Norman Foster and the Sun Tunnel: The Art of Light

Natural illumination is one of the first things architects think about when designing a space. Norman Foster is one example, treating it as part of the structure itself. You can see it in the Reichstag dome and in Apple Park, where sunlight guides circulation and defines the atmosphere.

The same idea underlies modern tools like the Velux Sun Tunnel. It brings daylight to areas where regular windows cannot be used, making it possible to apply this approach even in compact or enclosed spaces.

Natural Light in Norman Foster’s Architecture

Foster has always been mindful of how it moves through a space. His buildings use large glass facades, domes, and atriums to carry sunlight deep inside. Wells and courtyards help it reach interior rooms, bringing brightness even to corners that would otherwise stay dim, while also reducing energy use.

For Foster, light is not only functional. It emphasizes architectural details and shapes the atmosphere, affecting how people feel within a building. Every project reflects his philosophy: architecture should be both aesthetically pleasing and ergonomic, with light as a key tool.

Sun Tunnel: A New Approach to Lighting

The Sun Tunnel expands the possibilities for architects. The system consists of a reflective tunnel, optical materials, and a dome that captures sunlight and channels it indoors.

A proper Sun Tunnel installation lets daylight reach exactly where it is needed. The reflective tube carries it into the room, and the system fits neatly into the ceiling without drawing attention. Sun Tunnels are perfect for homes, offices, or schools where traditional windows cannot be installed. Adjusting the angle and position ensures the room gets the best natural illumination.

Foster’s Light Philosophy and the Potential of Sun Tunnels

What links Norman Foster’s work and the Sun Tunnel is a shared focus on daylight. Foster designs buildings on a grand scale, using facades, domes, and atriums to bring light deep inside. The Sun Tunnel works on a smaller scale, bringing daylight into rooms that would otherwise remain dim.

When design and technology work together, light does more than simply illuminate. It opens up spaces, highlights shapes, and fills the room with energy and life.