## 5 Conclusions  
Hospital architecture is driven by the need to balance energy efficiency, operational effectiveness, and the promotion of patient health and well-being. In intensive care units (ICUs), particularly in Mediterranean climates, the integration of natural light through thoughtful window design is critical. ICUs often face the challenge of suboptimal illuminance levels--too low during the day and too high at night--potentially disrupting patient recovery. This study quantifies the influence of window dimension parameters (Window-to-Wall Ratio and position) and the reflectance of inner surfaces on visual comfort, performance, electric lighting energy consumption, and human well-being, employing dynamic lighting metrics such as daylight autonomy (DA) and circadian stimulus autonomy (\(CSA\)). The findings of this study provide actionable insights for the design of hospital cubicles to optimize daylight access and circadian stimulus. The analysis suggests that a WWR of 25% is optimal, achieving sufficient \(DA\) and \(CSA\) values. WWRs of 35% and above show an increase in \(DA\) and \(CSA\) that is not representative when compared to the possible rise in thermal treatment energy consumption. Centered window configurations are preferred over upper positions, as they enhance uniform daylight distribution and circadian stimulus. However, upper window positions should be used cautiously and supplemented with design strategies to mitigate their limitations, such as non-uniform daylight distribution. While the study indicates that Seville generally offers marginally better \(DA\) and \(CSA\) performance than Barcelona, the recommended configurations are effective across both locations. This underscores the importance of focusing on window size, positioning, and interior reflectance over geographical location. South-facing windows consistently provide superior \(DA\) and \(CSA\) values, particularly when combined with bright coatings and larger WWRs. For north-facing configurations, bright interior finishes and centered window placements are recommended to maintain optimal performance. The reflectance of interior surfaces plays a crucial role in maximizing \(DA\) and \(CSA\) outcomes. Bright interior coatings are essential, while dark finishes should be avoided, especially in north-facing rooms or configurations with lower WWRs, due to their negative impact on light distribution and circadian effectiveness. These guidelines aim to inform architectural design decisions in hospital ICUs, particularly regarding patient cubicles, to enhance natural lighting and circadian alignment. By prioritizing daylight access and optimizing window configurations, hospitals can create environments that support patient recovery, ultimately improving health outcomes and overall well-being. Conceptualization, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. ; methodology, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. ; software, M.A.C., G.G.-M., I.A. and P.B. ; validation, M.A.C., G.G.-M., I.A. and P.B. ; formal analysis, M.A.C., G.G.-M., I.A. and P.B. ; investigation, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. ; resources, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. ; data curation, M.A.C., G.G.-M., I.A. and P.B. ; writing--original draft preparation, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. ; writing--review and editing, M.A.C., G.G.-M., I.A. and P.B. ; visualization, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. ; supervision, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. ; project administration, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. ; funding acquisition, M.A.C., I.A. and P.B. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript. The outcomes of this study were financially supported through Grant PID2020-117563 RB-I00), funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and by ERDF/EU, and Grant PID2023-151631 OA-I00, funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and by ERDF/EU. Not applicable. All the data used in this work can be found in this document, as well as in the references [41; 56].