The facade is the external layer of a building, it’s where aesthetics and function meet. It protects and defines the internal space, has a character of its own and sits perfectly in the context. It has to be able to do a lot of things: shield the structure from harsh weather, save energy, provide protection against heat/cold/rain etc.
What is the Design Concept of a Facade?
A well-designed facade system empowers occupants to regulate light penetration by using louvers and shades & CSS Facades, thus increasing the overall comfort level of the building. This results in better work productivity.
The climatic conditions and cultural context of the region should also be considered in designing the facade. India, for example, has a hot and humid climate that poses a challenge in achieving a comfortable environment for its inhabitants. To tackle this, facades are used to incorporate elements that help with air filtration, solar shading, water ingress control, and even thermal insulation.
Facade systems should be evaluated early in design to ensure they are cost-effective and meet the project’s performance goals. Conducting energy modeling, thermal bridging analysis, and dew point analysis can greatly inform the development of a facade concept by influencing the ideal window-to-wall ratio and other technical requirements.
Architects are often under pressure to design high-performance building envelopes that deliver on aesthetic and sustainability goals, while being cost-effective, quick to design, iterate, and install, and can be constructed in a timely manner. To achieve these goals, it is essential to have open communication throughout the design process. This applies to both the internal team and with the client.