Materials advances which enable improved lighting and daylighting performance in terms of luminous efficacy (energy efficient lighting), visual comfort and colour management are reviewed. Spectral and angular selective glazing, energy efficient translucent polymers, light piping and complete colour mixing of discrete sources are covered. The underlying science is given along with descriptions for key examples which include solar control windows utilising nanoparticles, diffusers of clear polymer doped with clear polymer for lamps and skylights, solid flexible light guides with controlled continuous emission, luminescent solar collectors coupled to light pipes for daylighting provision to any interior spaces, and uniform high efficacy white light lamps using three colour LED arrays. Greater use of daylight and of PV powered lighting is enabled by these advances which are all affordable, along with exciting new aesthetic, safety, display and artistic possibilities. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.