US Green Building Council Exam LEED-AP-ID+C Topic 2 Question 7 Discussion

The view factor is a measure used in LEED to quantify the quality of views for occupants within a space. In the Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views, the rating scale for view factors ranges from 0 (no view) to 5 (maximum view). In the provided diagram, it appears that the space has large windows that provide ample daylight and a view to the outside, which is a key consideration for quality views.

Although the specific outdoor view cannot be determined from the diagram alone, the presence of large windows and the potential for expansive views suggests a high view factor. View Factor 4 is typically assigned to spaces where the view window head height is at least 7 feet 6 inches above the floor, allowing occupants a clear line of sight to the outdoors. This would contribute significantly to the occupants' connection with the outdoor environment, thus scoring higher on the scale.

It is important to note that the exact view factor cannot be precisely determined without additional context regarding the actual visible content outside the windows. However, based on the scale provided and typical LEED scoring, View Factor 4 seems appropriate given the sizeable windowed areas depicted, assuming they provide a clear and unobstructed view to the exterior. Reference:

LEED v4 for Interior Design and Construction Reference Guide, specifically the section on Indoor Environmental Quality Credit, Quality Views