Window & Facade Magazine - March/April 2019 Issue

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www.wfmmedia.com Volume 5 | Issue 4 | ` 150 March - April 2019

EFFECTIVE EXTERIOR WALL CLADDING Key influences & issues related to the selection of cladding materials

Face to Face

Ar. Hiren Patel Founder & Principal Architect, Hiren Patel Architects (HPA), Ahmedabad

Cladding – System Design Innovative Cladding Solutions for Ambitious Building Skins

Project Watch

Bharatiya Centre of Information Technology, Bengaluru

By Edifice Consultants Pvt Ltd

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Volume 5 | Issue 4 March - April 2019 PUBLISHED BY F & F Media and Publications C-55, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase - 1, New Delhi-110 020 T: +91-11-40623356 CO-FOUNDERS Syed Ahad Ahmed Amit Malhotra TECHNICAL PANEL Mahesh Arumugam Director Meinhardt Façade Consultants KR Suresh Regional Director xis Façade Consulting A EDITORIAL enu Rajaram R renu@wfm.co.in +91 9312864830 Shefali Bisht shefali@wfm.co.in DESIGN & CONCEPT BY Prashant Kumar MARKETING & OPERATIONS Kapil Girotra kapil@wfm.co.in +91 9560925255 SUBSCRIPTION & CIRCULATION Richa Parmar support@wfm.co.in +91 9871151112 Mukesh Kumar mukesh@wfm.co.in +91 9560088995 RNI: DELENG/2014/57870

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Exterior Cladding Solutions Rajan Goregaoker, Principal Architect and Director (Partner), GA Design

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Types of Exterior Wall Cladding Materials Shabbir Kanchwala, Senior Vice President, K Raheja Corp

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Beyond the Façade of Glass Roop Chanda, Associate Director, RSP India

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ACP for Exterior Cladding - The Trend That Stayed & Grew Vijay Kumar Mittal, MD, GM Alloys Private Limited, Wonder Alu Board

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Why to Choose Fabric Façade?

Ahmad Dalain, Director of Projects, Taiyo Middle East

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“Flame Your Imagination, Not Your Façade" Philip Kwang, Director, Façade Global Master Pte Ltd, Singapore

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Changing Trends in the Indian Exterior Cladding Industry Ashwani Khanna, Head - Marketing, FunderMax India Pvt. Ltd.

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A Holistic View on Ventilated Façade Systems Reeshika Rai, Project Engineer, Design2Occupancy Services LLP

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Cover Story – Effective Exterior Wall Cladding Key influences & issues related to the selection of cladding materials

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Face to Face Interview: Ar. Hiren Patel, Founder & Principal Architect, Hiren Patel Architects (HPA), Ahmedabad

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Industry Speaks Interview: Saurabh Mittal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Greenlam Industries Ltd

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Project Watch Bharatiya Centre of Information Technology, Bengaluru by Edifice Consultants Pvt Ltd Arcot Plaza, Kodambakkam, Chennai by Architecture Plus Value

Cover Courtesy: Hiren Patel Architects (HPA), Ahmedabad

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.

WRITE TO THE EDITOR Please address your suggestions to: The Editor, Window & Façade Magazine, C55, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase – 1, New Delhi, 110020 or email renu@wfm.co.in. Please provide your full name and address, stating clearly if you do not wish us to print them. Alternatively log on to www. wfm.co.in and air your views. The opinions expressed in this section are of particular individuals and are in no way a reflection of the publisher’s views.

“Printed and Published by Amit Malhotra on behalf of M/s F & F Media and Publications Printed and published at Thomson press. Name of the Editor-Ms. Renu Rajaram”

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EDIT

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The cladding system market is projected to grow from USD 224.4 billion in 2018 to USD 292.5 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 5.44%. This growth is due to the growing construction activities globally, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. The non-residential sector, comprising industrial, commercial, and other applications, is projected to be the fastest-growing segment. New construction and remodelling are also expected to increase the demand for cladding systems, says a report published by MarketsandMarkets. Globally, Vinyl accounted for the largest market share. Other preferred cladding materials include stone, brick, wood, stucco, EIFS, metal, and fibre cement.

The report also says that in terms of volume, the ceramic segment is estimated to lead the cladding systems market in the near future.

The report reveals that the Asia-Pacific region is projected to lead the cladding system market in terms of both value and volume. Factors such as increasing availability of raw materials and manpower, along with sophisticated technologies and innovations have driven the cladding systems market growth in the region. In addition, the growing construction sector, particularly in rapidly-growing countries such as China and India and huge foreign investments drive the Asia Pacific cladding market. However, consumers in this region are price-conscious and lay a lot of importance on this criterion in every aspect of their purchase. Manufacturing cost-effective cladding systems is a challenge faced by players operating in this region.

The choice of cladding material determines the environmental performance of a building. Cladding offers several benefits such as insulation, fire resistance, pollution prevention, and provides aesthetic appeal to a building. This edition of the magazine presents a number of articles on cladding, authored by experts. Tools for designing complex cladding, various cladding materials available in the market and their pros and cons, fire rated cladding materials, regulation and norms for cladding, the standard of materials, and safety regulations.

Hope this edition will inform readers of the newest updates to some of the recent technologies and materials in the cladding market. Please feel free to pass on any suggestions of what you would like to see in our future editions.

