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Interview with Ar. Hafeez Contractor, Founder, Architect Hafeez Contractor (AHC)
101 Industry Speaks
Interview with Makarand Kendre, Area Sales Manager for the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent, Renson Ventilation & Sun Protection
109 Project Watch
Mountain Dust: An Illustrious Organic Architecture, Architect Mahesh Naik
RNI: DELENG/2014/57870
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O NOTE
By 2050, 70% of the global population will call urban areas home and fourfifths of these urban dwellers will be in the developing world. Current trends in urbanization expect a growth of 2.5 billion people in the global urban population between 2018 and 2050. With the concomitant expansion of urban areas, the urban shares in total energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are also expected to increase. Operational energy use in buildings represents about 30% of global final energy consumption. This share jumps to 34% when including the final energy use associated with the production of cement, steel and aluminium for the construction of buildings.
The thrust on developing more number of cities by the current government of India has its foundation in the economics of cities. Building construction is one of the most dynamic economic sectors, generating wealth and income and contributing highly to global development.
Buildings, as the largest users of energy, are also our greatest opportunity for energy conservation and protection of the environment.The rapidly growing energy needs have raised global concerns over the continued depletion of energy resources and their negative impact on the environment. As of 2016, the Government of India (GoI) statistics claim that 32 per cent of the country’s total electricity consumption is in residential and commercial spaces. As India urbanises, this figure is set to rise; the Niti Aayog, as part of its India Energy Security Scenarios, estimates that in a ‘Determined Effort Scenario’, there will be approximately 860 per cent increased electricity consumption in buildings (from 238TWh/year to 2,287TWh/year) by 2047 – a CAGR of 6.7 per cent since 2012. The overall building energy use consumes 37% of India’s total annual primary energy consumption.
In this edition of the magazine, we cover enlightening inputs from 25 experts who have been relentlessly working on improving the efficiency of builtscapes through better designs, using sustainable materials and innovative engineering and technologies. By applying designs and materials that adapt, respond to the environment, self-power, and regenerate to meet the challenges of adaptive architecture, we might achieve carbon-neutral cities by 2050.
Please read the edition and let us know your comments and views. Articles supporting the industry are always welcome.
Thanks, as always, for your continued support and encouragement.
Sustainable Façades Sustainable Façades - Innovation with Contextual Implications
Glass façades are the preferred choice of clients and designers for their buildings around the world. They are easy to install, maintain and provide a clean appearance. In this decade, scenarios have changed especiallyinthecities,peoplearelooking for alternative solutions that help them connect with nature or have a positive impactonthenaturalenvironment.
We as humans are so influenced by the West, we try to imbibe the same everywhere. Ranging from fashion to food to buildings. But when we analyse the deep truth of life we realise that ranging from religions, settlements, and communitiestofood,everythingisderived from the climate of the place. One cannot justdothingsisolatedfromcontext.
One cannot have a glass façade in the middle of the desert. It is also obvious thatCSEB(compressedstabilisedearthen blocks) is not suitable for snow-cladded hills. In the very humid Ganges plains, we cannot do without regular baths becausewesweatprofusely.Ontheother hand, in the deserts, there is a scarcity of water,orinthecitiesofEurope,whichare covered with snow most of the year, one cannot bathe every day, which led to the innovation of perfumes. So climate plays
an important role in the development of settlements, food, culture, traditions, and especiallybuildings.
Every material we use has a different impact on the environment. We all know that glass is to be used in areas that are comparatively colder than the temperature range in India. To control or improve the user experience various elements of heat and glare controls are to be used with glass which makes the façade more expensive. The construction industry has a huge contribution to the risingenvironmentalconditionsincluding the carbon footprints in which façades playapredominantrole.
As a designer, our primary role is to blend the basic design elements with theuseofclimatology,sunmovement
pattern, and data to develop a space that acts as the center of user interactionspaces.
Museums are buildings or structures that hold culture, history, science, and stories. The design of the built form is designed to cultivate the scientific pursuit and create a different façade that plays with light and shadow. Our team has put immensethoughtandeffortintocreating a structure that not only stands out visually but also prioritises sustainability andenergyefficiency.
The façade of any building plays a crucial role in making a lasting impression and setting the tone for its surroundings. It notonlyservesasadistinguishingfeature but also allows for optimal incidence of natural light and creates a harmonious blendofaestheticsandfunctionality.
Every material we use has a different impact on the environment
The blend of glass with aesthetics & local art
Case Study
Science Museum
Tikhali Dam, Nuapada, Odisha
The site is situated at the top of Tikhali Dam in Nuapada, Odisha, which falls intothehumidclimaticzonewithstrong sun and glare and huge reflections from water in the dam. As a designer, we felt the need for the building to self-cool, and control the heat flow entering inside the building. The whole conceptrevolvesaroundthe Evolution, Enhancement, and Enrichment of humanity.
The project illustrates the idea of developing a dam that will lead to improved opportunities in the surrounding community and create various job and business opportunities for everyone with revenue from the surrounding states as a tourist attraction forfamilies.
The façade with a large area was exposed to the west side, where the water reservoir of the dam was located, which increased the heat gain during the day. Brick was a good choice for heat reduction as a façade element with observatories in different places to enjoy the view of the dam and the landscape. Theusageofterracottaclay Jaalis reduces direct sunlight and the ingress of heat. The Jaalis also add beautiful patterns to thefaçadedesign.
One of the key advantages of our design is the use of a brick façade, which offers numerous sustainable benefits when compared to traditional glass façades. Bricks are synonymous with a learning experience, of sustainability with locally produced bricks being the material of
choicetocreateaharmoniousrelationship with an environment that touches the timelessness with its earthy touch. The brick façade acts as a natural insulator, reducingheattransferandminimisingthe needforexcessiveenergyconsumptionfor temperaturecontrol.Thistranslatestoboth cost savings and reduced environmental impactinthelongrun.
FAÇADE&FENESTRATIONS–ABLEND OFBRICKANDGLASS
The designers have strategically incorporated window slits and ribbon windows throughout the building’s design to optimise daylighting. By allowingnaturallighttofloodin,wehave significantly reduced reliance on artificial lighting in common areas such as the lobby. This not only creates a pleasant environment for occupants but also reduces energy consumption during daylighthours.
To maintain cost-effectiveness without compromising on quality, we have utilised double-glazed units (DGU) glass combined with aluminium frames. This combination offers durability, thermal insulation properties, and affordability – all essential factors when considering long-termsustainability.Thedesignofthe WWR (wall-to-window ratio) was based onavaluebetween40%and60%.
The building’s design to optimise daylighting
Model of the dam
Sustainable Façades
To further enhance the experience, we incorporateterracottaclayjaaliinstrategic areas to carefully control direct light incidence,ensuringacomfortablebalance within the space. The sloped ceiling allowstoplacesolarpanelsdirectlyonthe ceiling to increase reliance on renewable resources. On the northern façade, big double-glazed glass panels allow maximisingthecatchmentofnaturallight
AESTHETICS
Any successful public building will focus on urban user interaction and community building. The design of the project is inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. The rendering and the waveform of the bricks are inspired by the coast of Odisha. It depicts beautiful art forms from Odisha like Odissi dancers, Konark Chakra, or temples on the walls. This contextual connection adds an element of cultural pride while ensuring that the building blendsharmoniouslywithitssurroundings.
The façade has to strike a balance between various perspectives like aesthetics, project cost, impact on the environment, energy consumption and occupant’s well-being. The main focus of the building design is to increase the interaction of the building with its users. The internal cutouts with large staircases actasacommoninteractionarea.
Façade engineering and its integration with data are important aspects to be considered while designing any project. Various data modeling techniques and tools were used for the museum project
for placing the observatory, window opening, Jaali, and fenestrations. At the studio, our processes were collaborative, and researched and the data led to drive toconclusions.
We are working to make the use of glass façades more sustainable rather than blindly following the trend and to imply it as per the Indian Climatic Standards. Theonlystepwefeeltoattainis:Observe the data, follow data-based mapping of design, and overall evaluate the energy flowintheproject.
Ar. Amrita Jena and Ar. Akshay Kapoor are graduates of the Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra. They are leading architects of Furnish ME, working in various fields of architecture and interior design. They have worked on various major projects in the fields of architecture and interior design across the country.They run a multidisciplinary firm in various fields and have won variousawardsforit.
FurnishMEArchitectsisanearlydecadeold firm working in various fields of architecture and interior design, urban spaces,andgreenbuildings,
Public buildings, commercial spaces, healthcare spaces, high-end minimalist homes, furniture and lighting design. Thestudioworkswithresearchanddatabased design. We focus on developing spaces that are more functional, better planned,wellventilatedandincreasethe overallwell-beingoftheusers.
The design of the WWR (wall-to-window ratio) was based on a value between 40% and 60%
The interiors of the museum
Façade Design Tools
Latest Computational/Design Tools Used for Designing Efficient & Appealing Façades
A glimpse into the future of façade architecture
Unlocking the pinnacle of architectural excellence lies in the seamless fusion of functionality and aesthetics in façade design. To achieve this, architects harness the cutting-edge prowess of computational and design tools, propelling the industry to uncharted heights. Innovations like parametric modelling, generative algorithms and virtual reality simulations havebecomethevanguardsofefficiency
and aesthetics, allowing designers to sculpt eye-catching exteriors that transcend conventional norms. In this article, Ar. Robin Sisodiya, Founder & Principal Architect of ASRO Arcade India, gives us insights into the latest trends in computationalanddesigntools,offering a glimpse into the future of façade architecture,whereefficiencyandappeal intertwine harmoniously to redefine the artofbuildingexteriors.
3D PRINTING IN FAÇADE CONSTRUCTION
3D printing has emerged as a revolutionary technique for constructing façades that challenge traditional building methods. This technology employs additive manufacturing, layer by layer, to create intricate and customised façade elements with unprecedented precision. By utilising 3D printing, architects can optimise material usage and minimise waste, leading to more sustainable building practices. The design freedom afforded by 3D printing empowers architects to explore complex geometries,intricatepatternsandunique textures. Such customisation allows for highly personalised façades that reflect the aspirations and individuality of the residents. Further, this technology facilitates the integration of functional elements directly into the façade design, such as rainwater harvesting systems, ventilation channels, and solar panels, further enhancing the building’s overall efficiencyandenvironmentalimpact.
DIGITAL FABRICATIONTECHNIQUES
Digital fabrication techniques have revolutionised the way façades are designed and manufactured. Utilising computer-controlled machinery, such as CNC routers and laser cutters, architects can precisely cut, shape, and assemble building materials with unparalleled accuracy.
Through digital fabrication, designers can implement sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood, recycled plastics, metals, or low-carbon concrete, to create environmentally conscious façades. These techniques enable the incorporation of intricate details and patterns resulting in dynamic and iconic buildingexteriors.Digitalfabricationalso
streamlines the construction process, reducing construction time and labour costs. The prefabrication of façade components in controlled environments ensures higher quality control, resulting in a more durable and resilient building envelope.
PARAMETRIC MODELLING
In the pursuit of a seamless blend of formandfunction,parametricmodelling is rapidly gaining popularity among architects designing residential façades. This approach involves using algorithms tocreatedynamicrelationshipsbetween design elements, allowing for precise control over the façade’s intricacies. For residential façades, parametric modelling enables architects to finetune the design to cater to specific environmental conditions and optimise energy performance. The ability to align the façade’s response to factors such as sunlight, wind direction, and privacy requirements ensures a personalised living experience for residents. Parametric modelling facilitates efficient collaboration between architects and clients, enabling them to visualise various design options in real-time. The result is a façade that not only reflects the occupants’ desires but also aligns perfectly with the surrounding environment.
AUGMENTED REALITY (AR) VISUALISATION
For prospective homeowners and developers, Augmented Reality (AR) visualisationoffersanexcitingpreviewof their home exteriors. By superimposing digital designs onto real-world settings, AR visualisation brings façades to life in a more interactive way. During the design process, AR visualisation allows clients to explore different materials, colours, and architectural styles. This immersive experience fosters a stronger connection between the architectural vision and the client’s preferences, leading to better-informed design decisions.
By seamlessly blending energy efficiency, personalised aesthetics, and client engagement, cutting-edge
Façade Design Tools
Designers can implement sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood, recycled plastics, metals, or low-carbon concrete, to create environmentally conscious façades
Façade Design Tools
design tools are reshaping the future of façades. As we continue to explore new frontiers of design, these tools will remain invaluable allies in creating iconic façades that not only enrich the built environment but also cater to the unique aspirations and lifestyles of their inhabitants. These tools, which bridge the gap between creativity and efficiency, are catalysts that facilitate the translation of vision into reality. The façades that materialise are not confined to the realm of buildings; they
Theharmoniousblendofcomputational prowess and design ingenuity charts a course toward façades that transcends mere surfaces, but are meaningful reflections of human endeavour and progress. As we tread this path of innovation, these tools guide us toward architectural excellence that speaks the language of both artistry and practicality.
AR. ROBIN SISODIYA Founder
& Principal Architect, ASRO Arcade India
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ar. Robin Sisodiya, a graduate of the University of School of Architecture and Planning, New Delhi, embarked on his independent journey after a brief stint in adesignfirm.Hispassionforarchitecture was ignited during his professional work experience, leading him to partner on projects and establish ASRO Arcade in 2014. With his expert knowledge and assurance of premium design and service excellence, ASRO Arcade guarantees to deliver enduring spaces designed to perfectly complement their surroundings and the people who reside in them. With a drive to build eco-friendly sustainable homes, he is an ardent believer in all-inclusive concepts. In his own words, Architecture is the mother of all art that is used not only by humansbutalsolivingthingsonearthin everydaylife.
Façades can reflect the occupants’ desires and aligns perfectly with the surrounding environment
embody the aspirations of inhabitants and the aspirations of a greener world.
Facades speak the language of both artistry and practicality
Ensuring Air Infiltration Control in Building Façades
In the ever-evolving world of architecture and construction, modern buildings have reached new heights, quite literally. The 21st century has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the way buildings are designed and constructed. Traditional low-rise structures have given way to towering high-rises, and with this evolution, new challenges have arisen.
The evolution of modern buildings into high-rises is a result of several factors, including rapid urbanisation, population growth, and the need to make efficient use of limited urban space. High-rise buildings, defined as structures that rise significantly above the surrounding environment, are not only architectural marvels but also essential solutions to urban density and the growing demand forcommercialandresidentialspaces.
One critical aspect of high-rise building design and construction is the control of air infiltration. Air infiltration refers to the unintentional leakage of air into and out of a building, which can have significant consequences for energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and indoor air quality. This is why air infiltration testing is crucial forbuildingfaçades.
In the realm of construction, the integrity of a building’s envelope cannot be overstated. Before we delve into how and why we should perform Air Infiltration tests on building façades, windows and doors, let us first understand the consequences of air leakage beyond the allowable parameter that the curtain wall system or window or door is designed for;
Energy Inefficiency: Air leakage can lead to increased heating and cooling costs as conditioned air escapes, reducing energy efficiency.
Thermal Discomfort: Inconsistent indoor temperatures due to drafts or cold spots can cause discomfort for occupants.
Moisture Issues: Air infiltration can introduce moisture into the building, leading to condensation, mold growth, andstructuraldamage.
Reduced Indoor Air Quality: Contaminants, allergens, and pollutants from the outside can enter the building through air leaks, impacting indoor air quality.
Structural Damage: Over time, air leakage can lead to structural damage, including deterioration of building materials.
OperationalCosts: Increasedenergyuse andmaintenancerequirementscanresult in higher operational costs for building owners.
Environmental Impact: Excessive energy consumption due to air leakage contributestoahighercarbonfootprint.
Health Concerns: Mold and poor indoor air quality can lead to health issues, such as respiratory problems, for building occupants.
A façade or window is installed at the project site with hundreds of panels that
Air infiltration testing through third-party laboratory tests
Testing a system for air infiltration can save millions of units of power during the lifetime of the building
Façade Performance
are fabricated and glazed at the factory and have thousands of joints. There is a possibility of conditioned air leaking throughthesejoints.
The energy efficiency of a façade is checked by accurately measuring the air leakage through the linear joints of windows, and curtainwall systems at specified differential pressures. The lower the air leaks, the lower the loss of conditionedairthroughthesystem.
Testing a system for air infiltration can savemillionsofunitsofpowerduringthe lifetime of the building. Much of this loss can be minimised if a well-designed and testedsystemisinstalledbythebuilderor developer.
ASTM E 283 is a widely recognised standard used for testing the air leakage rate of building enclosures. It is the “Standard Test Method for Determining Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors Under Specified Pressure Differences Across the Specimen”.
The primary purpose of ASTM E 283 is to evaluate the quantum of air leakage through windows, curtain walls, and doors when subjected to specified pressure differences. This standard is frequently used to assess the performance of the building components in terms of their resistance to air infiltration, which is an essential factor in achieving energy efficiency and maintaining indoor environmental quality. ASTM E 283 is the test standard conducted at an accredited third-party laboratory.
Equally important is to conduct the test at the site which checks for consistency and quality of installation thereby having accountability and ensuring a betterperformingsystem.
The ASTM E 783 (Standard Test Method for Field Measurement of Air Leakage Through Installed Exterior Windows and Doors) is a testing standard that describes the procedures
It is essential to ensure air infiltration control in building façades by conducting air infiltration testing through third-party laboratory tests and on-site inspections
to determine air leakage rates of installed windows and doors.
This testing standard is most often specified to determine the air leakage of newly installed windows and doors. The testingcanbeadaptedforusetocorrelate potential paths of leakage from within the installed openings. This is helpful to identify air infiltrations so they can be controlledoreliminated.
The testing is performed by sealing a chamber to the interior or exterior face of the test specimen, supplying or exhaustingairfromthechamberatarate required to maintain the specified test pressure, and measuring the airflow lost orgainedacrossthetestingchamber.
In conclusion, the evolution of modern buildings into high-rises has brought forth exciting innovations in architectural design and construction. However, with these advancements comes the crucial responsibility of ensuring air infiltration control in building façades. By conducting air infiltration testing through third-party laboratory tests and on-site inspections, high-rise buildings can achieve enhanced energy efficiency, indoor air quality, occupant comfort, and overall sustainability. The importance of such testing cannot be overstated, as it is essential for the long-term success and environmental impact of these architectural marvels in our ever-growing urbanlandscapes.
(Winwall Technology India Pvt Ltd is an ISO 17025 NABL accredited third-party testing laboratory and is accredited to perform Air Infiltration Tests as per ASTM, BS EN, AS/NZS and NBR standards.)
P. JOTHI RAMALINGAM PONNUSAMY
Director, Winwall Technology India Pvt Ltd
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
P. Jothi Ramalingam Ponnusamy is the Director of Winwall Technology India Pvt Ltd, an ISO 17025 and an NABL performance testing laboratory. He has been associated with the architectural aluminium industry since 1990 as an anodising and powder coating specialist. He is presently a member of the Doors, Windows, and Shutters Sectional Committee, CED 11, which is responsible for creating the Indian Standards for the design, fabrication, testing andinstallationofdoors,windows,andshutters.
Jothi Ramalingam has constantly strived to create more test facilities in India for the benefit of the Indian façade and fenestration industry thereby helping the industry to improve its quality and successfully compete internationally. Under his stewardship, Winwall India has been accredited by NABL as the first laboratory in India for NFPA 285 testing of the fire propagation characteristics of exterior wall assemblies containing combustible components, testing facility for processed glass andconductingcyclictestingofhardwareused in the window and door industry.
Jothi Ramalingam is now involved in commissioning a new resistance and reaction to fire testing laboratory to test products used in the construction industry for its fire-resistant properties thus contributing to making high rise buildingssaferfromtherisksassociatedwithfire.
Glass Façades Glass Façades for High-Rise Buildings
The word ‘Façade’ means ‘Face’ in French, and a building’s façade is actually the front of a building and its face. Glass walls on the exterior of buildingsarewidelyusedtoimprovethe beauty, keep the interior temperature in check, and allow enough natural light to enter which gave rise to the increasing useofglass.
Some of the advantages of using glass in high-rise buildings:
• Efficiency: The glass façade on the exterior of the building allows an optimumlevelofnaturallighttoenter, whichreducesthecostoflighting.
• Safety & Maintenance: The key factorstoconsiderwhiledesigning a façade are safety, longevity, and
maintenance. Glass has a smooth glossy surface, so it is dustproof and can be cleaned efficiently. Unlike other materials, it is easy to maintain.
• Strength & Weather Resistance: The materials used in glass façades are extremely strong and durable. They aredesignedtoresistmajorweather elements, including the sun, high winds,rain,snow,etc.,andcanretain their appearance and integrity in most of the given conditions. Glass iscorrosionresistant;itdoesnotrust orcorrodeduetoweather.
• Adaptability: It can be made translucent or moulded in different shapes, and it can offer a lot of flexibility to the architect in terms of usageinthebuilding.
• Appearance: One of the most preferred ways to instantly enhance the style quotient of a tall building is a glass façade. Apart from lending a contemporary yet open look to a modern-day building, it also offers sound and heat insulation, making them a favourite choice. Glass façades can be designed in building façades give off a sleek, modern feel that entices many potential clients,pluscanhelpwithemployee productivity and other similar factors.
DIFFERENTTYPES OF GLASS FAÇADES
There are various types of glass façade systems being used depending upon architecturalandfunctionalrequirements whicharedescribedasfollows.
• Unitized Curtain Wall: The unitized curtain wall system is composed of large units or panels which are fabricated, assembled and glazed in the factory in a controlled environment, shipped to the site and erected on the project building. Since there is no on-site glazing, another major benefit of using a unitized system is the
speed of installation. The distinctive advantage of unitised curtain walls is the efficiency of repetitive units and their installation. Another major factor is the higher quality assurance due to fewer interfaces and workmanship on-site. Working at heights is moved to the inside of the building slab, and interior wall assemblies can be easily integrated. In that regard, nowadays many developers prefer unitized curtain wallsintheirbuildingprojectsmuch more.
• Semi-Unitized Curtain Wall: Semiunitized curtain wall is a type of curtain wall that combines the advantages and features of the Stick and Unitized curtain wall.The entire aluminiumframeisdividedintoMain Frame and Support Frame, and are linked together by hooks. The main aluminium frame is manufactured and delivered to install at sites as stick system, the support aluminium frame is assembled with the glass panelsglazedatthefactory,shipped to the site and then installed to the mainaluminiumframestructure.
• Stick Glazing: In the stick curtain wall system, the components are assembled piece by piece on the structureofthebuilding.Thissystem is mainly used for low-rise buildings orinsmallregions.Becausebyusing this system, it is important to have exterior access. This system requires
several steps to be installed and sealed, which means more time is spent on site. However, these systems can be more economical than unitised ones, especially if the buildingfacaderequireslessspace.
• Frameless Glazing System: Frameless glazing is an aesthetic and economical alternative to curtain walling or bolted glass. Spider glazing systems are the most famous frameless glazing system typically being used. This system is usually installed in areas where maximum transparency is required. Spider fitting systems connect glass together in an open space using various types of light steel/glass structuresviavarioustypesofspider fittingmemberstoformflexibleand unobstructed curtain wall façade. Thissystemcanbesingleordoubleglazed and uses toughened or toughened laminated glass panels. Jointsbetweentheunitsarepointed in a high-performance weathering silicone.
• Tension Rod Systems: A tension rod structure composed of rods or cables is a glass skin support system of excellent performance. It is backed with suspended point fixed glass with high-tension stainless steel vertical rod trusses as wind bracing. The trusses are tensioned betweentheconcretefloorslaband the steel roof structure. The system pretension loading and sizing of the tension rods are determined from various factors like the thermal load, dead load, creep, seismic loading andwindloadingconditionsspecific tothesupportingstructure.
PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
- THERMAL INSULATION, SOUND REDUCTION & SOLAR CONTROL
The façade is one of the most significant contributors to the energy budget and the comfort parameters of any building. Controlofphysicalenvironmentalfactors must be considered during the design process, as well as design strategies that improve occupants’ comfort. Highperformanceglassfaçadesneedtoblock adverse external environmental effects
andmaintaininternalcomfortconditions withminimumenergyconsumption,and the location and climate become crucial factors in selecting appropriate design strategies. With an increasing need for resource-efficient building solutions, the selection of high-performance glass for thefaçadeisamust.
