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Volume 11 | Issue 1
November - December 2024
14 Enhancing Façade Safety: Design Insights
Ar. Rahul Menon, Principal Architect & Co-Founding Partner, Studio TAB
18 Reflected Heat from Façades
Lawrence Le and Alexander Flatley, Building Physics & Sustainability
Engineers, Inhabit
23 Rethinking Modern Architecture in India: Sustainability Over Glass Façade
56 Advancement in Façade Technologies & Materials, and Media Façades
Rajan Govind, Director, BES Consultants
60 Interactive Façades in Architecture & Tools for Creating Future Façades
Ar. Tripat Girdhar, Founder and Principal Architect, Arete Design Studio
82 Cover Story
The Architectural Revolution: The Role of AI in Performance, Aesthetics and Sustainability
108 Face to Face
Interview with Gregory Kovacs, Design Director, Benoy
119 Industry Speaks
Interview with Sampath Kumar, Managing Director, Simta Astrix
121 The Expert’s Edge
RNI: DELENG/2014/57870
Interview with Dr. H.C. Mario Schmidt, Managing Director, Lingel Group
DISCLAIMER: With regret we wish to say that publishers cannot be held responsible or liable for error or omission contained in this publication. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek expert advice before acting on any information contained in this publication which are very generic in nature. The Magazine does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of claims made by advertisers. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced in any form or context without the permission of publishers in writing.
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Founder’s Note
As we celebrate a decade of contributions to the façade and fenestration industry, we embrace the core culture of McCoy: change is the only constant. In this spirit, we are excited to introduce a new feature on our digital platform WFMMedia.com - featuring the WFM Podcast, as part of our ongoing initiative, Mission Education.
This platform aims to elevate the industry by bringing together experts from façade, fenestration, and the broader building and construction sectors. Our goal is to create an invaluable resource for the building fraternity, including architects, builders, engineers, contractors, and even end consumers. By hosting thought leaders and renowned speakers, we aspire to educate stakeholders on making informed decisions—what to do and what not to do—when selecting products and solutions for their projects.
Through this initiative, we strive to give back to the industry by sharing our collective expertise and fostering a space for collaboration. wfmmedia. com will serve as a hub for knowledge, visions, and ideas, enabling members of the fraternity to grow and innovate while empowering consumers to make better choices.
The digital transformation and the rise of social media allow us to dream big—our ambition is to build the world’s largest digital channel dedicated to façade, fenestration, and beyond. With your continued support, which has been instrumental in our journey so far, we are confident this transformation will propel to new heights.
This new venture strengthens WFM’s position as the industry’s only platform focused exclusively on building exteriors. It is aligned with our vision of contributing to India’s growth story while making a conscious, meaningful impact.
We sincerely thank you for your past support and invite you to join us as we embark on this exciting new chapter. Together, let’s make wfmmedia. com a ground-breaking platform for the industry.
Amit Malhotra Leader - McCoy Group Founder - WFM Media
Façade Safety
Enhancing Façade Safety: Design Insights
Designing a building’s façade and deciding on its interiors goes beyond aesthetic appeal. It is crucial to ensure that the structure’s exterior is safe and durable. Façade safety has become an increasingly important consideration in architectural design, particularly as buildings grow taller and more complex. It’s not only functional in terms of protection but also enhances the longevity of the structure.
Here are key points we consider when aiming for better designs for façade safety:
1. Optimum Material Selection
This is the fundamental facet of façade safety. We opt for materials that sync
with the aesthetics of the client’s preferences along with ensuring that they are resistant to environmental factors such as the wind, UV radiation, rain and temperature fluctuations. We also aim to opt for materials that are fire resistant, corrosion-resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions and high winds.
2. Structural Integrity
We ensure that the façade is designed to integrate with the building’s framework. This further guarantees proper support for the materials and protection from the dynamic loads caused by winds, rains, seismic activities and other environmental stressors.
3. Thermal, Moisture Control & Fire Hazards Considerations
We ensure that a well-designed façade confirms against moisture infiltration, mold growth, material degradation and a lack of structural integrity. With appropriate moisture barriers, drainage systems and proper flashing, we look forward to efficient waterproofing systems along with minimising thermal bridging. Along with this, one ought to know that fire safety is a very critical aspect of façade design. Hence, the materials that are used ought to have low combustibility and should be optimally tested for their performance during fire hazards. The design should also include access for firefighting and evacuation in terms of an emergency.
4. Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Needless to say, regular maintenance and inspection are essential for ensuring the long-term safety of the façade. The design should facilitate optimum access for cleaning, repairs, and inspections. One can incorporate features of maintenance such as catwalks, anchor points for cleaning crews, and accessible inspection hatches that can help maintain the façade’s efficiency over time. It is integral to note that a well-maintained façade is less likely to suffer from issues such as loose panels, water infiltration and material degradation.
Designing a façade that prioritises safety requires a harmonious mélange of the consideration of materials, structural integrity, environmental factors, and ongoing maintenance. By adhering to these key points, architects and engineers can create façades that are not only visually aesthetic but also safe, durable and sustainable for the occupants. Façade design and safety, if anything, is perhaps the most essential and integral aspect of modern architectural design.
House On the Rocks, Trivandrum, Kerala - The architecture of the house blends well with the rocky terrain
Façade Safety
Case Study
House On the Rocks Trivandrum,
Kerala
Situated on the top of a hill, surrounded by boulders and vegetation with unrestricted views till the far horizon, sat this idyllic ancestral plot of our client. An inaccessible plot in a remote area, no approach road, a slope so steep that even a possibility of some kind of road seemed distinct, a plot laden with immovable rocks and to add to it, the pandemic struck right when the project had just begun.
The façade of the “House On the Rocks” was nothing short of extraordinary. There was a thoughtful selection of materials that combined the durability as well as the aesthetics of the space. With exposed concrete, metal fins, IPE wood and windows by Fenesta, the materials
used for the façade of the project were remarkable, to say the least.
They were all exterior grade and weather-tested. Thus, they proved to be safe and durable for the tropical weather conditions of Trivandrum. These windows were engineered for optimum performance in terms of the shifts in weather patterns. Every material used in the façade was exterior grade and was chosen for its ability to withstand the weather conditions of the city. It provides optimum safety and durability against the region’s intense heat, humidity, and seasonal shifts.
The site is located on the top of rocky terrain on the outskirts of Trivandrum. Owing to the hot and humid weather of the region, compounded with the harsh glare being reflected from the rocky terrain, it was imperative to address these factors for better thermal comfort within the home.
The house has been oriented such that the larger spans face the east while the shortest volume sits in the south. East
House On the Rocks - night view of the façade
The materials selected for the façades and fenestrations were resistant to environmental factors such as wind, UV radiation, rain and temperature fluctuations
Façade Safety
thus has maximum openings for better views and ventilation. The eastern side had an exaggerated overhang of 10ft which provided ample sun shading to the rooms. The uPVC windows are doubleglazed and tinted which further helps cut the heat intake. To minimise glare, sliding aluminum fins have been provided on the elevation on the east and north sides. The windows are floor-to-ceiling sized windows that enable maximum east light which helps compensate for the blank volume of the south.
The south side has pocket windows purely for sunlight. The house has a strong east-west circulation which aids the wind flow. The openings are planned so as to provide wind tunnels within the home thus aiding thermal comfort.
Owing to the orientation of the built form and the large overhangs, the building stays protected from the monsoons.
The client wanted a house that reflects contemporary style in a region where traditional architecture is seen abundantly. It was imperative to create a stitch wherein we adopted vernacular methodology and techniques within a framework of contemporary design. The design has been heavily hinged on climatic factors. The intent was to
reduce heat gain, aid cross-ventilation and maximise the views. The massing has thus been kept clean with a play of horizontal boxes. While one of the boxes is a large 40 ft cantilever that pushes the realm of imagination, the other rests on the existing rocks.
Reflecting back on the journey of this project that spanned 3 grueling years, we wonder if Gabriel García Márquez would have written ‘Love in the time of Corona’ with this project as his muse for an architectural adaptation?
Quick Facts:
• Project: House On the Rocks
• Location: Trivandrum, Kerala
• Client: Ms. Neha Vijay
• Architect: Rahul Das Menon & Ojas Chaudhari
• Other Consultants: Jerin Joseph
• Materials used for façade & fenestration: Exposed concrete, metal fins, IPE wood, windows by Fenesta.
• Commencement Date: October 2021
• Completion Date: October 2024
AR. RAHUL MENON
Principal Architect & Co-Founding Partner, Studio TAB
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
With 15 years of immersive experience in architecture, Rahul Menon is the principal architect & co-founding partner of Studio TAB. From considering the visuals of the designs from a cultural perspective to having an understanding of how the advancement of technology can affect the architectural landscape, Rahul believes in the integral aspect of architecture at both micro and macro levels. His work is distinguished by a deep appreciation for the cultural context of design, ensuring that every project resonates with its surroundings. Rahul’s expertise reflects a commitment to creating spaces that are not only visually striking but also culturally relevant and future-ready; Something that the citizens can largely benefit from.
The windows were engineered for optimum performance in terms of the shifts in weather patterns
Sustainable Façades
Reflected Heat from Façades
While low-E glazing has been a revolution in terms of the energy efficiency and aesthetics of building façades, Building Physics + Sustainability Engineers Lawrence Le and Alexander Flatley consider the Physics, Design Considerations & Responses to potential reflected heat.
As architecture evolves and becomes increasingly more sophisticated, building façades have become a critical engineering consideration. The proliferation and evolving technology of low-emissivity (or Low-E) glazing has been a revolution in terms of energy efficiency and aesthetics. However, this can make glass more reflective as incoming solar rays interact with it. One of the unintended consequences due to the combination of these two occurrences under certain conditions is the possibility of concentrated solar reflected heat.
Remember the age-old cliché of kids playing around with a magnifying glass under the Sun, burning anything from paper to plants? Ironically, the potential for this phenomenon has been seen in recent years within the building industry, in several cities around the world. This
can occur due to curved or faceted glass panels forming a concentration of solar energy into a small area or a focal point. A larger concentration of total light being reflected into a smaller area results in a higher intensity of solar concentration. Reflected heat presents another design challenge for design teams on some of the most ambitious projects and requires an elevated degree of care in the design process.
Although uncommon, reflected heat impacts are seldom considered in planning requirements and the consequences of reflected heat are often therefore only realised after construction is completed. As such, there is an increasing need for a better understanding of the impacts that curved façades can have on the nearby environment, as uncontrolled reflections can potentially cause significant property damage or bodily harm.
UNDERSTANDING HEAT
To understand reflected heat occurring from façades, we first must understand what heat is. Heat comes in three conventional forms:
• Conduction (through touch and direct physical contact);
• Convection (through heat transfer of fluids due to movement); and
• Radiation (from the Sun, in the form of ultraviolet radiation).
Radiation from our own star is the source of radiative heat. In the context of glazing, a portion of solar radiation is transmitted to the opposite side, a portion of it is absorbed through the glass pane and the remainder is reflected. While glazed façades are subject to solar reflectance, the same is true for polished metal surfaces which have a low surface roughness and reflect light in a specular manner (mirror-type reflections). This differs from diffuse reflections, which occur due to rough surface finishes and are much less perceptible to the human eye.
REFLECTED HEAT
The sun emits electromagnetic radiation over a continuous range of frequencies that can be broadly categorised into ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation. While the visible light spectrum contributes to reflected glare, infrared radiation is the key proponent of reflected heat. Irradiance is conventionally used to measure the intensity of reflected heat, with units of Watts per square metre (W/m2). For reference, a typical day in summer with no cloud cover reaches
Modern reflective glazed façades often have high-performance coatings that can reflect sunlight to reduce the transmission of solar gains into the building
Glare modelling. The most beneficial time to assess concentrated reflected heat is in the early stages of the design
Sustainable Façades
approximately 1000 W/m2 when the sun is directly overhead.
To pursue energy efficiency requirements, modern reflective glazed façades often have high-performance coatings that can reflect sunlight to reduce the transmission of solar gains into the building. The reflected solar radiation can therefore lead to unintended thermal issues to external pedestrians or properties. Curved façades are especially prone to reflected heat impacts, as the curvature can result in the overlapping of reflections at a focal point where the cumulative irradiation is excessively high.
It is crucial how local governments, councils and approval authorities prescribe the issue of reflections occurring from glazed façades for building permits and development applications. The requirements that authorities set in relation to this vary drastically by jurisdiction, with some projects requiring a detailed analysis to show the frequency of occurrence or some not at all.
The criterion for what constitutes an acceptable level of reflected heat is not well defined in many planning requirements, if at all. For example, the Solar Convergence Planning Advice Note published by the City of London (2007) recommends that reflected irradiances above 1000 W/m2 are minimised for areas at street level where pedestrians may be present. Many planning authorities, however, only provide broad wording that seeks to limit adverse reflected heat without specifying a particular methodology or compliance threshold. Instead, expert judgment or advice is typically relied on to ensure that the risks of reflected heat have been mitigated or controlled.
While light fundamentally is a wave and each ray of light can carry varying wavelengths, it is ultraviolet waves (approximately 100-400nm in wavelength), not visible light (400700nm), that gives light properties of radiative heat. While some jurisdictions guide the planning stages around
concave façades and “discomfort glare”, current prescriptive conditions such as a limitation on external reflectivity of façade materials (typically 15% or 20% specular reflectance) are not conclusive to ensure that the risks (reflected glare or heat) can be fully eliminated. The necessity for assessing the possibility of reflected heat typically comes down to a number of factors, including, but not limited to:
• The overall extent of the concavity of the façade;
• The orientation of the concavities of the project;
• The probable locations of where the solar concentration may occur and how people would interact with the space; and
• The probability that a solar concentration would adversely affect the functionality of a space adjacent.
The most beneficial time to assess concentrated reflected heat is in the early stages of the design when the building’s vision and architectural massing are still
Inhabit can assist clients with understanding the potential impacts of a curved façade and provide feedback on suitable parameters to control reflected heat concentrations
Sustainable Façades
being developed. Design firms can assist clients with understanding the potential impacts of a curved façade and provide feedback on suitable parameters to control reflected heat concentrations while achieving the
The other important question is what is a reasonable metric for measuring reflected heat? There is no explicit or widely accepted industry standard for this currently. Physiologically, the human body perceives heat and pain in response to solar radiation. The design firm’s experience with working on projects with reflected heat occurrences is to take into consideration areas that are likely to be trafficked by people or vehicles, or for surrounding buildings and infrastructure. Useful metrics adopted include the following:
• 800 to 1,200 W/m 2 is a typical range of incident solar radiation. This can vary between climates and seasons.
• 1,000 W/m2 is considered a threshold of tolerance by a fully clothed person. This is also the intensity where, within 115 seconds, on onset of pain onto bare skin is expected.
• 1,500 W/m2 is considered a threshold of pain on human skin.
• 2,500 W/m2 and higher is where pain and skin damage is expected within 30 seconds.
1,500
2,500
One example in the world is the infamous 20 Fenchurch Street, located in London, United Kingdom. The reflected heat effect is much more pronounced given the façade is not only concave in plan, but concave in elevation and resembles a glazed curtain wall façade. This led to reported temperatures of up to 91.3 degrees Celsius being reflected from the façade. It was reported that components of a parked Jaguar vehicle had melted due to the concentrated heat and simulations from Imperial College London showed that peak heat flux has been as high as 3,320 W/m2 within this parking bay. The project was ultimately remediated by redesigning the façade, which included extensive shading elements needing to be retrofitted and engineered into the design which geometrically prevent solar rays from hitting the façade or being reflected to the surroundings. While an extremely costly exercise to retrofit shading previously eliminated from the building design, this was a valuable lesson to the industry of how reflected heat can occur when unmanaged.
LAWRENCE LE
Building Physics & Sustainability Engineer, Inhabit
Building Physics & Sustainability Engineer, Inhabit
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
With a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Lawrence is inspired to champion sustainability initiatives & to guide projects to reach both their sustainability & design aspirations. By engaging in projects across all stages of the lifecycle, Lawrence has been able to support sustainable building outcomes from early design to construction. He engages deeply with targeted modelling and assessment scenarios to provide the confidence and rationale that is needed to achieve the bigger picture.
Alex is passionate about the built environment and has a desire to apply energy-efficient solutions and incorporate environmentally sustainable design into new and existing developments. With previous experience in asset management, Alex is passionate about the built environment and building services of new and existing buildings. He also has a strong interest in environmentally sustainable building practices and energy efficiency without compromising on occupant comfort or the practicality of the building.
For more information visit www. inhabitgroup.com
ALEXANDER FLATLEY
20 Fenchurch Street, London, United Kingdom. The reflected heat effect is much more pronounced given the façade is concave in plan and elevation
Wingerden, K et al, 1994)
Rethinking Modern Architecture in India: Sustainability Over Glass Façades
As cities across India, such as Pune, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, continue to grow as hubs for technology and commerce, their skylines are increasingly dotted with glass-clad buildings. While these structures often symbolise modernity and progress, their suitability for India’s climatic conditions and their impact on energy consumption demand closer scrutiny.
THE PROBLEM WITH GLASS FAÇADES IN INDIA
Glass façades, widely popularised in Western countries like the USA and Europe, are designed for regions with predominantly cold or temperate climates. In these areas, glass helps trap heat and maximise natural light, reducing heating costs. However, in Indian cities, where temperatures remain high for most of the year, these buildings create a greenhouse effect, leading to excessively warm interiors.
To maintain comfortable temperatures inside glass-façade buildings, highpowered air conditioning systems are a necessity. This not only drives up energy
consumption but also significantly increases electricity costs and the carbon footprint of the building. Moreover, India’s hot and humid climate exacerbates the problem, leading to an unsustainable model of architecture in urban areas.
THE CASE FOR SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE IN INDIA
India has a rich history of climateresponsive architecture, rooted in the use of local materials and design strategies
that optimise natural resources. Traditional Indian buildings are designed to be selfsustaining, incorporating features like courtyards, verandas, and jalis (latticed screens) to enhance airflow and regulate temperature. These designs leverage natural light and ventilation, significantly reducing the need for artificial cooling and lighting.
BENEFITS
OF SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE
• Energy Efficiency: Sustainable buildings designed with local materials such as bricks, stone, or mud offer better insulation & reduce reliance on air conditioning systems. By optimising building orientation and using features like overhangs and shade-providing vegetation, architects can harness natural cooling methods.
• Lower Carbon Footprint: Reducing the use of energy-intensive materials like glass and relying on local, ecofriendly alternatives decreases the overall environmental impact of construction.
• Cultural Relevance: Sustainable designs rooted in local traditions and materials resonate with the cultural
Suzlon One Earth Global Corporate Headquarters, Pune
IIM Ahemdabad
Glass & Glazing
and historical context of the region, creating a stronger sense of place and identity.
• Cost - Effectiveness: Traditional building materials are often locally sourced and less expensive than imported glass and aluminium panels. Additionally, lower energy consumption results in significant operational savings over time.
• Health and Comfort: Natural ventilation and lighting enhance indoor air quality and reduce the negative health impacts associated with sealed, air-conditioned environments.
THE ROLE OF ARCHITECTS AND BUILDING OWNERS
Architects and developers have a critical role to play in addressing this issue. By embracing sustainable design principles, they can create buildings that are not only environmentally friendly but also better suited to India’s climate. Here are some strategies they can adopt:
• Use of Local Materials: Incorporate materials like terracotta, bricks, bamboo, and stone, which are abundant, costeffective, and climate-friendly.
• Climatic Design: Leverage natural light and wind direction to design spaces that remain cool and welllit without excessive use of artificial resources.
• Green Roofing and Landscaping: Green roofs and vertical gardens
help insulate buildings, reduce heat absorption, and improve air quality.
• Solar Integration: Install solar panels to power air conditioning and lighting systems, reducing dependency on non-renewable energy sources.
• Passive Cooling Techniques: Incorporate water bodies, courtyards, and shaded verandas to cool buildings naturally.
A CALL TO ACTION
India’s urban centres are at a crossroads. As cities continue to expand and modernise, it is crucial to prioritise sustainability over aesthetics driven by global architectural trends. Glass-façade buildings may exude sophistication, but their long-term impact on the environment and energy resources is a cost we cannot afford.
Building owners must recognise that sustainable designs are not just a nod to tradition but a practical solution to the challenges of India’s climate. By working with architects who value local materials and energy-efficient designs, they can create buildings that are both functional and environmentally responsible.
The future of architecture in India lies not in mimicking the West but in rediscovering and modernising our traditional wisdom. Sustainable architecture is not just a choice - it is a necessity for a greener, more resilient India.
ANKUSH DEORE
Founder Director & CEO, Deore Consultancy Services Pvt Ltd
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ankush Deore is a serial entrepreneur and Project Manager with a passion for driving critical projects to successful outcomes. Over the past 20 years, he has managed over 100 projects and conceptualised numerous business opportunities across diverse industries, including Electronics, Chemicals, Banking, IT, Entertainment, and Construction. From these initiatives, eight ventures have been successfully launched, with four currently experiencing steady growth.
CII Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre, Hyderabad
Façade Design
Natural Ventilation through Effective & Efficient Façade Design Using CFD Tools
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Terminus is a terminal railway station for the Suburban and long-distance node railway lines and lies in the Western Railways zone. The site is located in the capital city of Maharashtra. It is also a major landmark in the city. In 2004, UNESCO designated the building structure and its annex as a World Heritage Monument. CSMT is a major transportation hub, connecting Mumbai to various parts of India. 14 lakh passengers (approx.) are handled at this station through the operation of over 500 (approx.) trains daily. The building
has distinctive architectural value. Over the years, the terminus has become not only a transportation hub but also a popular tourist attraction.
The entire project shall have Green Building (Super ECBC) features with facilities for the reduction in energy consumption during construction as well as Operations & Maintenance. This is designed with passive energy-saving features, which promote the use of local materials and reuse the existing materials to the maximum extent possible.
HOW DOES NATURAL VENTILATION WORK?
Natural ventilation relies on natural forces, like wind and temperature differences, to circulate air within a building/space, promoting fresh air intake and reducing indoor pollutants. Here’s how it works:
1. Wind Pressure: When wind blows against a building, it creates pressure differences. Air enters through openings on the windward side and exits on the leeward side, facilitating cross-ventilation.
Overall station - Night view
Façade Design
In our design, a wind scoop has been proposed in the through roof to intake fresh air for natural ventilation. Openings in the wall also have been considered.
2. Stack Effect: Warm air rises because it’s lighter than cool air. In a multistory building, warm air from lower levels can escape through vents at higher levels, drawing in cooler air from below. This is particularly effective in taller structures.
We have designed the naturally ventilated concourse based on the stack effect principle. Fresh cold air comes from outside the building, while hot air rises through the atrium and is released into the atmosphere due to the stack effect.
3. Thermal Buoyancy: Sunlight can heat parts of a building, causing air in those areas to warm up and rise. This movement creates a cycle where cooler air from outside is drawn in to replace the rising warm air. To counter such an issue, we considered openings on the wall in the design.
4. Design Features: Effective natural ventilation often depends on design elements like window placement, ceiling height, and the orientation of the building. Features like operable windows and ventilated atriums enhance airflow.
5. Climate Considerations: The effectiveness of natural ventilation
varies based on local climate conditions, including temperature, humidity, and prevailing winds, however, we have captured the climatic data in our design.
By applying the above principles, we have maintained a comfortable indoor environment and reduced the need for mechanical ventilation systems.
HOW CFD TOOLS CAN ASSIST IN DESIGNING THE FAÇADE AND FENESTRATION FOR NATURAL VENTILATION?
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools are invaluable for designing façades and fenestration to optimize natural ventilation in buildings. Here’s how they assist in the process:
1. Airflow Simulation
• Visualising air movement: CFD allows us to visualise airflow patterns around and within buildings, helping identify how air enters, circulates, and exits.
• Understanding Ventilation Paths: By simulating different window configurations and orientations, we can pinpoint the most effective openings for cross-ventilation.
2. Performance Analysis
• Evaluating design options: CFD can model various façade designs and fenestration strategies, enabling comparison of their effectiveness in promoting natural ventilation.
Natural Ventilation Through Stack Effect
Façade Design
• Identifying hotspots: Simulations can highlight areas of stagnant air or overheating, guiding modifications to improve airflow and thermal comfort.
3. Wind Impact Assessment
• Assessing wind patterns: CFD can analyse how wind interacts with the building shape and surrounding landscape, informing the placement and size of windows and vents to maximise natural airflow.
• Simulating different conditions: We can test how different weather conditions (e.g., varying wind speeds and directions) affect ventilation performance.
4. Stack Effect Analysis
• Vertical airflow dynamics: CFD tools can simulate the stack effect, showing how warm air rises and how it can be effectively expelled from higher openings, drawing cooler air in from lower levels.
• Optimising ceiling heights and vent locations: By analysing the impact of ceiling heights and vent placements, we can optimise building layouts for better natural ventilation.
5. Thermal Comfort Evaluation
• Indoor climate modelling: CFD can be used to assess how natural ventilation strategies impact indoor temperature and comfort levels, considering factors like solar gain and thermal mass.
• Predicting air quality: Simulations can help predict the movement of pollutants or stale air, ensuring effective strategies for maintaining good indoor air quality.
6. Design Iteration and Optimisation
• Rapid prototyping: CFD allows for quick iterations of design changes, enabling us to test multiple scenarios and optimise designs before physical implementation.
• Cost-Effective solutions: By identifying the most effective design solutions early in the process, CFD can reduce the need for costly modifications later in construction.
By leveraging CFD tools, we have designed the façades and fenestration systems that not only enhance natural ventilation but also contribute to overall building performance and occupant comfort.
APPROACH TO DESIGNING THE FAÇADE AND FENESTRATION FOR NATURAL VENTILATION IN THE REDEVELOPMENT OF RAILWAY STATION BUILDINGS
Designing a façade and fenestration for natural ventilation involves a strategic approach that considers airflow, thermal comfort, and aesthetics. Here are key considerations:
1. Orientation and Placement
• Wind direction: Analyse prevailing wind patterns to optimise window placement for effective crossventilation.
• Sun orientation: Position windows to take advantage of natural light while minimising heat gain from direct sunlight.
LD Node Concourse
2. Wind scoop: Wind scoops are an effective way to enhance ventilation and cooling in hot climates, drawing on the power of natural wind patterns.
A wind scoop typically has an open top and a sloped or angled surface. Air intake louvers have been considered in the design for natural ventilation for the Concourse.
3. Window Types and Sizes
• Operable windows: We have considered the casement, sliding, or awning windows in our design that can be easily opened to facilitate airflow.
• Size variation: We have considered the different sizes of windows to balance aesthetics and functionality, allowing for both larger openings for airflow and smaller ones for controlled ventilation.
4. Façade Design
• Shading devices: We have considered the elements that can block excessive sunlight while allowing airflow, which helps reduce indoor temperatures.
• Roof and balconies: A wind scoop has been planned in the roof for natural airflow and to enhance indoor comfort condition.
5. Stack Ventilation
• High ceilings and transom windows: Utilise vertical atrium
Departure Atrium LD Node
space to allow warm air to rise and escape through higher openings, encouraging cooler air to enter through lower openings.
• Atriums or light wells: We have designed the central spaces that can promote stack effect, enhancing ventilation across multiple floors.
Façade Design
6. Landscaping
• Strategic planting: We are using trees and vegetation to block wind or shade windows, which can enhance the effectiveness of natural ventilation.
7. Simulation and Testing
• CFD analysis: We have conducted computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to predict airflow patterns and optimise the design.
• Performance monitoring: We have implemented strategies for monitoring indoor air quality and temperature to evaluate the effectiveness of natural ventilation.
By integrating these elements, we have created façades and fenestration systems that enhance natural ventilation and contribute to the overall sustainability and comfort of buildings.
MATERIALS USED FOR THE FAÇADE AND ROOF
Materials used for the façade and roof are selected to achieve comfortable temperatures for naturally ventilated buildings.
