This session will review recent advances in technology developments, DOE initiatives to recommend a future vision of commercial building design. The building envelope is the cornerstone of a high performance design. To achieve optimum energy performance and comfort, the facade design must be integrated with the interior design as well as the lighting design, while actively controlled to respond to changing exterior conditions and occupant needs. Conversely, controlling the sun’s effect on our thermal and visual comfort is an age-old problem. The presentation will highlight key findings about the effectiveness of different shading devices and the best solutions for controlling solar heat gain and glare, providing daylighting simulations and parametric analysis using Radiance, DaySim, and Ecotect.