Following are some of the factors that need to be considered while selecting high-performanceglassforthefaçade.
UValue:The U value indicates the rate of heat flow due to conduction, as a result of temperature difference between inside & outside. The lower the U value, the lower the heat transferred through the glass, which means better thermal control.
Shading Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): The shading coefficient indicates the extentofdirectsolarheatgain.Thelower the shading coefficient, the better the glazinginpreventingsolarheatgain.
Visible Light Transmission (VLT): Visible light transmission indicates the percentage of the visible portion of the solar spectrum that is transmitted through a given glass product. The higher the VLT, the higher will be the light penetration. Visible light makes up about 47 percent of the solar spectrum, with wavelengths from 380 to 780 nanometers.
Low Emissivity: Emissivity is the ability of a surface to reflect or emit heat by radiation. The lower the number, the more efficiently the object reduces radiative heat gain or heat loss, which means a lower U-factor and better insulation. Low-emissivity Coatings are very thin (in nanometres), virtually invisible,metaloxidelayersdepositedon the surface of the glass to reduce the U factorbysuppressingradiativeheatflow.
There is a growing interest in glass materials and detailing technologies that result in glazing systems with a high ability to interrupt heat gain/loss while allowing maximum visible light transmission.Technologiesandsolutions
Semi-unitized curtain wall
Glass Façades
to enhance the thermal performance of glazing systems include inserting inert gas dry air, vacuum, argon, or krypton between the double-glazed glass to provide a good thermal break to reduce thermalconductance.
Sound insulation design for structurally glazed façade is an important task in environmental noise control, as increased continuously repeated noise isasignificantfactorimpactingpeople’s well-being and is associated with a negative impact on their health. Some
buildings like hospitals, educational institutes, and office buildings are more sensitive to noise affecting the occupants/users of that building. According to a survey, road traffic noise is the most important source of annoyance. Other sources like railways, aircraft, and factory operations are also contributing to noise pollution and need to be controlled. Methods of creating sound-insulating walls are common and well known, but if there is a glass façade instead of walls, the glass needs to provide acoustic control.
The simplest, cheapest, and most effective way to protect the inside area against such noise pollution is to use thicker glass or replace the single glass with laminated glass or laminated DGU, etc. Even increasing the air gap between the DGU has a very significant impact on sound reduction. The acoustic performance can be varied by combining different thicknesses of glass with the PVB interlayer to achieve a specified rating. In this way properly selected glass offers the opportunity to achieve project-specific noise reduction requirements.
PROS AND CONS OF GLASS FAÇADE BUILDINGS
The choice of façade material for a structure varies with its design and context, such as occupancy, location and orientation, with residential and commercial buildings having specific demands. Durability, maintainability, sustainability and cost are important factors too. Glass becomes the ideal choice for façades because of its intrinsicpropertytotransmitmorelight than any other material, contributing to better natural lighting and thereby reducing energy consumption on artificial lighting. However, there are some advantages as well as disadvantages while using glass in the building façades. Let’s have a look.
Some of the advantages as described as follows:
• It adds to the beauty of a building. Since it can be made translucent or moulded in different shapes, it can offer a lot of flexibility to the architect in terms of usage in the building.
• Glass can transmit 75%-80% of the natural light in both directions, something which no other substitutedoes.
• Theglassisusuallyweatherresistant so it can easily withstand different weather conditions like rain, sun, and wind. It does not lose its shape orshineinanyweather.
• It usually has a smooth surface so in a way it is dust-proof. It requires minimalcleaning.
Unitized curtain wall with pressure plate
• The right kind of glass can reduce energy consumption for the occupants of the building and bring downelectricitybills.
• Glass façades require low maintenance, and a swift monthly cleaning may be enough most of thetime.
• Most glass types are abrasion resistant which means that they will not wear out when rubbed against another material, especially during cleaningthefaçades.
• Glass is available in a wide range of colours, and when we combine the glasssheetinlaminatedorinsulated units, it changes in colour and appearance.
• Glass is a sustainable material, fully recyclable material that provides great environmental benefits such ascontributingtomitigatingclimate change and saving precious natural resources
• It does not get affected by air, water and most of the acids hence discoloration, alteration in the degree of shine, softening, swelling, detachment of coatings and blisteringwillnotoccur.
Some of the disadvantages described as follows:
• Glass is an expensive material compared to the other materials usedintheconstructionindustry.As aresult,thetotalcostofthebuilding mayincrease.
• Glass is a stiff, rigid & brittle material. When it is subjected to stress, it breaks without significant strain. Brokenpiecesofglassmaybesharp, and the chances of injury are very high.
• The Glass is less impact resistant, so the capability of the glass to withstand an immediately applied load is very poor. It could break underimpact.
• The Glass is affected by alkalis ions. Alkali solution dissolves a glass surface, and if the supply of alkali is more, this type of corrosion takes placeatauniformrate.
• Glass façades cause a lot of glares which is a major disadvantage of
Glass Façades
glass if not properly selected and designed.
Glass generates minimal environmental impact, which makes it a product of choiceforsustainablebuildings.
Despite the availability of highperformance glass technologies, a preconceived idea that glass is the weak point in the building envelope still persists. This goes against existing evidence that demonstrates the positive role of glass in sustainable low-energy buildings.
As new constructions become increasingly energy efficient, their main environmental impact will no longer be considered in terms of their energy consumption. Based on a complete life-cycle approach, the impact of manufacturing the building materials, as well as the construction anddemolitionphases,becomecritical to improving a building’s sustainability. In this respect, glass generates minimal
environmental impact, which makes it a product of choice for sustainable buildings.
For instance, the total CO2 equivalent emitted by the manufacturing of an energy-efficient double glazing unit is offset on average within only 3 to 10 months by the energy savings realised compared to the same building equipped with inefficient glazing. In addition, glass is made of abundant non-polluting raw materials, its manufacturing process is highly energy efficient, requires low levels of water andgenerateslittlewaste.Infact,recent life-cycle studies have shown that windows represent a very minor share of a building’s environmental impact from the cradle to the construction phase. Moreover, the majority of glass products for buildings are recyclable at the end of their lives. This contributes to an even lower environmental impact. When recycled in new glass products, glass waste helps to economise both raw materials
Unitized curtain wall system with sunshade
Glass Façades
and energy in manufacturing new glass products.
FUTURE GLASS FAÇADES
Façade engineering is the art and science of resolving aesthetic, environmental and structural issues to achieve the effective enclosure of buildings. Specialist companies are dedicated to this niche sector of the building industry and engineers operate within technical divisions of façade manufacturing companies.
Façade engineers must consider aspectssuchasthedesign,certification, fabrication and installation of the buildingfaçadesabouttheperformance of materials, aesthetic appearance, structuralbehaviour,weathertightness, safety and serviceability, security, maintenanceandbuildability.
Buildingfaçadehasasignificantimpact on the environmental and economic performance of buildings and projects. The specification of their elements at the early design phase depends on numerous technical, environmental and economic factors and involves several stakeholders. The procurement anddeliveryofthefaçadeworkpackage from the early design phase, through detailed design and manufacture, to installation is a process with several inherentriskfactorsduetotheinvolved cost, technical and engineering complexities and its position on the criticalpathinallprojects.Thisresearch investigates the process of selection and specification of building façade elements at the early design phases with the overarching aim of identifying the issues affecting specification decisions, their root causes and their impactonprojects.
As explained earlier, there are several types of Façade systems like unitized curtain wall, semi-unitized curtain wall, stick curtain wall, frameless glazing, etc. - each has its own uniqueness, and any of the above systems can be chosen depending upon the above factors. With the growing demand for glass façade, the
speed of installation with quality is also becoming a mandatory factor.Thereby, Unitized curtain walls have become the preferred method for enclosing buildings, as more building owners, architects, and contractors see the benefits of this type of construction. Thesefaçadesaremadeinfactoriesand carried to the installation site. In other words, there isn’t much effort required for the installation of these façades in the building. They can be set up on multiple floors if it’s a tall building. You can install vents and windows using these façades. As a result of being manufactured completely in the factory, it is easy to incorporate air and moisture resistance in the façade.
GETTING UPDATES ONTHE LATEST GLASS PRODUCTS
With so many technologies that keep emerging every day, one really needs to upgrade his knowledge on a regular basis. I follow the same to keep myself updated.
The articles published in WFM media are always informative and such articles enhance the knowledge of the reader. I followthesame.
I usually read various articles being published on the net on various topics for Façade, which include updates on various properties of materials, design, tools, machinery, market trends, etc. For all the façade types, whether it is a Unitized Curtain Wall or Semi Unitized Curtain Wall, or any other system, the required raw materials mainly remain the same. Having frequent factory visits for various products, it becomes easy to understand the manufacturing processes of the raw materials which are primemembersofthefaçade.
Another way by which I keep myself updated is by visiting special events or exhibitions. These exhibitions really help to enhance the knowledge of the latest trends in the market. The sales representatives of various products keep on visiting to explain about their products, which is another source for gatheringupdatedinformation.
SHAILESH HARDIKAR
L&T B & F IC- Sr. Manager – Façade, Larsen & Toubro Limited
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shailesh Hardikar is a façade & fenestration professional having experience of more than 20+ years of demonstrated history of working in the field of façade engineering, performance mock-ups, quality assurance/quality control & project management.Heiscurrentlyassociated with L&T Construction’s B & F division as Sr. Manager Façades. Previously he had been associated with companies like Axis Façade Consultant, Glass Wall Systems (I) Pvt Ltd, Omkar Realtors & Developers Pvt Ltd, etc. He had been part of many milestone & complex projects across the metro cities of India like those of Indiabulls, Reliance, Lodha, Raheja, Oberoi, Omkar, Bagmane,Wipro, Embassy, Forum, Mani Group and so on. His key areas are PMU, leakage rectifications,on-sitetechnicalsolutions and project management.
(Email: shailesh.hardikar1@lntecc.com)
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Façade Materials
Use of Metal on Building Façades: Innovations & Sustainability
The use of metal in building façades has a rich history dating back centuries, but its role in contemporary architecture is far from static.Aswelooktowardthefuture,metal is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the aesthetic, functional, and sustainable aspectsofbuildingexteriors.Let’sexplore the evolving landscape of metal used in building façades, innovative materials, technologies, and sustainable practices thataredrivingthistransformation.
Theworldofarchitectureisexperiencinga transformativeshifttowardssustainability and innovation. Building façades, often consideredthe“face”ofastructure,playa pivotalroleinthisevolution.
THEEVOLUTIONOFMETALIN BUILDINGFAÇADES
Before delving into the future, let’s briefly review the historical context. Metal has
been a key player in building façades for centuries. From the ornate ironwork of 19th-century buildings to the sleek, modern aluminium-clad skyscrapers of the 20th century, metal has provided architects with a versatile canvas for their designs. However, it is in the 21st century that we see a remarkable shift in the applicationandroleofmetalinfaçades.
TECHNOLOGICALADVANCEMENTS
Digital Fabrication: One of the most significant drivers of change in metal façades is the advent of digital fabrication technologies. Computeraided design (CAD) and computeraided manufacturing (CAM) have revolutionised the way architects and engineers approach metal design. Complex geometric patterns, once challenging to produce, can now be fabricatedwithprecision,openingdoors to unprecedented design possibilities.
Smart Façades: The future of metal façades lies in integration with smart building technologies. Metal panels can incorporate sensors, allowing the façade to adapt to environmental conditions. This includes dynamically adjusting shading elements based on sunlight or automatically ventilating to optimise energy efficiency. These adaptive façades enhance both aesthetics and sustainability.
INNOVATIVEMATERIALS
Nano-Coated Metals: The development of nanotechnology has brought forth a new generation of metal coatings that offer enhanced durability and functionality. Nano-coated metals are more resistant to corrosion, pollutants, and UV radiation, ensuring a longer lifespan for building façades. These coatings can also provide self-cleaning properties,reducingmaintenancecosts.
Cast iron works on Royal Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans, USA
Biophilic Metal Façades: Biophilic design principles, which seek to connect buildings with nature, are gaining prominence. Metal façades can now incorporate living walls, vertical gardens, or even hydroponic systems. These green metal façades not only improve air quality but also contribute to the overall well-being of building occupants.
SUSTAINABILITYAND ENVIRONMENTALIMPACT
The future of metal in building façades is intrinsically linked to sustainability. Sustainable practices are increasingly driving architectural decisions, and metal façadesarenoexception.
Energy Efficiency: Metal’s reflective properties can help reduce heat gain, lowering the need for air conditioning and thus energy consumption. Additionally, smart façades with integrated sensors can adjust shading to optimise natural lighting and temperature control.
Recyclability: Metal is inherently recyclable, and advancements in recycling technologies make it an ecofriendly choice. Buildings with metal façades can be designed with future deconstruction and material reuse in mind, reducing their environmental footprint.
Solar Integration: Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels can be seamlessly integrated into metal façades, turning them into energy-generating surfaces. This not only reduces a building’s reliance on conventional energy sources but also adds an extra layer of visual appeal.
AESTHETICPOSSIBILITIES
While functionality and sustainability are essential, aesthetics remain a cornerstone of architectural design.The future of metal façades promises an array of creative possibilities:
Parametric Design: The integration of parametric design tools and
Façade Materials
computational algorithms is revolutionising the aesthetics of metal façades. Architects can now create intricate, geometric patterns that were once impossible to fabricate. This level of precision allows for designs that not only captivate the eye but also optimise solar orientation and shading, further enhancingabuilding’senergyefficiency.
Textured Finishes: Advanced fabrication techniques allow for a wide range of textured finishes on metal panels, adding depth and visual interest to façades. From brushed stainless steel to perforated aluminium, architects can choose finishes that align with their design vision.
Colour Innovation: Modern metal coatings offer an extensive palette of colours, allowing architects to customise building exteriors to suit their creative concepts. Furthermore, these coatings can resist fading & chalking, maintaining theirvibrantappearanceovertime.
Dynamic Lighting: LEDs and other dynamic lighting technologies can be integrated into metal façades, creating stunning visual displays. These dynamic façades can change colours or patterns, transforming the building’s appearance atnight.
Dynamic LED façade, Holland Casino Venlo, Netherlands
Parametric façade image generated using Midjourney, a generative AI Program
In-lagss transparent LED screen, Seoul, South Korea
Façade Materials
SHORTCASES:THEFUTUREIN
ACTION
Let’sexploreafewofreal-worldexamples:
1. TheEdge,Amsterdam
Deemed “The Greenest Building on Earth”, this pioneering office building features a metal+glass façade with integrated sensors, maximising natural light and energy efficiency. It showcases the potential of smart façades in reducing environmental impact while providing an inspiring work environment.
2. AlBaharTowers,AbuDhabi
The defining feature of these towers lies in their shield-like covering composed of 2,000 metal+glass elements resembling umbrellas. These elements possess
the capability to autonomously adjust, opening and closing in response to the changing sunlight levels. This ingenious design draws inspiration from the ‘Mashrabiya’, a geometric wooden lattice screen utilised in traditional Arabic architecture since the 14th century. The dynamic control of the Al Bahar Towers’ façade is overseen by a sophisticated building management system. This adaptable shading mechanism significantly mitigates interior heat gain
attributable to sunlight, reducing it by approximately50%.
3. MunicipalOfficesoftheLacq Region,France
The innovative façade design solution was achieved by employing pure white perforated metal panels to address the issue of excessive sunlight on the south side of the building. The design concept aimed to establish a solar shade that would effectively mitigate overheating while also permitting a controlled influx ofnaturallight.
The use of perforations featuring random circles with varying diameters results in a distinctive lighting effect within the building’s interior. This approach to the façade represents a harmonious blend of aesthetics, functionality, and costeffectiveness.
4. TheTorredeEspecialidades, MexicoCity
The Torre de Especialidades is a hospital building featuring a groundbreaking façade designed to purify the air. This remarkable feature is made possible throughtheuseoftitaniumdioxidepaint, developed by Elegant Embellishments, which coats the entire surface of the building’s exterior. By harnessing the power of sunlight in conjunction with titanium dioxide, harmful pollutants are transformed into benign compounds, primarilywater.
Beyond its ecological innovation, the façade of the building is also visually
Façade of the Municipal Offices of the Lacq Region, France
Aerial view of The Edge, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Close-up of moving elements in the façade of Al Bahar Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Dynamic façade of Al Bahar Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE
striking. Functioning as a standard skin system,itnotonlyenhancesthebuilding’s aesthetics but also serves as an effective sunprotectionsolution.
5. BoscoVerticale,Milan
The Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest, is an example of biophilic design on a grand scale. Metal balconies host an array of trees and plants, not only beautifying the building but also contributing to urban biodiversity and improving air quality.
CONCLUSION
Inthequestforsustainable,aesthetically pleasing, and technologically advanced building façades, metal emerges as a formidable contender. As we look ahead, we see a future where metal façades are more than just architectural elements; they are integral components of sustainable, responsive, and inspiring buildings.
The future of metal used in building façades is an exciting landscape where aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability converge. Technological advancements,innovativematerials,and sustainable practices are reshaping the way architects approach metal façades, offering limitless design possibilities and enhancing the environmental and economicviabilityofbuildings.
As architects and builders continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with metal, we can expect to see breathtaking façades that not only captivate the eye but also tread lightly on the planet. The future of metal in building façades is bright, promising a harmonious blend of artistry and sustainability in the architectural world.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Cinquefoil Design Lab LLC and/or Cynosure Innovations. Readers are encouraged to seek professional advice and conduct their research when making architectural decisions.
Despite being from a business management educational background, Dhaval Shishodia has always been passionate and curious about all kinds of innovations and breakthroughs, especially in the fields of building & architecture, and technology. Dhaval has been in the architectural products industry since his professional debut. He hasworkedonaplethoraofarchitectural productsforprojectsinIndia,China,UAE and KSA. He is an enthusiast of tech, tall buildings, product design, photography andcoffee.
Green façade of the Bosco Verticale, Milan, Italy
Air Purifying façade of The Torre de Especialidades, Mexico City, Mexico
Façade Engineering
Improving Acoustic Performance of Façades
WE LIVE IN A NOISYWORLD
The Middle East has experienced rapid urbanisation and development and one of the major challenges brought by urbanisation is noise pollution. The increasedurbanactivityhassignificantly contributed to higher noise levels in cities. This has become a significant concern, as it negatively impacts the quality of life for residents.
Exposure to high noise levels can have varying negative effects on individuals. Some may experience increased stress, difficultyinconcentrating,anddisrupted sleep patterns. Others may develop long-term health issues such as hearing loss and cardiovascular problems. The impact of noise pollution on individuals depends on factors such as their sensitivity to noise and the duration and typeofexposure.
The building envelope plays a crucial role in defining the visual identity of a structure, addressing the thermal requirements of the environment, and providing a fire barrier for the safety of occupants. Additionally, an oftenoverlooked function of the building envelopeisitsabilitytomitigateairborne noise.
Poorly designed buildings, or those that underestimate the importance of acoustic considerations in the building envelope, can have an adverse effect on the value of the entire property (for example, people do not want to stay in noisyhotelsorliveinanoisyapartment).
It is therefore imperative to recognise the significance of incorporating effective noise mitigation strategies into the early designandconstructionofbuildings.
FACTORS INFLUENCING FAÇADE ACOUSTIC ENGINEERING
The following factors are key to the acoustic façade design:
1. Location and surroundings: The geographical location of a building determines the noise levels it will be exposed to. Factors such as proximity to highways, airports, building services equipment, industrialareas,etc.cansignificantly impact the façade acoustic design. Figure 1 shows examples of noise sources that affect the acoustic design.
2. Building function: The intended use of the building will determine the acoustic requirements. As an example,aconcerthallhasdifferent acoustic requirements than an office building.
3. Architectural design: The shape, size, and materials used in the construction of the façade will affect sound transmission and reflection. Elements such as windows, seals, frames, doors, walls and ventilation systems must be carefully considered.
4. Regulations and standards: Requirements laid out in local regulations and standards will have an effect on the acoustic design of the façade.
FAÇADE ACOUSTIC DESIGN STANDARDS AND CODES IN UAE
To address the noise issues, UAE has adopted acoustic standards and codes to help provide a quieter and more comfortable environment for its residents. The Dubai Building Code (DBC) has been in place since December2021,replacingtheprevious Green Building Regulations and Specifications (GBR&S). Details of the new code can be found in the table below.
Dubai Health Authority Regulations and DHA Health facility guidelines.
Healthcare
Educational, including nurseries, schools and universities.
Business
Industrial
Health Technical Memorandum 08-01 or FGI
Guidelines for design and construction of hospitals and outpatient facilities.
Building Bulletin 93: Acoustic design of schools – Performance standards
BS 8233, British Council for Offices’ Guide to Specification
BS 8233
As a general rule, the sound insulation of the envelope, internal floors and partitions shall meet the minimum provisions of the reference standards listed in Table 1 in the Dubai Building Code (DBC-H.10.3, Page 632/843).
The UAE follows the UK Approved Document E for residential acoustic requirements. The document primarily focuses on internal wall separations betweendwellings.
Protection against sound from other parts of the building and adjoining buildings
E1.Dwelling-houses,flatsandroomsfor residential purposes shall be designed and constructed in such a way that they provide reasonable resistance to sound from other parts of the same building and from adjoining buildings.
In addition to the above documents, BS 8233:2014 Guidance on Sound Insulation and Noise Reduction for Buildings also providesrelevantacousticinformation.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) provides recommendations on maximum indoor ambient noise levels in occupied spaces to provide an ideal level of acoustic comfort in commercial premises and suitable sleeping and resting conditions for residential dwellings.
Other references for noise intrusion mentioned in DBC 2021 are related to
British Standards. This includes Health Technical Memorandum 08 – 01 (for healthcare), Building Bulletin 93 (for schools), and British Council for Offices, Guide to Specification (for offices)
As a final point, end-clients, hotel operators etc. may have additional specific requirements for their projects thatalsomustbecompliedwith.
TYPICAL BUILDING FAÇADE ACOUSTICPROBLEMS
Acoustic considerations are frequently ignored in the building façade design, even when developments are situated near significant noise sources such as express highways, metro lines, airports, entertainment amenities, & outdoor MEP plant areas.
The following are examples of improper design leading to unwanted sound and poorindooracousticenvironments:
• Selectionofimproperglazingand/or frametype;
• Incorrect specification of openable façades(windows,doors);
• Poorly designed structural and architectural connection details such as transom and mullion configurations;
• Cheap quality façades and materials;
• Ventilationopeningsleftuntreated;
• Poorworkmanship
THE FIRST STEP FOR ACOUSTIC DESIGN FOR FAÇADES
It is easy to measure the noise within a building after it has been constructed, but rectification can be time-consuming and expensive and in some cases, not possible without major implications. The cost of building a façade will depend on the materials used and how the envelope is designed in the project, and these factors will influence the overall cost of the project. It is therefore important that the acoustic design of the façade is correct from the very beginning. For this reason, it is crucial to measure and/or calculate the external noise and specify acoustic requirements effectively during the design phase.
During a project’s design stages, an acoustician should conduct a detailed investigation of the expected relevant (future) noise levels at various façade points & at different heights to be able to specify the correct mitigation measure to ensure compliance with the requirements (which vary throughout thebuilding).
A noise survey may not be possible in some scenarios, for example when constructionistakingplaceneartheplot, or when a future noise source is not yet a reality (such as a new expressway etc.). In this case, the acoustician would need to evaluate the future noise levels that areexpectedtooccur.Typicalroadtraffic noise levels are for example provided in the BS 8233 guidance for three common situations (Table 2), however detailed studies will be required for an accurate assessment.
Table 1 - Design standards for acoustics per occupancy
Table 2 - Traffic noise levels measured approximately 1m from the façade
Figure 2 - Screenshot from Approved Document E
Façade Engineering
This can be done with the use of acoustic software for outdoor noise modelling. Noise modelling plays a crucial role in allowing designers to accurately predict and mitigate potential noise impacts on building occupants. The use of advanced acoustic simulation software allows designers to study the noise emission of for example an industrial plant, expressways, a new local road or railway track, an airport, or even entire towns and urbanised areas.
Based on the noise assessment study, the façade system and glazing elements need to be specified for various parts of the building based on attenuation requirements in terms of Rw +C tr or the OITC. It may further be required to specify sound insulation requirements in octavebands.
