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Seduced by the View

Do tenants who live and work in all-glass buildings take advantage of the glass by keeping their blinds open?

Original publication by Urban Green Council • December 6, 2013

2013’s Seduced by the View found that on average, 59% of the window area was covered by blinds or shades. And over 75% of buildings had more than half of their window area covered. Results were similar regardless of time of day, direction the window faced and whether the building was commercial or residential.

Seduced by the View

On average…

  • 59% of window area was covered by blinds or shades.
  • 75% of buildings had more than half of their window area covered.

Seduced by the View recommends two ways to fix these problems:

Better design

An exterior wall with insulation on the lower two or three feet still allows for great views and plentiful natural light. Using window frame materials such as fiberglass instead of highly conductive aluminum may also help.

Better communication

Brokers should make sure that tenants realize the full implications of an all-glass building – not just the great views, but also the downsides they may experience. That way, prospective tenants can make decisions with a clear understanding of what’s in store.

Download Seduced by the View

Click here to read the full report PDF.