Commercial Bay

Delivering a detailed picture of glare effects from a transformative commercial development

RWDI partnered with RCP on Auckland’s $1.5-billion Commercial Bay development to assess the potential glare and reflectivity impacts of proposed glass façades, including options exceeding the city’s 20% reflectivity limit. Using our proprietary Eclipse software, we simulated reflections at one-minute intervals over an entire year, analyzing intensity, frequency and duration at 45 key receptor points such as nearby roads, pedestrian areas, and neighboring towers. Our study revealed no significant risks from higher-reflectivity glazing, equipping the design team with detailed evidence to guide code compliance discussions and support safe, efficient and visually striking façades for Auckland’s new waterfront landmark.