FAÇADE DESIGN TECHNIQUES FOR IMPROVING ACOUSTICS
As a next step in achieving good acoustics within a building, it is crucial to understand how different materials or elementsoffernoisecontrol.
A building envelope constructed of elements that are denser in nature
(such as concrete or masonry) provides a better level of acoustic separation than lightweight elements. Effective sound insulation techniques, such as introducing air gaps, sound-absorbing materials, and appropriate building orientation can further help minimise the negative impacts of external noise sources. The placement of balconies in the façade design can also help mitigate the transmission of sound and reduce the impact of external noise on interior spaces.
The acoustic performance of glazing systems is greatly influenced by the type of glass, its dimensions, its density, the right order of glass panes and the cavity between them. It is expected that a standard doubleglazing system (6/12/6) will offer a sound reduction of around 32 dB. This can be improved by using thicker panes and special acoustic-grade glass (laminated glass), increasing the cavity, or adding secondary glazing. A glazing system typically performs best when the inner and outer panes have different thicknesses. However, even though the introduction of airgaps may improve the overall sound insulation performance of the system,
this could also lead to a reduced sound insulation performance in low frequencies(whichcouldbeaconcern for certain noise sources such as road traffic, plant equipment etc.).
Laminated glass can improve acoustical separation by allowing for resistance change in the material. By adding a thin layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate between two thin layers of glass, the change in density between the glass and the lamination layer results in the reflection of some of thesoundenergy.Inthisway,theglazing system can improve its sound insulation performance.
Another potential issue with the façade istheflankingnoisetransmission.Typical flanking noise transmission scenarios are shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5. When designing façades, the façade framing can act as a weak point in terms of both intrusive noise and flanking noise between rooms (both horizontal and vertical noise transfer). Mullions, transoms, spandrel panels and other architectural/structural junctions are critical aspects of acoustic design. Even if high-performing glazing is used which mayoffergoodacousticinsulation,noise
Figure 3 - An example of the result of a noise simulation
Façade Engineering
can still penetrate the building interior via other flanking elements and noise canalsotransferviaoneroomtoanother duetoflanking.
To prevent sound waves from being transmitted through a building, the acoustic consultant and the façade consultant need to address all elements and connections, particularly glazingto-rigid interfaces and metal-to-metal interfaces. By adding acoustic insulation and gypsum layers to mullion and transom profiles as well as creating additional acoustic barriers between the frame and floor slabs, flanking noise can bereduced.
It should be noted that glass systems come with limitations and even a system with thick panes of glass and large air gaps may not achieve the requirements for highly sensitive spaces where there is a high external noise level. In such cases, a solid façade element (e.g. concrete blocks) may be the only feasible solution.
Besides glass, composite panels made with aluminium or steel and insulation cores can help increase acoustic performance. However, these systems may also lead to poor isolation for low frequencies and this needs to be taken intoaccountinthedesign.
CONCLUSION
As a final thought, I would like to say that, despite the visual, thermal, and fire/life safety aspects of a façade being the most discussed factors, the acoustical aspects discussed above are vital to the overall success of a project. It is important to establish and clearly define the indoor noise targets that need to be achieved as per code/ legislation, operator specifications, or project stakeholders.
Acoustics as a whole needs to be taken into consideration in the early stages of the project. A collaborative, cohesive design approach can help improve the façade acoustic comfort for the building andensureclientsatisfaction.
ULLAS KARICHERRY
Acoustic Consultant, WSP Middle East
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ullas Karicherry holds an engineering degree in electronics & communication and has over 7 years of experience in acoustic contracting and consultancy design. His expertise covers a wide range of building acoustics and environmental noise control projects. Over the years, Ullas has worked on many diverse and interesting projects in the Middle East region and India. He has a wide-ranging portfolio of leading and supporting acoustic designs on projects such as environmental, healthcare, hospitality, residential, retail, mixed-use developments, offices, and entertainment venues such as cinemas and auditoriums. He is an associate memberoftheIOA-InstituteofAcoustics (UK).
5-Continuous mullion
Figure 4 - Plan view of flanking and direct paths for sound transmission
Figure 5- Flanking path via glazing and hollow section interaction
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Future Façades & Fenestration Fenestration Design Trends for Residential, Commercial, Hospitality & Cultural Projects
In the ever-evolving world of architecture and construction, the façade has emerged as an architectural canvas for innovation and imagination. In particular, futuristic façades are redefining the boundaries of design and functionality, playing a pivotal role in shaping the fenestration landscape of residential, commercial, and hospitality projects.
With rapid changes in technology and access to international brands, fenestration trends include the use of large-span glass (individual glass panels of 2.5m wide X 9.0m height) with slim line sections, thinning the gap between interiors and exteriors. Also, the use of performance glass and DGU sections helps manage thermal conditions within a space without compromising on the qualityoflight.
New-age materials include super strong aluminium, factory-made wooden windows, bronze window sections, etc. Nanotechnology infused with glass helps inmanagingsolargaineffectively.Sealants are also available to ensure complete protectionfromclimaticvagaries.
Windows and fenestrations are probably among the most important factors while designing a space. They not only connect the interiors with the landscape but when sensitively designed, help maintain connect with bio-rhythms with the movement of the sun through the day. Also aesthetically, they play a huge role by offering optimal views when properlyplanned.
As a designer, The factors we consider while choosing windows & façades of a spaceinclude:
• Understandingthefunction
• Study of solar path and wind rose diagram
• Stylisationofthebuiltenvelope
• Spanofopenings
• Viewsandvistas
• Natureofinstallation
• Energymanagement
• Caseofoperation
RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS:
THE PERFECT MARRIAGE OF AESTHETICS ANDCOMFORT
In residential architecture, the façade is not merely an external shell but an expression of the homeowner’s personalityandlifestyle.Futuristicfaçades are transforming the way we experience ourhomes.
expansive glass surfaces, skylights, and clerestory windows to bring in abundant daylight. Fenestration design in such homes emphasizes thermally efficient glazing, smart shading solutions, and automation tooptimisecomfortandenergyuse.
• Interactive Living: In these homes, fenestration design extends beyond
Future Façades & Fenestration
static windows. Dynamic, responsive fenestration systems that adjust to changing weather conditions and occupant preferences are on the rise. From self-tinting glass to motorised shades, these innovations enhance bothaestheticsandfunctionality.
• Biophilic Elements: Buildings are increasingly incorporating
ICONEST – Central Park for Icon Homz
The master plan has been inspired by the ‘Miyawaki forest’ and the story continues on the built form to recreate a vertical urban forest with staggering the ‘outdoor decks’ accommodating the use of trees on the façade.
The multiplecurvilinear forms also depict the enthusiastic, vibrant energy of the techcityofBangalore.
QUICKFACTS:
biophilic design principles into their façades. Living walls, vertical gardens, and integrated greenery are becoming common. Fenestration solutions enable the inclusion of operable windows and smart shading systems that foster natural ventilation and daylight utilisation.
COMMERCIAL PROJECTS: A SYMPHONY OF SUSTAINABILITY & INNOVATION
In the realm of commercial architecture, futuristic façades are catalysts for sustainable,high-performancebuildings that captivate occupants and visitors alike.
• Sculpted Aesthetics: Futuristic façades often feature sculpted, dynamic forms that challenge conventional design norms. These façades use innovative materials like
high-performance glass and carbon fibre composites to create visually stunning exteriors. Their irregular shapes and intricate patterns demand fenestration solutions that gobeyondtheordinary.
• Sustainable Significance: Futuristic façadesoftenprioritizesustainability. Solar-responsive façades, which integrate photovoltaic panels seamlessly, generate clean energy while contributing to the building’s aestheticappeal.Fenestrationdesign
The Zone at Kochi Airport
Conceived as an experiential retail and F&B space to cater to international/ domestic passengers/ visiting guests & the micro market, The zone is strategically poised asagatewayto‘God’sowncountry’.
The design of the project is inspired by the form and texture of the houseboat, ‘symbolic of Kerala tourism’, and day-todayculture.
The manifesting form is an abstract expressionofthehouseboatinessence while being extremely contemporary in appearance. The roof of the retail area is designed as a space within the landscape with the built spaces inspired by sea shells. The aura of the space is extremely vibrant and playful blending the best of the west to local culture.
here involves combining energyefficient glazing with smart building systems to minimise the building’s carbonfootprint.
• Interactive Experiences: In commercial spaces, fenestration design goes beyond static views. Interactive digital displays, augmented reality windows, and interactive façades are emerging trends. These innovations engage visitors while allowing for dynamic contentpresentation.
In hospitality design, futuristic façades are rewriting the rules of guest engagement andcomfort.
• Panoramic Vistas: The hospitality sector thrives on providing memorable experiences, and futuristic façades play a crucial role. Panoramic views are a hallmark of many hospitality projects. Large, frameless fenestration systems make these vistas possible, emphasising the importance of structural glass technology.
• PrivacyandSerenity:Hospitalityspaces prioritise privacy and tranquillity. Advanced soundproofing and glazing solutions are essential for guest comfort. Fenestration design in this sector places a premium on acoustic performance while maintaining aestheticharmony.
• Customization & Flexibility: Adaptability is key in the hospitality industry. Movable partitions, retractable walls, and automated shading systems enable spaces to transform as needed, offering guestspersonalisedexperiences.
HeritageProjects:Enhancingvisitor’s Experiences
• Dynamic Geometry: Futuristic façades often feature complex, non-linear geometries that challenge traditional architectural norms. These irregular forms can symbolise the institution’s commitment to pushing boundaries andcelebratingcreativity.
• Interactive Façades: Some cultural institutionsuseresponsivefaçadesthat change appearance based on external factors, such as weather or the time of day. These dynamic façades engage visitors by creating an ever-evolving visualexperience.
• Cultural Symbolism: Façades can incorporate cultural symbols, motifs, or artworks. For instance, a museum dedicated to indigenous art might feature a façade with indigenous patternsorsculptures.
• StorytellingthroughLight:Lightplaysa pivotal role in futuristic façades. It can be used to project images, animations, or text, telling stories related to the institution’scollectionsorhistory.
Case Study
Heritage & Cultural Complex for Mata Amritanandyamayi Trust, Mahabalipuram
Adesign competition entry – this project was conceptualised after an intensive study of “Sanatan Dharma”,”Vedas”, Life and teachings of “MataAmritanandamayi“.
“Amrita” means nectar of immortality and this nectar was manifested in the mythicalstoryof“SamudraManthan-the Churning of the ocean by the Devas and theAsuras.”
Theentireformhasbeenvisualisedonthe theme of Samudra Manthan in the form of manifested as tidal waves of the ocean causedbythechurning.
The Central “Lotus petal” at 108m high designed in copper also represents the celestialserpent‘Vasuki”.
In a medley of past and the future, the buildingformisextremelyfuturisticwhile
resting on a decorative plinth inspired by architecture of Mahabalipuram in cultural continuity while depicting the ancientness of the discipline and its journeyacrosshome.
Futuristic façades are pushing the boundaries of architecture, fundamentally changing the way we think about design and functionality in residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. As these façades continue to evolve, fenestration design will play a critical role in bridging the gap between form and function, aesthetics, and sustainability. The future is here, and it is incredibly exciting for both architects and the inhabitants of these innovative spaces where the façade is no longer just a static shell but a dynamic, transformative element in the architectural landscape.
Designers are pushing the boundaries of aestheticsandfunctionality,incorporating biophilic elements, adaptive features, and parametric designs. Materials are becoming smarter and more resilient,
while technologies like BIPV, 3D printing, and AI are reshaping the way we think aboutbuildingexteriors.
As we move forward, it’s crucial to strike a balance between cutting-edge design and practicality, ensuring that these futuristic façades are not only beautiful but also efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable.
AR. NITA KEMBHAVI Partner, Kembhavi Architecture Foundation (KAF)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
NitaKembhavicompletedB.ArchfromBVB CollegeofEngineering&TechnologyHubli and her Master’s in Industrial Architecture from the prestigious Sir JJ College of Architecture, Mumbai. She is a partner at Kembhavi Architecture Foundation (KAF, www.kembhaviarchitects.com) founded in 1972 by Sharad and Nalini Kembhavi. Sheco-headstheBangaloredivisionalong withherhusbandIndrajitKembhavi.
The firm has provided consultancy to over 2000 clients and has won numerous commissions across various spheres of the construction industry, including malls, hotels, corporate offices, transport terminals, healthcare facilities, cultural centers, townships and private residences. KAF has to its credit an ongoing project portfoliospreadover30millionSqft.
Apart from the profession, Nita Kembhavi is extremely passionate about art wherein she is also currently working on a series – “TIME TRAVELLERS” which provides an exquisitekaleidoscopicviewofthephysical andthemeta-physical.
Façade Fire Safety
Automatic Smoke Ventilation - Best Practices, Certification, Sustainability through Standardization
Inthepastwhenthelandwasabundant and urbanisation was far less than what we have today, we built more horizontally, and not very tall. There were also restrictions to building tall when it came to construction and building technologyavailableatthattime.
With advancements today in construction and building technology, we learnt the science of building tall owingalsotorapidurbanisationandlack ofspaceincities.
However, such buildings were predominantly concrete structures with ahigherwall-to-windowratio.
With advancements in glass & aluminium technology, we then began to see buildings getting enveloped by this new form, which also brought about a greener and quicker way to build tall, with vastly brilliant views compared to conventional concreteandwindowbuildings.
With that said, these types of buildings pose a higher risk when it comes to fire
& life safety due to their sheer height, higher occupancy loads, a mixed bag of interior fit-outs and usually, not wellthought-out fire strategy behind its design.
In our region, many buildings that are high-rise, above 15 meters and beyond, up to super tall scaling 200 meters and beyond, the facilities to ventilate smoke during a fire emergency are usually not given enough importance as much as
it should be given. In older buildings, which are more concrete and windows with open-to-sky areas, smoke will not tend to collect as there are channels for it to pass through to the open air, and concrete buildings were also not clad withACPintheearlierdays,whichisalso a growing cause for concern in modernday buildings, like leapfrog of fire, smoke fromfloor-to-floor,andsecondarydebris.
Modern Glass enveloped buildings are also accompanied by, in many or some cases, aluminium composite panels, which can cause a catastrophic combination when it comes to buildingfirestoday.Inourregion,there is little to no focus on having separate smoke shafts to extract smoke from the occupant areas, lift lobbies, and corridors to the building roof of glass façade buildings like in Europe or America. This is the reason we have in the present day, Top Hung Open Out Manual Vents which are presently fitted with handles. The providers of this system too are unaware as to why they are providing a window with a handle, and most think it is for Natural Ventilation, which is not the case.
Figure - 1,2 Architectural changes over time
Figure 3: A smaller shorter vent with a larger angle of opening will lead to a more sustainable solution in smoke ventilation Figure 4: Vent as per present NBC norms
This is not the right way to place the vents, norisit idealor tobeexpected of an occupant or a fire officer to open the ventswhenthereisafireinthebuilding. Also, as seen in the representation (Figure 4), the smoke will tend to settle at the person’s waist as the opening is kept at a low level. In many cases, the vents are also too large to be opened by an individual or are stuck due to lack of maintenance or handles removed, in highly data-secure properties. This is as good as not having any system for smoke extraction as it is manual, cumbersome to operate, and will not open easily due to lack of maintenance in most buildings.
Openable panels shall be provided on each floor and shall be spaced not more than 10m apart and measured along the external wall from centre-tocentre of the access openings (Figure 4). Such openings shall be operable at a height between 1.2 m and 1.5 m from the floor and shall be in the form of openable panels (fire access panels) of size not less than 1000mm X 1000 mm opening outwards. The wording –‘FIRE OPENABLE PANEL - OPEN IN CASE OF FIRE, DO NOT OBSTRUCT ’of at least 25mm letter height shall be marked on the internal side. Such panels shall not be limited to cubicle areas and shall be also located in common areas/corridors to facilitate access by the building occupants and the personnel for smoke exhaust in times of distress.
With advancements in technology and in today’s world of Automation, we have systems that can automate the vent in the incipient stages of a fire in commercial glass façade buildings, related to occupant areas, lift lobbies, end of corridors, stair top, and in Public Buildings using Make-up Air vents on the vertical Façade and Smoke Vents or Hatches on the roof, based on StackEffectPrinciples.Productsmustbetested and certified to EN12101’s respective clausesandannexes.
For Commercial Glass Façade Buildings,
1. The automatic Vents which are in OccupantAreas,aretobeofBottom Hung Open Out placed as close to the false ceiling as possible, as that would be the smoke extraction zone.Thiscanbemadeapplicablein Schoolsaswell.
2. The automaticVents in LiftLobbies andtheEndoftheCorridor canbe ofthesameBottomHungOpenOut, orasquare-shapedSideHungOpen Out, this can be made applicable in Hotels, Schools, and Hospitals as well.
3. In Escape Stair locations, where pressurization or no means of Smoke Ventilation is provided, we must provide Bottom open vents at the top of the stair vent, and this will act as a stack effect.This can be made applicable in hotels, schools, andhospitalsaswell.
Façade Fire Safety
Large Public Building spaces like Malls, Airports, and Railway Stations these buildings are designed with large open spaces, with double and tripleheightsections.Forsuchlocations,
1. We need to provide Make-up Air Ventilation on the vertical façade using,low-level TopHungOpenOut Vents (these can be on the areas of theglassfaçadecoveringthebuilding with designed Effective Free Areas kept in mind, including entrance canopyareascanbeused)
2. Combined with Roof smoke extraction units or High-level Façade Vents Bottom Hung Open Out which will automatically open for the smoke to release from the roof area, this is when the building does not have mechanical smoke extraction.
Figure - 8 Atria ventilation with make-up air ventilation & roof or top of façade automatic extractors
Figure - 5 End of corridor AoVs
Figure - 6 Top of stair AoV
Figure - 7 Life lobby AoVs
Façade Fire Safety
In both the cases explained above, the following are to be taken care of when calculating the sizes, and amount of openings, and as this system is related to Fire Safety, care is also to be taken when considering cable type, sizing, and distances,
1. Thesizeoftheventtobeshorterand wider, than taller, this will give more angleofopening.
2. No. of Vents to be calculated based on2.5%ofFloorAreaforCommercial Buildings,and3-3.5%forlargerpublic utilitybuildings.
3. For the Free Areas, we can only use the area of Effective Smoke Release andnotPunchWindow.
4. Cables are to be of Fire Survival or Fire Rated Low Smoke Copper Armoured with cable trays if required (this will be based on MEP/Fire Specifications)
5. The diameter of the cables is to be chosenbasedonthedistanceofAoV from its respective control panel, to avoidVoltageDropissues.
6. A proper maintenance schedule and AMCs must be kept in place for the systemtofunctionasdesignedwhen calledforduringanemergency.
Above are only some of the considerations, among others like Actuator selection, Controller Configuration, Schematics and Weather performance, to be made when designing an Automatic Smoke Ventilation System (ASVS) for any building type. Contact us to specify the right.
Considering the varied applications as seen in this article, the cost of implementation being more optimal than Mechanical Extraction, including its Maintenance, when done right, combined with the ongoing trend of GlassFaçadeBuildings,weseeAutomatic Opening Vents (AoVs) as the way to go with Future of Fire & Life Safety for early Smoke Extraction for all Glass Façade buildingtypesinourRegion.
NIKHIL PARASURAMAN
Managing Director - India & SAARC Region, SE Controls India
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born in Mumbai, educated & raised in Chennai. Nikhil has a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering in Chennai. He has been serving customers with SE Controls India and the SAARC Region since its inception in the Indian Market in 2012. He now leads a team in India that oversees designs for all the global offices and handles business development for his region. Over the past few years, he has come to be known for his technical knowledge of Automatic Smoke Ventilation and Control and his customer experience. He also happens to be a qualified Commercial Pilot from Melbourne, Australia and India which he treats as a hobby alongside his passion for photography.
Figure - 9 Typical system schematic will vary based on the fire strategy
Levanto: Elevating Architectural Excellence with Cutting-Edge Lift-Slide System
The Levanto Modular Lift-Slide System is a cutting-edge solution designed to meet the demands of modern architectural designs and offers a wide range of features to enhance functionality, security, and aesthetic appeal. With two distinct versions, Standard and Premium, Levanto caters to different needs while delivering high performanceanddurability.
KeyCharacteristics
• Levanto can accommodate vent weights of up to 440 kg, making it suitable for large glass surfaces and heavyvents.
• The system features ball-bearing roller assemblies, ensuring smooth andeffortlessoperation.
• Levanto offers enhanced security with multiple locking options. The Standard solution comes with two pins, expandable with one or two extra locking points. The Premium solution features two hooks, expandable with one or two extra stainless-steelhooks.
RollerAssemblies
• Low Roller Assemblies (30 mm profiles): Support up to 250 kg with
• High Roller Assemblies (42 mm profiles): Capable of handling up to 330 kg with two roller assemblies and 440 kg with four roller assemblies. Four rod lengths are available (1000, 1400, 1800, and 2700 mm).
LockingRods
• Standard Solution: Two types of locks with backsets of 27.5 mm or 37.5 mm are available in five lengths. Extensions with extra locking points arealsopossible.
• Premium Lock with Hooks: This option includes locking hooks and continuous lock keeps on the frame.
Levanto boasts impressive test results, with a classification key according to EN 13126-16, indicating the highest durability, weight capacity, and corrosion resistance: Advantages
• Levantoisamodularsystemavailable in two versions, catering to a variety ofneeds.
• It offers exceptional performance with a high weight capacity and the highest durability and corrosion resistance.
• The Premium solution features a continuous keep for an aesthetic, unsightly-freeappearance.
• Levantoprovidesnumerousfinishing options, making it unique in the market.
Levanto Modular Lift-Slide System is a state-of-the-art solution for large glass surfaces and heavy vents, deliveringboth functionality and aesthetic appeal while ensuringsecurityanddurability.
For more details on the product, contact: Email: abhishek.kale@sobinco.com
Website: www.sobinco.com
Contact: +91 99759 54679
Kingston Fenestra Pro FS 300: A CuttingEdge Innovation Designed for the Fenestration Industry
KINGSTON FENESTRA PRO FS 300
KingstonFenestraProFS300
Introducing our groundbreaking product Kingston Fenestra Pro FS 300 a cutting-edge innovation designed specifically for the fenestration industry. This one-part, elastic sealant with unique formulationsoffersunparalleledversatility and performance across a wide range of seamless and effortless applications, making it an ideal for professionals in the fenestrationfield. Fenestrapro isnotonly compatiblewithpaintingbutalsoensures an easily achievable, smooth and level finish. Once cured, it establishes a robust, water-repellent barrier that maintains flexibilityforanextendedperiod.
KingstonFenestraPro istailoredtoexcel in both indoor and outdoor applications, including PVC, aluminium, and wooden profile/panel installations. It is the perfect solution for sealing joints between door and window frames and walls. It is available in a wide array of colours includingOakBrown,DarkGrey,SteelGrey & Brilliant White. Furthermore, it passes rigorous rain water test and it excels in sealing joints around ceramics, wood, plaster, aluminium, brick or concrete. It is the suitable product for professionals in thefenestrationindustry.
VINEY
KR. VERMA JOINED AS THE NEW DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING,KINGSTON
KR. VERMA Director of Sales & Marketing, Kingston
Kingston is delighted to extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Mr. Viney Kr. Verma, their new Director of Sales & Marketing. With a distinguished background spanning the automotive, solar, fenestration & varied industries, Vineybringsawealthofexperienceand
a profound commitment to innovation to the organization. Under his leadership, the company is confident in their collective ability to navigate new horizons, expand their presence across India and enhance the overall quality of products. His dynamic vision positions them for a prosperous future, marked by continuous improvement and growth in the sealant, adhesive and PU foam segments. As the companyembarksonthisjourney,they are confident that under him, that they will reach new heights and set new standards in the segment of sealant, adhesive & PU foam.
Meet Mr. Viney Kr Verma, their visionary Director of Sales & Marketing at the Zak Doors & Windows Exhibition Stall No: DK9 Bombay Exhibition Centre (Nesco) Mumbai, With a rich background in the sealant industry. He’s steering Kingston innovation and growth and his expertise will propel the company to reach new scale, driving excellence and redefining industry standards. Kingston invite all their valued customers, dedicated channel partners & industry to join them for an exclusive glimpse of their cuttingedge products and solutions , Kingston welcome all to a future of limitless possibilities.