Selecting materials for façades and roofs in naturally ventilated buildings is crucial for achieving comfortable indoor temperatures and optimising natural ventilation. Here are some key material considerations:
Through Roof Scoop
Façade Design
1. Roofing Materials
• Cool roof materials: These are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, helping to keep buildings cooler. To enhance sunlight reflection, we will utilise light-coloured, highly reflective paint.
• Through the roof: Zink Sheet with Rock wool/XLPE Insulation.
• Concrete roof: Deck Slab with XLPE/ PIR/EPS Insulation
2. Glazing Options
• Low-Emissivity (Low-E) glass: This type of glass reflects infrared radiation while allowing visible light to pass through, reducing heat gain while maintaining natural light.
• Coated reflective glass: These help to control solar heat gain while still providing views and daylight.
4. Overall Heat Transfer Coefficient of Materials:
The materials have been selected based on their thermal properties, reflectivity, and permeability, to create naturally ventilated buildings that maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while promoting energy efficiency.
Quick Facts:
• Project: Redevelopment of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) Railway Station and construction of associated Infrastructure
• Location: Mumbai (Maharashtra), India
• Name of Client: Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA)
• Typology: Railway Station
• Architect: M/s. ANA Design Studio Pvt. Ltd
• Principal Architect: Amin Nayyar
• Name of Contractor: M/s. Ahluwalia Contracts (India) Ltd.
Senior Manager-Design (Mechanical) ANA Design Studio Pvt. Ltd.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jawed Ali is a seasoned HVAC Design Engineer with over ten years of experience in designing, implementing, and optimising heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. He has a proven track record across various project types, including residential, industrial, pharmaceutical, and commercial sectors. With a degree in mechanical engineering, he combines technical expertise with innovative problem-solving skills to enhance energy efficiency and improve indoor air quality. His work involves collaborating with architects and contractors to ensure seamless integration of HVAC solutions while staying updated on industry trends and regulations. He is passionate about sustainable design and actively contributes to green building initiatives to create comfortable and efficient environments that meet modern standards.
Platform LD Node
WITH SIDERISE®
Global experts in passive fire solutions for the building envelope
At Siderise®, we believe that when it comes to fire safety, doing ‘just enough’ is never enough.
As global experts in passive fire protection, we dedicate ourselves to delivering products, systems, and services with integrity that Go Beyond ® Through our dedication to robust testing and our investment in nurturing technical excellence, we are equipping design and construction teams all over the world with the cutting-edge tools and solutions they need to Go Beyond to create a safer built environment... long into the future.
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Façade Acoustics
Creating Harmony - Acoustic Considerations for Curtain Wall
Façades
Sound is part of any residential, commercial, or mixed-use city building experience— from the people interacting in nearby apartments to music drifting from shops and restaurants. However, when you get inside your home, hotel room, or office, it is vital that this commotion is left outside of your space. Disruptive noise levels can damage sleep and interrupt concentration and productivity1 Nuisance noise can also lead to longterm health issues.
Acoustic separation in curtain-walled buildings is a particular challenge for façade designers. Often constructed using lightweight and hollow aluminium profiles and glazed panels, they can offer multiple potential paths for sound to travel from room to room. Therefore, it is important that designers consider both the structural and sound absorption properties of building elements and partitions, and understand how to treat the voids that will occur between them early on in their process to enable the
creation of acoustically comfortable and functional spaces for occupants.
MEASURING SOUND
Before we explore direct sound transmission paths and how to reduce them, it is important to clarify some of the key measurements used when talking about building acoustics. People often refer to decibels (dB). Whilst a decibel can tell you the sound pressure level by itself, it doesn’t indicate the content of the noise being measured. This is why acoustic metrics are employed to set this metric in a context:
Decibel (dB) RW
An Rw is the weighted sound reduction index. It is a laboratory-measured value for identifying the airborne sound insulation performance of a ‘building element’. It is used for internal or external walls, ceilings/floors, windows, doors, or any separating element. The higher the Rw value, the better that element performs in reducing sound transmission. Because it is a laboratory-tested level the Rw does not take into account any flanking noise paths which would occur on site. This means it is highly unlikely a Rw 50dB wall will reduce noise by 50dB onsite.
Decibel (dB) Dnf,w
A laboratory-tested performance value of a ‘system’ such as a curtain wall façade, raised access floor, or suspended ceiling. This is a flanking sound transmission, tested in a similar way as described above with the system installed between two rooms.
1 Pawlaczyk-Luszczyńiska, M., Dudarewicz, A., Waszkowska, M., Szymczak, W., & Sliwińska-Kowalska, M. (2005). The impact of low-frequency noise on human mental performance. International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health, 18(2), 185–198: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/16201210/
Acoustic comfort is a key consideration for any modern building (Project: Ciel Tower, Dubai)
Façade Acoustics
Decibel (dB) DnT,w
There are variations on a level difference, including the DnTw. A DnTw normalises the Dw to account for the reverberation time – or echo – in the receiving room. This allows us to compare measured sound insulation results between different rooms and at different times, irrespective of the amount of echo in the receiving room. In theory, the DnTw sound insulation performance should remain the same when testing between a pair of rooms when they are unfurnished compared to tests when the rooms have been furnished and carpeted.
POTENTIAL SOUND TRANSMISSION PATHS
Whilst there are many ‘flanking’ sound transmission paths in glazed façades, the following five paths can typically be considered the most significant with the total combined performance of each of these paths giving the Dnf,w value.
1. Glazing Element
Sound waves hit the vision glass causing vibrations within it. These vibrations travel through to adjacent rooms via the structure of the glass itself and re-radiate as noise. Spans of glass and spandrel panels, the number of separating transoms and their stiffness all play a part in how sound travels along this path.
2. Transoms
Sound energy strikes the transom and becomes structure borne. The vibrations travel through the transom profile into the spandrel panel, and then radiate into the adjacent room. Spandrel panel height, construction, transom design and the number of
separating transoms affect how sound travels along this path.
3. Mullions
Sound energy hits the mullion structural element and becomes structure borne. The vibrations then travel through the frame and radiate into the adjacent room. The height of the spandrel zone, and the design and frequency of mullions have an impact on how the sound energy travels along this path. Library test data suggests that this path can cause the most issues in the 500Hz — 1000Hz range of frequencies – a range that the human ear is highly sensitive to. Furthermore, results from testing have shown that continuous mullions spanning multiple floors are the main performance limiting factor (PLF) in façade design.
4. The Hollows of the Mullions
Sound energy hits the mullion and passes through into the hollow of the profile, which is a highly reverberant space, then travels up or down the building before breaking back out again into the adjacent rooms.
5. Movement Joint/Firestop Zone
The area around firestop zones, where different building elements meet, can present a path for flanking sound transmission. Carefully designing and treating these zones with high
Sound measurement scale – data from the World Health Organisation (WHO)
Acoustic separation in curtain-walled buildings can be a challenge for façade designers (Project: Canary Wharf, London)
Façade Acoustics
mass, and isolating materials with fire-resistant elements is crucial for achieving good sound insulation as well as for meeting the required fire resistance performance.
It’s important to note that the overall performance of a curtain wall system is only as good as its weakest link. Addressing the weakest sound transmission path is crucial for achieving substantial improvements in noise control.
KEY STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE NOISE CONTROL
There are several strategies designers can take to reduce the noise transmission through these paths, enhancing the acoustic performance of curtain-walled buildings, while maintaining their aesthetic appeal:
Splitting Mullions at Floor Levels
A significant increase in potential overall performance can be achieved by fully decoupling the mullions at the floor level.
This is achieved by splitting and then rejoining mullions with adjoining spigots at the floor line.
Twin Transom Design
Single transom designs will often limit the possible overall floor-to-floor performance. Using twin transoms instead can help reduce noise transmission through these elements.
High-Performance Glass Units
Specifying glass with higher acoustic properties can help to mitigate noise transmission from outside to inside and through the glazing element internally.
High Mass Treatments
Incorporating high-mass materials, such as acoustic matting or panels, can significantly improve noise control, particularly in the floor to façade junction.
Decoupled Framing
Decoupling the building’s framing from surrounding structures can effectively
reduce the transmission of noise through structural elements.
Acoustic Insulation
Incorporating layers within the structure such as elastomeric interlayers can significantly reduce the transmission paths. This is effective when addressing flanking transmission.
Beyond these design strategies, there are also several acoustic enhancement products that have been specifically engineered for use in façades. They are designed to be incorporated within the curtain wall system to reduce vertical and horizontal noise transmission.
ACOUSTIC ENHANCEMENTS OF FAÇADE SYSTEM ELEMENTS
As highlighted above, the ability of an individual product or system to limit noise transmission is quantified by its Sound Reduction Index measured in dB RW. Whilst the exact performance requirements and product selection will depend on the project, choosing solutions
With more people living and working in urban spaces, sustainability frameworks such as LEED and BREEAM consider the acoustic performance of buildings (Project: 100 Liverpool Street, London)
that have been designed, developed, and tested specifically for noise control in curtain wall applications can help to ensure compatibility.
Different options are available which have been tailored to meet the needs of common conditions encountered in these façade types, ensuring both effective noise control and ease of installation. High-mass materials incorporated between internal partitions and curtain wall mullions can also be useful when considering the noise transmission from the framing structure.
As mentioned above, another key area to consider is the junction between the floor slab and the curtain wall system— in what is known as the firestop zone, movement gap, or perimeter joint. Considering the acoustic performance of the firestop itself is key— as well of course as ensuring it meets the required fire integrity and insulation (E & I) performance. From both a fire safety and an acoustic insulation perspective, it is also crucial that the firestop can expand and compress with the façade’s dynamic movement. Failure to do so can result in gaps forming, providing a ready path for noise, fire and smoke to travel internally through the structure. Where the acoustic performance of the firestop itself doesn’t meet the required
performance, acoustic overlays can be applied to improve sound performance by adding mass and absorbent materials to treat sound transmission.
In terms of external treatments, specialized mullion covers have been developed to be installed over the top of curtain walling mullions where partitions abut. This substantially improves their acoustic performance and can typically be finished in the designers’ choice of colours to integrate with the overall aesthetic. These products are ideal for projects where internal acoustic upgrades to the mullion have not been used or are not practical. This includes situations where the internal layout is unknown during construction or when fit-out or operation has already begun. Its simple installation process allows it to be installed quickly with minimal disruption to building occupants without the need to empty spaces of furniture or equipment.
CUT THROUGH THE NOISE
Noise control in lightweight aluminium curtain walling systems is a challenging but fundamental part of ensuring a successful project and functional building. By incorporating the appropriate design strategies and investing in acoustic product enhancements from the outset, architects and contractors can deliver buildings that provide huge returns in acoustic comfort.
Façade Acoustics
DONEL DIPPI
Head of Technical, Siderise Middle East, India, and Asia Pacific
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Donel Dippi, Head of Technical for Siderise Middle East, India, and Asia Pacific, is an experienced stakeholder-focused Technical Engineer who specialises in passive fire protection and acoustic solutions for the façades of buildings. With a deep understanding of testing, certification, compliance, and regulatory codes, he helps architects, façade consultants, contractors, developers, and fire and rescue services navigate the complexities of fire safety in both the new construction and retrofitting of buildings, whilst giving guidance on where there is scope for improving performance levels.
For more details, contact: Siderise India Pvt. Ltd
Mobile: +91 998 700 4611
Email: siderisein@siderise.com
Website: www.siderise.com
Mullion covers - investing in acoustic product enhancements from the outset can provide huge returns in acoustic comfort
As an architect specialising in parametric design, my work thrives at the intersection of technology, creativity, and sustainability. The façades and fenestration in my projects go beyond aesthetics to embody innovation and functionality. Parametric tools have empowered me to conceptualise and realise dynamic designs that adapt to environmental factors while addressing modern architectural challenges. Through my projects, I’ve explored the future of façades and fenestration in diverse and meaningful ways.
THE ROLE OF PARAMETRIC DESIGN IN FUTURE FAÇADES
Parametric design has been a gamechanger, allowing me to create façades that are responsive, functional, and visually stunning. A prime example is House of Dynamic Sunlight, where a geometric parametric façade combines angular forms with carefully calculated shading elements. The façade was designed to respond to sunlight and
privacy requirements, offering an everchanging aesthetic depending on the time of day.
This façade demonstrates how computational design can optimise form and performance, turning a building into
a dynamic, living entity that interacts with its surroundings.
CUSTOMISATION AND PRECISION
The ability to customise façades through parametric tools has allowed me to bring site-specific and usercentric designs to life. In Symbiotic Parasite, the angular overhang acts as a functional sculpture, blending precise geometry with utility. This feature was created using algorithmic tools to ensure adequate shading while adding a dramatic architectural statement to the design.
Through parametric iterations, I expanded the usable space and created shading inside it, ensuring the created space responded to the client’s functional needs and the site’s environmental conditions.
PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN DESIGN
Environmental performance has always been a critical focus of th designs. In the project Qure, the façade’s perforated brick patterns were parametrically designed to ensure optimal cross-
In Valanko ni Ramat, the design uses vibrant forms and materials
In the project House of Dynamic Sunlight, a geometric parametric façade combines angular forms with carefully calculated shading elements
In the project, Qure, the façade’s perforated brick patterns were parametrically designed to ensure optimal cross-ventilation and natural light penetration
ventilation and natural light penetration. The circular fenestration was carefully placed using computational tools to create a visually cohesive design while maintaining functionality.
This approach has given the building IGBC a gold rating showcasing how parametric design can merge aesthetics with sustainability.
MATERIAL INNOVATION
Parametric design has also allowed me to experiment with materials in unique and innovative ways. In Valanko ni Ramat, the design uses vibrant forms and materials to engage children while ensuring safety and durability. The undulating structures were parametrically designed and fabricated to provide tactile interaction and playful exploration.
This project is a testament to how computational design enables the
efficient use of materials, reducing waste while creating dynamic, engaging environments.
THE EVOLUTION OF DESIGN TOOLS
The integration of AI and advanced computational tools has elevated my practice, allowing me to explore generative design and simulation-driven workflows. Each of the above projects reflects the use of cutting-edge parametric tools like Grasshopper, Rhino, and plugins like kangaroo and python to streamline design development and execution. These tools have enabled me to design with precision, collaborate effectively, and push the boundaries of what façades and fenestration can achieve.
THE FUTURE VISION: SMART FAÇADES
As I look ahead, the future of façades lies in creating smart, adaptive systems
Façade Design
that harmonise with their environment. Imagine façades that generate energy, regulate temperatures, and enhance user comfort dynamically. The next frontier involves integrating responsive materials and real-time adaptability into architectural design.
CONCLUSION
Through my projects, I’ve seen how parametric design transforms façades and fenestration into high-performance elements that elevate both form and function. By integrating computational tools, site-specific customisation, and sustainable practices, I strive to create designs that redefine the built environment.
Parametric façades are more than an aesthetic choice—they are the future of architecture, where creativity, technology, and sustainability converge. I’m excited to continue exploring this dynamic field and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in architectural design.
In Symbiotic Parasite, the angular overhang acts as a functional sculpture, blending precise geometry with utility
Case Study
Symbiotic Parasite: Unveiling an Unconventional Design Language
Satellite, Ahmedabad
In the heart of Satellite, an upscale locality in Ahmedabad, Symbiotic Parasite emerges as an architectural gem within the bustling neighbourhood. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail by the visionary team at HSC Designs, this extension unit to a residential bungalow represents more than just a physical structure; it embodies a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary design principles. This 100–150 sq. ft. project exemplifies the firm’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation, merging old-world charm with modern functionality to cater to the dynamic lifestyle of a young couple.
Breaking free from conventional architecture, the structure’s avant-garde design language creates a striking presence in the neighbourhood. Far
from blending into the background, it asserts itself confidently, becoming a focal point that enriches the visual landscape. Initially met with scepticism due to its bold and unconventional
aesthetics, Symbiotic Parasite has since won over residents and passers-by. Its playful design captivates both adults and children alike, fostering curiosity and admiration. Even local wildlife
Symbiotic Parasite – a project by HSC Designs at Satellite, an upscale locality in Ahmedabad
Breaking free from conventional architecture, the structure’s avant-garde design language creates a striking presence in the neighbourhood
Symbiotic Parasite is not only a structural addition but also showcases the profound relationship between the extension and the existing residence
interacts with the structure—birds perch on its tips, and baby monkeys explore its surfaces—highlighting the organic connection between the built and natural environments.
The name Symbiotic Parasite carries deep significance, representing not only a structural addition but also the profound relationship between the extension and the existing residence. The project symbolizes the convergence of contrasting architectural styles, showcasing a harmonious coexistence with the original home. Architect Hiloni Sutaria envisioned not just an extension, but a living space that respects the essence of the existing bungalow while introducing innovative elements. This thoughtful approach transforms the
project into a blend of past and present, where every detail is curated to enhance the whole.
A key design philosophy behind the project is the strategic use of natural light to create a serene ambiance. The structure’s facets are calibrated to allow sunlight to permeate at lower angles, casting a soft, welcoming glow throughout the interior. Mirrors and carefully crafted windows amplify this effect, giving the space a sense of boundless serenity. Beyond aesthetics, the design serves practical needs, offering cozy nooks for relaxation and dedicated work areas for creative pursuits. This versatility transforms the extension into a sanctuary that evolves seamlessly from day to night.
Symbiotic Parasite exemplifies a design philosophy where contrasting ideas converge to enrich one another. Instead of erasing the past, the project breathes new life into architectural heritage, adding layers of novelty and vitality to the existing framework.
Quick Facts:
• Project: Symbiotic Parasite
• Location: Satellite, Ahmedabad
• Design Studio: HSC Design
• Principal Designer: Hiloni Sutaria
• Project Area: 100 sq.ft
• Project photography: Phx India
Façade Design
HILONI SUTARIA
Head Architect, HSC Designs
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hiloni Sutaria’s journey into architecture is as unconventional as her designs. Initially envisioning a career in dentistry, her path changed after a conversation with her mother in twelfth grade. Despite struggling in art classes due to her whimsical, unconventional drawings, she discovered her passion for architecture after enrolling on a whim. College deepened her love for the discipline, blending creativity with problemsolving to enhance lives.
Today, as the founder of HSC Designs, Hiloni integrates technology, sustainability, and client needs into innovative projects. Inspired by constructivist art, science fiction, and global travel, her work balances aesthetic appeal with functionality. Known for zero-waste initiatives and repurposed materials, she promotes sustainable design. Hiloni’s vision for architecture focuses on grassroots sustainability, inspiring the next generation to embrace innovation and environmental responsibility.
The structure adds layers of novelty and vitality to the existing framework
1 million+
The Use of Zinc on Façades: Innovative Designs and Technologies
THE USE OF ZINC ON FAÇADES: INNOVATIVE DESIGNS AND TECHNOLOGIES
In the world of contemporary architecture, materials that combine aesthetic versatility, durability, and sustainability are highly sought after. Zinc, a metal with a rich architectural history, is making a strong comeback as a modern choice for façades. Its timeless appeal, coupled with new technologies and innovative design possibilities, has made zinc a favorite among architects.
As a material, zinc is celebrated for its flexibility, durability, and natural beauty, while also offering sustainable benefits
that align with today’s green building goals. In this article, we will explore how zinc façades have evolved, the key advantages of using zinc, and how cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future of zinc in architecture.
THE TIMELESS APPEAL OF ZINC
Zinc has been used in construction for centuries, particularly in Europe, where its durability and corrosion resistance made it a preferred roofing material. Today, its use has expanded beyond roofs to include façades, where architects are embracing its unique combination of form and function.
DURABILITY AND LONGEVITY
Zinc façades are synonymous with longevity. One of the key reasons for this is the formation of a natural patina, which occurs when zinc is exposed to the elements. This patina acts as a protective layer, preventing corrosion and enhancing the material’s durability. Over time, the patina evolves, ensuring that zinc maintains its structural integrity for decades, often over 80 years, with minimal maintenance.
Zinc’s ability to self-heal is another remarkable feature. If scratched, the patina will naturally repair itself, making zinc façades an ideal low-maintenance
Zinc is celebrated for its flexibility, durability, and natural beauty, while also offering sustainable benefits
solution for long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing buildings.
AESTHETIC FLEXIBILITY
Zinc’s versatility in design is one of its greatest strengths. Available in a wide variety of finishes, including natural zinc, pre-weathered finishes like QUARTZ-ZINC and ANTHRA-ZINC, and vibrant colour options such as PIGMENTO® in red, green, blue, and brown, zinc offers architects a rich palette of options. These finishes allow buildings to adapt to different architectural styles, whether it’s a minimalist contemporary structure or a traditional design with historical influences.
Zinc’s matte finish and subtle hues lend an understated elegance to the façades making it a popular choice for projects that seek a balance between modernity and classic refinement.
SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability is a critical consideration in modern architecture, and zinc shines in this area. Zinc is 100% recyclable and has a relatively low carbon footprint compared to other metals. The production of zinc requires less energy, and because of its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements, it significantly reduces the need for material replacement over time.
Using zinc as a façade material aligns with green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), making it an ideal choice for architects and developers aiming to create ecofriendly structures.
PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES: TECHNOLOGIES TRANSFORMING ZINC FAÇADES
Recent technological advancements have revolutionised the way zinc is used in façade design. From cuttingedge fabrication methods to innovative finishes, zinc’s versatility has expanded, allowing architects to push the boundaries of what is possible in façade design.
Façade Material
DIGITAL FABRICATION AND CUSTOMISATION
Digital fabrication technologies, including CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines and 3D modeling software, have transformed the way zinc façades are designed and constructed. These tools allow for more precise cutting, shaping, and assembly of zinc panels, enabling architects to experiment with complex geometries and patterns that would have been difficult to achieve using traditional methods.
Free-form façades, intricate parametric designs, and flowing curved surfaces can now be realised with zinc, all while maintaining the material’s inherent durability and beauty. The combination of zinc’s malleability and digital fabrication tools has opened new doors for creative expression in architecture.
PRE-WEATHERED ZINC FINISHES
Traditionally, zinc develops a patina over time, which gives it its distinctive weathered appearance. However, waiting for this natural process to occur can take years, depending on the environment. To address this, manufacturers have developed preweathered zinc finishes like QUARTZZINC and ANTHRA-ZINC. These finishes replicate the natural aging process,
providing a uniform and consistent look from the moment the façade is installed.
This innovation offers architects immediate aesthetic control, allowing them to specify the desired finish and ensure that the building’s exterior aligns with their vision from day one. Preweathered finishes also enhance the material’s corrosion resistance, adding another layer of protection to already durable zinc façades.
PREFABRICATED ZINC PANELS
Use of prefabricated zinc panels is another technological advancement that has simplified the installation process and improved overall quality. Prefabrication allows zinc panels to be produced in a controlled factory environment, ensuring precision and consistency. These panels can then be quickly and efficiently installed on site, reducing construction time and labour costs.
Modular zinc systems are particularly beneficial for large-scale projects where time is a critical factor. By prefabricating zinc panels, architects and contractors can ensure that the installation process is seamless and that the finished façade meets all design and performance specifications.
Zinc is 100% recyclable and has a relatively low carbon footprint compared to other metals
BVB Stadium, Bengaluru
The BVB (Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan) Stadium in Bengaluru represents another landmark project where zinc was chosen for its versatility and robustness. The architects behind the stadium aimed to create a structure that was both functional for sports events and aesthetically striking, with a façade that would endure the city’s fluctuating weather conditions. VMZINC’s ANTHRA-ZINC finish was selected for the project due to its sleek, dark appearance and proven ability to resist corrosion in challenging environments.
The use of zinc in the BVB Stadium highlights its adaptability to large-scale public projects. Zinc’s flexibility allowed the architects to create dynamic, flowing lines that accentuate the stadium’s form. The standing seam system was utilised to ensure a smooth, continuous surface, contributing to the stadium’s bold, futuristic aesthetic.
Moreover, the zinc façade provides thermal efficiency, ensuring that the building remains cool even under the intense heat of Bengaluru’s summers. This combination of energy efficiency, low maintenance, and striking design has made the BVB Stadium a standout example of how zinc façades can enhance both the visual appeal and functionality of sports infrastructure in India.
SUMIT SAHAY
General Manager, VMZINC
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sumit Sahay is an Experienced General Manager with a demonstrated history of working in Building Automation, Electronic Security Solutions & Architectural Products for the Building Construction industry. He is a strong sales professional skilled in solution selling, technical discussions, key account management, business development, sales management, team management.
Façade Materials
Selection and Use of Paints and Coatings for Different Types of Building Envelopes, Doors and Windows
The primary function of architectural coatings extends far beyond aesthetic enhancement, serving as a crucial protective barrier for building structures. While the Indian market often emphasises the decorative aspects of paint, it is essential to recognise that protection stands as the foremost priority in global construction standards. This fundamental understanding becomes particularly significant given the diverse quality grades of coatings available in the Indian market, where selecting appropriate protective solutions demands careful consideration. Furthermore, the importance of coatings discussed here is equally critical for the application on all substrates - including plaster walls, RCC walls, precast walls, cement boards, stainless steel (SS), mild steel (MS), and aluminium materials including aluminium composite panels (ACP) - not just for the projects mentioned later in this article.
SELECTION OF PROPER COATINGS
The selection of proper coatings begins with understanding the
substrate’s characteristics and choosing suitable primers. The importance of primer selection must be particularly emphasised, as it forms the foundation of the entire coating system. A properly
selected and applied primer helps achieve the designed service of the coating system, while an inappropriate choice can lead to premature failure regardless of the quality of subsequent layers.
APPLICATION
Primer dilution requires special attention. The optimal dilution ratio typically ranges from 10-25% with appropriate water-based or solvent materials, though this may vary depending on the specific primer type and environmental conditions. Excessive dilution significantly compromises the primer’s protective properties, thus requiring the utmost attention. Products that recommend primer dilution exceeding this ratio may have insufficient capacity to form an effective seal. This can result in inadequate protection against alkaline substrates and poor adhesion of subsequent coating layers, therefore demanding rigorous oversight.
In architectural coatings, protecting the building structure is more important than decoration
Apple Official Stone BKC project - Silicone based breathable coating on acrylic based texture coating. Application on Cement Board
Smooth surfaces such as metal doors, aluminium frames, and cement boards present unique challenges, as their non-porous nature requires specialised primers to achieve adequate bonding strength. These surfaces often have minimal surface profile for mechanical adhesion, making the chemical bonding properties of the primer crucial. Additionally, these materials may experience significant thermal expansion and contraction, requiring primers that can maintain adhesion under such stress.
For cement board applications, such as those used in the Apple Official Stone BKC project, primer selection becomes even more critical due to the dual challenges of surface smoothness and high alkalinity. The primer must not only provide excellent adhesion to the smooth surface but also create an effective barrier against alkaline migration from subsequent layers. The primer’s film formation must be complete and uniform. Any weakness in this layer can lead to localised coating failure and substrate deterioration.
Environmental conditions during primer application significantly impact its performance. Temperature, humidity, and surface moisture content all play crucial roles in proper film formation. Primers applied outside their recommended temperature and humidity ranges may not form proper films, leading to adhesion issues or inadequate protection. Surface preparation, including proper cleaning and ensuring appropriate surface pH, is equally important for primer performance.
For high-performance architectural applications, texture coating functions not only as an aesthetic layer but also as an intermediate layer contributing to building protection. Resin-based textures provide excellent weathering resistance and protection against surface cracking. They also help prevent structural deterioration, making them highly recommended. Conversely, cement-based texture coatings are
Façade Materials
highly susceptible to weathering and cracking, and fail to provide adequate building protection. The focus should be on products that offer both decorative appeal and protective properties while maintaining long-term durability.
The final and critical component of the coating system is the topcoat, which must possess high resin content and quality to ensure adequate protection. Advanced topcoat technologies incorporating silicone, polyurethane, or fluorine-based resins offer superior weather resistance and longevity, which ultimately contributes significantly to sustainability initiatives being implemented worldwide. However, careful evaluation of resin content and quality is essential, as not all products marketed as premium solutions in the Indian market provide the necessary level of protection.
