This research aims to give insight into the aesthetic aspect of the spatial and temporal diversity of light in space through experimental studies. By using empirical methods to establish a relationship of spatial contrast, daylight variability and view out with occupant preference and perception, we aim to link traditionally non-quantifiable aspects of daylight in space such as ambience with novel quantifiable metrics, validated in real space. The proposed project focuses on the development of reliable metrics to assess preference and perception related to daylight variability along with view out. Furthermore, this research will explore the influence of the perceptual effects of daylight such as daylight variability and contrast on the perceived spatial ambience. This study will be divided in two parts, namely the design and conduction of experiments in virtual space and the validation of the findings of the first study through real space experiments. We aim to represent and evaluate a wide range of daylight and view conditions, which can enable the emergence of patterns in the subject of preference and appraisal in the experience of architectural space.