company: Solatube, based in Vista, California, specialises in natural lighting systems. Sustainable or green building design is gaining momentum in this geographical area, particularly in the governmental sector as various agencies now require more environmentally responsible design.

product: tubular skylights were introduced by Solatube International Inc. more than a decade ago as a day-lighting product for the home. The system has evolved tremendously in recent years.
Someone who needs to light a small space, such as a hallway or walk-in closet, can choose a tubular skylight to bathe the area in sunlight. It’s also perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, stairwells, home offices, and entryways. A tubular skylight, in fact, uses mirrors to capture solar light and drive it into conduits through an extremely high specular reflection coefficient, diffusing it throughout the interior. A minimal opening onto the roof is sufficient.

sustainability features: natural light lifts spirits and makes spaces appear larger. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it also reduces eyestrain, increases productivity, and lessens electrical demand.
The tubular skylight is a green design element that architects are increasingly turning to as an easy and effective way to earn green certification credits for their projects. The latest generation of tubular skylights from Solatube is designed specifically for the demanding lighting requirements of commercial and institutional buildings.
Whether it’s for an office space or for warehouse and industrial areas, a cafeteria or restrooms, Solatubes provide a simple daylighting solution and an easy way to earn a variety of LEED* certification credits. Solatube is currently specified in dozens of LEED projects because of the potential it offers for improved light quality, energy savings and the use of recycled materials.

* The US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED™) rating system is a voluntary national standard for developing high-performance, sustainable buildings. LEED emphasises state-of-the-art strategies for sustainable development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.