SageGlass is transparent, but controls glare; it is coated, but it’s possible to adjust its tint; and it lets in sunlight on cool days, but blocks it on hot ones. It may cost a little more, but its extreme efficiency and ability to dramatically reduce energy makes up for it. It’s unique. To make the distinction clear, CEO Alan McLenaghan says: “SageGlass is not just another type of glass. If people think of it that way they are not being imaginative enough. It’s all about the dynamic benefits it brings to the people who are occupying the space.”
Nanometer-thin coatings breathe intelligence into the amorphous, transparent glass body: equipped with sensors and software, the glazing adjusts its tint depending on the solar radiation and light, allowing an unrestricted view to the outdoors at all times and under any conditions. It automatically controls daylight, glare, and energy consumption entering the building − and it allows manual adjustment if the occupant wants to override the building management system.
With the advantage of SageGlass, curtains, roller shades, and blinds have become the glare protection of the Stone Age. “Using this as a basis, architects have the opportunity to use glass in ways and applications they previously could never have imagined,” explains McLenaghan. SageGlass allows architects and designers to create buildings that optimize the use of natural daylight while providing unobstructed views to nature and the world outside. For thousands of years, our forefathers lived mainly in the great outdoors. Still wild creatures from a genetic point of view, modern urbanites also need sunlight for their health and well-being.
For office buildings, there is ample evidence that sufficient daylight brings improved satisfaction in the workplace, reduces stress and absenteeism, improves the quality of sleep and perceived well-being, and increases productivity. In hospitals, it has been observed that patients in rooms with a view and optimized daylight required less pain-relieving medication and their recovery was accelerated. For schools, it has also been proven that daylight and views to the outside promote concentration and attention in students, resulting in increased retention and improved test scores.