For more details on the product, contact:
Kingston Multi Products India Pvt Ltd
Email: info@kingstonindia.in
Website: www.kingstonindia.in
Contact: 011-47047914, 011-27357978/79
VINEY
Product watch
Revolutionising Indian Architecture: Eurobond & Rheinzink Launch
Self Healing Material
Imagine a world where buildings breathe, façades come alive, & age gracefully like wine. Picture a material that evolves with time, enhancing its beauty & strength as it weathers over the years. That’s Zinc, the material recently unveiled by EUROBOND in exclusive collaboration with RHEINZINK – the world’sno.1manufacturerofArchitectural Zinc.
Every material tends to get weaker with time. They tend to fade, collect dust, & lose their appeal due to exposure to the environment. Zinc is the only material that defies this logic. When exposed to theenvironmentalelementslikeoxygen, humidity, & carbon dioxide, Zinc forms a patina layer on its surface, which covers its scratches & surface imperfections & makes the material thicker & stronger. This is the reason Zinc is called a SelfHealing material as it’s surface literally healsitself.
What’s different about EUROBOND Zinc?
200 Years of Combined Legacy: RHEINZINK, with the blood of German Excellence has a 175 year history in Architectural Zinc. Their innovation, processes & quality controlisunparalleled in the industry. This collaboration brings RHEINZINK’s range in India for the very firsttime,exclusivelythroughEUROBOND – the heart of Indian Infrastructure since 2Decades.
ECO ZINC – 50% less CO2: Their Zinc stands out as the only Architectural Zinc manufactured with 50% less CO2
emissions. This is possible with the 3P model of Advanced sustainability – Product : Zinc being naturally sustainable, Procurement : From Scandinavia with real renewable energies, & Patented Process.
Patented Pre-Patina Process: Usually, there are 2 kinds of zinc in the market. One that has a natural surface & weathers after environmental exposure, and one that has a treated surface which replicates the patinated look, but does not transform or self heal after exposure to the environment. EUROBOND presents to you, the only pre-patina zinc in the market, which is the best of both worlds. Made through a patented pickling process, the patina finish of this zinc is achieved naturally, during the manufacturing process itself. There is so surfacetreatmentorlayerontopofit.Thus when used in Facades, this Zinc surface also forms a patina on top & exhibits the intrinsicpropertyofself-healing.
Harmonising Legacies: EUROBOND & RHEINZINK Forge a Pinnacle Partnership
EUROBOND & RHEINZINK have a shared vision of creating structures that not only stand the test of time but also exemplify the highest standards of quality & beauty in the ever-evolving Indian architectural landscape.
Leuphana University, Lüneburg, Germany
Gazing through the Façades & Fenestrations
Future Designs, Materials & Technologies - 2050
Future building envisioned by Ar. Vivek Bhole, Chairman & Managing Director, Vivek Bhole Architects Pvt Ltd
Buildings, as the largest users of energy, are also our greatest opportunity for energy conservationandprotectionofthe environment. As India urbanises, there will be approximately 860 per cent increase in electricity consumption in buildings by 2047 (Niti Aayog - India Energy Security Scenarios estimates). There is a substantial need for energy efficiency improvements. With the global concerns about depleting energy resources and their environmental impact, it is essential to find ways to reduce energyconsumptioninbuildings.
The building façade, or the exterior of a building, plays a pivotal role in determining a building’s energy efficiency and comfortlevels. Itactsasabarrier between indoor and outdoor environments, affecting factors such as heat, light, and sound, thus improving occupant comfort within a building. The location and climate are crucial factors in selecting appropriate façade materials and deciding on the design strategies for sustainable façades. Contemporary façade design aims to develop strategies
and technologies that enable the occupants to enjoy a comfortable interior environment while using fewer resources. This involves optimising the building envelope to reduce energy consumption and minimise the impact on the environment by incorporating sustainabledesigns,materialsand technologies.
The editorial team of WFM spoke to 15 experts including architects and façade consultants on their prospects for future façades in 2050. In this cover story, we are presenting to you their expectations and vision for future façades and fenestrations 25 years from now. They were quick to share their insightful views on various approaches for designing and constructing sustainable façades and fenestrations for the future,whicharehigh-performing, comfortable,safe,atthesametime aesthetically appealing.The cover story also discusses emerging façadetechnologies,andadvanced smart materials for façades, describing their properties and applications.
Façade & Fenestration Design 2050: The World of Architecture Will Witness an Awe-Inspiring Transformation
AR. KAVITA BATRA
Founder and Principal Architect, Uniifyy
In the visionary landscape of 2050, the world of architecture will witness an awe-inspiring transformation in façades and fenestrations. The fusion of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and artistic innovation will give rise to structures that not only redefine our skylines but also our relationship with the built environment. The aesthetics of future façades will be a testament to humancreativityandinnovation.
FUTUREDESIGNS-2050
Envisioning 2050, the future of façade and fenestration design promises to be nothing short of a revolution. We’re poised for a transformation where building exteriors will no longer remain static. Instead, they will evolve dynamically to respond to their surroundings.Imaginefaçadesequipped withsmartmaterialslikeself-tintingglass and shape-memory alloys, enabling them to adjust to changing lighting and
A house where the walls disappear and the indoors becomes the outdoors temperature conditions. Augmented reality will turn these surfaces into interactive canvases, offering endless possibilities for artistic expression and information dissemination. Furthermore, the incorporation of biophilic design principles will seamlessly merge nature with architecture, enhancing both aesthetics and environmental sustainability.
FUTUREFAÇADEMATERIALS-2050
FUTUREFAÇADETECHNOLOGIES2050?
In the realm of façade and fenestration technologies, the year 2050 promises a dazzling array of advancements. Smart sensors and AI systems will regulate temperature, lighting, and ventilation in real time, optimising energy efficiency and occupant comfort. Smart glass technologies will provide adjustable transparencyandthermalproperties,while nanotechnology coatings will ensure selfcleaning and self-repairing surfaces. The adoptionof3Dprintingcouldrevolutionise the industry, offering rapid customisation andintricatedesignpossibilitiesforfaçades andfenestrations,pushingtheboundaries ofarchitecturalinnovation.
By 2050, the global market for façade and fenestration materials will have undergone a remarkable transformation. Innovative materials such as graphene composites, aerogels, and self-healing polymers will dominate the landscape, offering lightweight, durable, and energy-efficient solutions. Solar-active materials will be ubiquitous, harnessing the power of the sun to generate clean energyforbuildings.Sustainabilitywillbe paramount, with a surge in demand for recycledandbio-basedmaterials,aligning with the imperative for eco-conscious constructionpractices.
A façade that’s built around the existing trees
The Future of Building Façades and Fenestrations: A Glimpse into 2050
AR. ABHIJIT BHAMARE
Architect & Planner, IGBC AP
Project Facilitator, Sustainability & Carbon
Neutral Solutions Provider
Director & Founder, Abarch Architects
FUTURE FAÇADE DESIGNS
We foresee the following changes in terms of façade designs while assuring the blending of Form and Function together.
• Biophilic Façades: Nature-inspired façade designs will conquer, thinning the line between the built environment and the natural world, hosting the lush greenery, creating not only a visual treat but also promoting biodiversity and enhancing air quality within urban spaces.
• Adaptive & Responsive Façades: Buildings façades will be intelligent and adaptable. Embedded sensors will enable façades to respond to changing weather conditions and user preferences. For instance, they will dynamically adjust shading, transparency; and breath to reduce pollutants from air and thermal properties to optimise comfort and energyefficiency.
• 3D-Printed Façades: 3D-printed façades with intricate designs will be seen as a part of advanced construction technologies. This approach will offer unprecedented flexibility in shaping the exterior of buildings, allowing architects,
The materials in the future will respond to the environmental & climate change needs.
• Smart Glass: Building on the evolution of smart materials, glass façades will be embedded with nanotechnologythatallowsforrealtime control over tint, insulation, andtransparency.Theseglasspanels will be self-cleaning, responsive to external conditions and energyefficient.
• Composite Façades: New revolutionary materials known for their strength and conductivity, will find their way into façades. These compositeswillbelightweight,ultrastrong, possess excellent thermal properties and will redefine the structuralcapabilitiesofbuildings.
• Biodegradable & Recyclable FaçadePanels: Façadematerialswill be biodegradable, easily recyclable, reducing waste and environmental impact. Modular systems will make renovationsandupdatessimpleand sustainable.
• Energy-Generating Façades: Façades will not only serve as protective layers but also as energy generators. Solarharvesting façades, equipped with advanced photovoltaic technology, will capture sunlight and convert it into clean energy, reducing a building’s carbon footprint.
• Carbon-Capturing Façades: Innovative materials will have the ability to capture and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere,contributingtothefightagainstclimatechange.Thesefaçadeswillserveasgreenlungsforcities.
• DynamicInsulationFaçades: Dynamic insulation systems that adjust to seasonal & daily temperature variations, reducing theneedformechanicalheatingandcoolingwillbepartoffaçades,significantlyloweringenergyconsumption.
The year 2050 promises to be a defining moment in architectural building history as the design and materials of façades and fenestrations will undergo a great transformation redefining the face of buildings and their interaction with the environment.
Biophilic designs, adaptive technologies, and smart materials will create structures that harmonise with nature, respond intelligently to the environment and promotehumanwell-being.
As we move towards 2050, the future of façades&fenestrationsisoneofboundless possibilities. It’s a future where buildings don’tmerelyexistintheirsurroundingsbut actively contribute to a greener, smarter, andmoresustainableworld.
Flexibrick installation models
A Flexibrick module to be used in an upcoming project
“Sustainability as the Basis of Façade Design is the Need of the Hour and the Norm of the Future”
SHARANYA IYER Principal Architect, Studio Verge
FAÇADEDESIGNSFORFUTURE
My practice is based on the belief that one can’t leave the past behind when talking about the future. Looking at facades and fenestration through this lens, I see a gradual shift from facades of today having to primarily ‘look’ a certain way, to future facades having to primarily ‘function’acertainway,takingaU-turnto return to age-old practices of buildings
driven by the logic of climate, function, street engagement, etc. and not just by global trend. I also anticipate that perhaps by 2050, building norms will direct or even mandate façade design taking into consideration region (Climate), location (urban/rural) and typology. Sustainability as the basis of façade design, I believe, is theneedofthehourandthenormofthe future.
second skin help with climatic modulation as well as screening of private and service areas.
NEWERMATERIALPOSSIBILITIES
It is exciting to look at a spectrum of material possibilities that are emerging today. I look at a building as having a two-layered skin, a primary sheath (wall, glass, etc.) and a secondary skin (shading device, advertising display etc). I predict an explosion in options and customisable possibilities for both these skins. By 2025 we would see the primary skin shrinking into sleek and skinny membranes that are high-performing and fast assembly products, a huge shift from traditional masonry walls. Secondary skins on the otherhandbeinglessfunctional,willhave a wider range of customisable options and possibilities to screen, shade and playfully engage or dynamically display. Parametric design will add to the element of playfulness and possibilities of a myriad of options in this regard, contributing to a whole new language built in our cityscapes.
FAÇADE&FENESTRATION TECHNOLOGIES-2050
The basis of technology in façades and fenestration I believe is in aiding flexibility and adaptability. Adaptation to changing climatic conditions seasonally, or personalisation to a specific person or agroupofusersandtheirneedswillallbe aidedthroughtechnologicalinterventions. Using technology is especially important in cases where design freedom is limited such as refurbishment of older buildings. I predict that a majority of our current buildings will need re-gutting and makeovers of façade and fenestration in the next 25 years by 2050. Within the limitations of older construction, technology will become critical in the facilitationofsuchupgrades.
Alternate forms of screening and shading the roof membrane with a louvred pergola again a double skin with acrylic and a metal layer
A low-rise residential project where projections and recesses in the Façade along with
Façades of 2050 will Evolve Towards Sustainability & Timelessness
AR. AMIT GULATI Founder, Design21
By 2050, façades and fenestrations will evolve towards sustainability and timelessness, integrating biophilic design principles with living elementsandnaturalmaterials.Dynamic shading systems and other adaptive technologies will be ubiquitous, optimising energy efficiency and enhancing occupant comfort. Moreover, the adoption of modular and flexible designs will facilitate easy customisation and future adaptations, ensuring their continued effectiveness in the everchanging urban environment. This transformation reflects a commitment to creating architectural elements that harmonisewithbothnatureandmodern living.
FUTUREFAÇADE&FENESTRATION: MATERIALS&TECHNOLOGIES
In the global markets by 2050, we anticipate a prevalence of sustainable materials. Bio-based composites, advanced recyclable metals, and innovative glass solutions will dominate. These materials will prioritise longevity,
with self-healing and low-maintenance features. Nanotechnology may further enhance their performance, offering increaseddurabilityandresilienceagainst environmental factors. This shift towards eco-conscious materials will align with the enduring principles of timelessness andsustainability.
By 2050, we aspire to witness a revolution in façade and fenestration technologies. Responsive systems, capable of adapting to climatic conditions, will be standard.
Photovoltaic-integrated surfaces and energy-generatingmaterialswillcontribute to self-sustaining building envelopes. Smart technologies will facilitate realtime monitoring and optimisation of energy consumption. Further, innovative insulation materials will ensure efficient thermal performance. These advancements will not only reflect a commitment to sustainability but also embody the essence of timeless design, ensuring enduring relevance in the architecturallandscape.
Responsive systems, capable of adapting to climatic conditions, will be standard
Energy Efficiency, User Comfort & Sustainability will be the Mantras
AR. BHUVAN KAPILA Founder and Principal Architect, Workshop for Metropolitan Architecture (WMA)
The architectural landscape is poised for substantial changes in façade and fenestration design by the year 2050, driven by a growing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency. Anticipated developments include the crafting of façades that prioritise the efficient use of natural light while simultaneously minimising heat retention.The incorporation of advanced fenestration systems, enriched with intelligent technologies capable of realtime adjustments to transparency and shading, will further characterise these transformations.
Furthermore, the integration of green elements into façades, exemplified by vertical gardens and plant-clad walls, is expected to gain prominence. Such enhancements will not only elevate aesthetic appeal but also significantly augment ecological performance. In addition, the architecture of the future may embrace interactivity, enabling realtime responses to user preferences and
requirements, resulting in versatile and personalisedenvironments.
FUTUREMATERIALS
By the dawn of 2050, we can envision the ascension of sophisticated façade and fenestration materials onto the global stage.These avant-garde materials will place paramount importance on sustainability, endurance, and the optimisation of energy resources. Transparent photovoltaic arrays
seamlessly integrated into window systems, self-purifying and pollutantabsorbing glass, and the proliferation of featherweight, high-tensile materials like carbon fibre composites may attain ubiquitywithintheindustry.
Intriguingly, biomimetic materials, designed to emulate the remarkable efficiencyfoundinnature,suchasaerogels & bio-inspired coatings, may experience a surge in popularity, further heightening the performance benchmarks for insulation & energy conservation within thebuiltenvironment.
FUTURETECHNOLOGIES
The trajectory of façade and fenestration technologies destined for 2050 likely centre on the enhancement of energy efficiency, user comfort, and sustainability.Aproliferationofdynamic glazing technologies capable of realtime adjustments to transparency and thermal characteristics is expected to gain widespread acceptance. Concurrently, the integration of intelligentsensorsandAI-drivensystems will optimise natural illumination, airflow, and thermal regulation, resulting in substantial reductions in energy consumption.
To further bolster sustainability, there is a growing likelihood of the fusion of these technologies with renewable energysources,exemplifiedbybuildingintegrated photovoltaic systems, thereby rendering façades more selfreliant and ecologically responsible. Furthermore, the emergence of selfhealing materials offers the potential to reduce maintenance demands, while cutting-edge digital interfaces are positioned to empower occupants with greater control over their indoor surroundings, nurturing an elevated state of well-being.
The infusion of strip lighting in the design curates a visual delight
System 2 - Automatic Make-up Air Vents Actuated by SE Controls Actuators and Compatible Control systems
Smoke Ventilation is an integral part of a buildings design for fire safety, without it you compromise the life safety of occupants.
The most common cause of death for fire-related fatalities is asphyxiation by smoke, which is trapped within the environment.
For over 40 years, SE Controls has been developing innovative control systems that automatically open vents in the early stages of a fire to facilitate the extraction of smoke, keeping escape routes and the perimeters of facade clear for the fire service to enter the building and allowing occupants to escape safely.
SE Controls is the trusted global expert in fire safety, facade engineering and product manufacturing, providing bespoke project specific smoke ventilation and controls by partnering with our clients from early stages of the project to system installation, commissioning and testing.
Contact us today for technical tailor made solutions for your facade ventilation needs, as every building is different. Project - Manohar International Airport, GOA (GGIAL) System 1 - Automatic Roof Vents Fully
“By 2050, Buildings will Become Living Structures that Actively Contribute to Sustainability Goals”
AR. AMIT GOSWAMY Partner and Principal Architect, Design Square
The future of façades and fenestrations holds the promise of a remarkable transformation in the world of architecture & building design. As our cities evolve and environmental concernsbecomeincreasinglycritical,the integration of cutting-edge technologies, sustainable materials, and innovative design concepts is poised to redefine the way we envision and construct our living spaces.
TRANSFORMATION OF DESIGNS –FUTUREFAÇADES-2050
The year 2050 is expected to witness remarkabletransformationsinfaçadeand fenestration designs, driven by evolving architectural trends and technological advancements. One of the prominent changes will be the integration of smart materials and technologies. Future façades will no longer be static; they will respond dynamically to environmental conditions, optimising energy efficiency.
Moreover, sustainability will play a pivotal role with façades featuring advanced materials. Living walls and vertical gardens will become prevalent, not only improving air quality but also adding aesthetic value. Additionally, the design will favour multifunctional façades serving as power generators ensuring optimum use of natural resources.
Ultimately, fenestrations will self-adjust to control light and heat, enhancing occupantcomfortwhilereducingenergy consumption.
FUTURE FAÇADE & FENESTRATION MATERIALS-2050
Over the years, façades and fenestration materials are poised for a significant evolution driven by sustainability, technology and aesthetic trends. Sustainable materials like recycled glass and energy-efficient coatings will take over the global market. Solar-integrated façades and self-healing materials may be commonplace, harnessing renewable energy and reducing maintenance costs. Moreover, advanced fenestration systems will be prevalent, incorporating smart glasstechnologiesthatdynamicallyadjust tint and insulation properties based on weatherconditions.Inresponsetoclimate change,materialswithexcellentinsulation propertieswillbevitalforenergy-efficient buildings.Organicmaterialswilldominate the market to promote biophilic design principles, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. In essence,
Subtleties in the contemporary façade with minimal lines
A sense of openness and transparencyThe screen along with glass windows allows natural light to flood in creating an airy atmosphere
the 2050 global market will see a fusion of aesthetics and functionality where modular and customisable solutions will enable designers to create unique and visually stunning façades and fenestrations.
FAÇADE ANDFENESTRATION TECHNOLOGIES–2050:
By 2050, buildings will become living structures that actively contribute to sustainability goals. Façades would feature integrated technology that will harvest energy from the environment making buildings more sustainable and reducing carbon footprint. Moreover, smart glass technology would evolve to offerdynamiccontroloftransparencyand insulation properties, optimising natural
light and temperature within buildings. Furthermore, façades would incorporate livingwallsandgreenerypromotingwellbeing and enhancing aesthetics. They will also integrate responsive materials and advanced insulation technologies which would enhance thermal comfort. Additionally, fenestrations would incorporate augmented reality displays,
offering occupants real-time data on energy consumption, indoor air quality, and more. In essence, façades and fenestration technologies will not only prioritise energy efficiency but also integrate with the overall smart infrastructure of buildings, creating environments that are comfortable and responsive.
Digital Fabrication & 3-D Printing will Change the Face of Façades
The world is changing rapidly and so are buildings and their façades. Building façades in turn are changing the way buildings look and function and also the way cities look. The architecture of façades is being driven by advancements in
technology, heightened environmental consciousness and the pressing need for sustainable construction.
The Building façade is the most important element in controlling the carbon footprint as it is the primary contributor towards heat gain. The future might see a shift towards façade materials that reduce carbon footprints like clay bricks, natural stone, timber, bamboo and composite materials made using recycled products. Alternately technologymightbeusedtomakesmart façades that adapt to changing weather conditions and the movement of the sun and regulate solar heat gain and
temperature. The heightened interest in biophilic design will surely see green façades and green roofs being used to createacalmingenvironment.
Digital fabrication and 3-D printing will changethefaceoffaçades! Theskyisthe limitwiththesetools.Interactivefaçades based on LED technology, will transform buildings into giant billboards and create landmarks within cities. Energyproducing façades based on solar PV panelsarealreadybeingused.Thefuture might see façades equipped to capture windenergy.
A sense of symmetry and a grand look is evoked by large windows on either side of the façade
The facade with clean lines, geometric shapes and fusion of materials
AR. ARTI GUGNANI Partner, Vijay Gupta Architects
Oakridge International School, Hyderabad
KCC Institute, Greater Noida
“We Envision Smart Systems that Dynamically Respond to Weather Conditions, Optimising Natural Light, Ventilation and Energy Efficiency”
AR. KHOZEMA CHITALWALA Principal Architect & Designer, Designers Group
What kind of changes in the design of facades and fenestrations do you foreseeforthefuture,sayby2050?
Facade design is expected to undergo a transformative shift towards the trend of adaptability and iconic aesthetics. Prefabricated metal perforated exteriors will gain traction, allowing for intricate detailing & varied textures. The emphasis will be on achieving harmony between form & function, resulting in facades that
intelligently respond to environmental nuances. Digital interfaces will play a vital role, seamlessly blending technology with design to offer interactive & customisable exteriors. Exteriors with iconic looks will continuetobeafocalpoint,witharchitects harnessing innovative materials and forms tocreatevisuallystrikingfacadesthatmake alastingimpact.
The integration of greenery is seamlessly woven into the facade, blurring the boundaries between the built environment and nature, envisioning a sustainable future
What kind of facade and fenestration materials do you expect to see in the globalmarketsby2050?
By 2050, a diverse range of materials will dominate the facade and fenestration market. Advanced alloys and composite metals will be prominent, enabling the easy fabrication of the entire facade that offers both durability and design versatility. Sustainable glass solutions such
Timeless elegance is woven into every detail of the facade, from the meticulously crafted classical railings to intricate mouldings
as smart glass & high-performance glass will play a pivotal role, providing energyefficient options for environmentally conscious projects. Hybrid materials that blend traditional elements with cuttingedge technology will gain traction, allowingforseamlessintegrationofdigital components into facades, and redefining architecturalexpression.
What type of facade and fenestration technologieswouldyouliketoseeby 2050?
The future of facades and fenestrations depends on incorporating intelligent technologiesthatenhanceuserexperience and environmental performance. We envision smart systems that dynamically respondtoweatherconditions,optimising natural light, ventilation, and energy efficiency. Augmented reality integration will revolutionise user interaction with facades, allowing for customisable visual experiences. Further, advancements in material science could lead to self-cleaning and self-healing surfaces, reducing maintenance demands. Ultimately, by 2050, we hope to witness the seamless integration of cutting-edge technology into facades, elevating both form and functioninarchitecturaldesign.
The glass dome, supported by a diagrid structural framework, imparts an iconic and futuristic look, serving as a striking focal point while harmonising with the surrounding greenery
“Graphene-Based Composites, Self-Healing Concrete & Next-Generation Polymers Could Revolutionise the Industry”
AR. SUMIT DHAWAN Founder & Principal Architect, Cityspace’ 82 Architects
In the coming decades, we anticipate a shift towards more sustainable and responsive facades. The future facades may incorporate dynamic features, capable of adjusting to environmental conditions, optimising energy efficiency. Integrated vegetation systems, coupled with advanced materials, could play a pivotal role in achieving this balance
between aesthetics and functionality. Further, innovations in 3D printing technology might revolutionise the construction of intricate facade elements, allowing for a higher degree of customisationandcomplexityindesign.
The future of facade & fenestration materials is expected to witness a surge in innovations. Graphene-based composites, self-healing concrete,
and next-generation polymers could revolutionise the industry. Also, biomimetic materials inspired by nature’s efficiency and resilience may become more prevalent. Moreover, the market is likely to see an uptick in the use of recycled and upcycled materials, aligning with the global push for sustainable practices. Emerging materials like aerogels may also gain prominence for their exceptional insulating properties, enabling more energy-efficient building envelopes.
