Problem Statement:

Architectural design has always faced diverse challenges and requirements. In recent years, one of the most critical issues attracting the attention of designers and researchers—particularly in developed countries—has been building optimization and performance enhancement. Among these considerations, the effective use of daylight in buildings, especially in office and public spaces, plays a pivotal role in improving occupant comfort. The building façade, as the primary interface between the structure and the external environment (including solar exposure), It is essential for enhancing daylight utilization to achieve natural illumination. particularly in cold climates such as Zanjan, which has high potential for harnessing natural light during high-radiation seasons.

Objective:

According to problem statement, this study aims to enhance façade design and improve daylighting efficiency in library spaces by analyzing the geographical and climatic conditions of Zanjan.

Main Research Question and Objective:

The overarching goal of this research is to design the structural framework of a library façade using simulation and metaheuristic optimization processes to identify optimal models with the highest daylight efficiency. Accordingly, the main research question is: How can simulation and metaheuristic optimization processes be utilized in the façade design of libraries to enhance daylight efficiency?

Research Methodology: The study employs Grasshopper and the Ladybug Tools plugin for modeling and simulation. The parametric modeling software Grasshopper facilitates real-time modifications and visualization of their impacts. In the descriptive-analytical study phase, SPSS software, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Pearson’s test, and PLS software are used for statistical analysis.

Conclusion:

The study results in an optimized model with the highest daylight efficiency and the most suitable light intensity distribution. Also, the results show that the proposed optimal and efficient façade model for libraries includes an internal light shelf depth of 1.3 meters, an external light shelf depth of 0.6 meters, and a light transmittance coefficient of 0.55.