The economic implications of coating selection cannot be overlooked. While initial cost considerations might tempt stakeholders to choose lowergrade products, this approach leads to premature coating failure, colour fading, and delamination within a few years, resulting in significantly higher maintenance costs over time. A wellplanned investment in quality coating systems proves more cost-effective in the long run by reducing maintenance requirements and extending the protection period.
For optimal results in architectural coating applications, professionals must follow a systematic approach. This includes thorough substrate assessment, selection of appropriate primers based on surface characteristics, application of suitable texture coatings, and finishing with high-performance
Primer selection becomes even more critical due to the dual challenges of surface smoothness and high alkalinity
When it comes to texture coating, choosing resin-based textures rather than cement-based ones is one of the most crucial points for properly protecting the building structure
Façade Materials
Paint is a semi-finished product, therefore collaboration with contractors is essential. To achieve better results, it is necessary to work together with contractors as one team until project completion.
topcoats. Each layer must be carefully selected and applied according to manufacturer specifications. Regular quality control during application (including monitoring of environmental conditions and proper documentation of application procedures) helps ensure the long-term success of the coating system.
ACHIEVING OPTIMAL RESULTS WITH SURFACE COATING
After elaborating on the importance of selecting appropriate coatings and systems for various substrates, the most crucial factor in achieving optimal results resides in the quality of application. The success of any coating system fundamentally depends on the expertise of the application team who fully comprehend the role of coatings and can properly deliver them to the wall surfaces.
It is essential to understand that coating products are, by their nature, semifinished products. Their final quality is heavily influenced by the application process. The difference between average and excellent application stems from both how superior the product itself is and how it is applied. This characteristic of coating systems makes the selection
of application contractors particularly critical.
ACHIEVING GLOBAL STANDARDS OF BUILDING PROTECTION
Working with properly trained and professional application contractors is not merely a preference but a necessity to achieve the global standard of building protection. These professionals understand the intricacies of surface preparation, environmental conditions, and proper application techniques that directly impact the coating system’s performance. Their expertise ensures that each layer of the coating system performs its intended function, from the primer’s adhesion to the topcoat’s protective properties.
In the Indian market context, this understanding becomes even more significant. The effort to combine appropriate coating selection with quality application through professional contractors can substantially influence India’s architectural culture. This holistic approach to coating application, emphasising both product selection and application expertise, represents a crucial step toward elevating construction standards in India to match global benchmarks for building protection and longevity.
SHOTARO KAWADA
Regional Manager (West India), SKK India
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shotaro Kawada serves as the Regional Manager of West India at SKK India, where he brings cuttingedge Japanese coating expertise to the Indian market. Based in Mumbai for approximately five years, he has successfully contributed to over 100 projects throughout the region. His expertise spans high-quality coating solutions and comprehensive wall surface delivery support. Combining advanced technical knowledge of coating systems with extensive practical implementation experience, He has established himself as a leading authority in architectural coating applications. Through his leadership and commitment to excellence, he has been instrumental in elevating coating standards across numerous prestigious construction projects throughout India.
Innovative Use of ACP on Façades
JAX Studio’s dynamic exterior, featuring carefully selected ACPs, showcases the perfect fusion of cutting-edge design with the demands of the local climate
Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) have become a cornerstone in modern architecture, particularly in façade design. Architects and designers seek functional and aesthetically versatile materials, and ACP perfectly meets these needs. Known for its lightweight nature, durability, and flexibility, ACP has revolutionised how building façades are designed. As the most visible part of a building, façades serve as both an identity marker and a protective barrier. Over the last decade, ACP has gained popularity in commercial and residential projects due to its resistance to harsh weather conditions, fire safety, and wide range of available finishes.
A prime example of innovative ACP use is the Jax Studio project in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Located in the culturally vibrant JAX district, Jax Studio is a creative hub for artists, designers, and museums. It is not just a building but a landmark
representing modern creativity. The façade of Jax Studio is a showcase of architectural innovation, using ACP extensively in Colour 8016 with 4 mm FR CLASS B specifications, covering 5,000 square meters. This choice not only contributed to the building’s aesthetic identity but also ensured long-term durability in Riyadh’s challenging climate.
Façades are often referred to as the “skin” of a building, interacting with the environment and the public. For Jax Studio, the architects faced the challenge of designing a visually striking façade that also offered functional protection against extreme heat, sandstorms, and sun exposure. ACP’s versatility made it the perfect choice. The design team wanted a material that could deliver aesthetic flexibility and high performance in the hot, dry climate of Riyadh. ACP provided a sleek, modern look while also enduring
the region’s extreme environmental conditions.
One of ACP’s biggest advantages is its aesthetic versatility. It comes in a variety of colours, textures, and finishes, allowing architects to tailor the appearance of a building to suit the project’s design needs. For Jax Studio, Colour 8016, a deep earthy tone, was chosen to reflect both modernity and the desert landscape around Riyadh. ACP also offers the flexibility to mimic other materials like wood, stone, or metal, giving architects the freedom to achieve any design vision.
In addition to its colour and finish options, ACP can be used to create complex design elements such as curves, geometric patterns, and bold angles. This material’s flexibility allowed Jax Studio’s architects to explore creative forms, making the building stand out. The chosen finish for Jax Studio created
Façade Material
a clean and contemporary look, while the texture added depth to the façade.
The climate of Riyadh presents unique challenges for façade design, as extreme heat and sandstorms can damage a building’s exterior over time. ACP panels are highly resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations, making them ideal for such environments. The ACP façade at Jax Studio was chosen for its ability to withstand these conditions, ensuring the building’s appearance and structural integrity over time.
The 4 mm FR CLASS B ACP panels used at Jax Studio are also fire-resistant, meeting strict safety regulations for public and commercial spaces. This specification reduces the spread of fire, adding an extra layer of security. As fire safety regulations become more stringent, especially for high-rise and commercial buildings, the demand for fire-resistant ACP has grown. The fire-resistant qualities of the ACP used at Jax Studio not only ensured the safety of occupants but also aligned with the building’s purpose of fostering a secure environment for the creative community.
In terms of maintenance, ACP offers several advantages. Its smooth surface is easy to clean, and its resistance to corrosion and wear reduces the need for frequent upkeep. This is especially important for high-profile projects like Jax Studio, where the building’s visual appeal is critical to its
identity. ACP’s low-maintenance nature ensures that the façade remains pristine for years, reducing long-term operational costs.
One of the key concerns in modern façade design is safety. Large public or commercial buildings, like Jax Studio, must comply with stringent safety standards. The use of ACP in façades has been carefully evaluated, leading to the development of fire-resistant grades that meet global safety requirements. The FR CLASS B specification used for Jax Studio incorporates a mineral core that limits fire spread, ensuring the building meets local and international fire safety standards.
Another significant benefit of ACP is its ease of installation. Being lightweight, it reduces the load on the building’s structure and simplifies transportation and on-site handling. For large projects like Jax Studio, this is crucial as it speeds up construction and reduces costs. At
A seamless blend of form and function, JAX Studio’s façade offers both visual impact and long-term performance
Jax Studio, prefabricated ACP panels were custom-cut and shaped off-site, then installed using mechanical fixation techniques. This approach minimised construction time and ensured a secure attachment to the building’s structure.
The flexibility of ACP allowed the architects to incorporate unique design elements, such as curves and geometric patterns, without compromising on installation speed. This combination of aesthetic appeal and structural efficiency contributed to the building’s overall success. The result is a façade that is not only visually striking but also practical and cost-effective.
As demand for sustainable, cost-effective building materials grows, ACP is expected to play an even greater role in the future of façade design. Its versatility, durability, and fire-resistant qualities make it an ideal choice for architects looking to push design boundaries while meeting the practical needs of modern buildings. The innovative use of ACP at Jax Studio serves as a model for future architectural projects that combine creativity with functionality.
As cities continue to evolve, ACP’s role in shaping urban landscapes will become more significant. Its ability to balance form and function ensures it will remain a preferred material for façade design across commercial, residential, and public projects. The Jax Studio project stands as a testament to ACP’s potential in revolutionising façade design, showcasing how it can bring architectural visions to life while ensuring performance and durability.
The use of ACP in façade design has transformed modern architecture. Jax Studio’s façade in Riyadh exemplifies how ACP can be used to create visually stunning and functional buildings. From its wide range of aesthetic options to its fire-resistant properties and ease of installation, ACP is truly a game-changer in façade design. The success of the Jax Studio project highlights the material’s potential and solidifies its role in shaping the future of urban architecture.
Safety meets elegance at JAX Studio, where 4mm FR Class B ACP Panels provide fire-resistant protection while contributing to the building’s sleek, modern façade
Case Study
Jax Studio, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia - Riyadh- Diriyah - Jax District
The quick and precise installation of the façade panels ensures both structural integrity and a sleek finish
DESIGN CONCEPT
The JAX Studio is designed as a vibrant hub for the creative community, encompassing artists, designers, and museums. This innovative space aims to foster collaboration and artistic expression within one of the most iconic districts of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
SELECTION OF FAÇADE AND FENESTRATION MATERIALS
Central to the design of JAX Studio is its façade, which plays a key role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the building. The façade features Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) compliant with international building codes such as EN 13501, ASTM D1929, ASTM E84, NFPA 285, also certified by the SASO Quality Mark, a mandatory local requirement in Saudi Arabia is chosen for their durability, fire resistance, and visual appeal. The panels are coated in 8016 Corten Steel 2 , a rich, rust-like finish that lends an industrial yet artistic feel to the structure.
The ACP panels are classified as FR Class B, ensuring they meet rigorous fire safety standards, a vital consideration for a large public space like JAX Studio. With a total of 4,495 ACP panels covering 5,000 square meters, the building’s exterior not only enhances its visual appeal but also ensures a high level of safety and sustainability. The selection of these materials was guided by the need for durability and the ability to withstand
Riyadh’s harsh weather conditions, while also providing a striking visual identity.
INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES
The installation of the ACP façade involved advanced techniques that prioritise efficiency and precision. Our team ensured that the panels were fitted securely to create a seamless and visually striking exterior that complements the innovative design concept of the JAX Studio. The façade not only provides an eye-catching appearance but also contributes to the building’s sustainability and energy efficiency.
The innovative use of ACP façade and fenestration design in JAX Studio reflects our commitment to excellence and durability, aligning perfectly with the project’s vision of enhancing artistic expression. This landmark development is set to make a significant impact in the heart of Riyadh’s creative landscape, showcasing how products can bring artistic visions to life.
Quick Facts:
• Project Name: JAX Studio
• Location: Saudi Arabia - RiyadhDiriyah - Jax District
• Client: Development Authority of Diriyah Gate (Governmental project)
• Architect: Consultant: SaudConsult for (Design and Engineering Consulting Services)
• Materials used for façade & fenestration: EN 13501, ASTM D1929, ASTM E84, NFPA 285, certification by the SASO Quality Mark, a mandatory local requirement in Saudi Arabia. Quantity: 4495 (1.25*5.8*620 Sheet)
• Commencement Date: 1/09/2024
• Completion Date: 15/12/2024
NITIN JAIN
Director, Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
As the Director of Viva ACP, Nitin Jain is proud to be part of an exceptional journey that has propelled the company to remarkable success, positioning Viva ACP as a global leader in the cladding industry. Under his leadership, Viva has forged strategic international partnerships in North America, Middle East & European countries. These alliances have significantly expanded the company’s global footprint and strengthened its market presence and customer reach. Nitin’s unwavering commitment to innovation is evident in Viva’s latest achievement—the introduction of 3D color coating technology. This cutting-edge advancement has garnered widespread acclaim within the industry. Combined with an extensive range of over 500 shades of ACP panels, this innovation positions Viva as a frontrunner in providing architects, interior designers, and façade consultants with limitless design possibilities.
Façade Technologies Advancement in Façade Technologies & Materials, and Media Façades
BUILDING FAÇADE MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGIES
The building façade segment is one of the modern technology adopters of the construction industry. With technological advancements, façade manufacturing has evolved significantly, combining traditional methods with cutting-edge innovations to meet the growing demands of sustainable and high-performance buildings. This article illustrates some of the ongoing trends and successful use of modern technologies in the façade industry
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGIES
Digital Fabrications
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines have revolutionised façade panel production. These technologies ensure precision in cutting and shaping complex designs, making it easier to implement intricate patterns, lightweight structures, and custom panel shapes. Accuracy of fabrication largely improved results better and high quality products. Another aspect is laser cutting techniques for metal sheet
fabrications, help enhance building interesting architectural screens, patterns etc.
3D Printing
Like many other industries where 3D printing is making a positive impact, for façades the 3D printing techniques use additive and metal printing helping in both prototyping and actual productions.
In particular to the façade industry, wherein we create various customised design solutions, that may require simple verifications and visualisation. 3D printing offers greater help in cost-effective and quicker solutions.
ADVANCEMENTS IN GLASS PROCESSING
The current trend in building architecture is using extra-large glass panes, called Jumbo glasses. The advancement of glass processing machinery makes it possible to use glass of unthinkable sizes, and complex shapes, making architects hungry for more innovative designs. Inspired by Apple glass façades built in modern times, curtain wall panels for office buildings started using fullheight glass, large modulations, and lesser divisions, helping the high-rise buildings to be more iconic. Large panels with lesser glazing modulation help enhance building aesthetics and help in user experiences. Large glass panels much bigger than 4m in length are often called Jumbo size glasses. The trend towards using jumbosized glass panels in building façades has gained considerable momentum due to its ability to create visually impactful and seamless architectural features. This trend is supported by advancements in glass
High-precision facade panels, expertly crafted with CNC machines for flawless design and seamless installation
Bold and beautiful jumbo glass facade showcasing modern design with clear views and sleek style
Façade Technologies
manufacturing technologies that allow for larger, more resilient, and more functional glass panels.
PREFABRICATION AND MODULAR SYSTEMS
Prefabrication techniques are gaining popularity for façade manufacturing. Panels are produced off-site in controlled environments, ensuring consistency and reducing on-site construction time. A centralised factory based fabrications significantly improve overall quality, and timelines, and are highly economical. The pre-fabrication approach helps the façade contractors to better control their outcome and leads to a positive impact on overall projects.
BUILDING FAÇADE MATERIALS
New generation building materials focused on high performance, sustainable and low Carbon. We are experiencing an evolution of technologies for façade materials, fabrications, finishes, etc. One such example is Switchable glass (Dynamic) colour changes as per sunlight, an interesting glass product with multifunctional is being implemented in several recent projects. Integration of solar modules on façade (Building Integrated Photo Voltaic – BIPV) is a smart technology that has been explored on various architectural elements such as
sunshades, fins, roofs, etc. Façade materials play a major role in this aspect, focus is to reduce embodied carbon by using green energy in material manufacturing. A good design approach is to find a holistic building design right from architecture to construction to reduce carbon footprint. Various local materials are being explored for use in building such as bamboo in constructions, composites and high strength fibres, etc. Several engineered materials are commonly used to achieve low-carbon aspirations such as green glass, green sealants, etc., These lowcarbon materials help in achieving very high levels of sustainable, green ratings, helping several business models.
3D Printed Façade Panels
Façade cladding uses various pre-finished products, consisting of processed materials or casted or fabricated components. The prefabricated concept of façade fabrications is further being explored with the use of 3D printing technologies. Various countries have demonstrated large façade panels made using 3D printing process and are able to achieve high quality and high strength products such as lightweight concrete panels, UHPC, GRC, etc.
Switchable Glass
Electrochromic or switchable glass can control the light and heat in interior spaces with the user controls. The latest technology in specialist glass products eliminates the need for shades or internal blinds to the glass façades. All glass units on the façades are connected through wires to the building maintenance system (BMS), hence the users can control the daylight passing the glass façades as low as 10% to higher range of above 60% light transmissions.
Engineered Local Materials
India has vast resources of natural materials, we are seeing increasing awareness of engineered products using local materials such as Engineered wood, Engineered brick, Bamboo, Stones, etc. Various technologies are helping to enhance these natural materials with improved characteristics so that they can be used for wider building applications.
INNOVATIVE FAÇADE DESIGNSMEDIA FAÇADES
Media screens are used for display, interactions and several commercial purposes. LED integrated façade screens are getting popular with the advancement of lighting technologies. Sizes can vary from as small as a window glass pane to large sizes such as 20 meters. These screens are highly versatile, expandable, and come in modular formats. Integrating the screen media façades is commonly adopted for several parts of the building façade such as entrances, retail, parking levels. signages, etc.
Prefabrication and modular systems enhance construction efficiency, ensuring faster delivery and superior quality
Innovative media facades use technology to create dynamic and visually striking building exteriors
Façade Technologies
One such example is Wing Tower, Cambodia lighting designs. https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=UmH3JizICuU
Very large screen (16m x 16m) has been integrated into a commercial building parking floor façades of Wing Tower.
Media screen involves several trades that require an integrated approach right from lighting, electrical, mechanical, structural, façades etc., Hence these aspects require careful consideration at the early design stage itself. If this is not a well-thought-out solution, i.e., an ad-hoc approach may lead
to poor implementation, shorter life span, frequent maintenance etc., and eventually impacts the overall building aesthetics and values.
Building façades is one of the fascinating industry boldly adopt the latest technologies, innovations, and trends. Various inspirational designs are getting implemented and made in the real world, with improved confidence levels using human skills and machinery. There are no limits really to implementing any complex designs right from design techniques, materials, fabrications, and constructions.
RAJAN GOVIND Director BES Consultants
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rajan Govind brings 34 years of international experience in the façade industry, including 12 years at Arup. With a structural engineering background, he has worked across Asia, the Middle East, and Australia, delivering projects for both new and existing buildings. Rajan specialises in integrated façade designs involving 3D design, complex engineering, and sustainable building integration. A Certified Singapore Green Mark Manager (SGMM), he aligns sustainable design with architectural and practical requirements. Notable projects include The Park, Brigade Tech Garden, Pan Pacific Hotel (Singapore), ASPTM Hospital (Vietnam), and Wing Tower (Cambodia). Passionate about future technologies, Rajan actively integrates innovation to enhance design and construction efficiency. Known for his expertise, he is highly regarded in the regional façade industry. The evolution of façade systems has been driven by advancements in materials, manufacturing technologies, and the growing demand for sustainable, smart, and aesthetically pleasing buildings. Here, the author tries to explore some of the latest manufacturing technologies and trends shaping the façade industry.
Façade lighting brings out the beauty of a building, creating a striking visual effect
Interactive Façades in Architecture & Tools for Creating Future Façades
THE
IMPORTANCE OF INTERACTIVE FAÇADES
IN ARCHITECTURE
Dynamic building exteriors that react to user inputs, environmental factors, or other inputs to produce a responsive visual or functional display are known as interactive façades. Because of their capacity to improve energy efficiency, these façades are becoming increasingly crucial. Interactive façades frequently adapt to temperature, sunlight, and other variables, maximising natural light, lowering heat gain, and using less energy.
• Enhance aesthetic appeal: They provide buildings with a layer of
inventiveness and visual intrigue that makes them stand out and adds to the lively urban environment.
• Facilitate user engagement: By reacting to people’s actions or movements, interactive façades can provide onlookers with an interesting experience and elevate architecture to a more humancentered level.
• Support sustainability: Many interactive façades incorporate sustainable technologies, such as photovoltaic panels or greenery, contributing to green building certifications and environmental responsibility.
USES OF INTERACTIVE FAÇADES IN ARCHITECTURE
• Climate control: By adapting to sunlight or shadow according to the season or temperature, façades can save HVAC loads and increase inside comfort.
• Lighting effects: Often utilised for media façades in commercial or cultural buildings, LED-based interactive façades can show images, create creative lighting, or communicate information.
• Urban communication: Façades can become community communication tools by sharing real-time data, alerts,
Interactive façades frequently adapt to temperature, sunlight, and other variables, maximising natural light, lowering heat gain, and using less energy
or news through interactive displays in buildings.
• Advertising: Façades of commercial buildings work as interactive billboards, displaying adverts or graphics that change according to the audience’s engagement or the time of day.
• Environmental monitoring: To raise public awareness, some façades show current environmental data, such as pollution levels, air quality, or meteorological information.
CHALLENGES OF INTERACTIVE FAÇADES IN ARCHITECTURE
• High costs: Creating, setting up, and maintaining interactive façades can be expensive, particularly when using cutting-edge materials or digital interfaces.
• Complex maintenance: Longterm maintenance is difficult since the mechanical and technical components, such as screens, lighting, and sensors, need to be maintained on a regular basis.
• Energy consumption: Although some interactive façades use less energy, some could use more, especially if they use lighting or digital displays.
• Privacy concerns: Privacy issues may arise from interactive façades that use sensors to detect motion or other inputs, particularly if they collect or show private data.
• Technological obsolescence: The façade’s lifespan may be shortened by the quick changes in technology that make some interactive elements obsolete or challenging to replace.
FUTURE PROSPECTS OF INTERACTIVE FAÇADES
• AI-driven adaptation: By integrating AI, façades may be able to make data-driven judgments in real-time, more intelligently according to user preferences or climatic circumstances.
• Enhanced sustainability: To further encourage green building practices, interactive façades of the future can include more renewable technology, such as solar panels or bio-adaptive materials.
• Biophilic and natural integration: Living façades, or façades that adapt to ecological shifts, could proliferate and provide both aesthetic appeal and support for biodiversity.
• Enhanced urban connectivity: Façades may interact with urban infrastructure more as cities grow “smarter,” maybe establishing connections with real-time city data feeds or public transit networks.
• User-centric designs: By adapting to user choices or identifying repeat visitors, façades can produce highly customised, interactive experiences that improve the built environment’s usability and engagement.
In general, interactive façades have the power to transform urban areas, making them more engaging, sustainable, and flexible - thus improving the way that structures benefit their communities and occupants.
TOOLS FOR CREATING FUTURE FAÇADES
Architects and designers must combine cutting-edge tools and technology to create future-focused façades that are aesthetically dynamic, sustainable, and responsive. Architects may explore complex forms, assess material performance, and predict the effects of real-world factors like wind, solar exposure, and temperature on building surfaces using digital modelling and simulation
Interactive Façades
software like Rhino, Grasshopper, and Autodesk Revit. By evaluating site-specific data and testing possible designs in a virtual environment, these tools facilitate the development of façades that react dynamically to their surroundings. Because it allows architects to construct sophisticated, adaptive façade geometries that react to environmental inputs and provide structures that can change with the times, parametric design software has proven indispensable in this industry.
In addition, Building Information Modelling (BIM) software facilitates effective collaboration and integration of various building systems, assisting architects in integrating smart technologies directly into the façade’s design while guaranteeing that the façade complements the functionality and efficiency of the rest of the building.
Sensor technology is another essential element that allows façades to communicate with their surroundings and inhabitants. To provide adaptive systems within the façade with real-time data, sensors can assess temperature, humidity, light levels, occupancy, and even movement within a structure. These inputs enable a façade to modify illumination and shading. Thus, Interactive façades and tools are very useful in Architecture and they will have more visibility in the future.
Architects and designers must combine cutting-edge tools and technology to create futurefocused façades that are aesthetically dynamic, sustainable, and responsive
Interactive Façades
Case Study
Vittorio, Chandigarh
Sector -82, Mohali
DESIGN CONCEPT
Vittorio aims to redefine premium quality of living by combining luxury, comfort, and exceptional design to create an unforgettable experience for residents. The spaces are designed and planned to raise the bar of offering quality living and the state of the art. It offers a peaceful visual experience to the outside world. The design is inspired by Japanese elements of nature. Vittorio’s “villas in the sky” showcase breathtaking and uninterrupted views from every possible angle from its eight blocks. Multi-level outdoor gardens, high-tech sky terraces, and luxurious amenities like a gym, swimming pool & spa, etc. are some of the salient features that have been incorporated into the design.
Every little element of Vittorio’s site planning is intended to give you the impression that you are living in a luxurious home, and the ellipticalshaped towers hands concept greets you warmly as soon as you enter the complex. Sky gardens and extra terraces are provided to connect the built structure with nature giving a sense of linearity. The elements are designed in such a way that they sufficiently cater
to every age group. Also, this project is surrounded by the World Trade Centre, Plasksha University, Infosys Campus, and Amity University.
Site Landscape details: The site landscape includes elements that bring a natural sense of connectivity between the hardscape & softscape including a gazebo, plaza, open-air theatre, lawn tennis court, kids play area, etc.
SITE SPECIFICATION
• The housing is spread across 6.67 acres in Sector -82, Mohali
• The project is surrounded by a 100’0” wide road on the front side and 40’-0” wide road adjacent to the site and a 40’-0” wide road at the rear side.
• The site is in proximity to the airport road (NH-5)
KEY HIGHLIGHTS AND AMENITIES:
• 6.67 acres. 8 blocks. 27 levels (block-1) and 27 levels (blocks 2 & 3) including penthouse.
• Spacious and modern 3.5bhk in block-1 & 4.5bhk units in blocks 2 & 3.
• Common areas with personalised lifts with user-friendly features for the elderly citizens and physically challenged.
• Open area landscaped with water features, lawn promenades, and vehicle-free avenues.
• An expansive clubhouse with global lifestyle amenities
Quick Facts:
• Project Name: Vittorio
• Location: Sector -82, Mohali
• Architect: Ar. Tripat Girdhar
• Commencement Date: July 2024
• Completion Date: August 2028
AR. TRIPAT GIRDHAR
Founder and Principal Architect, Arete Design Studio
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ar. Tripat Girdhar has been heading Arete Design Studio. His inventive designs not only reinterpret India’s architectural roots and traditional acumen in a contextual vocabulary but also dwell Indian architecture on a world stage. The firm creates a versatile body of work ranging from architecture and interiors of residences and corporate offices to retail and hospitality spaces. Ar. Tripat has been awarded the title of ‘CREDAI Destination Punjab 2019’ by Hon’ble Minister of Housing & Urban Development, Punjab - Sukhwinder Singh Sarkaria, for the project Address Boulevard which will be the tallest building in Punjab. Chandigarhbased Girdhar studied Bachelor’s in architecture from Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar.
Arete Design Studio- a leading architecture and interior design firm based in Chandigarh India is a renowned green urban planner for their outstanding efforts to protect the environment and set new standards for beautiful, top-notch architectural design in India. Chandigarh’s new landmarks called The Marbella and Address Boulevard are designed by The Arete Design Studio.
Every little element of Vittorio’s site planning is intended to give you the impression that you are living in a luxurious home
Ozone Unveils New Experience Centre in Bengaluru
Ozone, a leader in Architectural Hardware & Security Solutions, has recently opened its cuttingedge Experience Centre in Bengaluru. The grand two-day launch event brought together a distinguished gathering of architects, interior designers, and channel partners, including dealers, distributors, OEMs, and fabricators.
The inaugural ceremony began with a ribbon-cutting, followed by the traditional lamp-lighting and cakecutting, marking the auspicious launch. Gracing the event were esteemed Guests of Honour, Subramanya from RSP Design Consultants India and K.M. Shetty from Interspace Pvt. Ltd. Their presence underscored the collaborative synergy between Ozone and the architectural and design community.
Speaking on the occasion, Alok Aggarwal, Managing Director of Ozone, remarked, “This Experience Centre is a pivotal step in achieving our 2024 expansion goals. As leaders in glass hardware and other solutions, we are committed to creating platforms where clients can interact
with our innovations first-hand. We deeply value our partnerships and strive to provide resources that drive shared success.”
The event featured a showcase of Ozone’s latest offerings, including:
• Luxury profile shades
• Stealth slim frame doors (slimmer versions)
• In-pocket sliding wardrobe systems
• Wardrobe accessories
• Factory-made telescopic slides (with and without soft-close mechanisms)
• Single metal wall drawer systems (available in multiple size variants)
• Smart locks, and more
Designed as a one-stop destination, the Experience Centre allows architects, designers, and homeowners to physically explore and engage with Ozone’s innovative solutions.