By 2050, we can anticipate the integration of many cutting-edge technologies within facade systems. This includes advanced photovoltaics, capable of seamlessly harnessing solar energywithoutcompromisingaesthetics. Moreover, responsive building skins employing nanotechnology and smart sensors could dynamically adapt to varying conditions, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency. Furthermore, augmentedrealityinterfacesmayprovide occupants with personalised control over their environment, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces.
Incorporating advanced fabrication, the farmhouse exudes a futuristic, contemporary appeal
Embracing sustainability, the Goa villa blends modern design with Portuguese influences
Cover Story
“Artificial Intelligence, Digitization & BIM Will Redefine Efficiency and Opportunities in the AEC Industry”
NIKHIL PARASURAMAN
Managing Director (India & SAARC), SE Controls India
Sustainability and sustainable sourcing should be at the top of the minds of everyone in the buildingindustry,fromthedevelopers, architects, and consultants to the vendors who support these projects. The project’s key stakeholders along with the vendors will be more conscious and work towards a more sustainable, fire-safe, and ecofriendlier façade and we will get to see products and systems in line with thisgoal.
We will get to see a more unique approach to architecture which leads to unique façade systems, to which engineers, fabricators and vendors in the industry will need to adapt,bringing newmanufacturing techniques, and products to achieve these complex shapes and geometry.
We will also see biomimicry on façades since today we want to be closertonature,aswellasthismakes for a standout design. With today’s architecture of having generic boxtype glass buildings without an identity, I feel we will get to see façades that more represent a region, a feeling or a vibe of the locality.
FAÇADE & FENESTRATION MATERIALS - 2050
We will see more timber coming in, with more use of recycled aluminium.Generationofenergy using different methods can be researchedandimplementedasthis energy can be used to run certain building services, since these days, thegoalisachieving NetZero, oras closetoitaspossible.
We will certainly see more green productswitheco-labelsgoingonto façade structures, as these products have been tested and certified ecofriendly with a cradle-to-cradle approach.
With climate change taking over the way we live, we will see glass façade specifications change to meet this demand of extreme climatic conditions. And with unprecedented rains, storms, cyclones, and microbursts, we will require high-performance façade systems with the best possible water and air integrity to support this.
FAÇADE TECHNOLOGIES
Artificial Intelligence will be coming in a big way here, and one wayIseeisrobotsinstallingunitized panels, with which we can see buildings being at a much quicker rate with more efficiency. AI as a tool is already being used to design buildingsaswespeaktoday.
With Digitization being spoken largely today in our building industry, we will see things like the Golden Thread concept coming in, where each decision can be mapped back to its origin, this will give us a new level of transparency, and traceability with accountability for the end user and developer.
Our building industry today is alreadytalkingalotabout wastage from construction, and we will need to focus on designing with the least waste and how that waste can be reused or recycled either within that building or some other way.
The industry is already focused on developingBIMmodelsofbuildings at present and we are reaching a stage where multiple services can berenderedintothese BIMmodels, like facades, services, MEP, fire, plumbing, and parking, including cost estimates. This will help in engineeringamoreefficientdesign, with close to 100% accuracy in built drawings.
By 2050, We Will See the Organic Fusion of Multi-Functional Façades
RIDHIMA SINGH
Founder and Principal Designer, Danza Del Design
By 2050, façades & fenestrations will be more energy-efficient, sustainable, and responsive to the environment. They will be made from sustainable materials, incorporate renewable energy systems, and be able to adjust to the environment to maximise comfort and energy efficiency. This will help to create a more sustainable and livable future for all.
FUTUREDESIGNS
The design of façades and fenestrations is settoundergoaprofoundtransformation. Façades will be meticulously crafted with materials boasting exceptional insulation properties, complemented by dynamic shading systems that adapt to the sun’s position. Integrated renewable energy systems will seamlessly harness nature’s resources. However, evolution isn’t solely functional. Aesthetics will continue to flourish as well. Building upon today’s artisticexpressions,futurefaçadeswillfind innovative ways to merge sustainability andbeauty,astheorganicfusionofmultifunctional façades, capable of generating energy, purifying air, and providing shade, will become emblematic of architectural
ingenuity.Futurefaçadesandfenestrations will not only enhance aesthetics but also redefine the very essence of sustainable, responsive,andintegrateddesign.
In the evolving landscape of futuristic façades and fenestrations, innovation takes centre stage. Smart glass, with its ability to dynamically adjust transparency and properties with electrical stimulation, becomes a key player in achieving both functionality and aesthetics. Furthermore, the future sees the rise of aerogels, featherweight materials renowned for their exceptional insulation properties. These aerogels form the foundation for energy-efficient façades and fenestrations, ensuring that buildings remain comfortable while minimising energy consumption. Wood, a timeless element, coexistsharmoniouslywiththesefuturistic features. Its warmth and natural appeal are enhanced by bio-based materials, hailingfromrenewableresources,infusing façades with sustainable elegance. Meanwhile, phase change materials work behind the scenes, storing and releasing heat as needed, contributing to precise temperatureregulation.
By 2050, I would like to see the following façade and fenestration technologies:
• Heat-harvesting façades: Heat-harvesting façades could be used to absorb and store heat from the sun, which could then be used to heat buildings in the winter.This would reduce the need for fossil fuels and help to reduce greenhouse gasemissions.
• Light-redirecting façades: Light-redirecting façades could be used to redirect sunlight to different parts of a building, which could improve natural lighting and reduce the need for artificial light. This would save energy and improve the comfortandhealthofbuildingoccupants.
• Dynamicfaçades: Dynamic façades could change their shape or appearance in response to environmental factors, such assunlight,temperature,andwind.Thiswouldhelptoimprovetheenergyefficiencyandcomfortofbuildings,whilealso creatingvisuallyappealinganddynamicbuildings.
The façade of the building is designed using biomorphic principles, which are inspired by the shapes and patterns found in nature
“Robotic Construction Techniques will Streamline the Installation Process”
SWAPNIL PATHAK Partner, Art-N-Glass Group
By 2050, we can expect facades and fenestrations to undergo significant transformations in design. Sustainable
and eco-friendly designs will take centre stage, incorporating green walls, solarintegrated windows, and adaptable facades that respond to weather and energy needs. Aesthetic considerations will blend with functionality as architects experiment with dynamic, shape-shifting facades that enhance both form and function.
The global market for facade and fenestration materials in 2050 will likely feature advanced materials like selfhealing glass, aerogel insulation and transparent solar panels integrated into windows. Biomimetic materials inspired by nature’s efficiency, such as bio-facades and biomimetic coatings, will become commonplace, promoting energy efficiencyandaesthetics.
In terms of technology, 2050 should see smart façades and fenestrations become the norm. These will be equipped with advanced sensors and AI-controlled systems to optimise natural lighting, temperature, and air quality. Nanotechnology may enable selfcleaningsurfaces,whileaugmentedreality interfaces allow users to personalise their window views. Furthermore, 3D printing and robotic construction techniques will streamline the installation process, making façades and fenestrations more accessible and efficient. In summary, the future of facades and fenestrations in 2050 promises a harmonious blend of sustainability, advanced materials, and cutting-edge technologies to enhance both aesthetics and functionality in our builtenvironment.
“Self-Regulating Shading Systems & Advanced Composite Materials is the Future”
HARDESH CHAWLA
Principal, Essentia Environments
Envisioning the architectural landscape of 2050, we anticipate a harmonious fusion
of cutting-edge technology in facade design. Iconic forms will take centre stage, commandingattentionwiththeirinnovative use of advanced materials & technologies. This involves incorporating self-regulating shading systems and advanced composite materials. These features will seamlessly align with your penchant for creating opulent facades with an enduring appeal andadistinctarchitecturalidentity.
Theglobalmarketforfacade&fenestration materialsislikelytowitnessasurgeinhighend finishes. Luxurious cladding options such as natural stone veneer, high-quality marbles and granites would take up the trend. In engineered wood products, highperformance glass, and responsive alloys arealsoexpectedtoleadtheway.Theshift
towards premium materials ensures that exteriorsnotonlyexudeopulencebutalso boast a timeless appeal, fitting seamlessly withyourdesignfocus.
Advanced techniques such as augmented reality, transparent solar panels, and shape-memory alloys will take centre stage. These innovations will allow for highly responsive facades, utilising phasechange materials and designs inspired by nature’s adaptability. Such systems will dynamically adjust to environmental conditions, ensuring optimal energy performance and unparalleled occupant comfort. Creating luxurious facades with a distinct architectural identity, setting new standards for the integration of cuttingedgetechnologiesinarchitecturaldesign.
“Future-Proofing Buildings with Innovations Can Ensure CarbonNeutral Cities by 2050”
AR. VINEETA SINGHANIA SHARMA
Founder Partner & Principal Architect, Confluence
A building’s façade is a crucial element in its design, offering architects a canvas to impart character and customisation. Althoughafaçadeisoftenassociatedwith exterior aesthetic purposes, designing an active and multifunctional façade is the way forward. In the context of our evolving focus on sustainability and the pursuit of carbon neutrality, innovative façade designs integrating renewable energy sources have become imperative. Simultaneously, facades must adopt advancedglazingtechnologiesandsmart materials to enhance energy efficiency, allowing optimal daylight control and improvedinsulation.Thisholisticapproach to design will contribute significantly to the global goal of achieving net-zero carbonemissionsby2050.
As more and more people are shifting away from standard building structures and are instead opting for a sustainable
yet practical design approach, building facades are likely to evolve — and, in a way — act as the second skin of the building in the foreseeable future. For instance, ‘breathable and green facades’ withamplevegetationoneverylevelcan provide natural shading & reduce indoor temperatures. Additionally, facades must be equipped to grow greens on them by creating modules that enable easy maintenance of services such as water supply and growing materials. Innovative materials like breathable concrete and clearglassthatcanactassolarpanelsare other options. There is a huge potential for poly materials from waste, and byproducts which could be converted into façadeconstructionmaterials.
Due to India’s climatic and geographic conditions, a shift in renewable energy through facade designs can easily be implemented in Indian architecture. Seasonally,averagewindspeedsmayalso be suitable for harvesting wind energy
and hydropower. While solar energy is one of the promising renewable energy sources in Indian parameters, we still lack thespaceformega-solarinstallations.
Sustainability trends are inevitably impacting consumer and commercial choices, making the ability to produce on-site renewable energy a foreseeable mandate in the real estate industries. In oureffortstoharvestsolarenergythrough dual-purpose façade materials such as breathable concrete, recycled poly materials and clear glass, it is critical to consideraholisticapproachforalldesign elements,includingabuildingfacade.
Solar panels have ideally been used on roofs, but we must find ways to integrate them on facades innovatively, consideringtheamountofsunlightthat falls on these vertical surfaces. Without restricting creative ideas, facades must be able to tap all-natural elements like wind, humidity, and sunlight to harness theenergy,makingbuildingsself-reliant and energy efficient. Future-proofing buildings with such innovations can ensure carbon-neutral cities by 2050.
FMC 370
FMC 370 machining centres with 4 controlled axes have been designed to carry out drilling and milling operations on aluminium or steel profiles. It can be fitted with the X FLOW (Fom Industrie patent) allowing automatic adjustment and optimisation of tool lubrication flow direction. The following functions can also be activated: ”machining with interpolating axes” (3D Custom Milling Module), ”multi-piece machining”, “XPAL” and “multi-piece pendular machining”.
FMC 230
The FMC 230 machining centre with 4 controlled axes has been designed to carry out drilling and milling operations on aluminium or steel profiles. The standard 10 location automatic tool change and tool-free vice jaws adjustment speed up the manufacturing process.
“Adaptive Façades, Driven by ShapeMemory Alloys & Data-Driven Technologies, could Adjust to Changing Conditions in Real Time”
The future of façades and fenestrations in building design is likely to witness a significant shift towards sustainability and energy efficiency. We can anticipate the widespread use of advanced materials, smart glass, and dynamic shading systems to enhance both environmental performance and occupant comfort. Renewable energy integration, particularly building-integrated photovoltaics, and transparent solar panels, may become standard features, contributing to onsite power generation. Adaptive façades, driven by shape-memory alloys and data-driven technologies, could adjust
to changing conditions in real-time. Furthermore, the future may bring innovationsin3Dprinting,customisation, and resilient designs to address climaterelated challenges. Ultimately, architects will play a pivotal role in creating visually appealing, sustainable, and functional buildingexteriorsforthefuture.
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS IN FAÇADE MATERIALS
In the forthcoming years, glass façades will be poised for substantial transformation, embracing advanced and sustainable innovations. These future developments encompass a shift towards smart glass technology, capable of adjusting transparency and reflectivity in response to environmental conditions, thereby reducing the need for artificial lighting and shading. Additionally, nanotechnology will play a pivotal role in enhancing energy efficiency and selfcleaning capabilities through specialised coatings. The integration of solar panels directly into glass surfaces, along with a focus on biomimicry-inspired designs, will further contribute to sustainability. Innovative shading devices utilising ecofriendly materials and an emphasis on recyclability are also set to redefine the glass façade landscape, aligning it with a more environmentally conscious and circularapproachtoarchitecture.
INNOVATIVETECHNOLOGIESFOR FAÇADES
By 2050, I envision a future where cutting-edge façade and fenestration technologies have become integral to architectural innovation. Biomimetic façades, drawing inspiration from the natural world, employ natural principles to enhance building performance. They boast self-cleaning surfaces and shading systems that mimic plants’ response to sunlight. Kinetic façades, with their ability to adapt and change shape in response to environmental conditions, hold the promise of improving energy efficiency, ventilation, and daylighting within structures. Electroluminescent glass, capable of emitting light with an appliedelectriccurrent,opensupexciting possibilities for dynamic and energyefficient façades that can transform in colour and pattern. These advancements hold the power to revolutionise our approach to building design and construction, making structures more energy-efficient,sustainable,anddurable, ultimately contributing to a more environmentally friendly future for our planet.
Façades of the Future - renderings
“Future Façades are Likely to have Automated Weather Adaptability through Specially Designed Apps”
VIJESH VIJAYAN
Assistant General Manager (Façades), AIPL
The façade industry is very diverse and keeps on upgrading. Keeping in mind the current scenario and regulations that are being followed, the façades in future will be more energy efficient/harvesting by using glasses with integrated solar panels and with auto tinting properties which will further help in saving energy. Moreover, the aluminium profiles will become sleeker andmoreintricate.
CONCLUSION
As aluminium is considered the best material for façades due to its properties like lightweight and durability, it will still play an important role in the coming years. Considering the need for utilising more sustainable materials, recycled plastics and metals, bricks, pre casts and reclaimedwoodtonameafewcanbean alternative.
With the technical advancements in the current times, future façades are likely to have automated weather adaptability by controlling solar heat and harnessing
energy from natural sources. Façades are likely to have automated weather adaptability through specially designed apps.
We,theeditorialteamofWFM,spoketo15expertsontheirvisionforfaçadesandfenestration-2050.Wegotveryintriguingresponses toourqueriesonthefuturedesigns,materialsandtechnologiestheywishtoseeandapplyintheirprojects.Mostofthemvouched for energy harvesting materials for the façades, digitalised façades with adaptability, automated façades, 3-D printed designs, biodegradable/recyclablefaçades,etc.,fortheirfuturebuildings.Afewthinkthatbiophilicandbiomimeticdesigns,livingwalls,smart façades having power-generating and self-cleaning materials, graphene-based composites, self-healing concrete, next-generation polymers,smartglass,etc.couldrevolutionisetheindustry.
By 2050, we can anticipate the integration of many cutting-edge materials and technologies within façade systems. Hybrid materialsthatblendtraditionalelementswithcutting-edgetechnologywillgaintraction,allowingfortheseamlessintegration of digital components into façades, and redefining architectural expression.
Visualising future façades – renderings
Future façades will be more energy efficient/harvesting
“I
Have This Dream about “I Have India that One Day We will See India that One Day We will See a Country Where Every Person a Country Where Every Person has a Comfortable House to has a House to Stay in”
Face to Face
AR. HAFEEZ CONTRACTOR
Founder, Architect Hafeez Contractor (AHC)
Ar. Hafeez Contractor is a worldrenowned architect who has designed many skyscrapers in India. Most of the tallest and the largest buildings in India are his design and thought process. Recognizing his contributions to the country, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in January 2016 by the Government of India.
The leading design firm, Architect Hafeez Contractor (AHC) has grown from a modest three-person firm in 1982 to having a team strength of nearly 600 people now. AHC has successfully designed and executed works for clients ranging from wellknown real estate developers, public sector undertakings, large corporates, and institutions to healthcare entrepreneurs. AHC has designed large residential complexes, hospitals, educational institutions, hotels, and resorts. They have undertaken vast
town and city planning schemes and completed them in record time. AHC’s substantial experience and the large and well-resourced team place the firm in the enviable position of being betterequippedtosuccessfullydeliver designs for jobs of any size, nature, or complexity.
We had an opportunity to Interview the celebrated Architect Hafeez Contractor a few days ago. He spoke passionately about his vision for the development of future Indian cities, his firm’s effort towards the same, and his dream for urban India, transforming slums into livable community spaces with comfortable homes.
Here is the excerpt from the interview.
The Global Education Centre at Infosys Mysore Campus designed by Hafeez Contractor is an example of architecture that expresses modernity combined with a rootedness in classical architectural styles
Face to Face
Ar. Hafeez Contractor’s design for one of the Hiranandani Projects
Please tell us about your vision for the year 2030 and beyond for the Indian construction sector. Okay. We just had very difficult years due to the pandemic and everybody is now aware of how the world has faced it with the help of the government and the consequences of the pandemic. The most important thing that we have learned is to focus on the environment, globalwarming,climatechange,etc.
For us as a country, one of the most importantaspectstoconsideristhatwe are the most populated country in the world.Forus,theproblemsaremanifold, and we are a democracy, because of which joint decision-making is timeconsuming,sincewelookforconsensus solutions. On one side we have a populationof1,4billion,andonanother side, we have a land area of only 2.4% of the world’s total land area, which is minuscule considering the population. Our population is approximately 17 or 18 % of the world’s population, and that puts us in a very precarious situation. On the other hand, climate change is becauseofyearsofdeforestation,which we have not taken care of. There have been many conferences in which we have been talking about the carbon content in the air. The whole world
is getting very aware of it, and our government and the Honorable Prime Minister are also very supportive. In several meetings, he has agreed that
our forest cover will be increased from the present 22 to 30+ percent in the nextfewyears.Reductionofuseoffossil fuels, adoption of renewable energy, water resources, food securities and achieving net“0”environment.
Rural agricultural land comprises 55 to 60 percent of the total land area in India. Manyofthelandareasaremarkedasforest landthoughwedon’tseeasingletreeon those marked portions. Actual forest land may not exceed 6 to 7 %. The wildlife is also very important for the existence of a humanbeing.AtleastinMumbaiwhereI stay,wehardlyseeanybirds.
Our urban cover & population are quite high compared to any other country and India is a developing country. Let’s look at how the cities are developing in India. Years back all the present cities were small towns, including Mumbai, Delhi,Pune,orAhmadabad.WhenIused to go to Ahmedabad as a student, there wasjustoneringroad,andmostofitwas agricultural land. Now there are second
DLF Camellias in Gurugram – A residential apartment project designed by Ar. Hafeez Contractor
Face to Face
are third ring roads. Similar growth is seeninPunetoo.
The city peripheries are growing at a faster pace, which is going to have new development and infrastructure. You may find that the developments in the peripheries or the suburbs have a lesser Floor Space Index (FSI) than the city. This is due to the political and other influences. The calculation of FSI should be based on the population and available land area in a city and for the country.
The second thing or the most important thing is that, along with the growth of thecities,farmlandsaregettinggobbled. What about our food security and water resources? We have to look at that. We have been having low rise with less FSI as the mantra for years. Now, we have to change our mantra from low rise to high rise, and super high rise. Because
unless until you go super high rise, we can’t restrict your urban cover, and we will lose all our farmlands which in turn gobbler forest land.We have to preserve ourforestcover.
In India, the urban cover is about 10% compared to 3 or 4 percent in other countries. We are not going to decrease the farmland, wetland, or forest land. But we need to reduce the urban cover. That is where a new urban approach will comeintothepicture.Howarewegoing to build? Are we going to build in the same way with brick and concrete? That will be very expensive. Another point is the increasing number of earthquakes, floods, and other natural calamities. So you have to devise a way by which buildings are built higher and safer. The golden answer or solution for this is façades or buildings built with lighter materials.Ifyouhaveheavymaterials,the building will be swinging much more. So the solution is to replace traditional materials with lighter materials and innovative structural solutions. We have to use new lighter materials, e.g.composite materials of glass with others –aone-and-a-half-inchthickfaçade
DLF Camellias - Spread over a land of 19 acres, it is one of the spacious housing societies in Gurugram
Buildings of the future – Sketches by Ar. Hafeez Contractor
becomesanexternalfaçade,whichisnot just glass. The material is again a choice, depending on the type of building and thepurposeofit.
Today,alotofpeoplearelivinginslumsin one-room kitchens, in 100 or 150 square feet with three and four kids, with one common toilet outside. If the economic situation is better, all of them will have at least a small flat to live.What will happen to our cities when this influx of people cometocitiesforjobs.
We came to know that you and your teamrecentlymetPrimeMinister,Sri Narendra Modi to present a design policy and solution for the housing crisis in urban India - for cities, like, Mumbai. Could you please tell us the crux of your discussions and the solutions and outcome of the discussion?
See,IamnobodytosaythatI’mworking on the eradication of slums. The first policy for slum redevelopment was formed by Mr. Bala Sahib Thakre, and the housing minister at that time, Mr. SureshdadaJain.Thatwasformedwhen I went to them with an idea and they adopted that idea.
I had the good fortune or the bad fortuneofgoingintoslums.Therewere no toilets. We worked out a scheme with Sureshdada Jains’ approval. He was very positive. At that time, I remember, my office was working 24 X 7 hours, and we mapped all the slums of Mumbai. Then we formulated a proper framework and went to Dada Saheb. So many other politicians were there. Everybody told Balasaheb Thakare not to go ahead with the slum redevelopment programmes.
Balasaheb,Ireallyrespecthim.Hewasthe only one who stood against all of them and he said that I have to go ahead with the project. And with that, hundreds and thousandsofpeoplehavegotfreehousing today.Therewasalotofopposition.After that, the slum redevelopment policy was formulated. Today the people staying in those redevelopment schemes are thankfultousforthetoilets.
Not a single Indian media reported this slum redevelopment project, on how so many thousands of people have got free housing. It was only the New York Times that reported this initiative, giving a 2-page coverage. “Ghar Ki Murgi, Dal Barabar”.
What has happened to that policy?
We went to the Hon’ble PM Narendra Modiji.
There are some laws that have to be followed,andbecauseofthat,itistaking quite a lot of time to implement those policies. We need to have a new policy
by which the slum redevelopment policy needs to be tweaked to accommodate the inflow of people into our cities, which is much higher than what we can house. So I went to our honorable Prime Minister and requestedthathehastodosomething, maybe creating a new policy. I showed him how he could do it and implement it faster and cheaper. Modi ji was very positive. I really respect him and thank him for giving us the audience and he has directed certain people to work on it along with us. God willing, if it comes up, India will be a different place, and that is what I’m looking forward to.
DLF Crest Project – Another beautiful residential apartment project designed by Ar. Hafeez Contractor
Face to Face
So you are working towards “A home for every Indian”, which is your dream. You are a visionary who thinks, not just for the next 10 years, but 100 years ahead. We are sure that your dreams will come true.
Are the slums really being irradiated? Or are they just being shifted from oneplacetoanother?
Every scheme will have some negative points, right? Now when we are redeveloping a particular slot, we are giving them a flat or a house of 300 to 325 square feet. As time passes, the situation might change and the fellow who has stayed in that slum his whole life, at the age of 60 or 65, would not like to stay in a city, and move on. He might make some money by selling his flat. So that’s one way of looking at it. But no one is moving from one slum into another and selling his house, that is completely wrong.
How do we go about hiking FSI in cities like Mumbai?