Your comments on this edition is also welcome.

To all our contributors, a heartfelt thanks.

Renu Rajaram renu@wfm.co.in

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Cladding – Materials

Exterior Cladding Solutions

The Infinity House by GA Design

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n simple terms, the application of one material over the other is called cladding. Exterior cladding is a term which is applied to the cladding of buildings and homes from outside. It forms a skin over the concrete and brick

Cladding - the cross-section diagram

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and provides some degree of thermal insulation and weather resistance and also increases the aesthetic appearance of the building. Exterior cladding brings to mind many factors - weather proof, rot proof, termite proof,

The Hill Crest by GA Design

heat proof and many more. And now since awareness is increasing and we realise the importance of sustainability and green, we are also concerned about the way the product has been made and its ingredients.

Choosing a cladding material for your building depends on all the above factors along with the aesthetic value a particular product might have. Exterior cladding solutions are wide and varied. A number of materials ranging from wood to aluminium composite panels, glass to metal composite panels, a varied choice is available these days for you to choose from.

Wood is the classic cladding material which has been around for a long time. But now we are seeing a lot of innovations and additions being done to the standard wood cladding. Reclaimed wood is an extremely popular choice now and so is composite wood which is made from sawdust and resins.

Wood is an environmental choice

Cladding – Materials and recycled wood products are given a new life these days, but research into that has to be done as the recycling of composite wood might be done by gassing which has negative effects on the environment.

Wood can retain its beautiful and natural finish for a long time when treated well and it can also be kept protected from weather and termites with the right treatment. But every few years it has to be repeated and so constant maintenance is required to keep it looking as its natural self.

Glass fibre reinforced concrete (called as GRC) is an easy maintenance cladding material.

Used for commercial, industrial and now even residential buildings, GRC is very easy to install and does not need any paint and plastering and can be fixed directly over brickwork.

Stone is a natural and environment friendly material.

Options in stone are galore,

granite, slate, marble, sandstone, limestone, Kota, Jodhpur stone etc. In the earlier days the entire construction of homes and palaces were done in stone. Even today, if you visit the palaces of Rajasthan, you will see beautiful stone cladding which have withstood the test of times. Proper installation is of extreme importance and durability of the cladding depends on the technique of installation if it’s a dry cladding, and in cases of wet cladding - the thickness of the stone along with the application.

The thicker the stone, the better the durability. Though there is no need of painting over the cladding surface, we do need to apply a clear coat of water proofing on the stone in high rain areas like Mumbai and Lonavala / Khandala.

Glass is a cladding material which has taken the world by storm. Glass cladding of the building has been prevalent for a number of years now and has evolved now to a fine science. The

trend began with BPOs and the IT sector when multinationals came to India and architecture saw a shift in design and use of material for cladding. Today there are several companies offering a varied range of choices from supplying different types and colours of glass to customisation, cleaning and maintenance. Architects consider glass as a preferred option not only for the unobstructed view of the surrounding but also because it reduces the weight on the foundation and hence makes the building lighter as compared to constructing walls.

Glass claddings are available in several opacities and various textures and finishes. Some modified varieties of glass are reflective glass, insulated glass, laminated or toughened safety glass, glass bricks, tinted glass, patterned glass, wired glass and many more. Sustainability has played a major role in the development of glass façade

Regency Anantam by GA Design

WFM | MAR - APR 2019

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Cladding – Materials cladding. Latest glass technology involves performance glass and several other modified glass with enhanced properties making the glass cladding fire retardant, reduced heat gain, reduced construction time and facilitate faster and efficient façade.

Metal Profile cladding are metal sheets manufactured in a range of corrugated and other profiles. The most commonly used metals for cladding purposes are: steel which is the most affordable; aluminium, which is very light weight and anticorrosive; zinc, which is highly durable and can acquire a hue if left untreated (very widely used now in exterior cladding); copper, which is another long lasting metal that requires minimum maintenance and can also be used in its different shades and finishes.

Composite metal is another very widely used cladding material where two metal skins are bonded to an insulating core, forming a composite ‘sandwich’ panel. The metal component, can be aluminium, zinc, stainless steel, titanium and so on, available in a wide variety of colours, finishes and profiles.

The USP of metal composite panels is that they can be bent, curved and joined together to form shapes and designs and hence widely preferred by architects world over. And now available in the market are also fire retardant composite panels which are safer and stronger and can be used for cladding for commercial, industrial, residential projects alike.

Composite panels in comparison to single layer metal sheeting have more advantages as they provide resistance to weather – heat or cold, acoustic and thermal insulation. With technology improving in leaps and bounds, they are cost

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effective compared to other cladding materials and installed faster than any of their heavier counterparts like granite, stone or concrete panels.

As external cladding systems have enhanced building façades aesthetically, making them sustainable and durable at the same time, a side effect or rather one of the cons is that they offer a potential route for the spread of fire. Especially in high rises, as fire spreads quick and fast as recent examples like the Grenfell Tower fire in London. Combustible cored sandwich panels are contributors to serious injuries and death. A façade fire has serious consequences. The basis of all modern fire regulations is that a fire in a tall building must be confined to a single storey.

Use of combustible structural elements, insulation and finishes should be carefully restricted and controlled. So research into the cladding system being used is a must, especially by the contractors and engineers involved in the construction process.