This launch reaffirms company’s 25year commitment to quality, innovation, and the ‘Make in India’ vision. As part of its expansion, Ozone has recently inaugurated Franchise Experience Centres under the Ozone Blu initiative in Ayodhya, Noida, and Gurugram. This initiative is designed for company’s channel partners to facilitate the opening of smaller footprint showrooms to provide solutions for showers, railings, partitions, and more. Around 100 such showrooms are planned for the next financial year, further strengthening the company’s presence and accessibility across India.
For more details on the product, contact:
Email: customercare@ozone.in
Phone: +91 93100 12300
The Experience Centre allows architects, designers, and homeowners to physically explore and engage with Ozone’s innovative solutions
StructAura: Redefining Aluminium Doors, Windows, and Façades with Strength and Elegance
CRAFTED BY INNOVATION, SHAPED FOR THE FUTURE
As an integral part of the renowned Sagar Asia Group, StructAura is revolutionising the aluminium industry with solutions that unite strength, elegance, and sustainability. With a legacy rooted in decades of excellence in aluminium manufacturing, StructAura takes pride in delivering products that redefine modern architecture for residential and commercial spaces.
Our commitment extends beyond aesthetics. We craft secure, efficient, and transformative environments. Each StructAura product is meticulously engineered to combine form and function, elevating spaces to new heights.
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
For years, Sagar Asia Group has been a trailblazer in aluminium manufacturing, renowned for its innovation and quality. StructAura builds upon this legacy, offering cutting-edge solutions designed to meet the demands of modern architecture while maintaining
unparalleled standards of sustainability and durability.
VERSATILE PRODUCT RANGE
StructAura’s comprehensive product lineup is designed to meet diverse architectural needs:
• Doors: Seamlessly combining security and style, our aluminium doors offer robust protection without compromising elegance. Designed for easy integration, these doors are ideal for both contemporary and traditional designs.
• Windows: Built for performance and longevity, our aluminium window systems maximise natural light, ventilation, and energy efficiency while delivering exceptional structural resilience.
• Façades: Where beauty meets performance, our façades are designed for thermal efficiency, durability, and a sleek, modern appearance, ensuring long-lasting value for residential and commercial projects.
COLLABORATION WITH REYNAERS
In partnership with Reynaers, a global leader in aluminium solutions, StructAura integrates state-of-the-art technologies and designs into its products. This collaboration ensures that every offering meets international standards for performance, sustainability, and aesthetics.
SUSTAINABILITY AT HEART
Sustainability is a core pillar of StructAura. From eco-friendly materials to energyefficient designs, every product minimises environmental impact while delivering exceptional benefits. We are committed to creating a greener future, one innovative solution at a time.
WHY CHOOSE StructAura?
StructAura stands out by blending engineering precision with design elegance. Every product is thoughtfully crafted to enhance spaces with light, strength, and vitality. Our influence extends across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, where we are recognised for tailored solutions that meet the region’s architectural demands.
CRAFTED BY INNOVATION
At StructAura, every product is a testament to our mission: delivering aluminium solutions that inspire and endure. Step into the future with StructAura - where strength meets elegance, and innovation shapes every detail.
For more information, contact:
Website: www.structaura.com
Email: Sales@structaura.com
Phone: +91 92811 09545, +91 97010 00941
Makuta prime project
“Key Trends and Innovations Shaping the Future of Aluminium Systems in the Indian Façade and Fenestration Industry”
KEY TRENDS DRIVING THE DEMAND FOR ADVANCED ALUMINIUM SYSTEMS IN THE INDIAN FAÇADE AND FENESTRATION INDUSTRY
The Indian façade and fenestration industry is undergoing a transformative phase and will continue to grow faster than any other building material. This growth is driven by several key trends:
• The emphasis on sustainable and green building practices has significantly increased the demand for energyefficient aluminium systems. This is further supported by the growing adoption of renewable energy sources and the need for buildings to reduce their carbon footprint.
• Rapid urbanisation and the rise of premium residential and commercial projects require solutions that combine durability, aesthetics, and functionality. The increasing disposable income of the middle and upper classes is also fuelling demand for premium housing with sophisticated designs.
• Stringent building codes and environmental regulations are pushing the adoption of advanced materials that meet international standards. The
implementation of green building certifications like LEED and IGBC in India has made it essential to adopt high-performance aluminium systems.
Additionally, the growing preference for minimalistic and modern architectural designs has further bolstered the demand for innovative aluminium systems with sleek profiles and superior performance. Developers are increasingly looking for products that strike a balance between style, sustainability, and functionality. The demand for high-performance products has increased in recent years, and so has the
demand for aluminium systems from large and established system houses like Alumil.
ADDRESSING
CHALLENGES THROUGH ALUMIL’S PRODUCT PORTFOLIO
Alumil’s product portfolio is uniquely designed to address critical challenges such as energy efficiency, durability, and modern architectural aesthetics. Our thermally broken aluminium systems significantly reduce thermal conductivity, enhancing energy savings in buildings. These systems align with global energy standards and contribute to green building certifications, ensuring compliance with environmental requirements.
SWAPNIL HIRE
National Sales Head, Alumil Systems India
Alumil’s fenestration project 25 South in Mumbai
In terms of durability, Alumil products are engineered using high-grade materials and advanced manufacturing processes, ensuring long-lasting performance even under extreme weather conditions. Our products undergo rigorous testing to ensure resistance to corrosion, wear, and deformation, making them suitable for diverse climatic zones in India.
For modern aesthetics, our solutions feature slim profiles, wide glazing options, and customizable designs, enabling architects to achieve their creative vision while maintaining structural integrity. We also offer a range of colours and finish options, giving architects and developers the flexibility to match the building’s overall theme.
INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS AND TECHNOLOGIES OFFERED BY ALUMIL IN INDIA
Alumil’s commitment to innovation is reflected in the advanced solutions we bring to the Indian market. For example, our Smart Sliding and Hinged Systems integrate cutting-edge thermal insulation and noise reduction technologies, enhancing both comfort and efficiency. These systems are designed to provide seamless indooroutdoor connectivity while maintaining security and energy efficiency.
Our curtain wall systems are designed to support complex architectural designs while ensuring optimal performance in terms of water-tightness, wind resistance, and thermal insulation. They are ideal for high-rise buildings, offering a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality.
Furthermore, our focus on automation includes motorised systems and smart home integration, catering to the growing demand for intelligent building solutions. These features allow users to control their spaces with ease, enhancing convenience and luxury. Additionally, we are exploring the use of advanced coatings and recyclable materials to enhance sustainability, aligning with the global shift toward circular economies. These innovations empower developers and architects to deliver projects that meet global benchmarks and exceed customer expectations.
ALIGNING SALES STRATEGY WITH EVOLVING CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS
To align our sales strategy with the evolving expectations of premium residential and commercial customers, we focus on a consultative approach. This involves understanding project-specific requirements and offering tailored solutions from our diverse product portfolio. By engaging with clients early in the project lifecycle, we ensure that our solutions address their unique challenges and deliver maximum value.
We collaborate closely with architects, developers, and contractors to ensure that our products meet their technical and aesthetic needs. This collaboration includes offering technical workshops, product demonstrations, and design support to facilitate informed decision-making. Additionally, we prioritise after-sales support, providing end-to-end assistance, including installation guidance and maintenance services.
Our customer-centric approach extends to leveraging digital tools for real-time communication and project tracking, enhancing transparency and efficiency. By consistently delivering value and building trust, we aim to position Alumil as the preferred partner for high-end façade and fenestration solutions. This strategy not only strengthens our market presence but also fosters long-term relationships with stakeholders.
ROLE OF QUALITY CONTROL IN MEETING INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS
Quality control is at the heart of Alumil’s operations and is critical in ensuring our products meet international standards for complex and large-scale projects. Every product undergoes rigorous testing and validation in our state-of-the-art facilities, adhering to certifications such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and more. These certifications reflect our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in manufacturing and sustainability.
From raw material selection to final assembly, our processes are designed to maintain precision and consistency. We employ advanced technologies such as automated quality checks and stress testing to ensure that every product meets stringent performance criteria. By investing in advanced testing equipment and continuous improvement, we ensure that our solutions deliver unmatched performance, reliability, and safety, making them ideal for the most demanding architectural projects.
Our quality assurance teams work closely with production and R&D departments to identify and rectify potential issues, ensuring that every product aligns with the expectations of international clients. This meticulous approach reinforces our reputation as a reliable supplier of world-class aluminium systems.
For more details on the product, contact:
Head Office: Navi Mumbai, India Email: info.asi@alumil.com
Alumil windows with minimalistic design feature concealed frames to maximise natural light and provide unobstructed views
Advancements in Façades: Revolutionising Modern Architecture with HeatCure
Façades have always been central to architectural design, defining a building’s character while fulfilling essential functional roles. Over the years, technological advancements have redefined how façades interact with their surroundings, focusing on aesthetics, energy efficiency, and sustainability.
Contemporary façades now integrate advanced materials and designs to tackle challenges like energy conservation, optimised natural lighting, and environmental responsibility. In regions such as Dubai and other parts of the UAE, where glass façades dominate the urban landscape, these innovations are crucial in mitigating extreme heat and humidity. The climate in these areas demands solutions that ensure comfortable indoor environments while reducing energy consumption in high-rise structures and commercial buildings.
One revolutionary solution leverages advanced nanotechnology to enhance the performance of glass façades. By blocking up to 85% of external heat, this technology reduces the strain on HVAC systems, improves indoor comfort, and significantly lowers energy consumption. At the same time, it allows natural light to penetrate, maintaining the visual appeal of glass structures while addressing sustainability concerns.
MEETING THE CHALLENGES OF THE UAE CLIMATE
Dubai and the other emirates, renowned for their modern architectural achievements, provide a unique platform for showcasing cutting-edge façade technology. As a hub for innovative design and construction, the region presents a distinct set of challenges related to high temperatures and humidity, particularly for commercial buildings and office spaces.
Advanced heat-blocking solutions now enable businesses in the region to reduce energy consumption by up to 20%, significantly lowering operational costs and carbon emissions. These developments align seamlessly with the sustainability goals of the UAE, offering both environmental and economic benefits.
THE FUTURE OF FAÇADE INNOVATION
The evolution of façade technology is increasingly directed towards achieving both aesthetic and functional excellence. The latest advancements bridge the gap between innovative design and practical application, transforming façades into energy-efficient, sustainable solutions.
From reducing energy use to enhancing indoor comfort, these technologies are reshaping how buildings engage with their environment. As architectural trends continue to prioritise sustainability, such solutions are poised to play an essential role in creating greener, more efficient urban landscapes.
For more details on the product, contact:
Email: info@heatcure.com
Contact: +91 9134 010101
Website: www.heatcure.com
Brand Watch
Doctor Window Starts the New Year with Fresh Hope and Big Plans
The New Year heralds new beginnings, a time for reflection and setting ambitious goals for the year ahead. For the Doctor Window family, this occasion brings a renewed sense of purpose and determination as they continue their journey toward success. Year after year, the company finds itself shining brighter, striving for excellence, and making significant strides in the industry. With every passing year, they are one step closer to achieving their goal of a ₹50 crore turnover this year - a target that reflects both the company’s ambition and the hard work invested by every member of the team.
The Doctor Window family, as with every New Year, came together in celebration, donning their traditional attire. The entire team gathered, reflecting on their accomplishments from the previous year, while also reassessing their goals in alignment with the festive spirit that accompanies the arrival of the New Year. This moment of collective joy also served as an opportunity to set the tone for the year ahead, acknowledging their growth
and the challenges they must overcome to continue progressing.
As one of the fastest-growing companies in the sector, Doctor Window is making calculated and deliberate strides toward greater success. The company has achieved remarkable progress in a relatively short
period, expanding its presence and operations across various locations. Notable among their recent developments are the new warehouses in Chennai and Mumbai, aimed at improving service and accessibility for their customers. Additionally, the company has recently launched a climate-controlled storage unit in Mumbai, a move that further strengthens its ability to meet customer needs and maintain product quality.
Despite these accomplishments, Doctor Window is committed to accelerating its pace of growth in the coming year. With global instabilities on the rise, including economic uncertainties, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain disruptions, the company has adopted a proactive approach. By increasing stock levels and ensuring that inventory is well managed, they aim to mitigate the potential delays in both Eastern and Western supply chains. This approach ensures that they can continue delivering the world’s most respected brands to their customers, despite the various challenges posed by epidemics, natural disasters, terrorism, wars, and anti-dumping policies.
brands, and as the New Year unfolds, they are focused on strengthening these relationships further. The company’s leadership is continuing negotiations to secure new partnerships, expanding their portfolio of trusted brands and enhancing the solutions available to customers in the sector. Their focus is to stay ahead of the market demands, particularly in the rapidly growing aluminium window market. They are working tirelessly to eliminate any gaps in their offerings, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the next year without any deficiencies in their product range or services.
The company operates with seven specialised departments, each dedicated to a specific aspect of the window solutions industry. These departments include:
• PVC Window Solutions Department
• Aluminium Window Solutions Department
• Wood Adhesives Department
• Foil Department
• Powder Coating Department
• Touching Materials Department
• Fly Screen Systems Department
This year, Doctor Window will further enhance its growth trajectory by adding two new departments to its portfolio. This expansion signifies the company’s commitment to diversifying its services and catering to the evolving needs of the market. India’s status as one of the world’s most stable and rapidly growing
With excellent governance, a thriving infrastructure, a well-established legal system, and English as an official language, India is uniquely positioned for sustained growth. It is a nation that is not only breaking barriers but also rising as a global leader, making the New Year an exciting time to witness its transformative journey.
The founder of Doctor Window reflects with pride on his decision to move to India 14 years ago. Initially, many of his friends questioned why he chose India, but today, they all congratulate him for the foresight
Brand Watch
and wisdom he showed in recognising the immense potential of this market. His belief was not rooted solely in India’s population size but in the broader advantages offered by the country. The country’s advantageous geography, progressive legal frameworks, and the widespread use of English have all contributed to its appeal. It is a place where businesses can thrive, and opportunities for growth are abundant.
From the very beginning, Doctor Window has championed the idea of solution partnerships, aiming to offer singleroof solutions that meet all the needs of window manufacturers beyond just profiles and glass. Over the years, the company has made great strides in realising this vision, though they acknowledge there is still much to be done. Their goal is now to extend this solution-based approach to façade companies, a challenge they are confident they will succeed in, given their track record of progress. As their slogan goes, “Job Done as Always”, Doctor Window remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering exceptional solutions with consistency and reliability.
In summary, Doctor Window stands at the threshold of a promising New Year, filled with both challenges and opportunities. With a firm commitment to growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction, they are prepared to take on the demands of the market and continue building on their success. Their expansion plans, strengthened partnerships, and dedication to high-quality service are all part of their strategy to remain a leader in the industry. As the world around them evolves, Doctor Window will continue to adapt, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of the window solutions sector, providing their customers with nothing but the best.
Website: www.doctorwindow.com
Email: support@doctorwindow.com
Phone: +91 75054 44444
Brand Watch
HPL Façades: A Combination of Aesthetics and Functionality for Modern Exteriors
The importance of a functional, yet beautiful façade has never been more apparent. The façade not only ensures structural integrity but also defines the character of the building. There are a variety of materials available to create façades and each of them has different properties to offer. Among them, Exterior Grade compact laminates are gaining popularity due to their unique combination of aesthetic appeal and high performance.
POPULAR FAÇADE COATING MATERIALS
HPL Exterior Cladding is becoming an increasingly popular choice for architects & builders focused on eco-friendly solutions that are durable & low maintenance. Textured paints are an economical and versatile option for exterior surfaces, however, painting requires maintenance due to high wear & tear in exteriors. Natural wood, renowned for its durability, strength, and aesthetics, is vulnerable to high humidity or water and microbial infestation, which may compromise structural integrity. Stone is a timeless beauty with unique patterns & colors, but is expensive and also heavy and difficult to install. Glass has a beautiful, modern appearance, but it adds to the overall building costs due to its insulation and security requirements. Hence, evaluating
the offering over a lifetime span is critical to the selection of appropriate cladding material.
THE ERA OF HPL EXTERIOR CLADDING
HPL Exterior Cladding has become more relevant in today’s architecture and construction landscape, where achieving a balance between aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility is of paramount importance. HPL Exterior cladding is crafted from multiple layers of kraft paper impregnated with thermosetting resins, which are then bonded together under high pressure and heat. This method of production distinguishes HPL exterior cladding from more traditional cladding materials which often require more extensive use of natural resources, thus making it a smart, ecofriendly choice. Additionally, clads are versatile, lightweight, and easy to install, which makes them an attractive option for all kinds of exteriors.
BENEFITS OF HPL EXTERIOR CLADDING OVER OTHER FAÇADE MATERIALS
• Exceptional Durability: HPL exterior clads are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, from intense sunlight to heavy rainfall.
• High Weather Resistance: They are designed to resist moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring that the building’s exterior remains pristine and undamaged.
• Strong Aesthetic Appeal: Ranging from texture patterns to wood-like finishes, exterior HPL Clads offer a wide range of options that can accommodate different architectural styles.
• Low maintenance and costeffectiveness: Clads are incredibly low maintenance compared to other cladding materials. They do not require frequent painting or sealing, and their surface is easy to clean. Their long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements translate to significant savings over time.
• Fire retardant: Clads have excellent fire-resistant properties and ensures compliance with strict building regulations.
GREENLAM CLADS: RE-DEFINING BENCHMARKS IN HPL EXTERIOR CLADDING
Greenlam Clads offer innovative HPL-based exterior cladding solutions that redefine building façade design. They are made with the latest GLE technology that makes them resilient against weather conditions such as extreme heat, cold, and rain. They offer unmatched features like UV resistance and Fire retardance coupled with an exclusive 12year warranty, which aids peace of mind. An exclusive board size of 10ft allows the creation of a large and seamless façade that helps enhance the visual character of the building.
Excellent anti-graffiti properties and antibacterial coatings make Clads a lowmaintenance exterior solution.
In summary, HPL exterior cladding offers multiple sustainability benefits as compared to other façade materials in the market. By choosing Greenlam Clads, one can enhance building performance and aesthetic appeal while supporting broader environmental goals.
The Modern Revolution in Doors and Windows: More Than Just Entryways
KAMAL BAJAJ
Business Head, AluPure Aluminium Systems
In today’s architecture, every element of a home tells a story about its inhabitants. While homeowners meticulously select paint colours, lighting fixtures, and furniture, one crucial aspect often goes overlooked: the doors and windows. These aren’t just functional elements anymore - they’re sophisticated systems that can transform your living space in ways you never imagined.
BEYOND THE BASIC FUNCTION
Modern window and door systems have evolved into high-performance components that contribute significantly to a home’s comfort, security, and aesthetic appeal. Today’s innovations offer impressive features like sound insulation, dust protection, and complete waterproofing - benefits that were not possible with conventional designs.
THE ALUMINIUM ADVANTAGE
This versatile metal offers an impressive combination of strength, performance, and durability that makes it ideal for any climate. Whether your home faces coastal salt weather, desert heat, or mountain snow, aluminium windows and doors maintain their integrity through
specialised powder coating and anodising treatments.
STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE
Modern door and window systems are where engineering meets artistry. Homeowners can choose from an array of designs - from sleek sliding panels to innovative folding systems, from classic casement windows to sophisticated tiltand-turn mechanisms. The versatility of aluminium allows for any colour scheme, enabling perfect harmony with both interior décor and exterior architecture.
SECURITY IN STYLE
Today’s aluminium systems incorporate multiple locking mechanisms while maintaining their elegant appearance. When combined with toughened glass, these systems create an almost impenetrable barrier without the fortresslike appearance of traditional security measures.
THE GREEN CHOICE
As a 100% recyclable material, it offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional timber, helping preserve our forests while providing superior performance.
A SMART INVESTMENT
The revolution in door and window systems represents a perfect merger of form and function, proving that sometimes the most overlooked elements of home design can significantly impact our living spaces. As we continue to demand more from our homes, these innovative systems stand ready to deliver benefits far beyond their basic functions.
ALUPURE - GERMAN ENGINEERING TO CATER INDIAN FENESTRATION DEMAND
While the market brims with aluminum solutions, AluPure stands apart through
its uniquely calibrated approach to India’s diverse weather conditions. “It is not just about creating windows and doors,” explains the company’s engineering team. “It is about understanding how materials perform in India’s unique climate zones
What sets these systems apart is their rigorous testing regime. Each design undergoes extensive evaluation as per European standards, especially in three critical areas: high wind load resistance, water penetration prevention, and air permeability. This technical excellence translates into practical benefits for property owners – no rattling windows during monsoons, no water seepage, and significantly better interiors.
PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION: THE FINAL TOUCH
AluPure maintains a nationwide network of trained professionals. Their engineering teams and installers bring technical expertise to every project, whether it is residential properties, boutique hotels, education institutions, or corporate offices.
LOOKING AHEAD
As India’s architectural landscape evolves, with increasing emphasis on sustainable and durable building solutions, AluPure’s systems represent more than just windows and doorsthey embody the future of architectural elements that combine form, function, and durability.
For more details on the product, contact: Website: www.alupure.co.in
Email: alupure.india@profine-group.com
Reynobond India: India’s First & Only
ISI-Certified ACP Manufacturer
With over 30 years of experience & a commitment to making India’s buildings green, sustainable, and state-of-the-art, Reynoarch, a product of Reynobond Industries, stands as a trusted name in façade solutions. Aluminium Composite Panels (ACPs) have become indispensable in modern architecture, offering a blend of aesthetics, durability, and versatility. For those aiming to construct iconic structures, Reynoarch provides uncompromising quality and innovation.
Reynoarch has achieved a significant milestone by becoming India’s first
and only manufacturer of Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) to receive the prestigious ISI certification as per IS 17682:2021. This accomplishment underscores the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality and strengthens its reputation in the ACP industry.
The ISI certification, a mark of quality and safety from the Bureau of Indian Standards, covers crucial aspects such as materials, dimensions, tolerances, physical and mechanical properties, coating, and fire-retardant properties. This recognition highlights Reynoarch’s dedication to producing ACPs that meet the highest
standards of durability, performance, and environmental safety.
Designed to withstand India’s diverse climatic conditions, Reynoarch’s ACP products offer long-lasting solutions trusted by architects, interior designers, contractors, masons, and fabricators worldwide. This achievement is a testament to the company’s core focus on delivering globally competitive quality.
The company extends its gratitude to its customers, whose trust has been pivotal in reaching this landmark. This certification not only reinforces Reynoarch’s position as a leader in India’s ACP industry but also reaffirms its mission to set new benchmarks in quality, reliability, and innovation.
Additionally, the DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, has mandated that aluminium composite panels, whether manufactured in India or imported, meet specific quality standards, further emphasising the importance of certifications like ISI.
Reynoarch is recognised for offering nine key products in the façade arena: Aluminium Composite Panels, HighPressure Laminates, Honeycomb Composite Panels, Zinc Composite Panels, WPC Exterior Louvres, ACP Fluted Louvres, ACP Fin Louvres, FR A2 Series ACP, and Solid Metal Panels.
Reynoarch Solid Aluminium Panel
Blurring the Lines: Insulated Glass Blinds for Green and Modern Architecture
In today’s rapidly evolving architectural landscape, sustainable solutions are no longer a choice – they are a necessity. Window Techs’ insulated glass blinds have emerged as a trailblasing innovation, redefining energy-efficient design while elevating aesthetic appeal. Perfect for both façades and internal partitions, these blinds seamlessly combine functionality, style, and sustainability to meet the demands of modern architecture.
REVOLUTIONISING VERSATILITY IN DESIGN
Window Techs’ insulated glass blinds were initially designed to enhance building façades. However, their exceptional adaptability has transformed them into a versatile solution for internal partitions as well. From open-plan offices to luxury homes, these blinds provide unmatched privacy, noise reduction, and thermal control without compromising on sleek, minimalist design.
GREEN BUILDING AT ITS CORE
With the global focus shifting towards eco-friendly construction, these blinds are playing a pivotal role in green building practices. By reducing heat gain in summer and retaining warmth in winter, they significantly lower energy consumption, earning valuable green building points for projects.
Their integration aligns seamlessly with certifications like LEED and IGBC, making them a cornerstone of sustainable architecture.
UNMATCHED ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The true brilliance of Window Techs’ insulated glass blinds lies in their ability to optimise energy performance. By integrating solar shading and thermal insulation within the glass unit, these blinds intelligently adapt to environmental conditions. This reduces reliance on artificial cooling and heating systems, cutting energy costs while
ensuring a consistently comfortable indoor environment.
MERGING FUNCTIONALITY WITH AESTHETICS
Beyond their energy-saving capabilities, insulated glass blinds enhance the visual appeal of any space. Sleek Venetian designs and energy-efficient Honeycomb blinds deliver modern elegance while serving practical purposes. Whether used to create stunning façades or elegant interiors, they seamlessly blend form and function to meet the needs of contemporary architecture.
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
Window Techs’ insulated glass blinds are trusted by leading architects and builders across the country. Their applications in prestigious projects such as GAIL, AIIMS, Novotel, and the Tejas Train highlight their effectiveness and reliability. Backed by cutting-edge technology and years of expertise, Window Techs continues to lead the industry in delivering innovative architectural solutions.
In conclusion, Window Techs’ insulated glass blinds are not just an addition to modern architecture – they are a transformative force. From enhancing energy efficiency and earning green building points to redefining design aesthetics, these blinds blur the lines between innovation and sustainability. With Window Techs, architecture evolves beyond creating spaces – it shapes a future where design and sustainability go hand in hand.
For more information, contact:
Plot No. 805, Sector 69, IMT Faridabad, 121004, Haryana, India
Website: www.windowtechs.co.in
Email: info@windowtechs.in
Phone: +91-99588 03531
Improving Performance and Aesthetics: The Role of Sealants in the Indian Window Industry
DHEERAJ GUPTA Director, Kingston Silicones
Sealants are vital in India’s window industry, enhancing performance, comfort, and durability. Used for installation, framing, and sealing glass edges, they prevent air, water, and dust infiltration while improving acoustic and thermal insulation, energy efficiency, material compatibility, and aesthetics. Here’s how sealants contribute to these aspects:
Acoustic Insulation: Sealants minimise noise transmission by filling gaps around window frames, creating quieter indoor environments. This is especially crucial in urban areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where noise pollution is high. Proper sealing blocks traffic noise and other urban disturbances, ensuring a peaceful living or working space.
Thermal Insulation: Sealants prevent drafts and heat transfer through window gaps, enhancing thermal efficiency. In regions like Rajasthan or Gujarat with hot climates or the northern areas during cold winters, sealants maintain indoor
temperatures, reducing reliance on heating or cooling systems.
Energy Efficiency: Properly sealed windows minimise energy loss, making buildings more energy-efficient. This is significant in India, where rising energy costs and sustainability efforts, including green building initiatives, are priorities. Sealed windows reduce electricity consumption, benefiting residential and commercial spaces alike.
Material Compatibility: Sealants must adhere well to materials like aluminum, PVC, wood, and glass, ensuring durability and weather resistance. In India’s diverse climate, with heat, humidity, and monsoons, materials like uPVC or aluminum require compatible sealants to maintain structural integrity.
Aesthetic Appeal: Sealants provide a polished finish, hiding gaps and
imperfections. With rising demand for stylish, modern designs, well-sealed windows enhance both functionality and visual appeal. Clear or colored sealants allow designers to preserve aesthetics without compromising performance.
KINGSTON’S ADVANCED SEALANT SOLUTIONS
Kingston offers a range of sealants tailored to India’s unique needs:
• Kingston PU Foam – 992 (750 ml): Ideal for filling gaps between walls and window frames.
• Kingston X ALL Ultra 999 (280 ml): Advanced MS Polymer for superior sealing.