Not just in Mumbai, let us consider all urban areas. Since independence, our government, or the government that was there at that time, never gave any
importance to the urban area.Yes, it was the right decision at that time to give importance to the rural areas. In the city and urban areas, they never increased theFSI.Itwasokay.Thentheurbanareas did not have that much of an influx. Now,theurbanareashaveatremendous influx.To meet this, FSI was increased by anotch,whichisnotadequate.
But things have changed after 75 years after independence, From the present FSIof1.33&1,2.5insuburbsand3inthe cities for residential projects, it can go to 6,7,orevenhigher.Butthe
National Institute of Fashion Technology at Navi Mumbai
BITS Pilani is a renowned institute offering higher education in Rajasthan, designed by AHC
The Global Education Centre (GEC), located in the 337-acre Infosys campus in Mysore, one of the most iconic projects by AHC
administration and the government are scared. When they know that our populationissomuch,andnearly75%of our rural population is going to migrate into cities, what are we doing about our cities,urbandevelopmentandFSI?
Property prices are skyrocketing.We are very proud to say that Mumbai is the third most expensive housing market in the world. I think it’s a shame that we have to put all the saved money into buying a house. Is it the right thing? Hosing should be more affordable. So, we have to bring down the pricing of housing on parity of our earning capacity.
For this, as I mentioned earlier, we have to build more higher, faster, and safer. Right now, we have materials like concrete and steel.We have to develop better materials that we will be able to build faster. I don’t see anything on the horizon though. There is a lot of talk about carbon concrete and other
things. But there is nothing really concrete about it. Our cities are also levying tremendous amounts of taxes, and they have to pay for the services offered. So, we are in a very difficult situation. A few years back, we were looking at various cities like Mumbai and Delhi. Today, we are looking at the world as one place.
If we have not been able to take care of the health of the entire urban population, like proper sewage and sanitation. We need to find new ways of generating power and disposing of garbage. We need money to manage all of that.
A residential project for Lodha Group – Lodha Amara at Thane – Designed by Ar. Hafeez Contractor
The Imperial I & II, the twin towers of Mumbai
ONGC Corporate Office, New Delhi
DLF Cyber city in Chennai is an IT Special Economic Zone
Face to Face
As I said earlier, façades should not be heavier. Previously the external façades were 9 inches thick with plaster, and now we have it in Myvan in six and eight inches. We need something that is still lighter, faster to build, easier to clean, and less than 2 inches of thickness. I need sandwiched glass on the façades, probablywithcolouredglass.
Please give us your brief on your dream for façades, say, for example, 30 years from now.
Sooner or later the façades are going to becompletelydifferent. 50yearsahead,I don’tseebuildingsontheland.Buildings will be high up in the air with a different material. You might be having flying buildings. You will be having buildings,
which are constructed 200 feet above the land. Because we need that much forestareatokeepourtemperatureslow. Wemightreachapopulationof15billion by then. People might have to fly from one building to another. This is going to be happening sooner or later. because land is a precious commodity. You cannot duplicate land or manufacture it, everything else can be and will be manufactured.
Talking about agriculture and food, probably we will be depending on artificial meat, and artificial food. Very soon, with medical advancement, we might be able to live 160 or 200 years. Imagine 15 billion people with a life span of200years!Itmightgoupto20billion.
I have always wanted to give service to the people, and my design has always beenwhatapersonorclientneeds,what the area needs, and what the situation needs. And I will continue to move on the same path. I don’t think I am on the wrong path. As far as I’m concerned, I fully believe in what I’m doing for social housing. Urban growth should be compactandvertical.
IhavethisdreamaboutIndia,andIhope one day we will see our country where every person has comfortable affordable housetostayin.
What is your advice to the young architects?
Youareintherightfield.Havefaithinthe power of design and creativity. For us, 2+2isnot4;withcreativityitis24.
You must do the right thing, or whatever you feel is right. Care about others, and don’t just think about yourself. I sincerely feel that there is a lot of scope in this field, and we will be able to achieve the dream of a comfortable affordable house for every Indian.
Myanotheradviceis-Don’tdothethings you are told to do but question them to check their credibility. And if everyone doesthat,ourcountrywillbebetter.And Ihavealotoffaithinourcountry.
The Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management at Secunderabad, a centralized training institute of the Ministry of Railways
A residential project for Lodha Group – Lodha Amara at Thane – Designed by Ar. Hafeez Contractor
Creating Innovative and Cutting-Edge Solutions that Redefine the Standards of Comfort and Sustainability
Renson started operations in India in 2015. Renson manufactures Window ventilation, Louvres, Sun protection, and outdoor living solutions
Makarand Kendre is working as an Area Sales Manager for the Middle East and IndiansubcontinentforRensonVentilation&SunProtectionNV.Heisamechanical engineer with MBA in Marketing from Pune University. He has successfully set up distribution channels, and showroom partners for Renson across the Middle East and India. Presently he is responsible for the overall operations of Renson in the MiddleEastandIndia.
Makarand Kendre spoke to the WFM Media team about the company Renson, its products, major milestones in the company’s journey, their expansion plans, manufacturingfacilities,theroleofRensonproductswhichhelpbuildsustainably andinmaintaininggreatoutdoorandindoorairqualityinanexclusiveinterview.
MAKARAND
Area Sales Manager for the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent, Renson Ventilation & Sun Protection
KENDRE
The Renson Fixscreen 100 outdoor sun protection screen integrated in high rise buildings provides overheating protection and a nice architectural element. Shanghai – China
Industry Speaks
Tell us about the company Renson & when was this company established inIndia.
Renson, a global leader in the field of ventilation, sun protection, and outdoor living solutions, initiated its Indian operations around 2015. This move not only marked the company's entry into the Indian market but also extended its expertise to cater to the diverse needs of theMiddleEast.
The journey of Renson in India has been characterised by a steadfast commitment to creating innovative and cutting-edge solutions that redefine the standards of comfort and sustainability. Renson's introduction into the Indian market was well timed, considering the rapid urbanisation and increased awareness of environmental concerns in the region. We aim to provide solutions that are not only luxurious but also sustainable, all while ensuring that they cater to the contemporary needs of the Indian populace.
What are the major milestones in the company’s journey and global expansionplans?
In Renson's international journey, numerous significant milestones
have exemplified its commitment to excellence. One pivotal moment in its trajectory was the development of ground-breaking products that have not only captured the imagination of consumers but also set new benchmarks in the industry.These milestones reflect Renson's dedication to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the worldofventilation,sunprotection,and outdoor living solutions.
Simultaneously, Renson has exhibited a commitment to expanding its global presence. This expansion encompasses the establishment of key locations in strategic regions, including the United States,AustraliaandChina.
The Fixscreen Minimal, one of Renson's most celebrated innovations, encapsulates their dedication to pushing boundaries. This innovative sunprotectionsolutionischaracterised by its minimalist design, featuring a cassette, side channels and fabric roller with minimal dimensions. The screwfree installation design ensures an almost invisible integration into any façade, creating a harmonious blend of aesthetics and highly effective sun protection.
Could you please brief us on some of your recently launched products for healthandcomfort?
Renson's recent product launches align closelywiththecompany'svisiontocreate healthier and more comfortable living spaces, both indoors and outdoors. These new offerings are designed to cater to the evolving needs of modern lifestyles. Notable among them are innovative window ventilation systems, which significantly enhance indoor air quality. In an era where the quality of indoor air is of paramountimportance,Renson'sproducts offerapracticalandeffectivesolution.
Additionally, their external shading screens serve as a robust defence against the sun's
Renson Fixscreen installed in high rise building to provide a cool temperature bedroom keeping it residents well rested and healthy. Shanghai - China
The Renson Fixscreen 100 integrated into the façade of balcony on a 100m high apartment block. Shanghai – China
High rise buildings fitted with a custom solution fixscreen - China
Inside view of High rise buildings fitted with a custom solution fixscreen. - China
Discover how to match esthetics with functionality. With its zip blinds, RENSON ® has developed the first external sun screen in the world that was truly wind-tight.
• Upto 12 degree reduction in indoor temperature.
• Upto 35% reduction in Air conditioning tonnage. 35%
• 100 % retractable, motorized, BMS controlled
• Wind-tight up to 130 km/h thanks to ingenious zip system
• For glass surfaces up to 22 m² (width up to 6 m and height up to 6 m)
• No glare inside, no disturbing reflection in television or computer screens
•Insect-proof in closed position
•Available in Mosquito mesh fabric as well
Kendre Makarand | Area Sales Manager India Mob: +91 98 22 912 403 india@renson.eu www.renson.eu
Project : Private Residence (Germany)
Industry Speaks
intense rays, ensuring a more temperate and pleasant environment. These screens are designed not only to protect against theheatbutalsotomitigateglare,making themanessentialcomponentofanywelldesignedlivingspace.
Renson's commitment to the wellbeing of individuals extends to outdoor solutions as well. Their pergolas, for instance, can be equipped with integrated sun protection and heating elements. These additions transform outdoor spaces into comfortable and health-conscious areas, providing a seamless extension of indoor comfort into the open air.
Could you please tell us about some of your cutting-edge R&D and technologicaladvancements?
Renson's research and development endeavours represent the heart of their innovation. Their continuous focus on cutting-edge technologies is central to their quest to redefine the future of comfortable living. Key areas of advancement include smart ventilation systems, which leverage the power of automation and technology to ensure optimal air quality and energy efficiency. These systems are
designed to adapt to the specific needs of different environments, including the unique challenges posed by India's diverse climate.
The integration of smart sun protection technologies caters to the needs of a dynamic and energy-conscious world. These technologies allow for the automated adjustment of sun protection systems, ensuring that indoor spaces remain comfortable and energy-efficient throughouttheday.
Moreover, Renson is committed to using sustainable materials that not only contribute to energy efficiency but also alignwiththeprinciplesofenvironmental responsibility. These materials form the backbone of their products, ensuring that customers receive solutions that are as sustainable as they are functional. In a country like India, where sustainability is increasingly becoming a top priority, Renson's commitment to eco-friendly materialsisespeciallysignificant.
Renson takes immense pride in the world-class manufacturing facilities that underpin the production of
their products. These state-of-the-art facilities are strategically located across the globe, including regions such as Belgium, the United States, Australia, and Asia. In each of these facilities, precision and quality are upheld as sacred standards throughout the manufacturing process.
This meticulous attention to detail ensures that every product that bears the Renson name is a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to quality. These manufacturing facilities are equipped with the latest technology and staffed by skilled professionals who ensurethateveryRensonproductmeets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Considering the climate and weather in India, what are the measures to be taken for comfortable interior spaces? How do your products boost architecture?
The ability of Renson's solutions to manage temperature effectively is a crucialaspectoftheirappealinIndia.The country experiences extreme variations in temperature, and having products that can adapt to these fluctuations is a significant advantage. Renson's products can help reduce energy consumption by efficiently controlling indoor temperatures, which is not only
Renson nightcooling principle installed with nice aluminium louvre giving a nice architectural element to the façade. – Green office Meudon
Green Office in Meudon France. installed the principle of night-cooling with a decorative aluminium cap
beneficial for individual comfort but also fortheenvironment.
Moreover, they effectively manage humidity levels, creating an atmosphere of optimal comfort. High humidity levels are common in many parts of India, and Renson's solutions can help maintain a pleasant and healthy indoor environmentbyregulatinghumidity.
Architecturally, Renson's products seamlessly integrate into the building's design, enhancing both its aesthetics and functionality. This integration not only enhances the visual appeal of the space but also ensures that the architectural design is in perfect harmony with the products' functionality.
What is the importance of façade and fenestration design, considering
Façade & fenestration design are critical elements in the creation of comfortable & functional living spaces. In the context of India's climate and environmental factors, these aspects become even more vital. Properly designed façades and fenestration not only contribute to effective ventilation but also prevent the ingressofheatandglare.
Renson's products, such as the Fixscreen, play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. The Fixscreen, with its minimalist design and advanced engineering, offers an effective solution to ensure that indoor spaces remain comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the year. The design minimizes heat penetration and glare, creating an ambiance of comfort and tranquillity.
Industry Speaks
India's diverse climate means that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to fenestration and façade design. Renson's ability to offer a range of products that can be tailored to the specific needs of different regions in India makes them a valuable partner for architects and builders. Whether it's the dry heat of Rajasthan or the high humidity of Kerala, Renson's solutions can be adapted to provide optimal performance.
What role do your products play in providing a comfortable interior environment?
Renson products play an indispensable role in creating comfortable interior environments. By regulating temperature, humidity, and air quality, these products contribute to healthier & more enjoyable living spaces. Temperature regulation ensures that indoor spaces remain pleasant and temperate, irrespective of externalweatherconditions.
India is known for its extreme weather conditions, with hot summers and cold winters. Renson's solutions can help residents maintain a comfortable indoor environment throughout the year. Whether it's the scorching heat of Delhi or the chilly winters of Shimla, Renson's products can adapt to provide the right conditions.
Beautifully integrated Renson Fixscreens covering big windows to provide sun protection on a private residence in Ahmedabad - India
Renson Window ventilation in combination with Renson fixscreen the ideal combination to avoid overheating. Ahmedabad - India
Industry Speaks
Thecontrolofhumiditylevelsisessential in preventing discomfort and health issues related to excessive moisture. Renson's products excel in this aspect, providing a balanced and healthy atmosphere. High humidity can lead to issues like mold growth and discomfort. Renson's solutions can help maintain healthy humidity levels, ensuring that indoor spaces are not only comfortable but also free from moisture-related problems.
How do the Renson products help building sustainably, and in green certificationoftheprojects?
In an era where sustainability and environmental responsibility are paramount, Renson products actively contribute to these objectives. By reducing energy consumption through smart ventilation and shading solutions, they significantly reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. This alignment with sustainability principles is critical in achievinggreencertificationsforprojects.
India is witnessing a growing interest in green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment). These certifications recognize buildings that meet stringent sustainability criteria. Renson's products cater to the requirements of eco-conscious projects, makingiteasierfordeveloperstoachieve thedesiredgreencertifications.
What do you see as the main challenges faced by the developers in maintaining great outdoor and indoorairquality?
Developers & occupants face numerous challengeswhenitcomestomaintaining excellent outdoor and indoor air quality. External factors such as pollution and environmental conditions can affect outdoor air quality. Simultaneously, indoorspacescanfacechallengesrelated to air pollution from various sources, as wellastheneedforefficientventilation.
In India, urban areas are often plagued by high levels of air pollution. Renson addresses these challenges through its advanced ventilation systems, which are equipped with air purification options. These systems not only provide efficient ventilation but also ensure that the air within the living space is pure and clean. This dual approach guarantees a healthier and more comfortable living environment, whether indoors or outdoors.
The ability of Renson's products to purify indoor air is especially relevant in India, where cities like Delhi regularly face severe air quality issues. Renson's solutionscanhelpresidentscreateasafe havenindoors,protectingthemfromthe harmfuleffectsofoutdoorairpollution.
What keeps your company ahead of its competitors in terms of products andservicesoffered?
Competitive Edge through Innovation and Quality: Renson's enduring competitive advantage in the market is driven by its unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and customer service. The company constantly strives to set new standards by pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realmsofventilation,sunprotection,and outdoorlivingsolutions.
This commitment to innovation ensures that Renson's products remain at the forefront of technological advancements,
meeting the evolving needs of modern living.Innovationiskeytostayingrelevant in the rapidly changing world of building solutions, and Renson's dedication to this aspect keeps them ahead of the competition.
Quality, another cornerstone of their approach, is ingrained in every product they manufacture. Precision, attention to detail, and the use of superior materials are hallmarks of Renson's quality commitment. This ensures that their products not only meet but often exceed the expectations of customers. Quality is a universal requirement, and inIndia,wherecustomersarebecoming increasingly discerning, it's essential to deliver products that stand up to scrutiny.
Where do you see the company and itsproductsevolvingoverthenext10 years?
Looking ahead, Renson envisions a future where they play an even more pivotal role in creating healthier, more sustainable, and supremely comfortable living environments across the globe. Over the next decade, they plan to expand their product range with an increased focus on sustainability. The integration of IoT (Internet of Things) and smart technologies will be central to their strategy, allowing them to offer solutions that are not just reactive but proactive,cateringtothedynamicneeds ofthemodernworld.
Renson Fixscreen installed in private residence at Vadodara – India
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10th Floor, RMZ Latitude Commercial, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru, KA-560024.
Mountain Dust: An Illustrious Organic Architecture
The dwelling, Mountain Dust, serves as a country home for Mr. Alreja and his family who primarily live in Mumbai.The20-acresiteissituatedatthe foothill of Matheran Hills, near Mumbai in Maharashtra, India. The site drops 110 feetfromthetopofthedrivetothewater edge.Thiscountrysidefarmhouseconsists of a six-bed house, surrounded by a common retro glamping area, swimming pool, service block, staff quarters, water reservoir, a large meadow, sacred groove, andwilduntouchedwoodsontheclifftill theriveredge.
At the heart of the house is an ample light-filled triangular atrium, around which the whole house revolves. Other spacesextendoutwardinthreedirections towardsnature,formingasacredTriskelion geometry to get a maximum vista of the surrounding mountain. Thus this house exhibits both introvert central space and extrovert spaces at the periphery extending outward and merging into nature.
The country house has 3 bedrooms, a pantry, and living space on the ground floor and 3 bedrooms on the first floor. Each bedroom has two triangular balconies with a compact,
yet dynamically angled bathroom built adjacent to it. The house opens into a massive deck on the east side and is well-shaded by its mass during peak afternoon hours. The pavilion at the
An atrium skylight changes the mood of internal space as the sunlight changes
Mountain Dust
Project Watch
edge of the deck provides shelter and a panoramic view of the Matheran mountains with the changing backdrop of rising sun and moon. From the deck, one can access the swimming pool area below and glamping site. The cantilevered sloping roof on the three sides of the house shields the structure from the vagaries of the weather. The rich arch openings made with M.S. hollow box pipe and clear glass allow plenty of natural light, merging the house with the surrounding landscape. This house is a great way to experience nature.
Door opening into deck
Atrium Staircase Mountain Dust
Project Watch
CONCEPT
The Design Concept:
The idea was to stitch the house with the three attributes- the huge towering mountains, the sunrise, and the moon. This led to a sacred knota Triskelion geometry for the house. This geometrical system enables the house with more surface area, giving a maximum 360-degree view of the
surroundingmountain.Therequirement of a program together with this unique Triskelion geometrical system in response to the site context and the climatic condition with the minimal natural material palette, generated the form of the house from within. The external appearance of the house is the natural result of the process. Thus the
house form expresses a highly specific relationship to the site and the client’s program.
Material Palette:
To achieve simplicity and a bucolic feel, a minimal natural material palette was decided. Black basalt stone foundation, earth red bricks for a wall, black china mosaic roof, kota stone flooring with
Atrium seating space
Bedroom space leading to balcony.
black china mosaic border along the wall, yellow Jaisalmer stone for the central staircase, beige Shahabad stone for deck, black river sand finish granite stonealongwithblackbasaltstonewalls for toilet became the palette for the house.Colourofthematerial-red,beige andblackbecamethecentraltheme.
Landscape:
To increase the green cover of the property, more than 2000 trees were plantedoveraspanofthreeyearsduring house construction. Indigenous plants were preferred for plantation as they require less maintenance and even have medicinal properties. The landscape around Mountain Dust has been kept random and raw to retain a natural feel.
Various earth mounts have been placed strategically to control the scale of the house and achieve privacy from outside, as well as they depicted miniature mountains mimicking the Matheran hills. The driveways and pathways were made in circular geometry to divide into variouszones.
Project Watch
Geometry:
House geometry plays an important role in instilling harmony and tranquility. The house geometry of Mountain Dust is based on a squarish and triangular grid - forming a Triskelion geometrical system, which is balanced by the circular geometryofthelandscape.
Philosophy of Objective Organic Architecture:
Organicarchitectureismoreintrinsicbynature.Itisbasedonideasderivedfrom aholisticapproach.Itechoesthephilosophyofevolvinginresponsetocontext and interaction with surroundings. In organic architecture “Nature”becomes the prime attribute. The nature of a site, the nature of the topography, the nature of the climate, the nature of the material used, the nature of intention, and the nature of the man – all inspire its built form. Organic architecture is a form of objective art. Its sole purpose is “the Objective development of a man”. It has a character like a man and has its own unique form to serve its particularpurpose.Theextrovertnatureofmanissynchronisedwithextrovert space; similarly, the introverted nature of man is synchronized with introvert space.Thus forming a resonance between man and the space. Arriving at this “state of resonance”is very important in Objective Organic architecture. Such an art form acts like a code language to produce a particular feeling in man. For instance, if you see a beautiful form or a beautiful building, you feel joy because of its geometry which is also induced in you. Similarly, the presence of an ugly building makes you feel uncomfortable, repulsive, and agitated because of its disproportionate, non-balance, disordered, crooked geometry whichgetsinducedinyourmind.Sowhatsoevermanobserves,insomedeep sense he becomes of the same state of mind. Just sitting silently and looking at the statue of Buddha, something in you will become calm, something in youwillbecomestill.SomethinginyouwillbecomeBuddha-like.Bywatching the Taj Mahal in the full moon, you will fall into a very meditative space. Thus objective organic architecture helps you to become centered, healthy, and whole. Organic Architecture focuses on the creation of such objective art forms.
Central Atrium staircase
Deck Area
Pavilion at the edge of Deck Area
Project Watch
Wayofworking:
After a conceptual drawing and model, I did not make any working drawings. The house evolved naturally. “It was purely on-site work in response to site context, direct collaboration between architect, local mason, and fabricator, without the involvement of any structural and civil engineers. I feel structures built out of working drawings are static and stagnant and there is lessscopeforspontaneity.
After the structure is complete, final as-built drawings are made fordocumentationpurposes.
Ar. Mahesh Naik, Principal Architect, Architect Mahesh Naik and Associate pursued B.Arch (2001) from Pillai’s College of Architecture, New Panvel. He worked under Ar. Dean D’cruz and Ar. Hafeez Contractor and then started his own practice in the year 2002 in Navi Mumbai.
Ar. Mahesh has 22 years of field experience and his practice is based on Organic Architecture, creating structures that grow from nature and blend with it to achieve human-centric design goals. He believes that Objective organic architecturefocusesonthecreationofobjective artforms.Ar.MaheshNaik’sfirstproject-Ebrahim Family House was nominated for the Aga Khan Award 10th cycle in the year 2007 and featured in 21st century World Architecture by Phaidon Press Atlas, London. Another project- Moonlight Farmhouse -Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, India. is included in the online World Architecture by Phaidon Press Atlas, London. He was TED Talk speaker at IIM Ranchi in the year 2012.
Ar. Mahesh has over 20 years of teaching experience. His works have been featured in 18 various architectural magazines. As a speaker, he has been talking about his work –Objective Organic Architecture - in a number of architecture colleges.
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Our distribution network spans across all major cities in India, and our extensive and innovative product line is meticulously designed to enhance both comfort and efficiency while staying true to the latest modern design and ergonomic trends. At Kaka Industries Limited, we are dedicated to delivering unparalleled service to our customers, as evidenced by our ever-expanding customer base. Utilizing cutting-edge
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“NAPCO’s Prime Focus is on Serving Customers Better and Attaining Maximum Customer Satisfaction with Superior Quality Products and Services”
ALI AL SHAMSHI CEO, Napco
Can you provide an overview of NAPCO’s journey since its establishmentin1984?
Ever since NAPCO’s establishment in 1984, we have been the only extruder and exporter of aluminium profiles in the Sultanate of Oman. We are one of the leading extruders of aluminium profiles in the GCC market, located in the capital of the Sultanate of Oman. NAPCO has started thejourneywithone8“extrusionlineandis nowhousingfourstate-of-the-artextrusion lines from Europe aiding us to supply our quality products around the globe. The company’s commitment to quality has made it the first extrusion company in the GulftoreceiveISOcertificationsfollowedby internationalproductqualitycertifications.
Could you elaborate on the manufacturing processes of your productsandcapability?
In NAPCO, we choose high-quality primary billets for our extrusion. The
blueprints are extruded by meeting all theaspectsofourcustomerrequirements with quality assured at each stage of its production. We have 4 stat- of-the-art extrusion presses from Europe equipped with automated handling systems and is complemented by one anodizing line, two powder coating lines (vertical & horizontal), two wood finish lines and a crimping&fabricationfacility.