Indu Villa - Podium by GA Design

RAJAN GOREGAOKER

Principal Architect and Director (Partner), GA Design

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Rajan Goregaoker, a graduate of Sir J J College of Architecture, co-founded the firm GA design in 1999. With an extensive experience in residential & commercial buildings, township projects, interiors of luxury homes and offices in and around Mumbai, Rajan is recognised as one of the leading architects in Mumbai. Associated with some of the region’s most prominent builders and industrialists in the field of architecture and design, Rajan brings together the design expertise of both architecture and interior design in projects successfully.

Responsible for steering the firm’s overall strategic objectives, he has collaborated with multidisciplinary design teams on projects across varied scales for over 20 years. With a profound attention to detail and a focus on simplistic, yet elegant and artistic solutions to complex project briefs, his technical expertise and pragmatic design approach is the reason behind the success of his firm.

Cladding – Materials

Types of Exterior Wall Cladding Materials

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he construction industry is on the cusp of a new age, with the advent of fresh and innovative technologies that are revamping the sector.

Companies today have adapted to this change and are incorporating the latest developments in their services, designs, materials and construction machinery. With a strong focus on improving the interiors as well as the exteriors of buildings, organisations thrive to offer the best in class with skillfully planned and executed projects that have significant impacts on modern day living.

One of the most remarkable and complex features of a building structure is its cladding. It is a decorative covering that envelope an edifice to protect the interior spaces from the surrounding environment. Cladding is the use of one material placed over another which is intended to control the infiltration of weather elements and provide an aesthetic look. Exceptionally quick to install, cladding is durable and can last for a very long time if maintained well. The primary function is to protect the building from wind, excessive heat and moisture, and ensure the building’s overall thermal performance.

Cladding is an imperative aspect of construction as it improves the mechanical strength of the building and offers protection from a variety of external

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elements. These structures are more resilient to cracks caused by climate change and the surface acts as a shield forming protection from sunlight, rain, strong winds, humidity and all kinds of pollution.

It has been used in architecture for a long time and can be made from a wide variety of materials: • Wood cladding: This kind of cladding not only shields the structure but is also highly energy efficient due to its insulation properties. The exquisite effect of real wood can blend with any kind of interior or exterior, thereby enhancing the appearance of the building.

Mindspace Airoli East by K Raheja Corp

• Stone cladding: Stone cladding gives a more natural look and adds a tinge of elegance to the walls. Stones are quarried and slashed into minute pieces to reduce the weight. These are then applied to the structures giving it an earthy and rustic look.

• Ceramic cladding: Ceramic cladding is light weighted and needs less maintenance.

It is available in various textures and designs, making it a popular choice of architects. The material is durable, easy to clean and resistant to external weather conditions.

Cladding – Materials • Tile cladding: The aesthetic look of the tile cladding transforms a house into a contemporary abode. The design options are flexible as a combination of various sizes of the tiles can be merged together to form a unique and polished look.

• Porcelain cladding: This type of cladding is widely used for the exteriors of a structure. It is non-porous and does not accumulate surface dirt. Porcelain is immune to thermal shock and is scratch resistant, making it one of the strongest materials used for cladding.

• Curtain wall cladding: This kind of cladding is commonly seen in multistory buildings. They are lightweight aluminium frames onto which glazed panels are fixed. This reduces the heat ingress into the building, making the indoor area more comfortable, creating a brighter, cleaner and healthier environment.

• Aluminium composite cladding: This is made from aluminium and is often used for the external purpose

only. It is weather and UV resistant, providing all-round protection to the building.

• Timber cladding: These softwoods are heated to high temperatures that eliminate moisture and form a durable material. It can be readily painted and altered according to the structural design.

• Terracotta cladding: This material is eco-friendly and 100% natural. It is an alternative to brick cladding and gives a smooth look to the structure. Terracotta cladding is non-flammable and fire resistant and is often seen in modern as well as heritage buildings.

• Concrete cladding: Concrete is a simple solution for creating a modern and authentic look.

This is cost effective, light, easy to cut and install.

The cladding has revolutionised the way buildings have ever looked.

In the current scenario, end users seek for something new, and architects strive to innovate and conceptualise impactful solutions.

With the growth in technology and enhanced quality of architecture, there will certainly be a wide range of resources available for cladding in the future.

Mesh façade at Mindspace by K Raheja Corp

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SHABBIR KANCHWALA Senior Vice President, K Raheja Corp

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Shabbir Kanchwala spearheads the sustainability initiatives for real estate, hotels and malls of K Raheja Corp for the last eleven years. With close to three decades of real estate expertise, the last 10 years being with the company, Shabbir has led the green transformation which ranges, green buildings for new developments and existing projects with the Bill Clinton Climate Foundation under their Building Energy Retrofit Program. Shabbir’s continuous commitment to the cause has led K Raheja Corp to be widely renowned for steering the path in the green building sector with a majority of its residential, hotels, malls and commercial projects being LEED and IBGC Green Gold certified. Shabbir is a post graduate in structural engineering from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, and a graduate in civil engineering from Sardar Patel College of Engineering, University of Mumbai.

Cladding - Glass

Beyond the Façade of Glass

The CISCO Campus incorporates several energy-saving technologies

The CISCO Campus in Bengaluru

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lass has fascinated mankind since its advent in the early 500 BC. From its humble beginnings as a window pane in the luxury homes of Pompeii to forming structural members in modern buildings, glass has undergone a major evolution.

