Can open cell ceiling design reduce energy costs in desert climates?

Open cell ceilings contribute to energy savings in desert climates through improved ventilation efficiency and daylighting coordination. The open grid facilitates even distribution of supply and return air, allowing HVAC systems to operate more effectively with lower fan power and better temperature control — an important gain in high cooling-load environments like Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. By enabling shallower plenums and localized diffusers, open cell designs can reduce duct lengths and pressure losses, translating into lower operating energy.

From a lighting perspective, open cell ceilings can accommodate linear fixtures and indirect lighting that work with highly glazed façades to balance daylight and artificial light. Properly coordinated daylight sensors and dimming controls reduce electric lighting during peak daylight hours, which is particularly effective when paired with aluminum glass curtain walls fitted with solar control glazing. The reflective properties of certain aluminum finishes also support indirect daylight distribution, reducing reliance on electric lighting in perimeter zones.

Moreover, improved serviceability means HVAC and lighting systems can be maintained and tuned more readily, preserving efficiency over time. While open cell ceilings are not a standalone energy solution, when integrated with efficient curtain walls, façade shading, and building controls, they support strategies that reduce overall energy use in desert-region buildings.