NAPCO offers a wide range of over 6500 profiles sizing of a max 305mm CCD (indicative).
Could you tell us about the specific industries or applications where NAPCO’s aluminum profiles are most commonlyused?
NAPCO’s profiles are being widely used in sectors like architecture, automobile, renewable energy, industrial and manufacturing industries. Architectural applications comprise facades, doors, windows, railings, curtainwalls, shop fronts,andlouvers.
What are the distinctive features of NAPCO’saluminumprofilefinishes?
Our finishing lines are certified by Qualicoat and Qualanod which
guarantees the quality of our product in line with international requirements. Our Powder coating line is Sea SideCertified and we have Powder on Powder technology for our natural wood coating line. This technology enables us to warranty our coated products even for marine applications which is not occasionally being found in the industry.
Could you discuss the advantages and versatility that anodizing and powder coating finishing options bringtoyourproductofferings?
Anodizing is usually classified as class 1 and class 2. Class 1 with a minimum oxidized layer thickness of 10 microns, which will provide 10 years of warranty and is generally used for indoor applications. Class 2 will have a minimum oxidized layer thickness of 18 microns, which will provide 15 years of warranty and is generally used for outdoor applications. The colour consistency in anodizing cannot be guaranteed as anodizing is batch-tobatch processing and colour will also vary from batch to batch.
Powder coating is provided with a minimum 60 microns coating thickness with a 10-year warranty for PEF powders, a 25-year warranty for SDF powders, and a 30-year warranty for Hyper-durable powders for both internal and external applications. Colour consistency is also guaranteed in powder coating and is compared with a single colour panel withoutminimumandmaximumlimits.
NAPCO OMAN PLANT
Can you share insights into the sustainability and environmental practicesNAPCOfollows?
NAPCO’s facility is certified by ISO 14001:2015-EnvironmentManagement System by UKAS which initiates our commitment to a greener and sustainable environment. With years of extensive research in billets & profiles, NAPCO ECO-GREEN Billets are the future for green buildings. Re-melting aluminum and processing it into new alloys, NAPCO contributes to a greener environment by reducing its carbon footprint.
HowdoyouseetheIndianmarketfor yourbusiness?
The Indian aluminum extrusion market size reached 982,980.4 Tons in 2022. Looking forward, we expect the market to reach 1,288,202.3 Tons by 2028, exhibiting a minimum growth rate (CAGR) of 4.49% during 2023-2028 with a clear dominance of 6000 series alloys. This clearly shows the increasing demand for aluminium profiles in the Indian market which makes it one of our prime targets in the upcoming years. We are already equipped with all the finishes and services being demanded by the Indian market with some specialised products which we have already established in the Indian Market.
Couldyouelaborateonthecompany’s commitment to innovative design and how you adapt to changing customerdemands?
We have a team of enthusiast solution providers who analyse and provide innovative solutions and ideas in developing new designs along with close interaction with our customers and making sure that our customers’ demands are met in all aspects of our product. Our team is so versatile that we easily adapt to the changes being demandedbytheday-to-daychanging market. We work hand in hand with our suppliers and customers through
which we always ensure that our customers’demands are put in the first priority.
Please share the plans of NAPCO to maintain its position as a market leader.
NAPCO’s strategy always has its prime focusonservingourcustomersbetterand attainingmaximumcustomersatisfaction with superior quality in our products and services. We have already introduced strategicplanstoimproveouroperational efficiencythroughleanpracticestoreduce our operational wastes, strengthen our portfolios, digitalisation, and automation of our operations, and adopt emerging
technologies, diversifying our supply sources and cost optimisations from which our customers can directly benefit and can help us sustain as the market leaders.
Whatisyourvisionfor2030?
Our vision is to be the first choice for customers and employees through operational excellence, integrity, and sustainability. We always strive to develop sensible business models to generate sustained growth and excel in the worldwide market. We are looking forward to penetrating worldwide in differentsegmentsofaluminiumextruded products.
National Aluminium Products Company SAOG Where Creativity Meets Quality
National Aluminium Products Company SAOG (NAPCO) was established in 1984 and is one of the leading extruders of Aluminium profiles in the GCC market. Located in the Sultanate of Oman, the manufacturing plant is spread over 65,000 sq. meters in the Rusayl Industrial Estate.
Exclusive Indian Associate NAPCO Extrusions India LLP
Pertici Industries: Pioneering Excellence in Extrusion Processing Technology
In the realm of cutting-edge technology for aluminum and PVC extrusion processing, one name shines brightly on the global stage – Pertici Industries. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and a rich reservoir of experience and expertise, Pertici has firmly established itself as a leader in this field.
Pertici’s primary focus on serving the window and door industry has not limited its reach; instead, it has become a cornerstone for expansion into various industrial sectors. From automotive to furniture, railway to lighting, heating to energy, and even naval applications, Pertici’s influence resonates far and wide. Their innovative solutions transcend
industries, addressing the real-world requirements of customers across the globe.
Pertici’s track record speaks volumes about their capabilities. They consistently demonstrate their ability to manufacture complexmachinerytailoredtothespecific needs of some of the world’s largest and most demanding customers. This ability to deliver high-quality, bespoke solutions is a testament to their commitment to excellence in the industrial machinery sector.
In the modern industrial landscape, adaptability, efficiency, and reliability are paramount. Pertici understands these requirements and is committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possibleinaluminumandPVCextrusion processing. Their mission is to provide innovative, reliable, and efficient solutions that empower their clients to thriveinanincreasinglycompetitiveand ever-evolving industrial environment.
At Pertici, machinery development is an art form. Every component is meticulously designed and produced to achieve the highest standards of efficiency, flexibility, user-friendliness, and maintenance ease. What sets them apart is their unwavering dedication to engineering robust and dependable solutions. This ensures that Pertici’s machines are not only top-performing but also exceedingly reliable, a testament to their commitment to excellence in the industrial machinery sector.
With a global presence and a mission to provide innovative, reliable, and efficient solutions, Pertici empowers industries to thriveintoday’scompetitivelandscape.
“We Provide End-to-End Window Solutions, from Designing to Installing, at the Site”
DR. SATYA SUBRAM
Executive Director, NCL
Please provide an overview of NCL Buildtek’s journey and how it has evolvedoverthepast30+yearsinthe construction and building materials industry.
NCL Buildtek Ltd is a part of NCL Group and comprises Alltek spray plasters and Seccolor galvanised steel windows. Over a period of time, the product portfolio expanded to various other building materials like AAC Blocks, DryMix Mortars and Tile Adhesives, uPVC windows & doors, Aluminium windows &doors&ABSdoors.Today,NCLBuildtek Ltd Buildtek comprises four successful business verticals:
• NCL Coatings Putties, Textures, EmulsionPaints
• NCL Windoors Colour-Coated GI windows, ABS Doors, uPVC Doors & Windows, and high-end Aluminium Windows&doors.
Can you share some insights into the variety of aluminium window designs and customisation options that NCL Buildtek Ltd offers to meet different architectural and aesthetic requirements?
We provide end-to-end solutions, from designingtoinstalling,atthesite.
The range of products includes noninsulated and thermally insulated sliding, casement systems, slide and fold systems, slim series and railings. The below table elaborates more on our Alluro range.
TracksSingle track, double track, triple track and add-on tracks
EnergyNon-insulated and thermally insulated models
Glass Single-glazed, double-glazed, laminated, laminated DGU, performance glasses, clear toughened glasses, automatic blinds in the glass and many more market available glasses
TypologiesCustomised typologies as per the architect's design
Opening typesSliding windows and doors, Lift & Slide doors, Slide and fold doors, Side hung,Tilt &Turn, Horizontal and vertical pivot vent, Outward/inward opening and Parallel opening
DesignCustomised width/Height of the shutters, Maximum weight of the shutters, 90-degree corners, continuous pull grip profile and Slim series
AutomationMechatronic operation and Automatic sliding door
SecurityBurglar resistance windows and doors
Customised New system for the projects
Our in-house R&D team can develop the new system as per the client's requirement according to their specification like wind loads, water tightness, air permeability, etc.
Could you discuss the company’s strategies for expanding the market share of its aluminium window products and the support it provides toitsdealer-distributornetworkinthis regard?
NCL Buildtek Ltd. is the largest window supplier in the Indian market especially inGalvanisedsteelanduPVCwindows.At present, we are concentrating on south, andwestmarketsforaluminiumwindows intechnicalcollaborationwiththeworld’s best system suppliers Schueco, Germany and have huge plans to expand in pan India with a different range of products. As of now system aluminium is having good acceptance in high-rise buildings and villa markets, especially in metros. The acceptance is increasing in B towns
alsoandweareappointingfranchiseesin almost all major cities for our NCL Alluro rangeofproducts
How does NCL Buildtek Ltd. ensure the quality and innovation of its products, and what role does R&D play in maintaining a strong product offering?
When your homes speak your life and style, it makes better sense to ensure the right windows and doors find a place in your home thus elevating the ambience to a new high. The finest aluminium profilestransformintobeautifulpiecesof artinthehandsofmastercraftsmenwho blend appealing design and technology tocreatemasterpiecesthattrulyenhance your home interiors and exteriors.
NCLBuildtekLtd.hasanexclusivein-house R& D team, has a legacy of over 30 years in the fenestration industry, mastered in optimising the designs to enhance home interiors and usage of the right hardware forvariousclientapplications.Wedohave in-house online powder coating and we offerawarrantyonpowdercoatingalso.
In what ways has NCL Buildtek Ltd. innovated within the aluminium window product category to address the evolving needs and preferences of customers in the construction industry?
NCL Alluro systems are designed to increase comfort, aesthetic appeal, and efficiency in maintenance, insulation and protection. Moreover, there is a lot of ease in fabricating NCL Alluro systems. The need of the hour based on the customer’sfeedbackareslimandenergyefficient systems and NCL Alluro systems are designed to meet or exceed the customer expectations. The challenge in the construction industry is the timely execution of projects and with our inhouse trained installation teams and authorised franchisee teams across India, NCL Buildtek Ltd & its sub-brands exceed theircustomerexpectations.
For more details on the product, contact: NCL Buildtek Ltd.
Website: www.nclbuildtek.com
Phone: 04068313333
ELKEM and Saugaat Inc. Forge Strategic Partnership for Innovative Sealant Solutions
Saugaat Inc. has announced the expansion of business partnerships with internationally acclaimed brands, reaffirming its dedication to nurturing robust collaborative relationships. Their commitment to activelyengagingincooperativeventures that drive the advancement of cuttingedgeproducts,alongsidetheseesteemed industryleaders,isunwavering.
ELKEM is a global frontrunner headquartered in Norway, renowned for its expertise in silicon-based materials for almost120years.
ELKEM India is a symbol of pioneering innovation, unwavering trust, and unparalleled quality. Saugaat Inc. with ELKEMaspirestoredefinethearchitectural landscape, transforming structures into symbolsofprogressandsustainability.
At present, ELKEM stands as a prominent global provider of advanced material solutions, boasting a workforce of over 6,800 employees and a network of 29 productionsitesspanningtheglobe.
ELKEM launches STARSILTM projectoriented sealants in India is a significant development for the construction and
building industry. These sealants offer various solutions for different applications, ensuring reliability and performance. Here’s an overview of the sealants and theirintendedpurposes:
Apart from these insulating glass sealants, ELKEM is also introducing a variety of other silicone sealants. These include structural, waterproofing, 100% weather-proof, weatherproofing sealants designed for stone, kitchen & bathroom sealant as well as generalpurpose neutral silicone sealants.
Collectively Saugaat Inc. and STARSILTM shall cover a broad spectrum of construction needs, from glass and structural sealing to weatherproofing and general-purpose sealing. ELKEM’s product range aims to meet the diverse requirements of construction projects in India, emphasizing durability and reliabilityintheirsealantsolutions.
• STARSILTM XH9101:InsulatingGlazing
Sealant: This is a two-component, neutral-curing silicone sealant designed specifically for insulating glassassembly.
• STARSILTM SLT 9100: Silicone
Sealant for Insulating Glass: This is a two-component, 100% silicone sealant tailored for insulating glass applications.
Saugaat Inc. is actively engaged in a fruitfulcollaborationwithKurarayand H.B. Fuller | Kömmerling, collectively focusing on the development of diverse products & the effective resolution of technical challenges associatedwithglass.
Siderise Celebrates Latest Certification & Listing with Thomas Bell Wright
Siderise has announced the successful certification of its innovative stonewool lamella solution for curtain wall façade applications - reinforcing the reputation of its products and systems to provide reliablecompartmentation.
Issued by an independent Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) organisation, Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants (TBWIC), the certification attests to Siderise’s capabilities in quality manufacturing, particularly for perimeter fire barrier and spandrel protection systems for glazed façadesystems.
The certification applies to its curtain walling protected spandrel system incorporating Siderise CW-FS Firestop, CW-FB Fireboard, and CW-SI Spandrel Insulation. It takes account of the results from system testing to ASTM E2307 and
ASTM E2874 fire test standards, as well as Siderise’sabilitytosatisfyTBWIC’sstringent audit criteria to demonstrate repeatability andconsistencyofproduct.
ASTME2874andASTME2307
ASTM E2874 is a newer fire test standard, designed to evaluate the performance of a spandrel construction in terms of fire resistance and leapfrog. When tested to thisstandard,theSiderisesystemachieves afire-resistanceratingofupto2-1/2hours /150minutes.
Meanwhile, when tested to ASTM E2307 in commercially available non-fire-rated
curtain wall constructions, Siderise CW-FS Firestop can provide higher fire resistance in terms of its integrity and insulation performance over two-part wet ablative spraysealantsystems,withupto3hours/ 180 minutes fire resistance for voids up to 200mm.
IS18190:2023
This performance is also significant to note in light of the new Indian standard, IS 18190: 2023 (Fire Resistance of Perimeter Fire Barrier Joint System) released in June by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This references ASTM E2307 as well as UL 2079 specifically for assessing air leakage. Additionally, IS 18190: 2023 mandates adherence to the ISO 834-1 time-temperature curve for evaluating the perimeter fire barrier joint system, which is the same timetemperature curve followed by EN 13631 and subsequently used within testing to EN 1364-4. At present, there are no accreditedtestingorcertificationentities for evaluating perimeter fire barrier systemsasperIS18190:2023.
Insta Hardware stands as one of the well-known players in architectural innovation, guided by the visionary leadership of Satish Gupta. With a remarkable 30-year legacy in civil construction, his decision to diversify the family business in 2008 led to the establishment of the company. Since then, Insta Hardware has been on an inspiring journey of growth, setting new industrystandardsalongtheway.
The company’s foundation is built upon unwavering commitment and professionalism. Their team comprises highly talented, experienced, and awardwinning architects and designers who continually strive for improvement. Every aspect of our operations reflects the highest standards, ensuring that the clients experience unparalleled satisfaction.
Insta Hardware takes pride in offering an extensive and diverse range of architectural solutions. Its expanding list of satisfied customers bears testimony to our commitment to delivering only the best to the discerning Indian market. Instasourcesitsproductsexclusivelyfrom esteemed international manufacturers, guaranteeing top-tier quality that aligns withtheneedsoftheclientele.
core values: value, design, longevity, and environmental consciousness. These principles underpin every facet of their work. Insta recognises the significance of providing products that not only excel in functionality and aesthetics but also contribute to sustainable practices. By embracing environmental consciousness, the company actively participates in shaping a better future whiledeliveringexceptionalvaluetothe customers.
Headquartered in the vibrant city of New Delhi, Insta Hardware is strategically positioned to serve a wide spectrum of architectural projects across the nation. Whether it is residential, commercial, or
institutional spaces, their team is armed with expertise and creativity to bring the architecturalvisiontolife.
Over the past 15 years of the company’s journey, it has continuously innovated and brought new products consistently. To maintain this tradition of their company, the company has announced to launch their new range of aluminium hardwareattheZakExpowhichwillheld inMumbaithisyear.
Insta Hardware is more are more than just a company – they are architectural visionaries dedicated to transforming spacesintomasterpieces.
For more details on the product, contact:
Netaji Subhash Place Pitampura, Delhi-110034
Email: info@instahardwares.com
Website: www.instahardware.com
Contact: +91-9345601044
InstaHardware’smissionisrootedinfour
D Type Handle With Cylinder Hole
D Type Handle, One Side Lever, One Side Plain
“Eternia’s Innovative Solutions Focus on Both Protection and Aesthetics”
“Eternia envisions a world with windows, not walls - a world that’s greener, stronger, smarter, and overflowing with imagination.” – Nehal Bazari, Head of Marketing,Eternia–Hindalco,AdityaBirla Group
In a rapidly changing world, our homes have taken on new roles, becoming multifunctional spaces for both work and leisure. At Eternia, we have made it our missiontocreatelivingspacesthatarenot only functional but also environmentally conscious and aesthetically pleasing. We want the world to Imagine windows and notwalls.
We look up to the legacy of Hindalco and Aditya Birla Group to ground us in our values of innovation, imagination and fostering an ecosystem of exacting quality. These values drive a strong, national footprint of authorised partners who go the extra mile for our customers. In an industry where timely delivery is paramount, our robust national presence comes with unmatched manufacturing and warehousing infrastructure to meet
those expectations. We are the only fully integrated company in India, covering everything from bauxite mining to installed windows, providing customers with reliable and high-quality solutions. Our world-class design capabilities allow us to offer a range of global design experiencescustomizedtocatertoIndia’s diverseconsumersegments.
Safety and sustainability are paramount for Eternia. WiWA certification ensures protection, while anti-lift and antiburglary locks enhance security. All our products are IGBC Green Pro certified, signifying our commitment to green buildingpractices.
While the market for certified windows in India is nascent, Eternia envisions increasing demand for quality windows, accelerating market growth. We are excited about the path we are paving, as consumers increasingly seek quality and certifiedsolutions,makingitacollaborative journeyfortheindustry’sgrowth.
For more details, contact:
Website: www.eterniawindows.com
Email: Eternia.care@adityabirla.com
Phone: 9769940000
NEHAL BAZARI
Head of Marketing, Eternia – Hindalco, Aditya Birla Group
In 2007, Mr. Sanjay Jain ignited his entrepreneurial journey- making dreams into reality. With grit and flair, hesculptedanempire,etchinghisname asaluminaryintheworldofbusiness!
Could you take us back to the year 2007 when you initiated Mozart Impex Pvt Ltd? What was your motivation?
It felt like there was something in me to contribute to offer for the door and window solutions. Mozart Impex Pvt Ltd wasbornfromavisiontoprovidetop-tier servicebasedonadeepunderstandingof ourcustomers’evolvingneeds.
Quality,durability,andstyleareoften paramount when choosing door and window solutions. How has Mozart become the trusted supplier in these aspects?
Our journey spans several years. We’ve earned the trust of countless developers, architects, fabricators and interior decorators by consistently delivering top-notch quality, durability, and style. We offer a solid 10-year warranty on
our hardware. Proudly mention that all our hardware is lab-tested and then released.
Your technical expertise and welltrained channel partners are
intriguing. How you’ve harnessed thisknowledgeforthebenefitofyour customers?
Our technical expertise is our cornerstone! We’ve cultivated a network of well-trained channel partners to ensure this knowledge reaches our customers nationwide. It’s our way of sharing the expertise and support we’ve accumulatedovertheyears.
Beyond your clientele, Mozart has also contributed to the environment. How your solutions are in harmony withecologicalconcerns?
We’re proud to have played our part in environmental preservation. Our uPVC hardware for doors and windows, along with our sealing systems, are consciouslydesignedtobeeco-friendly. We believe that our commitment to the environment should be as uncompromising as our commitment to our customers.
To sum up, how does Mozart aim to enhancethelivesofitscustomers? Ourultimategoalistoprovideexcellence at all levels. We aim to understand and address every customer’s needs, simplifying and improving the quality of their lives. Whether you need door and window handles, locks, or any related solution, Mozart is here to make your home a more comfortable and beautiful place.
For more details on the product, contact: Mozart Impex Private Limited Website: www.mozartturkey.com Contact: +919311957850
D Handle
3D Adjustable Door Hinge
Premium Door Handle
Sustainable Window and Doors, Not an Option but a Way of Living
These days, sustainability is a hot topic across all the industries, and more and more responsible industries are taking initiatives to engage and promote sustainability by producing eco-friendly products having sustainable methods from production to supply and aftersalesservice.
Infrastructure is one such industry which has a major role to play towards sustainability, and this industry requires moreandmorenaturalresourcestomeet their demands. uPVC is such material which is 100% lead-free and sustainable in nature, it can be recycled without loosing its natural properties and remain unchanged for developing products many times. uPVC windows and doors are response to the growing demand of sustainableproductsusedinthebooming infrastructuremarket.
uPVC window and door systems have become popular in the last 10 years and growing its share in the overall fenestration market, reasons for this growth are a) these systems are durable
and does not require high maintenance cost; b) uPVC insulation properties and advanced design make the system thermally insulated, thus makes indoor climate cozy during summer or winter; c) professional fabrication and installation provide barrier against unwanted outside sound, dust and water leakage; d) aesthetically appealing with option of colours and woodgrain finishes to complement architecture of buildings and importantly e) eco-friendly, lead-free and100%recyclable.
With the presence of these advanced window and door systems, Indian fenestration market is taking a new growth of progress and making the industry organized, which further makes the end customer more aware of these modern systems. In the last 1015 years, Indian fenestration industry has witnessed good brands raising the quality and service bar for these window and door systems. KoemmerlingGerman brand is one of the early brands entered in the Indian fenestration market to share their technical advancement and more than 125 years of legacy in the business. The brand has a strong international presence and supplying wide range of premium window and doorsystemstomorethan100countries across the globe. It has production units in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Great Britain, United Sates of America, ChinaandIndiamakingsmoothlogistics to any location of the world. In India the brand is operational for nearly two decades having strong sales presence across the country. Koemmerling has a wide range of products designed to meet varied weather challenges of India. The product range contains: casement window and door, casement window
withgrillandmesh,tiltandturnwindow, top hung window, sliding door, sliding window, lift and slide door, slide and fold door etc. All these systems are weather resistant, durable, eco-friendly and comes with range of colour and woodgrain options to suit the interior/ exteriorsofthebuilding.
In India there are many companies supplying uPVC windows and doors, the customer needs to understand on the quality and service aspects of the brand tomakebestoftheirhard-earnedmoney. If your deciding factor is only price, then you may face quality issues related to material being used to produce these systems.Cheapqualitymaterialwillaffect the durability of the product in terms of surface of the product it may crack due to weather conditions or change its original colour and will not operate the way you perceived. While a good brand does not compromise on the material used and manufacturing processes to make these systems quality oriented and durable. Choice is yours, whether to give weightagetopriceorquality.
ECO PASS SKY: Synthesis of transparency and room comfort
The two products - barrierfree threshold ECO PASS SKY and ECO PASS SKY PLUS from SIEGENIAtakethecurrenttrendtowardslargeglass surfaces with their high light incidence into account and offer optimum transparency and room comfort. They are designed for liftslide elements made of timber and timber aluminium. These designs permit fixed sash glazing directly up the threshold (SKY) and even into the threshold (SKY PLUS). This makes large surfaceelementsarealeye-catcher.
The superior appearance is supplemented by further aspects of roomcomfort,e.g. theunlimitedbarrierfreedom with unobstructed access to the outside. The height of the two thresholds is only 5 mm. The product is highly energy-efficient - thanks to the high glass content of the ECO PASS SKY solutions. A pleasant indoor air climate and a high degree of comfort are thus always ensured.
Homeowners with high-security demands can also use the two
new
thresholds make large surface elements a real eyecatcher thresholds in connection with the AEROCONTROL opening and locking monitoring system:
This reliably reports the relevant opening or locking status of the element via a magnetic switch in the lift-slide door for a wide range of opening schemes. Integration of alarm systems is also possible. According to the switch type, thissolutionfulfilstherequirementsofup toVdSClassC.
DRIVE
axxent HSA smart: 400 kg at the
touch of a button
The optional DRIVE axxent HSA smart concealed drive ensures ease of use. It operates sash weights up to 400 kg at the touch of a button and combines the convenient motorised operation with aesthetics, indoor air quality and barrier freedom. In terms of design, the DRIVE axxent HSA smart impresses with its concealed lift drive. It gives the element an appealing, elegant aesthetic that is also supported by its flat stainless steel control knob. Its surface-mounted slide drive is discreet and elegant too, which is perfectly integrated because it can match the element’s colour. The sash can be opened or locked either via this stainless steel button or conveniently via your own smartphone or tablet with the standard SIEGENIA Comfort App. An optional infrared remote control is also available.