• Kingston FS PRO 300 (280 ml): Paintable sealant for versatile interior and exterior applications.
As India adopts modern construction standards and energy-efficient practices, the demand for high-quality sealants like Kingston’s products is on the rise, ensuring both functionality and design excellence.
For more details on the product, contact:
Kingston Multi Products India Pvt Ltd
E mail: info@kingstonindia.in Website: www.kingstonindia.in Contact: 011-47047914, 011-27357978/79
The Architectural Revolution: The Role of AI in Performance, Aesthetics and Sustainability
The intersection of technology and architecture determines how new buildings are designed, constructed, and experienced. Modern architects are tasked with striking a balance between efficiency, beauty, and capacity. This is a challenge that is made possible through advanced design tools and
software. From BIM and parametric modeling to energy simulation and AI-powered innovation, these tools enable architects to devise visually stunning structures. Be responsible for the environment and it works. In this article, leading architects share their insights on using cuttingedge technology to revolutionise
building façade design. Optimise building layout and push the boundaries of sustainable architecture.
This article presents the views of experts on the role of BIM in facade design, the latest technologies and the future of AI in architecture.
Facade with shading devices and biophilia (Ongoing project in Ghana)
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BALANCING EFFICIENCY, AESTHETICS, AND SUSTAINABILITY IN MODERN ARCHITECTURE: INSIGHTS FROM LEADING ARCHITECTS
The evolution of design tools and software has significantly transformed how architects balance efficiency, aesthetics, and sustainability in building designs. According to Ar. Ajay Tonpe, Founding Partner of BEYOND DESIGN, design tools, and software have evolved significantly to help architects balance
efficiency, aesthetics, and sustainability. “BIM platforms enable integrated, collaborative design, while parametric tools allow flexible adjustments. Performance analysis tools enhance energy use, and AI-driven tools improve site planning. Real-time rendering and VR improve visualisation, while cloud-based platforms streamline collaboration. Material databases and compliance tools support sustainable material selection and certification processes, creating designs that are functional, beautiful, and eco-friendly.”
Ar. Anil Badan, Founder and Principal
Architect at Studio B Architects opines that modern architects are opting for sustainable strategies and tools to design sustainable buildings. “Tools like BIM and energy modeling software are gaining more popularity for their optimum design solutions. Architects are using digital models of buildings using BIM technology, which makes design simulation and iteration more effective. It makes matching sustainability objectives with energy analysis and material selection possible. Further, for simulating a building’s energy performance, energy modeling technologies assist architects in optimising lighting, HVAC, and insulation. These models influence
energy-efficient design choices,” he explains.
Ar. Jaideep Thareja, Founder and Principal Architect at Jaideep Thareja Architects notes that modern-day architects are using various software like BIM and Revit to design structures that are energy efficient without compromising on aesthetics. “This software for 3D models has comprehensive details on components, materials, and spatial relationships. Throughout the building lifecycle, this data-driven approach enables well-informed decision-making, leading to more sustainable and effective designs. The development of intricate 3D models that incorporate information on materials, components, and spatial relationships is made possible by programs like Revit and ArchiCAD. It helps architects to add data to the software which offers results based on the climate of the region.”
KEY SOFTWARE TOOLS FOR SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
According to Ar. Tonpe, tools like ArchiCAD (with EcoDesigner), DDS-CAD, and AX3000 are essential for MEP designing and heat load calculations. “Energy modeling tools like EnergyPlus, Sefaira, and IESVE are invaluable, along with site analysis tools like Ladybug and Spacemaker. Parametric
AR. ANIL BADAN Founder and Principal Architect, Studio B Architects
AR. AJAY TONPE Founding Partner, BEYOND DESIGN
AR. JAIDEEP THAREJA Founder and Principal Architect, Jaideep Thareja Architects
With AI and BIM tools, modern facades are improving to focus on sustainable designs
design tools such as Grasshopper and visualisation platforms like Enscape and Twinmotion optimise energy and environmental impacts for sustainable projects,” he shares.
Ar. Badan explains that key software tools like Fleet Complete, SimaPro, and EcoOnline offer solutions for energy efficiency and material optimisation. “Fleet Complete helps achieve sustainability objectives by scheduling construction equipment optimally, cutting down on idle time, and increasing fuel economy. Construction organisations may manage environmental hazards, stay in compliance with regulations, and report on sustainability initiatives with the aid of EcoOnline, an environmental compliance software. Further, a software tool called CarbonCure helps construction enterprises lower their carbon footprint by tracking and monitoring carbon emissions during the manufacture of concrete,” he notes.
Ar. Thareja emphasises the role of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and eco-design tools in sustainable architecture. “You may quantify and compare the embodied energy, water footprint, carbon footprint, and other indicators of your design decisions with the aid of LCA tools like OpenLCA, GaBi, and SimaPro. These tools pinpoint trade-offs and hotspots, optimising
designs for sustainability. By supporting architects during conception, assessment, refinement, and dissemination phases, eco-design tools assist in achieving sustainable design,” he explains.
PARAMETRIC TOOLS IN FAÇADE DESIGN
Parametric design tools play a vital role in achieving custumisation and optimisation in façade design. According to Ar. Ajay Tonpe, parametric tools like Grasshopper enable customised façade designs by generating complex, site-responsive geometries. “They optimise performance by integrating with analysis tools like Ladybug to improve energy efficiency, daylighting, and material use. This ensures that façades are visually unique, sustainable, and functional. These tools are
well connected inside ArchiCAD to take advantage of the BIM process,” he adds.
Ar. Badan believes that software like BIM helps simulate building performance in any region by assessing the local climate and other considerations. “The structure can be emphasised to enhance coordination and coopAeration amongst contractors, engineers, architects, and other stakeholders. Errors and rework are decreased as a result of its facilitation of information sharing, clash identification, and design conflict resolution before construction. Façade designers can now utilise the data-rich features of BIM models as BIM platforms advance. They add specific details regarding construction systems, sustainability considerations, performance analysis, and materials. Better decisions could be made during the design and construction phases as a result,” he explains.
Ar. Thareja explains how parametric tools like Marionette, Rhino with Grasshopper, and Dynamo assist in designing structures that redefine volumes and masses in design. “A Trimble SketchUp plugin called Modelur helps with conceptual urban massing. In addition to calculating urban control criteria like floor area ratio in real-time, it enables users to define buildings using
West facade building with shading using architectural intervention (ongoing project in PUNE)
Parametric software used to create facade (an ongoing project in Ahmedabad)
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parameters like the number of floors and gross floor area. For algorithmic modeling, Rhino’s Grasshopper plugin offers a stable environment. Through a visual programming interface, it enables users to generate intricate geometries, increasing the precision and flexibility of design. Dynamo provides a visual scripting environment for automating BIM processes when integrated with Autodesk Revit. It facilitates effective BIM data processing and iterative design exploration,” he concludes.
SIMULATING BUILDING PERFORMANCE DURING THE DESIGN PROCESS
Ar. Tonpe says daylight analysis tools like Ladybug and DIALux evaluate natural light penetration and glare, helping optimise window placement and shading. Thermal comfort simulations using programs such as IESVE, EnergyPlus, and DesignBuilder enable architects to assess indoor temperatures, HVAC performance, and energy efficiency. Wind resistance analysis through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools evaluates wind flow and pressure around buildings, enhancing structural stability and occupant comfort. These simulations ensure designs meet environmental, energy, and occupant comfort goals efficiently.
building performance simulation by assessing local climate and other regional factors. It enhances coordination and collaboration among contractors, engineers, architects, and other stakeholders by streamlining information sharing, clash identification, and design
conflict resolution. By integrating data-rich features, BIM enables façade designers to include detailed insights about construction systems, sustainability considerations, performance analysis, and materials. This empowers stakeholders to make better decisions during the design and construction phases, reducing errors and rework.
Ar. Thareja opines Software solutions play a vital role in optimising building performance during the design phase. Advanced tools help architects simulate crucial factors like daylight analysis, thermal comfort, and wind resistance, providing actionable insights. Daylight simulations optimise natural light, reducing energy consumption, while thermal comfort analyses assess material choices and insulation strategies to maintain indoor temperature balance, improving occupant comfort. Wind resistance evaluations ensure structural stability by analysing airflow and pressure on façades. These simulations foster data-driven decisionmaking, minimising design flaws and improving overall efficiency.
MANAGING COMPLEXITIES IN FAÇADE DESIGN
Ar Tonpe says advanced tools like Grasshopper and BIM streamline complex façade design processes by enabling precise modeling, material optimisation, fabrication-ready outputs, and performance analysis. These tools
Ar. Badan notes Software like BIM facilitates
Completed project in Pune for IT client
AI enhances predictive analysis and design optimisation, streamlining workflows and improving precision
Advanced tools help to streamline data according to the inputs and then come up with multiple designs for the same project
enhance collaboration and ensure the efficient implementation of intricate geometries and unique materials.
Ar. Badan, explains that parametric modeling and computational design tools address the challenges of designing and installing façades with intricate geometries and unique materials. These tools optimise structural integrity and predict performance with precision. They facilitate material integration by analysing their behaviour under various conditions, ensuring durability. Additionally, digital simulations streamline installation by providing detailed fabrication data, reducing errors and waste.
Ar. Jaideep Thareja, notes advanced tools streamline data inputs to generate multiple design options for a single project. They create digital models that, once optimised, are converted into comprehensive construction documentation. These documents guide fabrication and assembly, ensuring the original design concept is faithfully executed. Such tools allow designers to explore diverse geometries and outcomes, aiding in façade installation processes.
THE FUTURE OF DESIGN TOOLS IN INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
Ar. Tonpe opines AI and generative design will revolutionise innovation by enabling
the rapid creation of highly complex, optimised geometries tailored to specific sites and functions. Sustainability will be enhanced through the real-time integration of environmental and lifecycle data, optimising energy use, material selection, and carbon footprints. AI-driven simulations and automation will streamline workflows, reducing
design iterations and construction errors. Computational design will foster customisation by creating highly adaptable, site-specific façades that dynamically respond to environmental conditions. These advancements will push boundaries in aesthetics, functionality, and eco-conscious design.
Ar. Badan says AI, BIM, and computational design are redefining architectural and façade design. AI enhances predictive analysis and design optimisation, streamlining workflows and improving precision. BIM serves as a collaborative platform for real-time data sharing, enabling efficient decision-making and reducing resource wastage. Computational design empowers architects to create complex geometries and adaptive façades that respond dynamically to environmental conditions, improving energy efficiency.
Ar. Thareja notes AI and BIM tools are driving advancements in modern façade design with a focus on sustainability. Research is advancing to utilise façades for energy generation, considering their critical role in reducing energy consumption, enhancing natural lighting, and ensuring optimal airflow within structures. Future façades are evolving to provide ideal lighting, airflow, and temperature regulation throughout the day, contributing to improved building performance and occupant comfort.
AI, BIM, and computational design are redefining architectural and façade design by Anil Badan
Computational design empowers architects to create complex geometries and adaptive façades that respond dynamically to environmental conditions, improving energy efficiency
Advanced tools enable architects to simulate crucial factors like daylight analysis and wind resistance
Leveraging Technology to Create Sustainable & Eye-Catching Façades & Fenestration
As architecture continues to evolve, integrating advanced technology into the design and construction of façades has become a game changer. The focus of the industry has shifted to creating sustainable solutions to ensure that not only are buildings structurally aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and have energy efficiency and convenience for residents. To achieve this goal, architects and designers are increasingly relying on
modern software and tools that facilitate the design of complex, high-performance façades. In this cover story, we will dive into how these digital solutions are transforming façade design concepts, customisation, and usability. We will also explore the role of design software in promoting heat ingress, glare, and natural light. Here you may discover how these tools create comfortable, energy-efficient interiors and get to learn the important
role of parametric design and automation in creating modern façade designs that are visually appealing and functionally superior. How are new technologies like interactive media facades and automated design processes revolutionising the building design landscape? Read here about the intersection of design, technology, and sustainability to create the iconic building envelopes of the future.
Image generated by RBDS AI Lab on Midjourney
THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN DESIGNING SUSTAINABLE AND VISUALLY APPEALING FAÇADES AND FENESTRATIONS
Ar. Nayan Shah, Founder and Head Architect of Palindrome Spaces, believes that façades designed with sustainability and functionality in mind enhance the visual appeal of a building while maximising utility and lowering energy consumption. He explains,
“They reduce a building’s carbon footprint, improve indoor comfort, and create a harmonious relationship with the environment. Healthy and more productive rooms are the by-product of fenestrations and façades that maximise natural light and ventilation.” Shah utilises tools such as Cove. Tool and IESVE for analysing thermal performance, sun shading, and energy efficiency. For daylighting studies, tools like DIALux and Radiance are employed to strike an optimal balance between glare suppression and natural light. “Using Rhino and Grasshopper, one can create complex geometries that adapt to environmental conditions and yet astonish the observer,” he adds.
Ar. Ravideep Singh, Associate Director at Creative Designer Architects, agrees that technology plays a pivotal role in façade design. He notes, “The emergence of AI-driven Building Management Systems (BMS), insights from multilayered analytical data cycles, and robust IoT networks has transformed how we approach building design.” Singh explains that these tools translate analytical data into actionable strategies, optimising façade-defining elements such as component weightage, assembly loads, insulation, and ventilation. “Predictive maintenance, informed by sensor data such as occupancy and daylight sensors,
further enhances the efficiency and functionality of façades,” he opines.
Ar. Tanveer, Founder of RBDS and the AI Lab, asserts that Building Information Modelling (BIM) forms the foundation of any data-driven, AIassisted design process. “It’s not just a tool but a mindset - a way to organise knowledge, integrate workflows, and create a shared language between designers, engineers, and data,” he explains. Within this framework, façades transcend their structural roles to narrate stories of climate, culture, and intent. He elaborates, “Revit, paired with plugins like Insight and Green Building Studio, enables precise simulations of light, heat, and energy efficiency. Tools like FenestraPro optimise glazing and shading to balance aesthetics and performance, while Autodesk Forma helps assess energy and carbon impacts early in the design phase. For daylighting, Daysim and LadyBug map solar patterns to design façades that invite light while reducing glare. Additionally, standalone tools like ClimaPlus and cove.tool empower smaller practices to achieve sustainable results efficiently.” He emphasises that computational tools like Rhino + Grasshopper amplify the architect’s ability to simulate and optimise designs at scale, sharpening intuition rather than replacing it.
AR. NAYAN SHAH Founder and Head Architect, Palindrome Spaces
AR. SAHIL TANVEER Founder, RBDS and the AI Lab
Autodesk
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Ar. Kedar Undale, Principal Architect at Kedar Undale Design Studio, shares insights on integrating generative AI tools with façade design, highlighting their visual potential. He explains, “AI tools like MidJourney are popular for generating architectural façades through text prompts, leveraging latent space to reproduce data as pixel information. For greater design control, I prefer ComfyUI, a local installation resembling Grasshopper3D’s interface, which supports features like ControlNet for edge detection and depth mapping.” While generative AI excels at visual creation, it lacks integration with sustainability parameters. “My methodology employs a hybrid approach—initial designs are generated using ComfyUI, followed by parametric modelling in Rhino3D, allowing climatic analysis tools to evaluate context. Parametric scripts then iterate designs to craft sustainable solutions,” he explains.
Ar. Nitesh Kumar, Freelance Architect, concurs with the importance of advanced tools in creating sustainable and visually appealing façades. He states, “Software like Rhino with Grasshopper for parametric modelling, Autodesk Revit for BIM-based designs, and EnergyPlus for energy performance analysis are indispensable. These tools integrate advanced simulation features for solar shading, thermal performance, and material efficiency, helping to balance aesthetics with sustainability.”
According to Ar. Richa Gupta, Lead Architect and Brand Strategist at Studio TAB, modern design tools help architects balance efficiency, aesthetics, and sustainability. BIM tools like Revit streamline coordination, while automation software like Rhino allows rapid design iterations. Visualisation tools such as Lumion and Enscape help refine aesthetics, and generative design uses AI to create unique solutions. Sustainability is supported
by energy analysis tools like IESVE and material optimisation software like Tally. Cloud platforms like BIM 360 improve collaboration, while VR/AR enhances immersive experiences. In India, tools integrate local materials and climate, aligning with sustainability standards like ECBC and IGBC. She explains that tools such as “Climate Consultant” for site-specific climatology analysis and Autodesk Revit for BIM enable architects to incorporate sustainable practices throughout a project’s lifecycle.
Ar. Navaz Falee Bilimoria, Senior Sustainability Consultant and India Team Lead at Susnomics, UAE, believes that façades today are designed not just for aesthetics but also with a focus on the environment and occupant well-being. He highlights how advancements in façade materials, including high-performance glazing, dynamic shading systems, and sustainable cladding options, have broadened design possibilities while addressing energy efficiency and environmental impact. She emphasises, “Façades are just as critical, if not more so, than the overall massing and volume of the building in influencing energy efficiency, daylighting, and thermal comfort, and should never be an afterthought.” She advocates for the early integration of simulation tools, such as energy modelling, CFD simulations, and daylight analysis, to test various design scenarios and refine solutions. This ensures façades are visually striking and contribute to highperforming, sustainable buildings.
AR. NITESH KUMAR Freelance Architect
AR. KEDAR UNDALE Principal Architect, Kedar Undale Design Studio
AR. RICHA GUPTA Lead Architect and Brand Strategist, Studio TAB
AR. NAVAZ FALEE BILIMORIA Senior Sustainability Consultant and India Team Lead, Susnomics, UAE
Image generated by RBDS AI Lab on Midjourney
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THE ROLE OF DESIGN SOFTWARE AND TOOLS IN MINIMISING HEAT INGRESS AND GLARE, WHILE ENSURING OPTIMAL NATURAL LIGHT AND VENTILATION
Ar. Shah explains that reducing heat infiltration and glare is critical to creating comfortable interiors. “Glare from natural light causes discomfort and lowers productivity, increasing indoor temperatures and the demand for cooling, which further leads to environmental degradation. Simulation software like IESVE models thermal conditions, providing insights into how materials, placement, and orientation impact heat flow. This allows designers to reduce heat gain or loss, resulting in energy-efficient designs.”
Ar. Shah also highlights the role of tools like Radiance and DIALux in daylighting analysis. “These tools ensure maximum natural light is available while controlling glare. They simulate sunlight exposure and help architects optimise window size, shading, and positioning to enhance comfort and reduce energy consumption.” Additionally, he notes that CFD simulations help analyse airflow patterns, improving natural ventilation and reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
Ar. Singh agrees, noting that the building façade must be customised to address sitespecific climatic challenges like temperature fluctuations, wind pressures, and seismic forces. He opines, “Façade material selection
should consider energy requirements and life cycle impacts. An intelligent façade is essential for harmonising the interaction between indoor spaces and the external environment. A thoughtful design reduces reliance on artificial ventilation and lighting while enabling natural ventilation when weather conditions permit.”
Ar. Singh adds, “It is also crucial to evaluate the façade’s interaction with the broader ecosystem, mitigating issues like bird strikes and glare. This can be achieved through precise fenestration design and treatments. For example, in the Max Super Speciality Hospital project in Vaishali, the east, west, and north façades were designed to maximise natural daylight, enhancing interior quality.”
Ar. Tanveer believes that comfort transcends physical conditions and embodies harmony between light, air, temperature, and human connection
with spaces. “When sunlight enters a room, it should transform and shape moods, balancing daylight with shadows, warmth with ventilation, and stillness with air movement. Tools like cove.tool and IES Virtual Environment quantify what we sense intuitively, refining window placements, shading systems, and a building’s response to the sun’s movement.”
Ar. Tanveer further notes that tools like ClimaPlus provide insights into airflow, allowing architects to design façades that breathe naturally, connecting interiors to the outside world. However, he stresses, “Comfort is not achieved through mechanical precision alone but through the art of creating spaces that invite people to linger and feel alive.”
Ar. Undale shares insights from his project, Rotating Radiations in Belagavi, which showcases how computational tools can balance thermal comfort and aesthetics. “Using Ladybug within Grasshopper3D, we calculated solar radiation on façade panels and adjusted their rotation accordingly. Panels with high radiation were closed, while those with less radiation remained open or semi-open. This strategy resulted in a 21% reduction in internal heat gain while maintaining visual appeal.” He explains how evolutionary solvers like Galapagos refined the design by minimising heat gain and maximising outdoor visibility. “This method demonstrates how designers can integrate environmental performance with aesthetics and costefficiency, adaptable to various façade designs.”
Ar. Kumar notes that extensions like Ladybug and Honeybee enable precise environmental analysis. “These tools optimise façade positioning, materials, and geometries to reduce heat ingress and glare while enhancing natural light and ventilation. Combining these tools with AI-driven algorithms ensures adaptive and climate-responsive façades.”
Rotating Radiation Solar Analysis
Rotating Radiation Angle Per Panel
Software solutions are crucial for optimising building performance, allowing architects to simulate daylighting, thermal comfort, and wind resistance for efficient, sustainable designs. Here’s how:
• Daylight Analysis: They optimise natural light, reduce glare, and minimise artificial lighting.
• Thermal Comfort: They stimulate the temperature and material impacts to improve comfort and energy efficiency. For example, Double-skin façades for better insulation.
• Wind Resistance: They assess the wind pressure and airflow for stability and energy optimisation. For example, the usage of windbreaks for coastal cities.
• Integrated Simulations: They combine multiple performance metrics for holistic design decisions. For example, Testing façades for net-zero energy buildings.
They have a host of benefits, such as enabling one to make informed decisions and being cost-efficient.
In terms of Indian architecture, tools like Climate Consultant address diverse climates and integrate vernacular elements, ensuring compliance with GRIHA and IGBC standards.
These tools further help architects create high-performance, sustainable designs.
- Ar. Richa Gupta, Lead Architect and Brand Strategist, Studio TAB
Design software and tools are essential for creating comfortable interiors, enabling precise analysis and optimisation based on geolocation, climate data, and sitespecific parameters such as sunlight, wind, rain, UV, and air quality, according to Ar. Bilimoria. These tools help achieve the fine balance in window-wall ratios needed to minimise energy consumption (eQuest, IESVE), while maximising daylight (ClimateStudio, CoveTool, Dailux) and ventilation (Simscale). They also guide decisions on parametric elements for shading placement, louvers, fins, overhangs, along with façade orientation and glass types. With rapidly changing climates, Ar. Bilimoria notes that historical data has become less reliable, and many building performance analysts are shifting to “future climate files” or “predicted weather data” to ensure today’s designs remain resilient for the future. However, while simulations provide valuable insights, she stresses that they must align with on-site realities. Theoretical
results can differ from actual conditions, and Bilimoria emphasises that successful designs reconcile predictive modelling with real-world observations.
ADVANCED TOOLS ADDRESSING THE CHALLENGES OF COMPLEX FAÇADE DESIGNS AND INSTALLATIONS
Ar. Shah explains, “Intricate façade designs often incorporate complex geometries
and advanced materials, requiring meticulous planning and execution. Tools like Rhino and Grasshopper enable architects to explore parametric models and dynamic forms. Once the conceptual stage is complete, software like Revit in BIM is employed to detail the façade, ensuring precise coordination of structural components and materials. For visualisation, tools such as 3ds Max and V-Ray simulate how the façade interacts with light, weather, and the environment, providing an accurate representation of the design. During construction, Navisworks aids in conflict detection, ensuring all components are aligned correctly before installation. Moreover, CATIA is used to engineer and manufacture complex façade components, such as custom glass panels, ensuring seamless integration between the design and its construction. This integrated use of hightech equipment brings such complex façade designs to life efficiently and effectively.”
Singh agrees, adding, “The new-age façades are developed to seamlessly integrate advanced technologies into the design, transforming static structures into dynamic, context-responsive skins. Artificial Intelligence (AI) enables real-time responsiveness to environmental stimuli, adjusting visuals for impact and energy efficiency. Augmented Reality (AR) adds layers of digital interaction, enhancing user engagement through immersive
Maya Somaiya Library
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storytelling. Virtual Reality (VR) aids in designing and testing façade concepts, ensuring precision and alignment with architectural intent. Programmable LED systems and innovative materials allow façades to transition between static and animated states, while sensors enable interactivity, responding to movement or environmental changes. These innovations turn façades into living canvases, effortlessly merging architecture, technology, and urban engagement.”
Tanveer notes, “Complex façades demand precision, but they also demand collaboration. While we are not parametric designers by trade, at RBDS, we have embraced tools like Rhino and Grasshopper for their ability to explore forms that push the boundaries of design. I was particularly influenced by Sameep Padora and his approach—using parametrics to create buildings that don’t look parametric but respond intelligently to their environment.
“We use these tools as a sandbox for experimentation and conceptual analysis—a way to test ideas, explore geometries, and understand how form meets function. While we don’t use tools like CATIA or Paneling Tools ourselves, we have seen their potential to enhance complex façade systems and bring intricate visions to life. For us, these tools
are part of a larger conversation—a dialogue between design intent and execution—where we lean on specialists and collaborators to amplify precision and ensure that every curve serves its purpose and every detail tells a story.
“For installation, automation tools like FeneVision simplify production workflows, from material cutting to assembly. On-site challenges, like air leakage in complex façades, are solved with technologies like AeroBarrier, which automates envelope sealing with millimetre-level precision. These tools ensure that even the most ambitious façades transition seamlessly from vision to reality.”
Ar. Undale opines, “The tools I use to create and translate complex designs for fabrication include Rhino3D and Grasshopper3D. My work particularly focuses on curved surfaces—both single and double curvature—and these tools have fundamentally shaped how I approach design challenges. The introduction of SubD modelling in Rhino7 has made designing complex façades more approachable, but in my experience, the real challenge lies in rationalisation.
“Rationalisation in façade design means simplifying the design by optimising it for fabrication, structural integration, code compliance, material constraints,
and cost efficiency—all while preserving the original design intent. For instance, while working on a metal façade, I had to revise the design to increase the bending curvature from 10mm to 50mm based on façade engineering requirements. Machine learning further aids rationalisation by reducing unique panel or surface counts, optimising costs, and maintaining design coherence.
“The process culminates in translating optimised designs into BIM software, specifically Revit, for stakeholder coordination before construction begins. Tools like Rhino.Inside Revit ensure seamless transfer of complex geometries without compromising design integrity. This workflow bridges the gap between ambitious designs and what is buildable.”
Kumar concurs, adding, “Advanced tools such as Dassault Systèmes’ CATIA, Autodesk Fusion 360, and Tekla Structures address the challenges of complex façade designs by integrating structural, aesthetic, and environmental data. These tools manage intricate designs effectively and predict potential construction challenges with AI integration, optimising processes and ensuring precision in execution.”
Advanced design tools are essential in navigating the complexities associated with the design and installation of façades, particularly when dealing with intricate geometries and unconventional materials. These tools facilitate precise modeling, enhance collaboration among stakeholders, and streamline the construction process, ultimately leading to more efficient and effective façade solutions, says Ar. Gupta.
Ar. Bilimoria highlights that there are countless advanced tools available to address the challenges of complex façade design and installation, making the process more efficient and precise. She notes that parametric design tools like Grasshopper and Dynamo allow effortless exploration of
Image generated by RBDS AI Lab on Midjourney
intricate geometries during the schematic stage. Once the design is finalised, he points out that BIM platforms ensure seamless integration of the façade with building systems, streamlining coordination across AEC disciplines. On the construction side, Ar. Bilimoria mentions the increasing use of fabrication software, along with steady innovations like 3D-printed façades, robotics, and AR/VR tools, enhancing onsite precision and visualisation. She further adds that digital twin technologies are also gaining traction, creating virtual replicas of buildings to test installation sequences and performance, proving useful even in the building’s operational phase. While these technologies are revolutionising the architecture industry, Ar. Bilimoria acknowledges that it is still catching up to sectors like automotive and aerospace, where automation and precision tools have long been integral, setting a benchmark for innovation and efficiency.