For the most part of the 20th century, fully glazed façades remained the mainstay of commercial construction.

The ubiquity of glass façades and structures is echoed on glass’ abilities to enhance, diffuse, reflect and transfer light as a result of its transparency. It can be toughened, bent, insulated, and laminated to suit varied purposes. However, since discussions of architecture and construction turned to sustainability, the use of glass has faced scrutiny. The claim to its inefficiency inevitably comes down to the issue of solar gain. Full-height glazing lets in a substantial amount of light and along with it a great deal of heat, which then requires

air-conditioning – itself a generator of heat – to solve the problem.

Misunderstanding around the use of the glass stem from inefficient use of the material and design inadequacies. Provided their performance potential is

considered in the design stage, a thoughtfully designed skin not only characterises the appearance of façade but makes a new building work more effectively for its owners, occupants and the environment. It can also transform

Sustainable features integrated in the façade include solar shading, high performance glazing, high levels of insulation

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Cladding - Glass the performance of an existing building. As the interface between interior space and the exterior environment, a building’s skin plays a crucial role in heat and light exchange. It is thus the designers’ responsibility to select the right façade element and accommodate it in the design intelligently. The various factors to be considered while selecting architectural glass include visual light transmittance, solar heat gain coefficient, U

value, shading coefficient, RO-RI (Reflection Outside-Inside), CRI (Colour Rendering Index). Several advances in energy-modelling have digitised and streamlined calculations for metrics such as annual sunlight exposure and spatial daylight autonomy.

Technological progress in architectural glass manufacturing further supports efforts to bring more daylight indoors while maintaining thermal comfort and lowering energy consumption.

ROOP CHANDA,

Associate Director, RSP India

VINOD KAMATH,

CISCO Campus, Bengaluru One of RSP India’s benchmark project, CISCO Campus in Bangalore, incorporates several energy-saving technologies. The façade design was rooted on intensive heat ingress and solar insulation analysis. Sustainable features integrated in the façade include solar shading, high performance glazing, and high levels of insulation. The light shelves on the façade

allow light to penetrate through the building, while providing enough shade near the windows, thus preventing glare. This façade, rather than serving as a static enclosure, reveals the potential to redirect and filter daylight, manage heat transfer, enhance occupant well-being, and create visual and physical connections between the inside and the outside.

Senior Associate, RSP India

ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Roop Chanda, Associate Director, RSP India, has over 15 years of professional experience in the design and construction industry, with special emphasis on project management and operations.

He has a master’s degree in construction management from NICMAR Hyderabad and an MS in construction management from Texas A&M University. He is a LEED accredited professional from USGBC. Vinod Kamath is an Associate at RSP India with over 15 years experience handling projects across multiple sectors and typologies including IT campuses, commercial complexes, retail spaces, residential developments and Interiors.

RSP is a leading design consultancy with over 63+ years of experience in a diversified range of projects. Established in 1996 and headquartered in Bengaluru, RSP India has a diverse portfolio.

The façade design was rooted on intensive heat ingress and solar insulation analysis

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Cladding - ACP

ACP for Exterior Cladding The Trend That Stayed & Grew

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his article is an outcome of our enormous interaction with government officials in infrastructure sector.

Principally, they are civil engineers and architects engrossed in policy making and implementation. Their key issues have been weather, water, fire, scratches, insulation, natural light ventilation, etc. The analytical approach with

due reference to National Building Code (NBC) and relevant specifications has revealed a factual position.

Apparently, Aluminium Composite Panel (ACP) can be used for various exterior and interior applications, either as a substitute or complimentary product. The overall findings are like two sides of a coin. One side stands for dominance of ACP over other panel products. The other side restricts the use ACP due to its opaque character, its lower thicknesses, despite its availability in FR grade. There is a paradigm shift taking place in respect of ACP use. Apart from façade of a building, there are other exterior and many interior applications of the ACP, either exclusively or in conjunction with other products.

Nonetheless, this trend that has started now, will grow with time - a pledge of ACP on its golden jubilee year (1969 to 2019). The present article disseminates particulars that relate to ACP as an exterior cladding material in India.

Aluminium Composite Panel (ACP) can be used for various exterior and interior applications

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ACP – THE MOST PREFERRED CLADDING MATERIAL There have been a continuous search for the perfect exterior cladding material and many different products have been devised. Among these, ACP is at the helm of exterior cladding.

Engineers and architects follow very high standards in construction of exterior cladding in view of the rigorous conditions experienced on high elevations, especially the everchanging climate conditions, direct exposure to wind, high humidity and relatively low ventilation. With these considerations, they select large quantities of ACP. Such a high choice for ACP can become a critical factor. Along these lines, the key issues can be: Product Application: The product (ACP) has to have certain properties

With unlimited varieties, ACP is at the helm of exterior cladding

Cladding - ACP to meet the demand of specific application (exterior cladding). As a cladding product, ACP is too thin, flat, aluminium sheets bonded to a non-aluminium core. Exterior cladding is a protective layer or application of one material over another. In construction, cladding provides a degree of thermal insulation, weather resistance, and improves the appearance of buildings. Basically, cladding is an assembly of materials in which each material has its own importance.

Generally ACP is combustible.

ACP with non-combustible core is called FR Grade.