For more details on the product, contact:
SIEGENIA India Pvt. Ltd. Plot no. 52, Sector 37, Udyog Vihar Phase VI, Gurugram 122001, Haryana, India.
Email: info-in@siegenia.com
Website: www.siegenia.com
Contact: +91- 9971177168
The DRIVE axxent HSA smart concealed drive ensures pure ease of use. Its elegant aesthetic is underlined by the flat stainless steel control knob
The DRIVE axxent HSA smart concealed drive ensures pure ease of use. Its elegant aesthetic is underlined by the flat stainless steel control knob
The
ECO PASS SKY and ECO PASS SKY PLUS
A Story of Sustainable GrowthWindow Magic
In the fenestration industry, Window Magic stands tall as a brand of excellence. As a prominent player in the field of aluminium and uPVC fenestration products, we take immense pride in offering an extensive range of window and door systems, insect screens and glass solutions not just across the country but also expanding thefootprintsglobally.
“Window Magic” was born in 2002 with a visionary mission: to revolutionise the manufacturing process in the fenestration industry through cuttingedge international technology, resulting in products that are not only highly effective but also visually appealing and environmentally friendly. To achieve this, Window Magic partnered with industry giants aimed at delivering exceptional, long-lasting products that offer top-tier functionalityforallfenestrationsystems.
Our diverse product range includes casement and sliding windows and doors, designer windows, tilt & turn windows, lift & slide, slide & fold doors and conservatory. These offerings cater to a wide spectrum of
spaces, be it commercial, residential, hospitality, institutional and government properties. What sets our premium product range apart is its reputation for high performance, advanced designs, attractivefinishes,andperfectalignment.
At Window Magic, the manufacturing process for all our products adheres to a rigorous set of standards, meeting both national and international quality benchmarks. This commitment to excellence has allowed us to take on and successfully complete projects in the private and government sectors across various industries, including hospitality, residential,andcommercial,inarelatively shortspanoftime.
Our role in the fenestration world transcends mere manufacturing. We aim to be change-makers in the industry
by consistently adopting the latest technology and providing exceptional service. While our products are already celebratedfortheirdurabilityandrigidity, we continue to innovate and strengthen ourofferingsacrossallranges.
We are conscious of our environmental responsibilities and are moving steadfastly toward eco-friendliness. Our products are not only safe for the environment but also recyclable, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable future. Our manufacturing process is ecofriendly,emphasisingourcommitmentto sustainability.
Window Magic has taken significant steps to reduce its carbon footprint. Our manufacturing plant operates on renewableenergy,specificallysolarpower. Additionally, we have made a conscious choice to incorporate green products wherever possible in our offices and experience centres, further reinforcing our dedication to environmental conservation. We have our sustainability manager - Mr. HOS who ensures and supports the sustainability initiative of WindowMagic.
For more details on the product, contact: Window Magic India Private Limited Website: windowmagicindia.com Contact: +918800093815
BRAND WATCH
“Indian Window & Door Industry has had a Revolution in the Past Decade in Terms of Quality, Performance & Safety”
SANJAY MEELA Director, Sudhakar Profile Systems
Please tell us about your company Sudhakar Group and yourself. How long the company has been in the uPVC door and window business in the Indian market?
Sudhakar Group was established in 1971 at Suryapet erstwhile Andhra Pradesh, now in Telangana by Shri. Meela Satyanarayana. Today, Sudhakar Group is a 50-year conglomerate, with a diversified product range of- pipes and fittings, wires and cables, and uPVC profiles for windows and doors. I am the third generation from the family and associated as the Director of Sudhakar Marketing Agencies Pvt Ltd. I am wholly involved in sales, marketing, branding, production,operationsandsupplychain of the two new verticals, SudhakarWires andCablesandSudhakarProfileSystems. We started with the fabrication of uPVC Windows and Doors in 2015. Later, in
2017 SUDHAKAR launched its extrusion unit with a state-of-the-art facility at Gudur, Andhra Pradesh, to supply class leading uPVC Profile Systems for windowsanddoors.
How do you see the fenestration industry evolving in India?
Standardisation is the name of the game. UWMDA has worked very hard along with the government to get standards set for uPVC profiles in India. This will decrease lower-quality materials being imported from other countries and increase the awareness of quality to the end customer. Currently, there is a premiumisation of products across all segments of the Indian industry. This trend will continue for the foreseen future and all the products i.e. uPVC, aluminium and wood will find a place in all segments and requirements in the economy. It is yet to be seen where the market share oftheseverticalswillendup.Butweare very positive about the outlook on the
growth of uPVC and we are investing in our resources accordingly.
What has been your or your organization’s contribution to bringing about the current revolution in the fenestration sector?
Being one of the leading PVC raw materialconsumersinthecountry,uPVC profiles are a testament to the current successandfuturegrowthoftheproduct in the sector.We stand on the shoulders of giants who worked hard to make this productsuccessfulinourcountry.
As per your view, how can we ensure the right selection of fenestration products and installation in a project?
The location of the site being installed, customer daily usage patterns and energy usage levels give us a clear idea of the type of products to be used in the project. For instance, the buildings with larger window openings. use of high-performance glazing systems leads
to reduced solar gain, allowing more naturallighttoenterinside.
How well aware do you think the decision-makers are in general about the availability of the window and door products their functionality & categories, standards, testing, etc? And how do they gauge the quality and functionality of the same?
Indian window and door industry has had a revolution in the past decade in termsofquality,performanceandsafety. Earlier none of the decision makers were aware of different products that were available.Overtimetheyhavecaughtup and are learning about the advantages oftheseproducts.Butevennow,thereis a huge gap while selecting the window and door that is being installed. But as a profile supplier, it is our duty to make them understand the advantages and disadvantagesofeachproduct.
Tellusaboutyourchannelexpansion strategies in the market.
We currently have a presence in the south,east,northandnortheastmarkets. Inthenearfuture,wewillbeaggressively expanding to tier 2 and tier 3 towns and
pan India. In the long term, we want to create products that we can export to othercountries.
What keeps your company ahead of its competitors in terms of services offered?
Agreed, that in today’s scenario, there is hefty competition amongst the brands to stand out as the best. We are striving hardtoserviceourcustomersinthebest possibleways.Wetrytorespondtoeach and every customer, and our team is not only involved in selling the product but sharing more of the product knowledge and educating them. We are a solution provider to the customer’s problems. The ease of reaching us directly through different mediums has given us the advantage to be in touch with the productusers.
How do you see the fenestration industry evolving over the next 5 years?
The fenestration industry is growing year-on-year and by 2028 we may expect a growth rate of an average 7-8% every year. There have been many developments in the past decade in terms of design, quality, and use of materials.Eventhepandemichascaused the market to slow down and affected business growth. For sure, there is a brighter future for the industry and we may see many newer brands entering thecompetition.
contact:
BRAND WATCH
Shakti Hörmann Door Solutions: Tested and Certified to Comply with the Highest Indian Standards
MARTIN J. HÖRMANN Managing Partner, Hörmann Group
Shakti Hörmann started its journey in India as Shakti Met-Dor (Now Shakti Hörmann ) in 1994. Please tell us about the company’s milestones in the journey of nearly 30 years in India.
ShaktiHörmannisaleadingplayerinthe commercial, industrial and residential door manufacturing sector, committed todeliveringsuperiordoorsolutionsthat combine innovative technology with unmatched design and functionality. Shakti Met-Dor (Now Shakti Hörmann) founded in 1994, has been operating as a Hörmann manufacturing subsidiary since 2012.The company has developed a reputation for excellence in the Indian market with high-quality products, prompt delivery, and a service paradigm thathasbecomeanindustrybenchmark.
Where is your manufacturing facilities located and what’s the capacity?
Our manufacturing facility is located in Hyderabad and Equipped to produce over 200,000 custom-made doors, door frames and over 10,000 Industrial doors per annum. The size of the plant in Hyderabad is 12 Acres and 250,000 Sq ft isthebuilt-uparea.
We are coming up with a new manufacturing plant in Mahendra World City in Jaipur. The plant area is approx. 20 Acres with a built-up area of 200,000 Sq ft., reinforcing our commitment to expanding national presence and fostering technological advancements in the industrial and residential door industry. The new plant that will become operational in the 2nd quarter of 2024 will enable Shakti Hörmann to meet the growing demandforitsproductsinthenorthern region. In addition to the existing product portfolio the new plant will
be producing wooden doors for the growing residential segment.
ShaktiHörmann isapioneerinhighperformance doors. What are the specialties of your products which helps you to sustain as a market leader?
Shakti Hörmann has a pan-India presence with sales and marketing offices spread across all major metros. Their ISO 9001: 2015; ISO 14001: 2015; and ISO 45001: 2018 certified manufacturing facility near Hyderabad, Telangana, can produce over 200,000 custom-made doors, door frames, and over 10,000 Industrial doors per annum. The doors come with varied options in ironmongery, sizes, and finishes, incorporatingthelatestglobalandlocal standards in safety and security.
Please tell us about your fire door solutions
Tested and certified to comply with the highest Indian standards, namely
the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) license, for the first time ever in India, Hörmann Fire Doors are ISI marked for 120 minutes integrity and 30 minutes insulation. These doors not only complement the existing passive fire-fighting systems, but also ensure optimal personal safety. As a company we have invested a lot on getting certifications from both national and international laboratories.
Tell us about your new showroom in Delhi and Hyderabad?
ShaktiHörmann OpenXperiencecenters in Hyderabad and New Delhi will have a display of branded factory-finished doors. This is an exclusive experience centers are non-existent in India. Given the changing demand and unmet requirements of this market especially the high-rise apartment construction industry the need of the hour is OpenXperience centers that offer a first-hand experience of newer industrycustomer desired product innovations, and their functionalities. This center will showcase the entire product portfolio for commercial, residential and industrial doorapplications.
The OpenXperience centers aims to redefine shopping, highlighting advanced door technologies such as residential hinged doors, fire-rated doors, security doors, internal doors, and multi-purpose doors, all based on German standards.
As a company, what are your green initiatives supporting sustainable manufacturing and eco-friendly products?
Shakti Hörmann, as one of the leading global manufacturers of Doors, has aligned its vision with IGBC and has proactively adopted eco-friendly
Water Management1. Rain water harvesting 100% roof & non roof run off
2. Management of irrigation system (drip & sprinklers) & low flow water fixtures
3. 95 % Non-process waste water treatment and reuse
Energy Efficiency1. Onsite renewable energy (500KW Solar Plant) - meets 69% of annual energy consumption of the factory building
2. Solar Panels of 500 kW installed and Eco-friendly captive power generation for factory building requirement
3. External wall insulation system for good sound proofing and to reduce load on air-conditioning
4. Ample natural daylight & fresh air ventilation; use of low wattage LED lights
Materials and Resource Management
1. Greenery on >80% of site area with native & drought tolerant species. Planted 1360 trees on site
2. 90% locally sourced materials with recycled content
3. Use of greenPro certified products & equipments
Any other Uniqueness? / Innovation? / Occupant Wellbeing measures?
1. Special fresh air filteration system to reduce the AC consumption and also improve the Air quality along with Indoor Plants.
2. Usage of eco-friendly housekeeping chemicals
3. Auto Blind system used in the admin building to also cut down the direct heat ingress
practices, which are the first of its kind in the industry. Our manufacturing plant has been inspired by our parent organization’s green practices and our focus is on environmentally-friendly production, through a comprehensive energymanagementsystem.
For over 25 years these Steel doors are sustainable as well as recyclable which makes them not only eco-friendly but also long-term durable. They are produced in a platinum-rated facility in an environment-friendly manner always keeping in mind a long-term sustainability at the core.
What is your motto that helps the brand to continue as India’s leading door manufacturer?
Our vision is to introduce products and services that enrich customer experiences in the residential, commercial and industrial spaces. With anunderlyingmotto–agoodreputation must be earned – we continue our journey to strengthen our reputation as India’s leading door brand, built on the foundation of innovation, quality and customerfulfilment.
For more details, contact:
Website: www.shaktihormann.com
Email: sales@shaktihormann.com
Phone: 8142236677
Shakti Hörmann to Set up a Greenfield Project for Manufacturing Wooden Doors, Launches 2 OpenXperience Centers
Shakti Hörmann has announced the launch of its latest product line for the B2B and B2C sectors including the launch of 2 new OpenXperience centers in Hyderabad and New Delhi, leveraging a strategic partnership with Hörmann,Germany.
Additionally, the company is establishing the most advanced wooden door manufacturing plant in India, further solidifying its dedication to expanding
its national presence and delivering unparalleled products and services to its growingcustomerbase.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey of innovation and growth,” Shashidar Reddy, Managing Director of ShaktiHörmannsaid,“Weareestablishing a new manufacturing plant in Mahendra World City in Jaipur, with a capacity of 130,000 doors per annum, investing more than ₹1750 Million, reinforcing our commitment to an expanding national presence and fostering technological advancements in the commercial, industrial and residential door industry. Thenewplantwillbecomeoperationalin the2nd Quarterof2024,whichwillenable Shakti Hörmann, to meet the growing demandforitsproductsinIndia.”
The Shakti Hörmann plant located in Hyderabad currently can produce over 200,000custom-madedoors,doorframes, and over 10,000 industrial doors per annum,cateringtoindustrial,commercial, public buildings, institutions, hospitality, hospitals,andairports.
Martin J. Hörmann, Managing Partner of Hörmann said,“Our focus remains on providing customers and our strategic partnerswithunparalleledaccesstothe latestadvancementsindoortechnology the world over. The expansion of Shakti Hörmann operations in India is a testament to our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our diverse customer base with Hörmann fire-rated doors, backed by decades of quality, protection, and safety.”
Google Building its Largest Campus Outside the US in Hyderabad
Hyderabad was already home to Google’s India headquarters, but the company is set to grow its presenceinthecityinabigway.
Google has begun construction on its new Hyderabad campus. The office will be a 3 million ft structure and will be locatedintheFinancialDistrictofthecity. ItwillbeGoogle’slargestofficeanywhere
outsidetheUS,anditisthesecond-largest office worldwide behind the company’s headquartersinMountainView,California. The progress of the construction was shared by theTwitteraccount Hyderabad Mojo,whichshowsconstructiononinfull swingatthesite.
Thesitewaslitupatnight,anditappeared that the work on the foundation of the building was in progress. The campus is likelytobereadyby2026.
AHMM, the British design agency behind the project, says the campus was driven by India’s nationwide policy to establish and promote centres for expertise and innovation in its technological sector.
The Google Hyderabad office is being built as a climate-sensitive and flexible shelter. It will be energy efficient with several glass structures. The design firm says the Google Hyderabad office will have “upgradable servicing for comfort” acrossanensembleofdelightfulspaces.
Theoffice’shubareaswillbedistributed evenly across each level to encourage promenades throughout the building. The design indicates that the signature ellipse will be open to the skies, and allow sunlight to stream into the structure. “(The Google Hyderabad office’s) porous envelope will help to moderate the local climate, offering relief, shade, light, and air to staff and visitors,”the design firm says.
PEGO Hardware and STAC Elevating India’s Fenestration Industry
In an exciting development, PEGO Hardware,aleadingnameintheIndian door and window hardware industry, has forged an exclusive partnership with STAC, the renowned Spanish company specializing in aluminum door and window hardware. This collaboration marks a significant step in bringing highqualityfenestrationsolutionstotheIndian market.
PEGO Hardware’s reputation as an innovator and provider of top-notch products in the Indian fenestration sector aligns perfectly with STAC’s eagerness to tailor its offerings to the Indian market’s unique needs. This alliance leverages the strengths of both organizations, promising to take the fenestration industry in India to new heights.
India is currently experiencing a surge in infrastructure investments and a growing demand for housing, especially in the form of high-rise apartments. This trend has created a substantial need for top-tier aluminum door and window solutions, and the PEGO-STAC partnership aims to fulfill this demand.
STAC’s involvement in this partnership will further expand PEGO’s product range, ensuring that the highest quality products are readily available to the fenestration industry in India. This promising collaboration between two industry leaders heralds a brighter future for fenestration solutions in India, meeting the rising demand for quality aluminum door and window hardware.
To showcase their collective capabilities, both STAC and PEGO Hardware will be actively participating in ZAK Expo 2023, where they will present their extensive product range. This strong presence at theexpounderlinestheircommitmentto delivering the best fenestration solutions totheIndianmarket.
Shivalik Developers Set to Construct Gujarat’s First Twisted Building, ‘Curv,’ in GIFT City at Rs 700 Crore
In a significant development, Shivalik Developers, an Ahmedabad-based real estate firm, has received approval for the construction of Gujarat International Finance Tec-City’s (GIFT City) inaugural “twisted” building, christened “Curv.” This groundbreaking project, estimated to cost Rs 700 crore, is set to redefine the architecturallandscapeoftheregion.
“Curv” will soar to 32 floors, making it a prominent addition to GIFT City’s skyline.
Taral Shah, Managing Director of Shivalik Developers, revealed, “This will be GIFT City’s first twisted landmark and built in theDomesticTariffArea(DTA).Itwillhave aboutamillionsquarefeetofcommercial spaces, where the ground level will be retail, and the remaining 32 floors will consistofofficespaces.”
The project has received the green light from GIFT City authorities and has also obtained approval from the Real Estate RegulatoryAuthority(RERA).Construction is set to commence within the next two months. Shah further explained that this marksShivalikDevelopers’firstcommercial ventureinGIFTCity,offeringofficespaces atarateofRs7,000persquarefoot.
The innovative design of “Curv” is a creation of INI Design Studio, renowned
for its work on architectural marvels like the GatewayTowers in Dubai, theWorld TradeCentreunderconstructionatGIFT City, the Surat Diamond Bourse, and the redevelopment of ghats along the Ganga River in Varanasi. The distinctive feature of the building is its twisted columns on each floor, lending the structure its unique shape. Additionally, a 300-foot atrium will provide a central open space, allowing occupants on all levelstoviewthegroundfloorfromtheir respective passageways. Notably,“Curv” willprioritisesustainability,aimingtobe a green building, and will feature nine high-speed elevators.
Thetwistedbuildingisslatedtobelocated approximately 200 meters from the lone, under-constructionMetroRailwaystation withinGIFTCity.
EUROBOND Launches Self-Healing Zinc panels
EUROBOND recently hosted an event with RHEINZINK, launching SelfHealing Zinc panels for facades. This partnership is a vital response to the escalating demand for sustainable solutions in the construction and infrastructuresector.
As environmental concerns intensify, the need for green, recyclable, & sustainable products in construction becomes evident. The industry’s significant environmental impact makes the choice of materials critical in addressing these challenges.
EUROBOND’s alliance with RHEINZINK, a global leader in Architectural Zinc manufacturing, reflects a commitment to incorporating top-tier technology into their offerings with their combined legacy of 2 centuries.
RHEINZINK’s Self-Healing Zinc Panels, produced through a patented PrePatina process with responsibly sourced Scandinavian materials, achieve an impressive 50% reduction (36,000 tons) in CO2 emissions.
This partnership underscores EUROBOND’s dedication to aesthetics, durability, & sustainability, contributing to environmental conservation. Their Zinc Panels, with self-healing properties and up to 100 years of service life, align with the global shift toward greener construction practices, offering a sustainable solution for facades and promoting a sustainable future.
Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates Yashobhoomi Phase One, Paving the Way for INR 25,703 Crore Project’s Second Phase
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially inaugurated the first phase of Yashobhoomi, a remarkable conference tourism infrastructure project, setting the stage for the much-anticipated second phase. The grand convention center, situated in Sector 25, Dwarka, New Delhi, a mere 3 kilometers from the Indira Gandhi International Airport, offers exceptionalconnectivitytobothmetroand road networks. Encompassing a sprawling 221.70-acresiteinawell-developedareaat thewesternedgeofDelhi,itstandsadjacent toGurgaon,aprominentsatellitecity.
Yashobhoomi’s architectural marvel is a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, drawing inspiration from India’s rich heritage. The design
incorporates traditional features like jaalis and stepped wells while embracing modern principles. The exterior facade, emphasizing sustainability, mirrors temple ornamentation, and the ceiling patterns take cues from the art of rangoli, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modernitythatepitomizesIndia’sessence.
The second phase of the project promises to elevate Yashobhoomi even further by introducing eight hotels within the complex.Theseincludethreefive-starand four-star hotels, two three-star properties, and service apartments, providing a total of 3,500 rooms. In addition to the two exhibition halls constructed in the first phase, the second phase will add three moreexpansivehalls.
Yashobhoomi Phase One sets the stage for a transformative development in the heartofthecapital,withitsseamlessblend of tradition, modernity, and cutting-edge facilities. As the project progresses to its second phase, it is poised to become a global landmark in conference tourism infrastructureandanembodimentofIndia’s rich cultural heritage and technological prowess.
Officials Collaborate to Restore Lucknow’s Heritage Sites and Boost Tourism
In a concerted effort to rejuvenate Lucknow’s rich cultural heritage and promote tourism, key authorities, including the district administration, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA), have united to conduct an extensive survey of the city’s prominent heritage sites.These sites encompass the illustriousBadaImambara,theenchanting Chhota Imambara, the tomb of Shahadat AliKhan,andtheiconicRumiDarwaza.
Subsequent to the survey, a meticulously crafted master plan will be formulated to revamp the Bada Imambara. Among the significant changes on the horizon is the removalofthetoweringhighmastwithin theBadaImambarapremises.Additionally, acolourschemewillbechosenforshops both within and outside the heritage
A crucial meeting, presided over by Divisional Commissioner Roshan Jacob, was convened to review the progress of installing façade lighting in major city buildings within the Heritage Zone. Commissioner Jacob, leading the discussions, instructed officials to conductacollaborativeinspectionofBada Imambara,ChhotaImambara,ShahadatAli Khan’sTomb, and Rumi Darwaza. She also
mandated the preparation of a dedicated masterplanfortheBadaImambara.
In an effort to enhance the allure of Ghantaghar and Chhota Imambara, officials have been tasked with swiftly formulating a plan for the installation of façadelightingintheshopsintheseareas. To determine the colour palette for these shops, the opinions and suggestions of localresidentswillbeactivelysought.The authoritiesarecommittedtoinvolvingthe community in the development process surroundingthesehistoricbuildings.
Divisional Commissioner Jacob also directed officials to embark on the renovation and modernisation of Globe Park. The project will encompass the installation of contemporary benches, lightingfixtures,andotheramenities.
Ayodhya to Construct Museum Highlighting Indian Temple Architectural Traditions
Ayodhya is set to witness the creation of a museum that will celebrate the rich architectural heritageofIndiantemples.Thisambitious project,spanning25acresofland,comes in response to a suggestion from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized the importance of offering pilgrims a moreextendedandenrichingexperience whenvisitingtheupcomingRamtemple.
Prime Minister Modi’s recommendation was extended during a meeting with senior officials from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust, who had gathered to invite him to the consecration ceremony of the underconstruction Ram temple scheduled for January 22. The Prime Minister gladly accepted the invitation, expressing his
deep sense of privilege in witnessing this historic event. These initiatives reflect Prime Minister Modi’s vision to transform Ayodhya into a multifaceted pilgrimage destination.Attheheartofthisendeavoris the construction of a museum dedicated to showcasing the diverse architectural traditionsofIndiantemples.Themuseum will offer visitors an opportunity to explore and appreciate the intricate and captivating designs of temples from all cornersofthecountry.
In addition to the temple architecture museum, Ayodhya will feature several other projects, including the ‘Ram Charit ManasExperienceCentre,’whichpromises an engaging portrayal of Lord Ram’s life. A world-class wax museum will be dedicated to various subjects related to theeraofLordRam.
Notably, a magnificent multimedia foundation park, shaped like a lotus flower, is also in the works. These attractions, coupled with projects like Ayodhya Haat and Ayodhya Aerocity, will contribute to the Prime Minister’s visionofmakingAyodhyaadestination where visitors not only witness the grand Ram temple but also savor a diverse range of cultural and spiritual experiences.
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