THE ROLE OF DESIGN TOOLS IN PARAMETRIC DESIGN: CUSTOMISATION, OPTIMISATION, AND KEY SOFTWARE
Ar. Shah explains that parametric design emphasises personalisation and efficiency by using a set of guidelines and criteria that control how design elements relate to one another. This allows designers to produce adaptable, flexible systems where modifications to one component instantly affect related ones, guaranteeing efficiency and uniformity. He notes that this approach is particularly helpful for
designing complicated geometries and performance-based solutions, as it enables quick iterations and modifications in response to specific requirements. The primary tools in parametric design are Rhino with Grasshopper, where Rhino serves as the modelling platform, and Grasshopper, the visual programming platform, guides the logic of the design process using variables. Other software options include Revit and Autodesk Dynamo, which also integrate parametric design for architecture, helping to refine building elements, optimise material usage, and create highly responsive environments. These tools streamline the design process, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functional performance.
Ar. Tanveer opines that parametric design is about systems that respond rather than merely conform. It begins with relationships—between form, material, and performance—where the design evolves as a result of constraints, not despite them. He explains that, like Sameep Padora’s work, his team believes parametric design doesn’t have to look parametric; instead, it can feel organic, contextual, and deeply human. He says they use these tools for experimentation— challenging themselves with ideas that may be structurally improbable but conceptually rich. In some cases, Blender serves as an accessible playground for form exploration, allowing them to refine ideas that don’t require high computational workflows. He adds that
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when environmental performance enters the dialogue, plugins like Ladybug and Honeybee provide data on solar exposure and natural light, nudging the design towards meaningful responsiveness. He also highlights XKool, a company that inspires them with its ecosystem of AIpowered tools and services. He notes that XKool goes beyond individual solutions, offering a holistic framework that addresses challenges across architectural design, spatial planning, and façade performance. Their technologies, grounded in AI, open new doors for architectural analysis, offering insights that are often impossible to grasp manually. He acknowledges the role of experts who can wield tools like Galapagos or CATIA for precision and execution, and reflects on how tools like Ladybug and Galapagos, introduced to him by Carlos Martinez from ZHA, have given him a fresh perspective on parametric design. He concludes that to them, parametricism is less about complexity and more about responsiveness—a way to align form, performance, and place without losing sight of the design’s poetic potential.
Ar. Undale explains that, in its simplest form, parametric design involves designs that are connected through various parameters, where a change in any one parameter affects the entire design. These parameters can include dimensions of a room, climatic data of a site, or the structural feasibility of a design, among others. These parameters can be either digital or physical, citing Ar. Antoni Gaudi’s hanging chain models as an example, where the parameters were the length of the chain, the location of anchor points, and the dead loads added on the anchor points. He emphasises that this demonstrates that parametric design is not necessarily digital. As a parametric and computational designer with over five years of experience, he primarily uses Grasshopper3D. He highlights the strength of Grasshopper in its robust online community for problem-solving and its extensive plugin ecosystem,
Parametric Patterns from GH to AI Generated Image (Left) Wave Shifting Façade; (Middle) Blend Curve Façade; (Right) 3D Gradational Façade
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covering all aspects of design—from structural analysis (Karamba) and environmental analysis (Ladybug, Honeybee) to evolutionary solvers (Galapagos, Wallacei) and machine learning (Lunchbox, Pug). He frequently uses plugins such as Lunchbox, Weaverbird, Galapagos, Open Nest, Elefront, Kangaroo2, and Ladybug for fabrication files, environmental analysis, and geometry optimisation. He recently led a workshop titled “AI & Parametric Negotiation” with PAACADEMY, which incorporated generative AI using ComfyUI. The workshop emphasised maintaining creative agency as a designer by creating a shared humanAI latent space where both AI and the designer contribute equally to the generated output. ComfyUI, a parametric AI generation tool, aligns with parametric design principles by accelerating the creation of complex architectural concepts through trained AI models. The tool also enables the training of custom models with datasets of 20 or more images, allowing designers to develop personalised style models called LoRA (Low-Rank Adaptation) models. He adds that, through this process, he has trained multiple custom LoRAs with training times ranging from 30 minutes to three hours, depending on resolution and image count. He concludes by stating that this represents another approach to parametric design—training AI with parametric design images to generate similar outputs—and emphasises that parametric design is fundamentally a process, with outputs ranging from extremely complex to remarkably simple.
Ar. Kumar adds, “Parametric design thrives on tools like Rhino-Grasshopper, Dynamo for Revit, and Maya. These tools empower architects to customise façade designs and optimise them for functionality and performance. For example, algorithms in Grasshopper can analyse wind flow and sunlight penetration to tailor a façade’s geometry for maximum efficiency.”
Parametric tools have transformed façade design by enabling both customisation and optimisation, enhancing aesthetics, performance, and sustainability. Here’s how:
• Tools like Grasshopper (with Rhino) allow architects to create unique, contextspecific designs, such as fluid or biomorphic patterns. Façades can adapt to environmental factors, like a parametric jaali that adjusts for sunlight in hot climates.
• Parametric tools model solar shading and thermal comfort, optimising façade geometry for energy efficiency. Plugins like Ladybug and Honeybee help balance aesthetics with performance, while material efficiency is improved by reducing waste.
• Façades are tailored to local climates using environmental data, such as designing double-skin façades for hot climates. Dynamic systems like kinetic shading respond to changing conditions.
• Parametric tools integrate with BIM platforms (e.g., Revit) for seamless collaboration among architects, engineers, and fabricators, enabling precision and ease in fabrication.
• Parametric design supports international standards and can incorporate local cultural elements, such as traditional jaalis in India, into modern designs.
Here are some case studies which can be considered:
Parametric tools help architects merge creativity with functionality, making façades not only visually striking but also sustainable, efficient, and contextually relevant.
- Ar. Richa Gupta, Lead Architect and Brand Strategist, Studio TAB
Al Bahr Towers, Abu Dhabi: A dynamic façade that adjusts to sunlight
Hotel Vivanta, Bangalore, India: A parametric façade inspired by traditional jaalis for optimised shading and ventilation
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Bilimoria views parametric design, as defined by Schumacher, as a response to parameters such as site conditions, building materials, and environmental factors that directly or indirectly influence a building. She highlights the transformative potential of this methodology, particularly in façade design, as it enables experimentation with various configurations through systematic inputs to achieve both visual and optimised façade performance. According to Ar. Bilimoria, design tools are crucial in this process. Software like Grasshopper, integrated with Rhino, is one of the most widely used tools, allowing architects to script complex geometries and explore multiple iterations effortlessly visually. She further notes that Grasshopper’s connection to the Pollination ecosystem ensures seamless integration of performance simulations using the Ladybug and Honeybee toolset. Similarly, she emphasises that Dynamo, when paired with Autodesk Revit, proves invaluable for BIM workflows, while more advanced customisation is achieved through programming languages like Python and C++, which tackle unique design challenges.
TECHNOLOGIES BEHIND VISUALLY STRIKING AND INTERACTIVE MEDIA FAÇADES
Ar. Undale explains, “There are various methods of creating interactive media façades. The most common approach is projection mapping, where videos or images are projected onto building façades to create interactive displays. During my master’s in advanced architecture at IAAC in Barcelona, I implemented projection mapping on a 1:100 scale model of several Barcelona
blocks that served as our design site. My project focused on reintroducing pollinators into Barcelona’s urban space. Using projection mapping, I visualised the movement patterns of pollinators (butterflies, bees, beetles, hummingbirds) through the site. These patterns were coded in Processing to generate video files, making the project dynamic and illustrating a future scenario of pollinator activity.”
He highlights that a crucial consideration in projection mapping is accounting for architectural dimensions and undulations of the projection surface. “This requires accurate measurement and creation of both 2D and 3D building models to ensure the projected content stays within building boundaries during virtual testing. Additionally, projector distance must be carefully calculated to prevent image blur, and precise alignment is essential.” The contemporary interactive façades now include coordinated drone displays creating aerial façade patterns, and integrated display screens that reveal interior activities for branding and marketing purposes. While digital interactions dominate, static façades
GreenPix Zero Energy Wall
The Second House, Goa
can also become dynamic through environmental interaction. He opines that the “Wind Veil” façade by artist and sculptor Ned Kahn in North Carolina uses this approach. Comprising 80,000 small aluminium panels hinged at the top, the façade responds to wind movement, demonstrating that interactive façades can be either digital or physical.
Tanveer believes that media façades are where architecture meets storytelling. Technologies like LED Media Mesh and LED Media Tubes transform buildings into dynamic canvases, merging transparency with interactivity. For real-time responses, interactive LED systems integrate motion sensors, voice inputs, or environmental data to engage with people.” He further notes that examples of this technology can be seen in projects like the Media Façade at the GreenPix Zero Energy Wall in Beijing, where LED mesh integrates seamlessly into the building’s skin, harvesting solar energy during the day and creating stunning visual displays at night. Similarly, the Ars Electronica Center in Austria employs interactive LED systems that respond to external triggers, creating an ever-changing visual dialogue with its environment.
According to him, projection mapping has also pushed boundaries, as seen in projects like the Sagrada Familia Light Show in Barcelona, where the façade becomes a canvas for immersive storytelling without altering its physical
form. He opines that in this discourse, it is impossible to overlook the work of Refik Anadol and his explorations into data-driven design. His latest project, the Large Nature Model Dataland, pushes the boundaries of what media façades can achieve. By blending AI, natural datasets, and machine learning, Anadol creates immersive experiences that turn buildings into living, breathing organisms—façades that pulse with the rhythms of nature. Anadol’s work demonstrates the untapped potential of AI to merge architecture with real-time, generative art, offering glimpses into how future façades might blur the line between the digital and physical worlds.
According to him, technologies, when paired with thoughtful design intent, elevate buildings into experiences—
beacons that communicate with their surroundings in real time, engage the public in meaningful ways, and open new dialogues about what façades can and should be in the age of AI. He also mentions that closer to home, his good friend Ayaz Basrai explored this potential in his project, The Second House in Goa. Here, projection mapping moves indoors, becoming an integral part of interior design. It transforms spaces dynamically, with visuals responding to the moment, enriching the experience of being inside a space that feels alive and constantly shifting.
Ar. Bilimoria emphasises that when it comes to creating visually striking and interactive media façades, technologies such as LED systems, projection mapping, and interactive sensors play a key role in bringing the vision to life. However, she believes the essence lies in a thoughtful response to the building’s design intent and its surroundings. Beyond digital media, she advocates for the need for mixed-media façades that incorporate materiality to narrate stories and reflect cultural and environmental contexts. By integrating sustainable materials, adaptive lighting, and interactive elements, she suggests that media façades can transcend mere aesthetics, becoming dynamic, contextresponsive canvases that engage users
Image generated by RBDS AI Lab on Mystic V2.5
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while harmonising with the urban landscape.
AI, BIM, AND COMPUTATIONAL DESIGN: SHAPING FUTURE FAÇADES
Ar. Singh believes that the shift towards technology necessitates architects and designers to align their design processes with the demands of future-ready systems. He explained, “Leveraging tools such as Big Data and Artificial Intelligence enables professionals to analyse existing profiles, identify patterns, and develop dynamic layouts that are adaptable and reconfigurable.”
Ar. Tanveer agrees that automation promises to streamline how façades are delivered but opines that its true potential lies in rethinking design processes. “Many architects claim to embrace advanced tools, yet their processes often remain conventional— using software as digital drafting boards rather than instruments of exploration. Tools are not a shortcut to efficiency but a means to challenge the norm, uncover new possibilities, and push design into uncharted territories,” he noted. He further elaborates that tools like Revit and Dynamo enable rulebased workflows but emphasises the importance of intent in innovation. He says, “True innovation happens when automation and human intent come together to solve real challenges, not as a superficial layer masking conventional practice. For us, automation bridges the
gap between concept and execution, where every detail reflects intent and every line drawn serves a purpose. These tools don’t replace the architect’s vision—they enhance it, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible while maintaining an eye towards the human experience.”
Ar. Undale, on the other hand, highlighted specific tools that are advancing automation in façade design. “There are numerous tools for building envelope automation that incorporate AI and Machine Learning,” he explained. He noted Finch as one such tool that integrates with Revit, Rhino, and Grasshopper, automating tasks like spatial arrangement and building massing by optimising geometry through parameters such as area, circulation, and CO2 efficiency. Tools like Hypar, TestFit, and Autodesk Forma, which automate schematic designs and sustainable façades.
For more intricate designs, he believes Grasshopper3D within Rhino offers a robust approach by utilising machine learning, climatic analysis, and evolutionary solver plugins to iterate designs. He shared an example from his work, “Serene, a project I developed with two colleagues at IAAC, used machine learning (Owl plugin), climatic analysis (Ladybug plugin), and an evolutionary solver (Octopus plugin) to generate façades optimised for solar openings and mutual shading. Proper data collection for machine learning was crucial, allowing us to create a tensor set with Owl that generated optimal façade designs for each month without further iteration.” He also sees potential in generative AI for 2D façade automation, mentioning ComfyUI. He noted, “I employed ComfyUI during a renovation project to generate design options while maintaining the original building’s structural layout. This tool can even generate design options from images of open plots, providing
Ossam Clinic, New Delhi
Max Vaishali
contextual evaluation before modelling. AI excels in creating aesthetically pleasing designs, demonstrating particular strength in generative tasks.”
Ar. Kumar adds a practical perspective, emphasising tools that enhance precision during installation. “Tools like BIM 360, Navisworks, and SolidWorks support automation in building envelope design and installation,” he explained. These platforms, according to him, use AI and generative design algorithms to automate repetitive tasks, simulate performance, and streamline installation processes. He notes, “This approach enhances efficiency and ensures precision in complex projects.”
Ar. Gupta opines that the evolution of AI, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and computational design is poised to significantly influence the future of architectural and façade design. These advancements are expected to drive innovation by enabling more creative and sustainable design approaches, allowing architects to optimise performance, reduce waste, and create structures
that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible.
Ar. Bilimoria believes that when automating building envelopes, including façades, doors, and windows, it is essential to look beyond software and emphasise integrated systems. According to her, Building Management Systems (BMS), paired with digital twin technology, are game-changers for optimising façade performance. These systems respond to real-time environmental data—such as wind, temperature, light, and air quality— to control features like automated shading, lighting, and ventilation. For instance, daylight sensors adjust shading devices, electrochromic glass dynamically tints to reduce glare and heat gain, and windows close automatically during poor air quality or high winds, enhancing both comfort and safety. She also points out that on the installation side, modern fabrication tools and parametric modular approaches are transforming the production and assembly of façade components, enabling greater
precision, reduced labour costs, and faster installation.
CONCLUSION
The integration of advanced technology in the design of façades and fenestration has opened a new era of innovation. Tools such as Cove.Tool, IESVE, Radiance, DIALux, Rhino, Grasshopper and BIMbased platforms are key to achieving an energy-efficient and visually appealing façade design. Architects and designers use these technologies to create buildings that optimise natural light, ventilation and thermal insulation appropriately at the same time, it reduces heat ingress and glare. These tools not only improve a building’s environmental capabilities, but also provide comfort to occupants and reduce reliance on mechanical systems.
Using parametric design and computational tools such as Grasshopper, Ladybug, and Galapagos allows for a deeper understanding of the relationship between form, materials, and performance. This allows for customisation and optimisation of complex façades and ensures that each design element responds both functionally and aesthetically. Using AI, machine learning and creative design changes also open up new opportunities for innovative façade solutions by erasing the boundaries between digital design and physical implementation.
The combination of technology, agility, and innovative design has transformed the façade from a mere structural component towards dynamic, responsive, and environmentally conscious elements that integrates with the identity and efficiency of modern buildings. As the industry continues to explore new tools and methods, design software’s role in shaping the future of façade and fenestration will only grow promoting a harmonious balance between technology, nature, and architecture.
Yashoda Medicity
Innovative Software and Tools for Designing Sustainable and Striking Façades and Fenestrations
The design of façades and fenestrations has evolved beyond aesthetics to integrate functionality and sustainability, driven by cutting-edge software and tools. Architects now rely on advanced platforms to streamline workflows, optimise building performance, and enhance visual appeal. Traditional design processes, which once compartmentalised form, performance,
and aesthetics, have been replaced by modern parametric and Building Information Modelling (BIM) software. These innovations enable seamless analysis of solar heat gain, natural light, ventilation, and energy efficiency, ensuring holistic design solutions.
Tools like Rhino, Grasshopper, and Revit allow exploration of complex geometries and environmental responsiveness, while
simulation software such as EnergyPlus, Ladybug, and Honeybee provide critical insights into thermal comfort and daylighting. Emerging technologies like 3D printing, CNC machining, and digital twins refine fabrication precision and installation efficiency. This article explores how architects leverage these tools to create innovative, sustainable, and visually striking façades, shaping a future-ready built environment.
The design of façades and fenestrations has evolved beyond aesthetics to integrate functionality and sustainability, driven by cutting-edge software and tools
SOFTWARE AND TOOLS FOR DESIGNING SUSTAINABLE AND VISUALLY APPEALING FAÇADES AND FENESTRATIONS
Ar. Sriram Ramakrishnan, Principal Architect, FHD India, highlights how traditional architectural modelling software treated form, aesthetics and performance as distinct entities, necessitating the use of multiple platforms for each stage of the design process. Modern parametric and BIM software, however, integrate these aspects seamlessly, treating the façade as a single entity with built-in properties. This integration enables concurrent evaluation of aesthetics and performance on one platform, streamlining the design process for greater speed and efficiency.
Ar. Umesh Sharma, Founder and Principal Architect, The Design Studio, emphasises the importance of selecting the right software for creating visually appealing façades and fenestrations. The right tools transform creative concepts into tangible realities. A number of platforms and software tools are essential for creating environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing projects. In India, Building Information Modelling (BIM) platforms and 3DX MAX, SKETCHUP and REVIT are pivotal for crafting eco-friendly and visually captivating designs.
Ar. Sharmin Wade, Principal Architect, Studio SB, underscores the significant role of software in sustainable façade design.
Tools like BIM and Revit facilitate sun path analysis and sustainability assessments, enabling swift and precise evaluations of building performance. These technologies optimize building orientation and utilize plugins to address specific requirements, offering tailored, optimised solutions based on precise inputs.
Ar. Sumit Dhawan, Founder & Principal Architect, Cityspace82’ Architects, notes that designing sustainable and visually striking façades and fenestrations demands advanced, precision-driven software. Tools such as Rhino and Grasshopper allow parametric modelling, enabling designers to explore complex geometries. Additionally, simulation software like ANSYS and COMSOL evaluates wind resistance and structural integrity, streamlining workflows while ensuring environmental standards and aesthetic excellence are achieved.
TOOLS TO MINIMISE HEAT INGRESS AND GLARE WHILE ENSURING OPTIMAL NATURAL LIGHT AND VENTILATION
Ar. Dhawan explains that tools like EnergyPlus and Ladybug are instrumental in designing energy-efficient structures. EnergyPlus is used to simulate water and energy usage in buildings, covering plug and process loads, lighting, ventilation, heating and cooling. Ladybug Tools facilitate seamless data transfer across simulation engines while operating within 3D modelling applications, allowing
AR. UMESH SHARMA Founder and Principal Architect, The Design Studio
AR. SRIRAM RAMAKRISHNAN Principal Architect, FHD India
AR. SHARMIN WADE Principal Architect, Studio SB
AR. SUMIT DHAWAN Founder & Principal Architect, Cityspace82’ Architects
VIP Grand Walk - a project by The Design Studio. When designing an architectural feature for a commercial project on Airport Road, it’s essential to consider its prominence and functionality while ensuring it captures attention and complements the surroundings
Cover Story
geometry development, simulation, and visualisation within a single interface. These tools emphasise the importance of energy-efficient designs, shaping fenestrations to enhance natural light and ventilation.
Ar. Wade highlights the role of software in crafting comfortable interiors by minimising heat ingress. These tools help understand how a building’s skin functions as a whole and identify ways to improve it. Many architects prefer software like Ecotect for precise assessments of fenestration performance. Additionally, country-specific tools like the H1 compliance calculator monitor key variables, including Window Wall Ratio (WWR), light penetration and thermal heat intake and loss, providing critical insights for optimising designs.
Ar. Ramakrishnan notes that BIM and plugins are effective for basic daylight and energy analysis in standard projects. For more complex projects, Rhino and Grasshopper offer specialised plugins like Ladybug for environmental and sustainability analysis and Honeybee for energy and performance analysis. Grasshopper also supports wind analysis
through fluid dynamics simulations. Collaboration with consultants further enhances these studies.
Ar. Ramakrishnan adds that software tools are frequently used for daylighting simulations to maintain appropriate lux levels in indoor spaces while minimising glare and direct sunlight. Multiple platforms enable detailed daylight analysis, optimising window designs. Thermal load studies are conducted for large air-conditioned spaces, such as commercial buildings, while urban heat island effects are examined for smaller projects like group villas. These studies guide the strategic design of paved areas, self-shaded spaces and crossventilation within buildings and urban spaces, ensuring thermal comfort and sustainability.
Design software and tools significantly create comfortable interiors by analysing and optimising factors like heat ingress, glare, natural light and ventilation. Here’s how these tools assist in achieving these objectives:
1. Analysing and Optimising Solar Heat Gain - The purpose of the analysing and optimising solar heat gain tool is to assess and enhance the efficiency of construction materials and designs in controlling solar heat gain. The tool aids in optimising thermal comfort and energy efficiency in buildings by determining the amount of solar radiation that is absorbed, reflected, or transmitted through windows, walls, or other surfaces. To offer insights into minimising cooling loads in the summer and optimising passive heating in the winter, it takes into account elements including location, orientation, glass characteristics and shading techniques. For architects, engineers and energy specialists looking for economical and environmentally friendly building options, this tool is indispensable.
2. Ensuring Optimal Natural Light - The Ensuring Optimal Natural Light tool reduces energy use and glare while optimising daylight in indoor areas. It guarantees a well-lit, cozy space that lessens dependency on artificial lighting and improves occupant well-being by examining elements including window placement, size, orientation and shading.
3. Reducing Glare - The reducing glare tool reduces the amount of ocular strain that indoor environments with high contrast or brightness can produce. It guarantees a balanced distribution of light by examining window placement, shading and material reflectivity, improving both visual comfort and productivity.
4. Enhancing Ventilation and Airflow - By maximising natural airflow and reducing visual discomfort from excessive light, the reducing glare and enhancing ventilation and airflow tool enhances indoor comfort. In order to provide a healthier and more energy-efficient environment, it examines window placement, design and shading to minimise glare and enable cross-ventilation.
5. Material Selection and Thermal Comfort - By absorbing and releasing heat gradually, high thermal mass materials like stone or concrete assist control indoor temperatures. Energy efficiency is increased by insulating materials, such as wool or cork, which reduce heat gain or loss. Darker hues and textured surfaces add warmth in colder climates, while reflective surfaces and light-coloured finishes can lessen heat absorption in hot climates. Carefully considered material selections guarantee a well-balanced, cozy interior space that complements both functional and aesthetic objectives.
6. Site Context and Building Orientation - The Site Context and Building Orientation tool optimises the location of a building by taking into account environmental elements and its surroundings. It improves natural light, ventilation and energy efficiency while lowering thermal loads by examining sun trajectories, wind patterns and site-specific factors.
(Ar. Umesh Sharma, Founder and Principal Architect of The Design Studio)
Daylighting analysis for Commercial building
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ADVANCED TOOLS TO ADDRESS THE CHALLENGES OF COMPLEX FAÇADE DESIGNS & THEIR INSTALLATIONS
Ar. Sharma notes that advanced tools optimise structures, analyse material behaviour and enhance installation precision and sustainability. These innovations elevate façade design and management, meeting contemporary challenges with efficiency.
Ar. Ramakrishnan emphasises that advanced design tools extend beyond traditional design. Prototyping is a new tool that allows us to 3D print samples at a reduced scale or even original scale. The 3D printed prototype allows us and stakeholders to perceive scale in the real world. It allows us to understand working, fixing details, in innovative systems. Thereby we can optimise the design before mass manufacture of custom façade systems.
Ar. Dhawan highlights the significance of precision tools in modern façade design and installation. CNC machining and robotic arms enable accurate fabrication of intricate components, while digital twin technology provides virtual replicas of façades for real-time monitoring and adjustments during installation. These tools overcome design challenges, delivering visually striking, structurally sound and sustainable façades.
Ar. Wade underscores the utility of advanced software like Rhino with Grasshopper in addressing complex façades. BIM and Revit, with specialised plugins, facilitate the design and installation of parametric and kinetic façades while resolving structural constraints.
PARAMETRIC DESIGN
Ar. Dhawan highlights the transformative role of parametric modelling in modern architecture. Tools like Rhino and Grasshopper facilitate the exploration of complex geometries and enable designs responsive to environmental conditions. Building Information Modelling (BIM) platforms integrate design, engineering and construction data, streamlining collaboration. Structural analysis software evaluates load distribution and material behaviour, ensuring safety and efficiency. Additionally, augmented reality (AR)
overlays digital blueprints onto physical structures during on-site installations, reducing errors and enhancing precision.
Ar. Wade emphasises the customisation and innovation that parametric design brings through algorithmic processes and he too agrees that advanced tools such as Rhino with Grasshopper enable intuitive visual programming for exploring complex geometries. Autodesk Revit integrates parametric design with BIM processes, while SolidWorks supports intricate engineering solutions. The other tools like Fusion 360 and Dynamo excel in bridging parametric design with manufacturing and construction workflows, facilitating the creation of innovative yet functional architectural solutions.
Talking about the parametric design’s ability, Ar. Sharma elaborates on how they provide adaptive solutions through algorithms and real-time parameter modifications. Tools like Grasshopper for Rhino and Dynamo for Revit simplify intricate design processes. Additionally, software such as Fusion 360, Autodesk Inventor, Enscape and Lumion enhance fabrication planning, advanced visualisation and rendering. These tools combine visual programming with scripting, offering flexibility in design and optimisation.
Highlighting the dual power of form development and analysis in parametric modelling. Ar. Ramakrishnan explains that NURBS modelling allows architects to create complex forms, while parametric scripts detail façade systems. Optimisation tools incorporate site-specific climate data to simulate conditions and optimise façades for energy efficiency and performance.
Together, these insights underline how parametric tools streamline workflows, foster collaboration and enable architects to design innovative, sustainable, and efficient structures tailored to specific project needs.
3D Prototype testing
3D Prototyping
STRIKING AND INTERACTIVE MEDIA FAÇADES
LED technology, particularly RGB and pixel-mapping LEDs, forms the foundation of modern media façades. Ar. Dhawan emphasises that these systems enable dynamic color changes while maintaining the transparency of the building through advanced transparent LED panels. Projection mapping further enhances the visual impact of media façades, transforming flat surfaces into dynamic canvases for storytelling and branding. Sensors enhance interactivity by enabling the façade to react to audience movements or external factors, creating an engaging blend of art and technology that defines contemporary urban landscapes.
Technologies like BIM and AI are increasingly shaping façade design. As noted by Ar. Wade, these tools leverage smart algorithms and machine learning to create intricate and functional façades. Interactive solutions, such as kinetic façades, optimise natural light and ventilation by dynamically responding to environmental conditions, reducing the need for artificial lighting by optimising natural light and improving energy efficiency.
Ar. Sharma highlights the role of dynamic display panels, projection mapping and LED lighting systems in crafting visually compelling media façades. Energyefficient, high-resolution displays project animations and videos onto building surfaces, while projection mapping transforms irregular architectural forms into immersive visual experiences. Interactive façades incorporate sensors, motion tracking and AI, enabling structures to adapt to environmental changes, human movements, or realtime data, enriching urban spaces and audience engagement.
Together, these technologies redefine façade design, merging aesthetics with functionality to create immersive, responsive and sustainable architectural features that enhance modern cityscapes.
