Daylighting can be an important source of light in buildings, however the problems associated with providing it are many. Through careful planning and common sense, these problems can be solved. Planning involves a few basic principles; (a) consider the building itself to be the 'daylighting fixture', (b) put the daylight where it can be used for visual tasks, (c) balance the brightness of surfaces in a room, (d) balance light and heat through the use of shading vehicles, (e) use appropriate design tools. By following these principles, the perils of daylighting can be successfully eliminated.