Multiple Brands: Since numerous producers and brand names are emerging in ACP industry, the essence of ACP cladding is also changing. The characteristics of the different ACP branded products can be different from one another, depending on its composition. The difference in composition leads to deficiency in quality, thereby customer’s complaints such as distortion, tearing, delimitation, untidy folding & joinery, and colour fading, blooming & flashing, etc.

The characteristics of the different ACP branded products can be different from one another

It is good to trust the price and understand the product differentiation

Perhaps, every product has its own advantage, disadvantage and the balance between the two govern the price and drive on commercial success or failure of that product. In ACP market, there are many small time players as ACP stockholders with a brand name, but without a manufacturing plant.

Trust the Price: It is good to trust the price and understand the product differentiation. Otherwise, more of commitment (that figure out as if customer getting a good deal) and less of delivery will prevail. In such a gimmick, buyers keep sacrificing the quality to

fetch a lower price. Ultimately, it is user’s satisfaction/dissatisfaction due to nature of buying process works in winning/loosing deals in ABC (architect, builder, contractor) segment.

To overcome the situation, many architects and engineers are listing out their choices and then eliminate choices by setting standards. They can avail the end to end services so that specified ACP is used, followed by proper certification for traceability purpose.

Product Edge: ACP is manufactured in a continuous single line dry process and later no alterations/

ACP is manufactured in a continuous single line dry process

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Cladding - ACP modifications are required.

Apart from a lighter weight and high insulation value, ACP has flexibility and capability to replace heavy steel. With lower thickness, it offers higher insulation, which is crucial for building structures. ACP exterior cladding tends to be better at sealing the building from air and water that offer great structural value with high performance and durability.

Sources of Fire: Fires involving exterior cladding systems can ignite from nearby electrical equipment, yard storage, vehicle fires and fires in neighbouring buildings. Many fires inside the building spread to the exterior by means of a flashover or continuity of combustibles.

Common causes of fire from inside the building are cooking equipment, heating equipment, electrical and lighting equipment, smoking materials, electrical short-circuits and intentional fire setting and then fire spread by virtue of nearby materials like file papers, upholstery, furniture and furnishings.

Non-Combustibility: ACP was developed during 1969 and intended for signage use. The technological development produced an exciting panel product with apparently unlimited potential. Later ACP was used for exterior cladding.

It is available in two broad categories, combustible and noncombustible. Any fire risk can be minimised with Fire Retardant (FR) grade ACP. There should be extensive use of FR Grade along with proper fire protections and barriers to control the fire spread.

NBC compliance is vital for buildings. To minimise risk to life and property from fire, ensure fire safe design and construction of buildings.

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Requrements

Compliance

Regulations

Standards

BUILDING REGULATIONS: The design of the building and ACP installation shall be as per NBC. Any use of ACP with non-combustible core and class shall be properly documented for traceability.

Inadvertently mounted cladding of ACP (PE core) in high-rise buildings shall be replaced with ACP FR Grade. Implementation of comprehensive loss control in line with the guidelines of respective fire authorities is ultimate.

TECHNICAL ASSESSMENT: Height of building and prevailing wind speed are the important parameters which determine the use of faรงade materials.

Wind speed and climate has a noticeable influence on fire spread.

Selection of ACP thickness, grade, framework, shade and colour shall be with appropriateness. Consider the inclusion of active inclusion of automatic smoke vent, fire stopping systems and testing of materials. Latest safety norms recommended by the National Building Code 2016 of BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) shall be adopted.

END TO END: ACP cladding is a modern day requirement.

An extensive awareness program for use of FR ACP and National Building Code (NBC) is essential so that these norms are followed in building plans.

(References: National Building Code of India 2016 Volume 1 & 2; CPWD specifications for ACP exterior cladding)

VIJAY KUMAR MITTAL,

MD, GM Alloys Private Limited, Wonder Alu Board

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Vijay Kumar Mittal, a self-made man, has started his career in steel trading to EPC solutions.

He delivered several end-toend turnkey industrial projects in Asian & African countries.

With his decades of experience, he set up an ACP plant and brought his educational and business knowledge into it.

He is regarded as one of most knowledgeable person on ACP with his vast exposure on building regulations that govern ACP applications. His interest lies in safety, performance, and sustainability. He always inspires young engineers and architects for their creative designs that balance functionality and aesthetics.

Wonder Alu Board provides technical services covering usage of design elements, hardware, joinery techniques, fabrication, finishing & installation. Customers can contact them by calling at 011-47487700, 47481299, or fill out online enquiry form at www. wonderacp.com

Cladding - Fabric

Why to Choose

Fabric Façade?

Façade with LED light

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he fabric façade concerned in this article is the one used as an architectural façade feature, sun glare control and LED screen outside of the existing building envelope façade. According to up-to-date market experience, stretched fabric façades share in the façade market has grown significantly against traditional hard material ones. Why is that?

Below are the major factors:

An endless variety of colour, openness, shapes & sun glare control: At an affordable cost, fabric façade can be of any colour or printing pattern. The possibility of having solid or open mesh fabrics with a wide variety of shading coefficient makes it easy to the sun glare lovers to enjoy day light at their preferred comfort levels. The energy saving is immensely enhanced with enhanced shading coefficient. Unlike hard materials, the fabric can take any curvature or any shape by its nature.