VIP Grand Walk
By The Design Studio
When designing an architectural feature for a commercial project on Airport Road, it’s essential to consider its prominence and functionality while ensuring it captures attention and complements the surroundings. Here are some potential features to enhance the project:
1. Iconic Facade Design: Use dynamic and contemporary elements like perforated panels, glass curtain walls, or metal cladding. Incorporate lighting effects, such as LED strips, to highlight the structure at night, creating a landmark.
2. Grand Entrance: Design a double-height entrance with revolving glass doors or a canopy for a luxurious impression. Use materials like steel, glass, or sandstone for durability and aesthetics.
3. Green Features: Include vertical gardens or green walls as a part of the facade for sustainability and visual appeal. Integrate shaded seating and water features at entrances to create an inviting atmosphere.
4. Skywalks and Connectivity: Design pedestrian bridges or skywalks connecting multiple sections of the project for ease of navigation. Use transparent glass or steel frameworks for a modern touch.
5. Iconic Roof Design: Consider a floating or cantilevered roof with unique geometric patterns. Use solar panels on the roof to combine sustainability with functionality.
6. Viewing Decks: Incorporate a public terrace or viewing deck with food courts or cafes overlooking Airport Road. Use glass railings for uninterrupted views.
7. Interactive Lighting: Install programmable LED systems to create dynamic visuals and brand identity. Utilize lighting to showcase events, advertisements, or project branding.
8. Artistic Installations: Add a signature sculpture or art installation at the entrance or central courtyard to serve as a focal point. Collaborate with artists for a unique identity.
QUICK FACTS
• Project: VIP Grand Walk
• Location: Airport Road, Mohali
• Specifications: Retail & hotel
• Architect: The Design Studio
• Area: 1.5 Acres
ENABLING AUTOMATION IN BUILDING ENVELOPE
Automation in façade design and installation is transforming the architectural landscape through advanced tools and technologies. Ar. Wade highlights the role of parametric design software like Rhino and Grasshopper, which allow for the creation of complex, adaptive façades with remarkable precision. For installation, robotic arms and CNC machines automate the fabrication of intricate components, ensuring consistency and minimising material waste. On-site processes are streamlined through IoT-enabled sensors and project management software, optimising alignment and assembly.
Ar. Dhawan emphasises the importance of BIM tools such as Revit, which ensure accurate detailing and coordination across design and construction phases. For installation, 3D scanning technologies provide precise on-site measurements, facilitating accurate component placement. CAM software like Fusion 360 aids in the fabrication of intricate elements, while systems like Dynamo integrate workflows, automating routine tasks and enhancing flexibility.
Ar. Sharma underscores the seamless integration of design, analysis, fabrication and installation processes through a range of tools. Parametric design software, BIM platforms like Revit and façade
engineering tools such as Schueo Design Software enhance precision and efficiency. Manufacturing tools like SolidWorks, along with installation planning software like Navisworks, reduce errors and streamline the building envelope process. Automation tools like RhinoCAM further accelerate project timelines and improve outcomes.
Ar. Ramakrishnan envisions a future where AI tools mature into holistic systems capable of addressing all aspects of design, rendering and analysis. While BIM and computational design are already advancing automation and reducing workflow timelines, the next generation
of AI tools is expected to set industry standards, enhancing innovation and sustainability.
Together, these advancements point to a future where architectural and façade design are defined by precision, efficiency and a commitment to sustainable practices.
CONCLUSION
Modern software and tools are revolutionising the design of sustainable and visually appealing façades and fenestrations, seamlessly blending aesthetics, functionality and sustainability. From parametric modelling and BIM platforms to advanced simulation tools, these innovations empower architects to push boundaries while addressing complex challenges. Tools like Rhino, Grasshopper and Revit enable the exploration of intricate geometries and environmental responsiveness, while simulation software such as EnergyPlus, Ladybug and Honeybee offer precise insights into energy efficiency, natural light optimisation and thermal comfort. Additionally, technologies like 3D printing, digital twins and CNC machining streamline fabrication and installation processes, reducing material waste and enhancing precision.
Dynamic media façades, powered by LED technology and projection mapping, elevate urban aesthetics while offering interactive and energy-efficient solutions. Automation through IoT, AI and CAM systems ensures accuracy and minimises timelines, further transforming workflows. These tools not only redefine the role of façades as functional building envelopes but also as responsive, sustainable and engaging architectural elements. As the industry evolves, architects and designers must embrace these advanced technologies, leveraging them to create future-ready structures that balance performance, creativity and sustainability, ultimately shaping a harmonious and efficient built environment.
BIM tools such as Revit, which ensure accurate detailing and coordination across design and construction phases
Advanced tools like Rhino with Grasshopper are available to address the challenges of complex facades
“Our Approach is to Ensure that Façades are not Just Architectural Elements but Meaningful Contributors to the Social & Spatial Narratives of their Environments”
As the Design Director, Gregory Kovacs works across both architecture and interior design with Benoy’s Hong Kong, Singapore, and Shenzhen studios. He brings a creative, multi-disciplinary approach to his projects, with over 20 years of designing and delivering world-class destinations. He works across both architecture and interior design. His approach marries commercial problem-solving with innovative design thinking to create unique solutions. Gregory has been working on various re-purposing projects to create sustainable destinations by redeveloping unsuccessful buildings and turning these neglected parts of our cities into new centers for the local communities.
Gregory believes in collaborative design, working closely with his clients, sketching and finding the most suitable strategies together. He brings integrated design solutions where architecture, interior design and landscaping are inseparable, designed together to create truly lasting successful destinations.
His diverse portfolio of large-scale mixed-use, commercial, cultural, heritage & masterplan projects include multi-award-winning destinations such as Huafa Wuhan City Hub in Wuhan, China; Lotte Mall in Hanoi, Vietnam; and Seazen Suzhou Wuyue Plaza in Suzhou, China.
Before joining Benoy in 2017 Gregory was based in London working at Heatherwick Studio on projects across Asia, the US, the UK and the Middle East.
In this interview with WFM Media, Gregory Kovacs, Design Director, Benoy talks about his education, career as an architect, milestone projects, pivotal moments in his career, approach to sustainable architecture, preferred façade materials, and more.
Face to Face
Could you tell us about your educational background, your architectural firm Benoy and your experiences?
I’ve been very fortunate. I have had the privilege of a rich educational journey, starting with the honour of being awarded the RIBA Goldfinger Scholarship, which enabled me to pursue my studies at the Architectural Association in London. This experience was transformative, offering me the chance to absorb wisdom from an outstanding cohort of educators and fellow students. My diploma project was recognised with the Nicholas Pozner Prize for the year’s best architectural drawing. My professional path led me to roles at Heatherwick Studio and teaching positions at both the Bartlett UCL and the Architectural Association, further enriching my perspective of the profession.
In 2017, I embarked on a new chapter with Benoy, stepping into the role of Design Director working with the practice’s Asia studios. At Benoy, I have been engaged with bringing together innovative design solutions with commercial problem solving, working on diverse projects across numerous countries and various typologies.
Currently, I am deepening my expertise through a PhD at RMIT Melbourne, where I am exploring the intersections of adaptive reuse in architecture and fine art,
aiming to uncover new potentials within this emerging discipline.
What inspired you to pursue a career in architecture and design?
My journey into architecture and design was fueled by an innate sense of curiosity. This thirst for creative exploration has led me to navigate through a diverse
landscape of our broader discipline, including academia, architecture, interior design, computational design and art. The ability to oscillate between these varied fields has been instrumental in continually refreshing my perspective and igniting my passion for creating innovative spaces and structures. This interdisciplinary approach has not only enriched my understanding but also continuously inspired me to push the boundaries of conventional design.
Tell us about some turning points in your career.
There have been several pivotal moments in my career that have significantly shaped my approach to architecture and design. One of the first turning points was being awarded the RIBA Goldfinger Scholarship, which not only provided me with the means to further my education but also exposed me to a broader and more innovative way of thinking about architecture.
Another transformative experience was my decision to relocate to Asia. This move introduced me to a wealth of new opportunities and experiences, greatly expanding my professional horizon and cultural understanding.
About six years ago, I ventured into the realm of adaptive reuse projects. What started as seemingly straightforward tasks quickly evolved into a profound passion for me. The challenge of infusing new life into
Fairy Mountain Hotel - Adaptive reuse in the mountains of Chongqing
Fosun Foundation, Shanghai (while at Heatherwick Studio) Featuring a rotating façade Holland Village, Singapore
Face to Face
existing structures has since become a central and rewarding aspect of my work, guiding many of my subsequent projects and research.
What type of projects does Benoy specialise in? Please brief some of your milestone projects with Benoy. Benoy is renowned for large-scale mixeduse developments across the globe. Bringing together commercial, hospitality, residential, and cultural functions, creating lasting, memorable destinations.
Milestone Projects:
Lotte Mall West Lake Hanoi: The recently opened Lotte Hanoi West Lake development features a comprehensive mix of functions including a large shopping mall, an aquarium, a hotel, an SR Tower, and two office towers. This development is notable for its integration into the urban fabric of Hanoi, while offering a variety of experiences and services in a single complex.
Harim Project in Yangjae Seoul: For Korean developer Harim, Benoy
is pioneering a new typology for the Korean market with its latest project in Seoul’s Yangjae area. This development is a remarkable example of urban integration, combining a large-scale logistics center with commercial, cultural, and residential functions. The project, encompassing 15 million square feet, is designed as a compact city within a single building block. A notable challenge in this project was designing the façade to break down the scale of the podium and harmoniously blend it with the surrounding urban and natural landscapes.
Resorts World Sentosa Extension, Singapore: Working with Genting Singapore, Benoy has been involved in a significant extension of Resorts World Sentosa, valued at S$6.8 billion. This expansion includes adding 700 new hotel rooms and integrating experiential lifestyle elements within biophilic architecture.
18 Cross, Singapore: The 18 Cross project is an adaptive reuse development for the global investor and developer PAG, which is currently under construction. It exemplifies Benoy’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in architecture. The project skillfully combines heritage shop houses with a 20-year-old podium and office tower, creating a new quadrant at
Singapore’s busy Chinatown entrance. This project underscores Benoy’s skill
A transformation of a unique mixed-use project of 18 heritage shophouses, an office tower and a retail podium into a new destination at the heart of Singapore
Indoor façade of a retail street of Wuyue Plaza in Suzhou
Lotte Mall West Lake Hanoi
in blending historical elements with modern design to revitalise urban spaces.
These projects underscore Benoy’s expertise in creating integrated, sustainable, and innovative urban spaces catering to various functions and experiences. The practice’s work on adaptive reuse, in particular, highlights its commitment to sustainable development and architectural creativity, addressing the challenges of modern urban environments while preserving historical and cultural contexts.
What is your take on sustainable practice in architecture today?
Our approach to sustainable architecture is deeply rooted in a holistic perspective that intertwines environmental, social, and economic sustainability. We firmly believe that these three pillars are not standalone concepts but rather interdependent forces that, when effectively integrated, create a robust foundation for any project’s long-term success. This comprehensive strategy ensures that our architectural practices not only contribute to environmental conservation but also promote social equity and economic resilience, making our projects sustainable in the truest sense of the word.
Face to Face
How would you define your design and installation process for façades and fenestrations in your projects?
I believe in façades that have depth, transcending mere surface aesthetics, and adding layers of complexity and intrigue. This depth is not just physical but also immaterial. Façades create multi-sensory experiences, engaging not only the visual sense but also bringing together materiality, tactile qualities, acoustics and even temporality, considering changes over time. It’s crucial that these designs resonate with their social and environmental contexts, reflecting and enhancing the character of their surroundings.
Moreover, I see façades as dynamic elements of urban fabric. They are not static but active participants in the urban landscape, facilitating interactions and connections among people. They have the profound ability to bring people together, facilitate communities, shape public spaces, and contribute to the formation of distinct local identities. In essence, our approach is to ensure that façades are not just architectural elements but meaningful contributors to the social and spatial narratives of their environments.
IT Headquarters Tower in Houhai, Shenzhen with a series of sky atria that facilitate interaction among the employees
Shenzhen Guangming District TOD Hub inspired by the local tradition of watchmaking
Shanghai, Bund Finance Centre (while at Heatherwick Studio). Fabrication of continuous pattern on the stone façade
Face to Face
Please talk about some most preferred façade materials.
I’m drawn to façade materials that evoke a profound sense of materiality, engaging not only through their appearance but also through touch and even smell. Glazed terracotta is a material I particularly admire for its craftsmanship, durability, and the unique aesthetic it brings to a building’s exterior. Its ability to withstand the elements while maintaining its color and texture makes it an excellent choice for façades.
Bricks are another favorite of mine, it is a material system with an immense architectural legacy.
The use of recycled façade panels is something I am very excited about. They offer an incredible array of bespoke finishes while bringing a layer of sustainability and a sense of history to the project.
Incorporating biophilic elements into façades is another aspect I’m passionate about. Integrating natural features not only enhances the visual appeal but also
promotes a deeper connection between the built environment and nature. These materials, with their rich textures and inherent qualities, play a crucial role in our design approach, bringing depth, sustainability, and a tactile experience to the architecture.
Please brief on future façade technologies, designs, and materials that you wish to see in the next 20 years.
Looking ahead into the next two decades, I’m excited about the potential for façade technologies, designs, and materials that not only advance sustainability but also enrich the human experience. The increasing use of recycled materials and the development of carbon sinks or carbon-negative panels are promising steps toward reducing the environmental impact of the built environment. My interest lies in how these technologies can evolve to produce ‘humanistic’ products that don’t just serve functional and ecological purposes but also engage the senses and emotions.
I hope to see façade systems and products that convey a deep sense of craftsmanship, with a complexity and richness that brings together materiality, culture, history and sustainability. The future of façade design, in my view, will blend these technological advancements with a nuanced understanding of human interaction, resulting in spaces that are not only environmentally responsible but also deeply resonant on a personal and social level. This blend of innovation and artistry is where I see the most exciting possibilities for transformation in our urban landscapes.
What is your advice to young and upcoming architects?
My advice to young and aspiring architects is to embrace the vast opportunities that architecture offers for exploration and personal growth. This field has allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures, collaborate with a wide array of clients and professionals, and, most importantly, to deepen my understanding of both the world and my own capacities. The key, from my experience, lies in maintaining an open mindset and a willingness to stretch beyond your comfort zones. Challenge yourself with new projects, ideas, and collaborations that push the boundaries of what you think is possible. Architecture is not just about buildings; it’s about the stories, experiences, and connections they foster. Stay curious, be adaptable, and never stop learning— these qualities will not only enrich your professional journey but also lead to more meaningful and impactful work.
Reconstruction of an Icon Yangshupu Power Station in Shanghai. Office entrance Yangshupu Power Station
A retail street inspired by the local vernacular architecture at Yongchuanli, Chongqing. An interactive shadow play multimedia façade with a low-resolution LED and frosted glass envelope
Huafa Wuhan City Hub Wuhan, China
Huafa Wuhan City Hub is located in the Wuhan Central Business District area near Hankou Railway Station, a central node of the Chinese high-speed railway system. Benoy was commissioned to redesign the façade for the scheme that was undergoing construction while maintaining the original structure within a highly condensed timeframe. Tasked to create a new vision for the comprehensive reconfiguration, Benoy raised the perception of the buildings and the quality of the spaces to a whole new level – all without any impact on the already-built structure and the ongoing construction program.
One of the key concerns was that the original scheme design did not capture the identity of its physical and cultural context. Together with the client, the
design team started by exploring different parts of Wuhan to understand how the local people spend their time and interact with the environment. Greatly inspired by the pedestrian-friendly areas along the bund in Wuhan, the team then developed
a key strategy that brings a sense of human scale to the development. The aim is to create a welcoming and walkable streetscape that can evolve into a neighbourhood centre for the local community. The design is positioned to
Huafa Wuhan City Hub - Arrival experience
Serrated façade language with the restaurant behind
bring people together and bolsters the joy of walking around the bund area.
Gregory Kovacs, Design Director and Project Director explains that when they started working on this project, all the structures were already built. Their goal was to transform the perception of the scale of the buildings while leaving all the structures intact, using only façade articulation, thus creating a human-scale, pedestrian-focused neighbourhood centre; a contemporary reinterpretation of the intricate, ever-changing, playful qualities of the historical bund area of Wuhan.
DESIGN CONCEPT
To ensure that the new concept could be completed within the tight timeline,
the team worked closely with the client through constant communication and designing the scheme through sketching on-site. The development’s commercial section mainly consists of retail and F&B streets, generated by a series of blocks and the indoor mall sitting under the office towers.
Benoy developed an architectural language for the façades that offers
Face to Face
a more intricate and human-scale articulation to the large-scale massing while simultaneously addressing the diversity of different conditions and requirements. Resembling the movement of an accordion, the serrated façade opens and closes, forming a dynamic rhythm along the streets. The serrations respond to environmental and functional requirements by shaping solid and open façade zones while retaining their visual consistency.
Benoy’s flexible façade system integrates a rich variety of shopfronts, cores, advertisements, signages, bridges, balconies, and greenery. We created a coherent language across the development that adapts to the changing requirements of the varying scales of the buildings. Furthermore, the façade is instrumentalised as an essential tool for place making. The pure white typical parts of the façade frame provide richness and diversity, whether through the retail shopfronts or a series of carefully curated highlights.
Quick Facts:
• Project: Huafa Wuhan City Hub
• Location: Wuhan, China
• Client: Huafa Group
• Architect: Benoy
• Materials used for façade & fenestration: Glass and aluminium curtain wall
• Commencement Date: March 2018
• Completion Date: 26 November 2021
Flexible façade system
Retail street
Central node
Rationalised façade modules
Case Study - 2
Paarijat Eclat & Privilon Mixed-Use Towers
Ahmedabad, India
The challenge at hand was not trivial: to transform the perception of a building without altering its core structure, focusing solely on the façade’s articulation. This task required a nuanced understanding of how external aesthetics could be harmonised with the already fixed structure, thereby crafting a unified and complementary visual language for both the office and residential towers.
Benoy approached the project with a keen eye for volumes and proportions, carefully breaking down the building’s mass into smaller, more human-scale components. This strategy not only made the structure more approachable but also fostered a seamless blend between the
Residential and office façades working together
Two different-faced systems
commercial and residential elements of the towers. A notable feature of the design was the use of exposed concrete, a material choice that pays homage to Ahmedabad’s rich legacy of concrete craftsmanship. This city, after all, is a canvas of modern architectural marvels, with works by legendary architects like Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn, and Balkrishna Doshi dotting its landscape. Their pioneering use of concrete has left an indelible mark on the city’s architectural identity, making
Benoy’s material selection a thoughtful nod to this
Face to Face
The ‘Privilon’ and ‘Paarijat Éclat’ development is a premier mixeduse space that marries luxury with functionality. The ‘Privilon’ encompasses retail and office towers, offering stateof-the-art facilities for businesses and shoppers alike. Adjacent to it, the ‘Paarijat Éclat’ features two contemporary residential towers, housing highend and luxury apartments. These residential spaces are designed with the modern dweller in mind, equipped with amenities that promise comfort and elegance.
This project is not just a building; it’s a bridge between the past and the present, paying tribute to Ahmedabad’s architectural and industrial heritage while forging a path towards a modern, integrated urban landscape. Through thoughtful design and a deep respect for context, the project stands as a shining example of how architecture can preserve the essence of a place while propelling it into the future.
• Materials used for façade & fenestration: glass and aluminium curtain wall
• Commencement Date: 2014
• Completion Date: 2018
Breaking down the massing into a series of human-scale volumes
Curtain wall façade for office tower
Exposed concrete terraces
heritage.
Industry Speaks
"Simta Products Prioritise Design Details and Performance"
SAMPATH KUMAR Managing Director, Simta Astrix
An experienced veteran in the field of manufacturing and marketing for more than 35 years. Traveled across the globe for business and connected with the global market for updates on the latest developments. He has good domestic connections with high networth individuals and updates on the current market scenarios. He is an experienced and able administrator in launching new products to the market.
In an engaging conversation with WFM Media, Sampath Kumar, Managing Director, Simta Astrix, delves into the company’s remarkable journey in the fenestration industry. From championing energy-saving, eco-friendly solutions to addressing market challenges with innovation and precision, he offers a comprehensive look at Simta Astrix's achievements. Through his insights, Mr. Kumar highlights the company’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, cutting-edge product designs, and ambitious vision for the future.
Industry Speaks
Can you share the vision behind Simta Astrix and how it has guided the company's growth in the fenestration industry?
Simta Astrix has a global vision of creating an energy-saving & eco-friendly environment for economic growth. The products that are delivered from our factory ensure that it is friendly to our mother earth. In particular, Simta takes a huge responsibility for catering to the fenestration industry through its uPVC profiles for catering to the needs of windows and doors. The day-by-day increase in demand for the need of uPVC profiles has been fulfilled and balanced to maintain and satisfy the needs of the market.
Please tell us about your manufacturing facilities at Coimbatore and other locations, extrusion lines, and capacity per annum
Our main manufacturing facility which is based out of Coimbatore has got a state of the art technology for extruding uPVC profiles with German technology. A series of 15 extrusion lines with an installed capacity of 1500 MT per month is plotted to serve the market needs. A SCADA-controlled weighing and batching plant controls
the consistency and quality of the product. World world-class laboratory operates 24/7 to monitor the log values ensuring flawless profiles are delivered to the end user. Two semi-automatic Hot melt PUR technology-based foil wrapping machines are installed for delivering high-quality premium laminated profiles with multiple colour options. Totally 08 nos of warehouses with SAP connected across the breadth and height of the country to cater with seamless effort
Could you elaborate on the innovations incorporated into these products and how they cater to modern architectural demands?
Simta products always have a great value for the importance paid towards the detailing of designs and the performance of the product. In favouring the above lines, constant R&D is enforced towards introducing new products to the market. The products have advantages like a coinserted gasket system, grill-incorporated system, bug mesh incorporated system, and many more.
What challenges does Simta face in the Indian market, and how do you address them while staying ahead of the competition?
Any business has a competitive threat, but SIMTA always finds an opportunity from the threat of the market. The Indian market has been flooded with low-quality unguided profiles that have no control over quality in both the profile and fabrication of windows and doors. This is a major threat to the growth of this industry in a big country like India. However, we have addressed the issues by providing an economical pricing strategy through quality guiding experts. This feature has helped us to a certain level in addressing the threat issues.
What is your vision for Simta in the next decade? Are there plans to diversify into other product categories or expand into international markets?
The answer is Yes for both categories. As we meet the needs of the growing modern world, SIMTA ASTRIX has developed products like ABS Doors, System Aluminium, and uPVC-formulated interior products which are a great economical and modernised solution. These developments will be a great solution for eco-friendly products. Alongside, we have designed a new range of uPVC Window & Door profiles for the global market, around 15 different profiles to cater to the global market as required in the first phase.
Simta products always have a great value for the importance paid towards the detailing of designs and the performance of the product
Simta takes a huge responsibility for catering to the fenestration industry through its uPVC profiles for catering to the needs of windows and doors
The Expert's Edge
"From Germany to India: Lingel's Embedded Industry's Journey of Innovation, Growth, and Revolution"
DR. H.C. MARIO SCHMIDT Managing Director, Lingel Group
With three decades of experience in the fenestration industry, Dr. H.C. Mario Schmidt leads as the Managing Director at Lingel India. Since 2006, Lingel has been a pioneer in uPVC and Aluminum windows and doors, catering to India's elite clientele who seek luxury and cutting-edge technology for their homes. In addition to his role in India, he has been serving as the Plant Head Director at Lingel Germany since 2018. Throughout his career, he has been
driven by a passion for excellence and innovation. As one of the founding members of the window association UWDMA India, he has had the privilege of influencing industry standards and fostering collaboration among fellow industry professionals. Dr. H.C. Mario Schmidt’s expertise spans a wide range of areas, from general management and corporate development to product innovation and strategic planning, with his leadership ensuring that customers
directly benefit from outstanding designs and product innovations.
In an enlightening conversation with WFM Media, Dr. H.C. Mario Schmidt, Managing Director of Lingel Windows, sheds light on his transformation journey in the fenestration industry. From overcoming initial challenges to leading revolutionary innovation, Dr. H.C. Mario Schmidt offers insight into Lingel's growth story and his commitment to shaping the future of window industry.
You've been a key figure in the fenestration industry for over three decades. Can you share the major milestones and challenges you’ve encountered along the way that have shaped your journey?
After completing my education in mechanical sciences, I was in search of new opportunities. In 1994, a factory manufacturing windows opened in my hometown of Saxony, Germany. Intrigued by the industry and eager to learn more about the manufacturing process and its various aspects, I began working there. This marked the beginning of my journey and long-standing association with the window industry.
In 2005, Lingel was seeking experts to launch their uPVC window operations in India, and I joined the company. In 2006, I came to India and established the business here. Looking back, I can confidently say that the company and I are truly ‘made for each other’.
Three decades is a significant period, and I have cherished the journey from being the youngest plant head to serving as Managing Director for both Germany and India. The journey, however, was not without challenges. uPVC was a nascent product in India, and we had to work tirelessly to create awareness about its benefits. Thanks to the efforts of UWDMA and a collective push from the industry, uPVC is now widely understood and appreciated.
In 2017, we launched our Lingel Aluminium 6.0, marking a pivotal milestone. This segment has experienced tremendous growth, with projects completed not only across India but also in Nepal and Dubai. We’ve expanded into numerous regions of India, opened several experience centres, and strengthened our presence through a growing network of channel partners.
Additionally, the shift from our old manufacturing facility to the new, ecofriendly unit in Rewari symbolises our commitment to innovation, sustainability,
and scalability as we continue to grow and cater to a broader market.
Lingel Windows has made a significant mark in India. Can you share with us when and how Lingel's journey in the Indian market began?
Lingel Windows commenced its Indian operations in 2006, establishing its head office in 2008 in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. At the time, uPVC was an emerging material in the Indian fenestration industry, with limited awareness and adoption. Recognising the potential for high-quality, durable, and energy-efficient window solutions, we introduced our extensive German expertise to the Indian market.
Our network now spans nationwide. To ensure the best service and customer
"From pioneering uPVC in India to launching cuttingedge Aluminium Systems and eco-friendly manufacturing facilities, Lingel has consistently pushed the boundaries of fenestration, redefining the industry’s standards of quality, sustainability, and design."
Lingel’s state-of-the-art 125,000 sq. ft. facility in Rewari, Haryana, with a production capacity of 14,000 units per month
Leela, Gurgaon: 5 Star ongoing Noise proof concept - noise level up to 85 db (outside) with Lingel windows 36 dB (inside)
The Expert's Edge
experience, we prioritise training our employees, who possess the technical expertise required to explain the product features and ensure proper installation. In many cities, we also collaborate with a well-connected network of channel partners.
While we emphasise direct selling, we remain closely associated with our channel partners, providing them with the necessary training and support to uphold our quality standards. For us, thorough technical knowledge is key to selling our products effectively and ensuring maximum satisfaction for our customers.
As the Managing Director of Lingel India and Plant Head at Lingel Germany, how do you balance your responsibilities across two countries with such distinct markets?
Balancing responsibilities as the Managing Director of Lingel India and Plant Head at Lingel Germany is undoubtedly a challenge, given the distinct markets and customer preferences in each region. However, it’s a balance I’ve honed over the years through strategic planning, effective communication, and fostering strong teams.
In India, the focus is largely on retail projects, catering to customers seeking high-quality, luxury window and door
solutions tailored to their homes. In contrast, Germany operates on a larger scale with high-value projects often involving advanced technologies and strict adherence to energy efficiency and insulation standards. To bridge these differences, I bring German innovation to India, implementing solutions that align with the Indian market’s needs while maintaining global standards of quality and excellence.
My schedule is split between the three regions I oversee—India, Germany, and Romania. I spend three weeks in India, ensuring smooth operations and addressing the market’s dynamic demands. The remaining time is divided between Germany and Romania. In Germany, my itinerary is tightly planned to maximise productivity during short visits. In Romania, we are in the process of building a strong team, with Lingel India team members contributing their expertise to support and train the local workforce.
