------Arch. Erastus O. Abonyo

1.5.:Significance of the Study----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------26

1.8.:Case Study Selection Criteria---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------27

4.0.:CHAPTER FOUR: Fieldwork----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------41

4.1.6(a) (ii) Surface Finishes---------------------------------------------------------------------------------45

4.1.7.:Implication of the Distribution of Daylight in the Nyayo National Stadium

4.2.3(a)9.00 a.m. Luminance Data-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------48

4.2.6(a)The Day lighting Design of the Moi International

4.3.5.:The Distribution of Daylight at 3.00 p.m.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------56

4.3.5(a) 3.00 p.m. Luminance Data-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------56

4.3.6.:Factors Affecting the Distribution of Daylight in the Moi

4.3.6(a) The Day lighting Design of the Moi International

4.4.:The Bolivarian Dome, Barquisimeto, Venezuela------------------------------------------------------------------------59

4.4.3.:The Distribution of Daylight in the Bolivarian Dome---------------------------------------------------60

4.4.4(a)The Day lighting Design of the Bolivarian Dome-----------------------------------------------------61

5.2.:Chapter Two: Literature Review-----------------------------------------------------------------------------70

Figure 1.A depiction of the verseAnd God said, Let there

Figure 2.The Universal Master Plan with the Sun at the

1.1.2.: A Brief History of Day lighting for Indoor Sports Arenas.

However, it is important to announce at this juncture that in the recent history of

Figure 3.:An interior view taken off the Pantheon depicting

Figure 4.:An interior view taken off the David L. Lawrence

Figure 7.: Interior view of the Nyayo

Figure 6.:Interior of the Moi International

Figure 8.:Interior view of the Nyayo

The photographs to the left are enough evidence that

1.3.:Objectives of the Study

It is the intention of this thesis to

1.5.:Significance of the Study

1.6.:Scope of the Study.

1.8.:Case Study Selection Criteria.

2.0 CHAPTER TWO: THE DAYLIGHTING DESIGN FOR INDOOR

2.2.:Why Daylight Indoor Sports Arenas?

2.3.:Key Areas of Day lighting Design for Indoor Sports

This scene here is even uglier

Seven types of glazing options have traditionally been in application

North lights! They scale the heights of

As advanced by Neufert in the Architects Data publication,the concept of

2.3.1(c)(ii)North South Facing Rooflights.

2.3.1.(d)Combined Roof Lights and Side Windows.

This rooflight application here could

2.3.1(e) Membrane Roofing Systems

Figure 17.:The surfaces finishes applied to this

Figure 18.:Pathetic!Notice the specular reflections as a

2.3.3: Sport Specific Guidelines

Figure 19.:The interior view of Qingdao Guoxin Gymnasium at Qingdao, China,

Uniform, glare free light is vital and a designer is only

Uniform, glare free light is vital and a designer is only

For an excellently day lit hall for volleyball, GAIA Architects

For an excellently day lit hall for handball, GAIA Architects

Uniform, glare free light is vital and a designer is only

Uniform, glare free light is vital and a designer is only

For an excellently day lit hall for squash, GAIA Architects

Uniform, glare free light is vital and a designer is only

Uniform, glare free light is vital and a designer is only

2.3.3(vii)The Martial Arts

For an excellently day lit hall for martial arts, GAIA