Dead Loads Erosion: Fabric is approximately 100-times lighter than the glass this will not only reduce dead load reactions but will also make the installation cheaper, faster and much more environmentally friendly (fewer machines). In addition to that, the cost of structural steel & its foundation needed for fabric façade is dramatically lower than the hard façades.

Best LED reflection screen: Stretched fabric is still offering best screen experience. Since the early days of cinema, silver lenticular (vertically ridged) screens, which are made from a tightly woven fabric, either natural, such as silk, or a synthetic fibre, that’s why until our days, some are still referring to the cinema industry as "Silver Screen", it was in simple words one of first modern stretched fabric applications.

Fire safety: Unlike what inexperienced mindset may think about fabric, we can safely state that fabric fire behaviour is not less safer than any other hard façade.

Perhaps it is famously known that some kinds of fabric are classified as non-combustible such as PTFE for instance, yet even other kinds of B-class, such as ETFE and PVC are behaving safely too, but with different philosophy as following: 1 Does not spread flames (fire will only impact its origin panel), 2 Fabric self-extinguish itself in fractions of second (once the fire source is removed), 3 The amount of smoke is not significant at all specially when fabric is used as an exterior feature, 4 A load of fire in fabric case is significantly less than hard façade.

Durability: As like any other material, if you choose the right quality fabric materials, fabric fabricator, and abide with the preventive maintenance recommendations, then the fabric façade life expectancy is not less than any hard façade. Generally speaking, fabric life expectancy is ranging between 25 to 35 years, depending on its components, the way of application and location. Nevertheless, even after 25 or 35 years, if you wish to change the façade colour, printing, shading coefficient (make a brand new look of the new façade) that is unquestionable, and without any doubt feasible on fabric façades exclusively.

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Case Study

Mimicking Nature

Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain, UAE

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nspired by the palm tree trunk, the national tree in Arabian gulf countries, the stadium outer façade was designed to cover inner envelop with additional outstanding palm trunk look and at the same time reducing sun glare and heat on inner envelop while allowing it to breath. The 612 panels façade with approximate 92 different sizes and inclination was preliminary intended to be made into hard materials such as GRC (glass fibre reinforced concrete) or with fabric as an option. The shape of each palm trunk panel is curved to mimic nature and therefore the intention to use GRC was to make sure that inspired shape is fully satisfied or simply molded.

Eventually, the conclusion was to make a fabric panel mock up and inspect its viability against GRC (refer to Fig.1 and Fig. 2). The fabric would be stretched on a steel frame with an intermediate

QUICK FACTS: Fig.3: Façade mockup (view from inside)

arch (refer to Fig. 3).

After mock up inspection, the decision was obviously to confirm fabric option for the following reasons • In terms of shape, the fabric succeeded to mimic the intended shape by using a metal frame with an intermediate arch and then stretch PTFE fabric on it.

Actually, from a far distance like 30m and more, you can’t say certainly that the façade is made of fabric. Refer to fig, 4 and Fig. 5.

Fig. 1 & Fig. 2: Façade mockup (fabric option inspection)

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• Fabric option cost was half of GRC for the following reasons: 1. Lighter fabric panel requires less effort and time for installation 2. Lighter fabric panels provide a very low dead load on the main steel diagrid frame which indirectly reduced the cost of the main steel structure and foundations.

Project: Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium Location: Al Ain, UAE Client: Al Qattara

General contractor: BAM International Membrane façade contractor: Taiyo Middle East LLC Architect: PATTERN UK

Other consultants: Schlaich Bergermann Partner, Taiyo Middle East LLC Materials used for façade: PTFE fabric SHEERFILL-V, Saint-Gobain USA Commencement date: September 2012 Completion date: July 2014

Cladding - Fabric

AHMAD DALAIN

Director of Projects, Taiyo Middle East

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Fig. 4 and Fig. 5: Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain, UAE - Façade after completion

3. The QA/QC control and fabrication of fabric is significantly much more flexible and easier than moulding and controlling 92 different GRC moulds.

• The LED light reflection on fabric is well known guaranteed pleasure.

The Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium is the home of Al Ain Football Club, one of the leading clubs in the UAE Pro League. Designed by Pattern Architects, the 25,000 seat FIFA class football stadium introduces a new approach to sports architecture in the Gulf region by embedding Al Ainʼs identity into the very fabric of the design.

Ahmad Dalain is the Director of Project of Taiyo Middle East, a daughter company of Taiyo Kogyo Corporation Japan worldwide leader in membrane construction and innovation with unprecedented experience since 1929. With 40 companies all over the world, Taiyo is the biggest membrane contracting company in the world. Ahmad himself is basically a structural engineer with a Master degree in structural engineering science, having more than 20 years’ experience, focused on membrane construction innovations in the Middle East and other parts in the world.

He is considered one of the few most prominent experts in the field of tensile structures in the Middle East with so many landmark projects executed under his directions from design development sketches up to handing over.

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Cladding - Porcelain

“Flame Your Imagination, Not Your Façade"

I

Porcelain is an earth-friendly material for cladding

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n the aftermath of combustible aluminium composite panels (ACP), which material will be selected as a superior alternative to flame your imagination without flaming your façade?

Porcelain is an earth-friendly material which is used for millions of years by kings and peasants to make pots, pans and other exquisite utensils. Some of these have withstood the test of time to emerge as the much sought after artefacts today.