As a key figure in the founding of UWDMA India, what was the driving force behind creating this association, and how has it transformed the window and door industry's landscape in terms of standards, innovation, and industry unity over the years?
As one of the founding members of UWDMA India and now serving as its
President, I can affirm that the driving force behind creating this association was to bring structure, standards, and quality to the uPVC window and door industry in India. From the outset, our aim has been to ensure Indian consumers receive products that meet the highest standards of quality and durability.
In the absence of formal standards, UWDMA introduced its own fabrication guidelines in 2016, incorporating quality parameters and European reference standards. These guidelines have been instrumental in establishing a benchmark for the industry. Today, after 12 years of relentless effort, the first official uPVC profile standard is on the verge of being introduced—a significant milestone for the industry.
Beyond setting standards, UWDMA has focused on uniting various stakeholders in the value chain, from raw material suppliers to fabricators, and ensuring the uPVC industry's growth remains organic and sustainable. By emphasising quality at every stage - raw materials, processing, and final products—we are gradually shifting the market from an unorganised sector to a more recognised, factorybased industry.
Lingel’s wooden window systems
Lingel’s glass conservatory
The Expert's Edge
UWDMA’s efforts have not only elevated industry practices but also fostered a sense of unity and collaboration, creating a platform for innovation and ensuring long-term growth.
How do you see the fenestration industry evolving in India in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5 to 10 years, fenestration will be a blend of technology and design. It will push boundaries, with customers not only considering materials like uPVC or aluminium but also premium oak or timber, which is termite-resistant and provides excellent insulation. Customers will favour large floor-to-ceiling windows where space allows, unique shapes, slim or robust frames, and fabric glass, offering endless possibilities for customising spaces. Automation and bold colours will further expand creative potential.
Over the past two years, Lingel has introduced several new fenestration products. Could you highlight some of your most recent launches and how they are helping customers improve their living spaces?
Lingel Windows has expertise in customising unique products for its customers, offering a wide range of materials including uPVC, aluminium, oak, timber, and a variety of add-ons to
cater to customer needs. Lingel primarily focuses on residential projects - flats, houses, villas, apartments, duplexes— and small, medium, and large housing developments, as well as commercial offices, hotels, hospitals, and resorts.
The company’s wide range of products includes: High-end timber or wooden windows, Glass conservatories, Window sills, Venetian blinds, Roller shutters, operable manually or automatically.
Lingel has also launched several innovative products, including snowwhite windows featuring a white foil on the uPVC surface, ensuring ease of cleaning and maintenance.
Additionally, the Aluminium System 6.0 (launched in 2017) is considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing aluminium systems in India. It allows the use of the complete uPVC hardware range and includes options such as entrance doors, sliding and folding solutions, casement windows, and liftand-slide systems.
Other notable launches include Lingel Panzer Glazing (LPG) and Lingel Safety Box (LSB), which combine superior glazing
and hardware. Timber windows crafted in Germany offer texture and a classic look, while the Hueck thermal-broken aluminium system ensures optimal heat insulation.
Lingel has recently introduced Motorised skylights, Roof windows and top-hung roof windows, a new handle selection, and a new powder-coating finish.
Lingel has also ventured into modular kitchens, vanities, internal partitions, and wardrobes for the Delhi/NCR regions.
Sustainability is a big focus in your work. How do Lingel’s products contribute to minimising environmental impact, and how important is this focus in today’s market?
Lingel actively minimises environmental impact by measuring its products’ carbon footprints and partnering with NGOs to offset emissions through tree-planting projects. The company aims to incorporate more recycled content into its uPVC products, following the European model, and gradually educate the market on the environmental benefits of these materials.
However, widespread sustainable development in India’s uPVC industry faces challenges. Unlike Europe, where regulations mandate energy principles
Lingel’s windows in a project in Goa
and minimum recyclable content standards, India lacks similar legislation. Implementing certifications for uPVC goods, akin to energy-efficiency star ratings for windows, could incentivise manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices and create a transparent, consumer-friendly market for energyefficient, recycled-content windows.
You’ve worked closely with governmental bodies in India and Germany. Can you tell us about any key initiatives or collaborations that have helped advance industry practices and regulatory compliance?
In India, we collaborate closely with BIS, BEE, the Skill Council, and MSDE on behalf of UWDMA to establish standards and compliance initiatives. Many of these efforts are the first of their kind, making it an exciting journey to be part of this future legacy.
In Germany, innovation drives new standards, ensuring products and components are environmentally friendly. I have a longstanding relationship with
IFT Rosenheim, the authorised testing institute for window performance, and SKZ Wuerzburg, the uPVC Profile Institute.
Notably, India’s newly launched uPVC profile standard, which accounts for harsh weather conditions, is stricter than Germany’s standards. However, the challenge lies in encouraging testing agencies to participate in profile testing and pushing uPVC profile extruders to embrace mandatory BIS compliance.
Furthermore, India is developing its first standard for colour and discolouration of uPVC foil-wrapped profiles, which does not yet exist in Germany.
Regarding window testing, Lingel has utilised EN Norms as a significant input in creating our LPG (Lingel Panzer Glazing) and LSB (Lingel Safety Box) hardware, which we manufacture in accordance with these European standards.
Another notable difference in Germany is the entirely distinct installation process compared to India. The IFT Rosenheim
(Window Testing Institute) oversees the testing of installation materials in Germany. However, given the unique circumstances in India and the way homes and buildings are constructed here, I currently do not see any relevance in directly applying these installation norms to the Indian context.
Lingel has been a forerunner in bringing innovative solutions for healthier living. Could you tell us more about your sustainable products, such as the New Roof Windows, and how they contribute to a better environment?
Our tagline emphasises shading on the exterior rather than via the glass. We can reduce 70% of solar heat gain by blocking sunlight before it reaches the glazing, rather than relying solely on performance glass. Keeping this in mind, we provide shading devices fixed on top or in front of the glazing to prevent heat from reaching the glass.
We also offer inbuilt blinds installed within insulated glass. Where these options
Lingel’s windows installed in Saraf Farmhouse
The Expert's Edge
are not feasible, we provide blinds fitted directly beneath the glazing, ensuring minimal heating of the room below.
Additionally, we recommend using solid panels, such as insulated powder-coated aluminium sheets, for roofs in areas like New Delhi, where summer temperatures can reach up to 50°C. This approach minimises heat penetration, allowing only the vertical parts of windows or conservatories to admit sunlight. In colder regions, such as Coonoor, Himachal Pradesh, or Uttarakhand, we use glazing to maximise heat gain, which is desirable in such climates.
Your Eco-Friendly Manufacturing Unit in Rewari, Haryana, has been a key part of your operations. What is its production capacity, and how does it support Lingel's commitment to sustainability?
Located in Kapriwas, Rewari, Haryana, Lingel’s state-of-the-art 125,000 sq. ft. facility, with a production capacity of 14,000 units per month, is a benchmark for industrial innovation. Designed by Rao and Associate Architects and completed in September 2022, the factory’s unique geographical positioning and architectural design maximise energy efficiency and comfort.
Large east and northwest-facing glazing allows ample daylight into the production
area, minimising the need for artificial lighting, while cantilevers and insulation prevent overheating. A 12-metre-high metal roof with insulation and a central ventilation system ensures a comfortable climate year-round. The entire setup, elevated 4 feet above ground, facilitates easy loading of heavy windows.
The fabrication unit is divided into aluminium and uPVC production wings, functioning seamlessly on a straight production line from material loading to finished goods dispatch. Future-ready features include provisions for solar panels and rainwater harvesting.
The facility houses Lingel’s control tower, complete with the MD’s cabin and a viewpoint overlooking production. A planned glass bridge and auditorium will further enhance the visitor experience.
Safety is paramount, with extensive firefighting systems, including a 200,000-litre water tank and backup pumps. Our goal was to ensure a safe, comfortable work environment and showcase our fabrication process to customers in the best possible way.
Looking ahead, what are your goals for Lingel in the next few years?
In the coming years, as part of our large expansion of the channel partner
network across the country, we will focus on technical training and upskilling all members of the Lingel family.
I believe that providing quick, accurate, and affordable individual product or project-specific fenestration solutions will be a key factor in becoming the preferred vendor for high-end individual retail villa projects. Architects usually do not delve deeply into detailed planning in this segment, and construction contractors often lack awareness regarding detailed or non-standard designs.
Similar to how we operate at Lingel Germany, where window detailing and wall connections are highly precise and offer a wide variety of different members and sections, we foresee similar demand or development emerging in India.
Given this wide variety, it is almost impossible for architects and decisionmakers to select the correct sections or details for their projects based solely on customer requirements.
This is why we, at Lingel, aim to provide solutions specific to each project design, tailored to the needs and demands of architects and customers alike.
This approach already sets us apart from many of our industry peers, as we offer bespoke solutions for unique, non-standard demands. These solutions are backed by guarantees or warranties, including a structural safety certificate issued by a thirdparty structural consultant, ensuring the product remains almost maintenance-free throughout its lifetime.
Lingel’s uPVC windows in a project in Chandigarh
Lingel’s project in North-East India
Motorised Vertical Sliding Windows: The Future of Windows
Experience the ultimate in convenience and style with motorised vertical sliding windows. These innovative windows seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with elegant design, transforming your living spaces. With the touch of a button, you can effortlessly open and close these expansive windows, maximising natural light and ventilation while adding a touch of sophistication to your home.
Motorised vertical sliding windows are the perfect choice for today’s modern lifestyle, offering unparalleled convenience and enhancing your living experience. With the increasing emphasis on smart home technology and the desire for effortless living, these windows integrate seamlessly into contemporary homes. Their ease of operation, enhanced comfort, and sleek aesthetics make them a desirable feature for homeowners seeking both style and functionality.
ENHANCED COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
Effortlessly control your home’s climate at the touch of a button. Open windows
for fresh air on warm days and close them securely at night for a peaceful sleep, all from the comfort of your sofa or even while away from home.
UNPARALLELED VIEWS
Maximise natural light and enjoy breathtaking panoramas with expansive window openings. Frame stunning views of your garden, the city skyline, or the surrounding countryside, bringing the outdoors in.
INCREASED HOME VALUE
These modern windows add a touch of sophistication and luxury to your home, significantly boosting its curb appeal and market value. Impress potential buyers with a seamless blend of technology and style.
IMPROVED SECURITY
Enhance your home’s security with advanced locking mechanisms and remote-control operation. Monitor and control window access from anywhere, providing peace of mind and added protection.
IMPROVED ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Modern motorised vertical sliding windows often incorporate energyefficient features such as double-pane glass and advanced weather-stripping. These features help to reduce energy consumption by minimising heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, leading to lower energy bills.
CONCLUSION
Motorised vertical sliding windows offer a perfect blend of style, functionality, and convenience. By seamlessly integrating advanced technology with elegant design, they enhance your home’s aesthetics, improve comfort, and provide peace of mind. Experience the future of window technology and elevate your living experience today.
For more details on the product, contact:
m e
472, Street no. D-36, 100 Feet Rd, Chhatarpur, New Delhi, Delhi 110074
Email: superscreens@hotmail.com
Website: www.awesomescreens.in
Contact: + 91 91099 77302 , 78792 63999
Motorised vertical sliding windows offer a perfect blend of style, functionality, and convenience
Maximise natural light and enjoy breathtaking panoramas with expansive window opening
Renson’s Fixscreen Sun Protection Enhances Shanghai‘s High-Rise Apartment
In Shanghai (China), the Fixscreen sun protection solution has been integrated into the façade of the Black Forest Project - a 100-m high apartment block. The bottom profiles of the screens were made extra heavy to ensure that they could withstand the wind loads at that height. Renson provided this solution together with the façade builder.
For this project, the contractors decided to work with large glass surfaces by using minimalistic window systems. The main surface of the facade is glass, with nearly no actual walls. Because of these large glass surfaces, the contractor knew that overheating and glare might heavily influence the comfort of the residents. So, they decided to use external sun shading which was not
yet very common in China. Through some people in the high-end window industry, the contractor learned about Renson, and shortly after they got the chance to visit Renson’s booth at a German exhibition where they studied their products.
CUSTOM MADE SOLUTION
CEG (contractor) chose Renson because they managed to provide a custommade solution where the external screen was perfectly integrated into the façade without disturbing the façade design. Besides that, they needed a product that could deal with large surfaces but also still guarantee high wind resistance. As the buildings are all at least 25 floors high and Shanghai sometimes incurs typhoons the wind resistance was a very important aspect.
EXCELLENT SUPPORT
CEG: “The installation went very smoothly, we are very happy about the whole procedure because Renson China together with Renson headquarters in Belgium provided us full support for this project. We have visited the Renson headquarters as well, which strengthened our confidence for longterm cooperation. Renson Fixscreen has proved to be a very helpful product, which solves problems like overheating and glare, it surely met all of our expectations.”
Quick Facts:
• Project: Black Forest –Apartments
• Architect: Köning Architecture
• Façade contractor: Orville –Suntek, China
• Application: Dynamic sun protection
• Product: Fixscreen 100 with heavy weightbar (customized solution)
• Challenge: to integrate a high-performance wind-tight sunprotection screen into the specific high-rise facade situation.
Renson is attending BAU München 2025 – Meet their customised solutions team at hall B1 booth 103.
For more details on the product, contact:
Email: makarand.kendre@renson.net
Contact: +91 9822 912403 Website: www.renson.net
Black Forest Building, Shanghai
Saugaat Inc. Join Hands with Edgetech to Revolutionise Spacer Bar Technology
Saugaat Inc. - a leader in delivering innovative, high - performance solutions that prioritise sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental durability has collaborated with Edgetech, a global pioneer in doubleglazing spacer bar technology. Edgetech’s revolutionary designs, including the industry-leading Super Spacer® warm edge spacer bar, redefine thermal performance, productivity, and energy efficiency. Together, they are empowering customers with cutting-edge tools to excel in today’s competitive market.
REDEFINING SPACER BAR TECHNOLOGY
Traditionally, insulating glass units (IGUs) relied on metal spacer bars, often made of aluminium, to separate the two panes of glass. While functional, aluminium spacer bars are highly conductive, promoting heat loss and condensation - challenges that compromised thermal efficiency.
THE EVOLUTION OF WARM-EDGE TECHNOLOGY
Warm edge spacer bars were developed to address these limitations by using
thermally insulating materials instead of metal. Edgetech introduced the first Super Spacer® warm edge spacer bar in 1989, transforming the industry. Made from non-metal, pre-desiccated structural foam, Super Spacer offers superior perimeter insulation while simplifying the production of insulating glass units.
THE ROLE OF SPACERS IN DOUBLEGLAZED UNITS
Spacers are critical components in double-glazed windows and doors, maintaining a consistent gap between the two glass panes. This gap, filled with insulating gases like argon or krypton, enhances the unit’s thermal efficiency. Modern spacers not only provide structural support but also create an insulating barrier to minimise heat transfer and condensation.
WHY CHOOSE EDGETECH’S SUPER SPACER®?
Unparalleled Energy Efficiency
Traditional aluminium spacers account for up to 94% of energy loss at the edges of a window. In contrast, Super Spacer®
is over 950 times less conductive than aluminium, significantly reducing heat loss and improving energy savings. Windows equipped with Super Spacer can achieve the highest Window Energy Ratings (WER), reducing window U-values by up to 0.2 W/m²K.
Key Benefits
• Condensation Reduction: Up to 70% reduction in condensation.
• Enhanced Comfort: Up to 65% warmer at the internal edge
• Durability: Successfully tested in extreme temperatures from -40°C to 85°C.
• Long-Lasting Quality: Backed by a 40-year performance guarantee, Super Spacer® demonstrates unmatched durability, outlasting other dual-seal systems by up to 2.5 times. Its structural integrity ensures excellent resistance to nitrogen and argon gas absorption, maintaining superior performance for decades.
Additional Features:
Customisable Appearance: Super Spacer adapts to the colour of the window profile, simplifying inventory management and ensuring seamless aesthetics.
Redefine Luxury Façade Architecture with wienerberger T Brick Façade Tiles
Wienerberger India has recently launched T Brick Façade Tiles, an innovative & premium terracotta brick façade tile that revolutionises façade architecture. Designed to redefine façade aesthetics and functionality, these tiles offer an unmatched combination of elegance, durability, and sustainability. New era of luxury façade architecture begins with T Brick where allure meets perfection.
EXQUISITE AESTHETICS AND ENDLESS DESIGN POSSIBILITIES
With T Brick Façade tiles, let your creativity soar. Available in a myriad of vibrant colours and sleek finishes, this façade system effortlessly enhances the beauty of any structure. Whether you’re crafting timeless charm or contemporary sophistication, wienerberger India’s T Brick’s innovative design guarantees an exquisite finish.
The T Brick is crafted to cater to the unique demands of the retail market, combining durability, style, design flexibility and ease of installation. Its contemporary design enhances the aesthetic appeal of retail spaces, while its sturdy installation ensures exceptional performance in all weather conditions. With low maintenance needs and versatile applications, T
Brick is the perfect façade solution for creating visually striking and highly functional retail spaces.
BUILT FOR DURABILITY AND HASSLEFREE INSTALLATION
• All-Weather Performance: Engineered to withstand the toughest weather conditions, ensuring year-round reliability.
• Fire Resistance: Protects your structure with superior fire-resistant properties.
• No Colour Fading or Staining: Enjoy long-lasting beauty that resists discolouration and staining.
• High Breaking Strength: Ensures robustness and durability for years to come.
Plus, installation is a breeze. The system eliminates the need for cement, allowing for quick, easy, and hassle-free application—saving time and reducing labor costs.
ECO-FRIENDLY AND SUSTAINABLE
wienerberger India’s commitment to sustainability shines through in the T Brick Façade Tiles:
• Green Building Solution: The T Brick façade is a sustainable and versatile cladding solution known for its excellent reuse properties. Designed
for durability and resilience, it can be carefully dismantled and reassembled without compromising its structural integrity or aesthetic appeal. This makes it an environmentally friendly choice, reducing construction waste and promoting circular building practices.
• Thermal and Sound Insulation: Enhance indoor comfort with excellent thermal and acoustic performance.
• Low to No Maintenance: A worryfree solution that keeps your façade looking flawless without effort.
CERTIFIED EXCELLENCE
Every T Brick Façade Tile is ASTM-certified and rigorously tested to ensure premium quality and performance. Experience unparalleled craftsmanship with a product that meets the highest industry standards.
WHY CHOOSE WIENERBERGER T BRICK FAÇADE TILES?
• Premium choice for architects and builders
• Excellent design flexibility
• Unmatched durability without maintenance
• Sustainable, safe, and environmentally conscious
• Easy, hassle-free installation with no cement required
Redefine your façade architecture with wienerberger T Brick Façade Tileswhere innovation meets elegance and sophistication. Make a bold statement while staying true to sustainable living.
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Parallel Hotel, Udaipur: A Modern Luxury and Sustainable Design Using Canadian Wood Species
Parallel Hotel in Udaipur is more than just a luxurious destination –it is a contemporary architectural masterpiece. Nestled near the serene Fateh Sagar Lake, the hotel offers 55 meticulously designed rooms spanning across five unique themes—Art Deco, Bollywood, Contemporary, Hollywood, and Industrial - providing guests with an immersive experience that blends modern aesthetics with the cultural richness of Udaipur. The architectural beauty of Parallel Hotel, both inside and out, lies in its thoughtful use of natural materials, especially Canadian wood species, which enhance the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and longterm durability. Western Red Cedar, in particular, plays a pivotal role in shaping the hotel’s striking exterior cladding, making it stand out as a beacon of innovative design in the city’s vibrant landscape.
WHY CANADIAN WOOD SPECIES?
Udaipur’s intense climate, with its searing summers and diverse weather conditions, posed a challenge for selecting the right wood species for outdoor
applications. Western Red Cedar, known for its lightweight yet incredibly durable properties, was the perfect choice for the hotel’s exterior cladding and soffits. Its natural resistance to decay and termites makes it ideal for long-term use in the challenging Rajasthan climate.
Beyond durability, Western Red Cedar is a designer’s dream. It is fine texture and natural grain lend themselves beautifully to staining and colouring, offering a wide range of design effects. This versatility was key in achieving the refined and eye-catching look that Parallel Hotel is known for. Whether catching the early morning sun or lit up in the evening glow, the cedar cladding exudes warmth,
sophistication, and an inviting charm that aligns perfectly with the hotel’s ethos of understated luxury.
A DISTINCTIVE EXTERIOR CLADDING WITH WESTERN RED CEDAR
One of the standout features of Parallel Hotel is its extensive use of Western Red Cedar across all four sides of the hotel. The exterior, clad in this rich, earthy wood, creates a seamless harmony between the structure and its natural surroundings. The warm tones of the cedar, combined with the sleek, contemporary lines of the building, add a distinct character to Udaipur’s skyline. This large-scale use of Western Red Cedar is relatively unique in India, showcasing not only the material’s aesthetic appeal but also its environmental benefits.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN WITH A LASTING IMPACT
The collaboration with Canadian wood species was instrumental in realising the vision for Parallel Hotel’s design. Iraj Evolution Design Company Pvt Ltd (I.EVO), a leader in contract furniture manufacturing, worked closely with Canadian Wood to ensure the right materials were selected and implemented. The wood was sourced from sustainably managed forests in British Columbia, Canada, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to responsible, sustainable design. This project paves the way for more sustainable, durable, and aesthetically exceptional designs in the hospitality industry.
For more details on the product, contact:
Website: www.canadianwood.in
Email: info@canadianwood.in
Contact: +91 22 4922 1600
Western Red Cedar, known for its lightweight yet incredibly durable properties, was the perfect choice for the hotel’s exterior cladding and soffits
Zinc Composite Panels: Shaping Sustainable Beauty in Modern Architecture
In the ever-evolving world of architecture, materials that combine durability, aesthetics, and sustainability have become indispensable. Zinc Composite Panels (ZCPs) are rapidly emerging as a game-changer in this domain. These innovative panels offer architects a wealth of benefits, positioning them as a practical yet visually stunning solution for modern architectural projects. Whether you are working on a commercial complex, a residential project, or any other type of building, ZCPs are an excellent choice to consider, offering a perfect blend of beauty, resilience, and environmental care. It’s time to explore why Zinc Composite Panels deserve a place in your next project.
DURABILITY THAT LASTS GENERATIONS
Zinc is renowned for its durability, with a lifespan of 75–100 years when used for roofs or walls. Over time, it develops a patina layer that self-heals minor scratches and shields the material from environmental damage, ensuring maintenance-free protection for decades. Its longevity, coupled with a high residual value, makes zinc 100% recyclable, aligning with sustainable construction practices.
By choosing ZCPs, architects not only enhance the lifespan of their buildings but
also contribute to reducing waste through a circular economy.
SELF-HEALING AND CORROSION RESISTANCE
One of zinc’s standout features is its selfhealing ability. The patina layer regenerates over time, maintaining both functionality and aesthetics despite exposure to harsh elements. Zinc also exhibits superior corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term durability in diverse climates.
Additionally, zinc’s fungistat properties prevent mould, mildew, and fungal growth, making it perfect for humid environments. This natural antimicrobial characteristic has been trusted for decades in medicine, agriculture, and food industries.
AESTHETIC VERSATILITY
Zinc Composite Panels are celebrated for their sleek, modern look, adding elegance to architectural designs. Zinc can blend seamlessly with materials like wood,
concrete, and glass or highlight specific features, enhancing a building’s visual appeal. Over time, its patina develops into a unique finish that complements both contemporary and traditional designs.
SUSTAINABILITY IN ARCHITECTURE
As a fully recyclable material, zinc aligns perfectly with the growing demand for eco-friendly construction. Leading manufacturers like Aludecor produce sustainable zinc products, ensuring minimal environmental impact. By integrating ZCPs, architects contribute to a greener future without compromising on performance or aesthetics.
APPLICATIONS OF ZINC COMPOSITE PANELS
Zinc Composite Panels are incredibly versatile, finding applications in various architectural elements:
• Façades: Eye-catching exteriors that combine strength and design.
• Interior Design: Modern, sleek panels for feature walls or accents.
• Specialised Buildings: Ideal for hospitals, restaurants, and other high-demand environments.
WHY CHOOSE ZINC COMPOSITE PANELS?
For architects, Zinc Composite Panels represent the future of sustainable and durable construction. With benefits like self-healing, recyclability, and aesthetic flexibility, ZCPs are a practical choice for creating stunning and resilient buildings.
By integrating zinc into your designs, you are investing in long-term quality, environmental responsibility, and architectural innovation.
For more details on the product, contact:
Aludecor Lamination Pvt. Ltd.
Email: info@aludecor.com
Website: www.aludecor.com
Toll-free: 1800 1020407
Product Watch
ALUCORE® Marks 30 Years of Excellence in Lightweight, High-Performance Cladding and Roofing Solutions
RANJEET SHARMA
President & CEO, 3A Composites India Private Limited
3A Composites, a pioneer and global leader in aluminium composite materials under the brand ALUCOBOND®, proudly marks 30 years of innovation with its aluminium core product, ALUCORE®. Renowned for its outstanding strength-to-weight ratio, ALUCORE® has set new standards in the architectural cladding and roofing industry. Engineered with precision, this advanced aluminium core panel combines exceptional rigidity with a lightweight design. Tailored to meet diverse architectural and structural needs, ALUCORE® is available in two specialised variants—ALUCORE® ACCP and ALUCORE® HONEYCOMB— making it a trusted choice for modern construction.
The first variant, ALUCORE® ACCP, is an Aluminium Corrugated Core Panel renowned for its lightweight construction. It features a corrugated aluminium core sandwiched between two aluminium skins, ensuring high rigidity and unmatched flatness. This material enhances the beauty of building façades while meeting
stringent fire safety regulations, thanks to its thermoplastic-free composition. The ease of formability allows architects to execute complex designs effortlessly, further elevating its versatility.
The second variant, ALUCORE® HONEYCOMB, is a cutting-edge sandwich composite panel with a honeycomb-shaped aluminium core enclosed between two aluminium cover skins. Its ultralightweight design, combined with high rigidity, ensures an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. This makes it ideal for demanding applications such as façade cladding, roofing exposed to extreme wind loads, and large, selfsupporting, and even walkable roofs.
Speaking about ALUCORE®, Ranjeet Sharma, President & CEO of 3A Composites India Pvt. Ltd., said, “ALUCORE® is more than just a material; it represents innovation and reliability. Its exceptional strength and superior aesthetics make it a preferred choice for contemporary architectural designs.”
ALUCORE® is engineered to deliver superior wind resistance, enabling it to withstand high wind load pressures, and ensuring structural reliability even
in extreme conditions. Its load-bearing capacity provides robust support for self-sustaining roofs, with thicker panels even capable of handling human traffic for maintenance. The material’s ability to accommodate large panel sizes offers enhanced design flexibility and cost efficiency, while its flatness contributes to the sleek, modern aesthetic. Furthermore, ALUCORE® provides excellent acoustic and thermal insulation, fostering quieter, energyefficient environments.
ALUCORE® is crafted using non-corrosive, marine-grade aluminium alloy and coated with advanced fluorocarbon-based PVDF/ FEVE finishes. These coatings meet the rigorous AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association) 2605 highperformance specifications for exterior applications, ensuring exceptional durability and reliable long-term performance.
Its compliance with Class A2 -s1, d0 standards under EN 13501-1 ensures unparalleled fire safety, offering peace of mind for architects and engineers. With an extensive range of colours and surface finishes, ALUCORE® empowers designers to bring their creative visions to life.
With its proven track record, ALUCORE® is widely used at airports and other mass transit systems, commercial and residential complexes, malls, and multiplexes worldwide. ALUCORE® consistently sets new standards by combining aesthetics, functionality, and innovation to meet the evolving demands of modern construction.