Porcelain is produced with the baptism of fire to become what is universally accepted as one of the most, if not the most fire resistant building material - so much so that it is typically accepted and not regulated by fire authorities around the world.

This is an extremely important factor to consider especially at this critical time when most of the clients and architects in Singapore are in the midst of taking the prudent decision to stay away from materials which bear even the slightest resemblance to the combustible ACP panels.

A large format thin gauge porcelain panel is produced primarily for the benefit of the exterior cladding industry. As porcelain is essentially stronger

Cladding - Porcelain

Charles & Keith, Singapore: Porcelain - a stronger material than normal ceramic

than the normal ceramic they are typically used to produce larger and thinner panels - with a weight and thickness lighter and thinner than solid aluminium. Typical size of porcelain panels can be as large as 3mx1m and as thin as 3mm. Larger size panels are available depending on different manufacturers.

Architects and designers are known to have a natural preference for a cladding material that is free from stress as well as having a surface quality that is optically flat.

This is where the technology for producing optically flat porcelain panels becomes both simple and complicated.

The material, which typically consist of clay and kaolin is simply put through a 100m long flatbedded convection oven with constant heat maintained at high temperature of 1200C. What is complicated is the complex technology for building the machine which is proprietary to Laminam Spa, Italy.

The product from this high tech processing is known to be completely stress free and has an uncanny flatness that is

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considered the equivalent of a well ironed shirt. Since the product is produced under intense heat, no amount of heat inflicted directly from the sun will affect its optical appearance giving it the stability and the opulence not normally found in solid aluminium. The high temperature firing process also explains why the porcelains core itself will always remain inert even during the worst fire.

Large format porcelain surfaces are also seen as large canvases and a rich playground for designs and creativity. Most porcelain panels are designed to flame the architects’ imagination for exquisite designs.

Beyond the rich collection of solid colors, there is also an incredible range of designer's favorites such as stone, wood and metallic textured surfaces, all produced with careful attention to the finest detail.

Variations of Calacatta and Travertino stone panels, for example, can be produced with “copyright” from nature. They “copy” from nature and make it

Gleneagles Hospital, Malaysia: Porcelain cladding can be applied externally as ventilated façade

Clifford Centre, Singapore: Large format porcelain surfaces are also seen as large canvases for designs and creativity

“right” beyond every imagination.

In fact, they make it so right, so real and so pristine that at least one major manufacturer would do no less than to guarantee them for the next 25 years.

Natural stones such as marble and sandstone are typically considered to be too heavy, too weak and too water absorbent for external cladding. Porcelain stones on the other hand may be large, but they are lightweight and completely water and fire resistant.

Besides, the supply of natural stone is finite process. Indiscriminate harvesting of stones is also a huge environmental problem. Hence, the use of porcelain engineered stone as a superior alternative to natural stone is gaining popularity especially with architects with strong environmental conviction.

As a result of which exquisite looking porcelain panels are increasing being accepted by the world most renowned architects, designers and big brand chain stores.

Porcelain panels are the highly engineered product for the cladding industry. You can’t just sell pieces of it over the counter

Cladding - Porcelain and expect your customers to use it whichever way they think is right. It has to be system designed and engineered to suit different applications and to achieve different architectural values. This is where we as façade specialists and experts in porcelain cladding can help to provide much needed technical input in order to achieve the highest value in optimising the material and engineering designs.

Porcelain cladding can be applied externally as ventilated façades or internally as luxurious floor and wall panels.

Rising beyond the impressive collection of project references around the world, Singapore’s impressive list of porcelain projects includes the eminently impressive Philip Starck designed hotel, The South Beach Singapore (now known as JW Marriot), Clifford Centre and the soon to be completed Laguna Hotel.

In Malaysia, the iconic Gleneagles Hospital façade is also

well finished in porcelain cladding.

Porcelain panel is a naturally sustainable material.

It is completely recyclable on cradle to cradle basis. Its low embodied carbon footprint, typically achieved with solar energy, is widely recognised for green building certification.

Its value as a superior cladding material is really what the customers are looking for in a porcelain panel. The difference between what is considered high price and what is considered the right price, is not too difficult to be appreciated.

It is quite obvious therefore that porcelain panels will continue to be specified and will continue to gain confidence & popularity with discerning clients and architects.

It provides, among many other great advantages, a peace of mind to all stakeholders knowing that they have selected a product that is their safest bet against the current uncertainty with fire safety.

PHILIP KWANG

Director, Façade Global Master Pte Ltd, Singapore

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Philip Kwang is a Director of Façade Global Master Pte Ltd Singapore. He is a façade consultant, an inventor and a lecturer at Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore. His current interests are to lead the industry in façade innovation and advance materials, façade lightings and BIPV. Contact: Philip.kwang@ facadeglobalmaster.com

Sea Hill Condominium, Singapore: Porcelain panels are highly engineered product for the cladding industry

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Cladding – Trends

Changing Trends in the Indian Exterior Cladding Industry

An Authentic Statement – Surat

M

an has moved from wheel to chip.

And this dramatic journey from wheel to chip is symbolic of mankind's continuous obsession for excellence. Similarly, the cladding industry is also moving to new and innovative products. Some of the changing trends that define the current industry are as mentioned below.

CLADDING MATERIAL Exterior cladding is a blend of aesthetic and functional attributes.

For more than a decade, glass, stone, wood, metal/ACP has always been the traditional choice of material for exterior cladding. Nowadays, new and innovative materials such as exterior grade laminates, (as per EN438-6), glass fibre reinforced concrete, metal claddings (zinc, copper, and steel) are creating a healthy disruption in the market.

The differentiating advantages of exterior grade laminates are eco-

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friendliness, thermal efficiency, energy renewability and sustainability.

GREEN BUILDINGS As per Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), commercial buildings consume more energy than highways and roads, and hence there is an increasing need for sustainable and energy efficient buildings due to the energy crisis in most of the cities. This necessitates the usage of energy efficient cladding systems on buildings. Recent trends show an array of structural practices using lightweight building materials.

While there are multiple choices, the benefits of installation will vary depending on the customer’s need.

Most offices today seek certified products and prefer green rated buildings with innovative designs.

They are willing to explore and experiment to learn about newer cladding systems and this will significantly increase the market demand for efficient cladding materials.

Furthermore, tropical weather can be extremely uncomfortable and therefore it is important to use the right cladding system for optimising temperature levels inside a building.

This can be achieved by using façade systems made of cladding materials with low U values. They help in reducing the ingress of thermal energy inside a building, thus keeping the heat at bay. During monsoons, the rear ventilated façade system ensures that the rain water never reaches the wall and is drained away.

Rear ventilated façade systems are installed on substructures. This leaves space between the wall and panel which in turn improves heat and noise reduction while also imparting better weather protection. This cladding system improves the thermal efficiency of the building and reduces thermal bridges to avoid condensation of water vapour, thus improving the thermal comfort of the occupants in the building. It is noteworthy that such systems can help reduce the power consumption of AC and can make buildings sustainable.

SAFETY & MAINTENANCE We live in an era where pollution is omnipresent and our buildings are constantly exposed to hazardous pollutants. As a result, the buildings need regular maintenance, which includes cleaning of all the façade elements that do not fare well in such harsh city environment. This aggravates the issue and adds to the running cost of the facility.

Exterior grade panels need minimal maintenance even in highly polluted areas. The open system without any sealants leaves no trace of sealant

Cladding – Trends trail marks as well.

Tall buildings are constantly exposed to climatic extremities.

Cladding in such buildings involvess detailed structural calculations revolving around the wind load requirement. The right fitment can help withstand the spate of floods and cyclones.

Ignorance or wrong calculations may lead to weak installations, thereby running a risk of damage and injury. The ideal cladding system in tall buildings must be able to accommodate building movements and they should have a hard surface for high impact resistance. Additionally, they should also have anti-graffiti properties as the smog & silica particles in the air may cause visual defects.

The major cautionary point if the right technical approach is not used, the chances of problems like undulation, system failure or accessory failure increases. Exterior grade panels are a minimum maintenance cladding material and hence requires less water for cleaning.

This helps in reducing the strain on water bodies around us.

INNOVATIVE OFFERINGS In continuation of this, currently, there are other offerings in the market which are functional façades like rear ventilated max exterior façade system and sun

Inspiring Interaction – Hyderabad

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shading max lato louver system.

These are energy efficient and aimed at improving the overall functionality of the building, without compromising on the occupant comfort.

They can also be customised for each building for different wind load, dead load, thermal load and other requirements to protect the building from weather harshness, thus proving a high degree of design freedom for people who create.

CONCLUSION The cladding industry has advanced to a substantial extent. There are different types of innovative material available in the market now. A lot of emphases is on the aspect of sustainable cladding systems and how they can support green buildings. With adherence to the IGBC, this is a major shift towards a better environment. The market is also highly sensitive to the safety and maintenance of modern cladding systems and materials used. Safer and risk free systems are preferred over ordinary offerings. Materials used in cladding systems should also be maintenance free in the long run.

Innovation is another aspect that drives the current cladding market.

Architects today seek engineering driven cladding systems that offer superior functionality without compromising on the aesthetic elements. Exterior cladding should give your building character.

ASHWANI KHANNA,

Head - Marketing, FunderMax India Pvt. Ltd.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ashwani Khanna is currently handling the marketing division at FunderMax. He is an ardent follower of the principles mentioned in ‘The seven habits of highly effective people’, and his success mantra is ‘sharpen the saw’. He constantly sharpens his leadership acumen with training at the best of institutes like Harvard, IIMA, ISB to name a few. Having over 13 years of experience handling multifarious responsibilities with some big names in the construction material industry such as Saint Gobain and Armstrong. He loves is known for his management training initiatives that are as fun as they are informative.

Cladding - Ventilated Systems

A Holistic View on

Ventilated Façade Systems

V

entilated façade system is a robust, multi-layer system with a ventilated air gap in-between layers. The layers consist of, the cladding of the external wall, and rear insulation material. The layers, when assembled together, leave an air gap. The function of this air gap gives the pivotal benefit to this façade system, in terms of energy savings, aesthetical durability

and external noise reflection in a building; for the air gap acts as a chimney and helps in reducing heat absorption in the building during summers, and retains heat inside the building while in winters, creating a “chimney effect”, which ensures continuous air flow in the air gap that helps reduce the indoor temperature. Solar radiation is partially reflected by the wall cladding, the air gap and the insulating material, thereby,

Clay ventilated façade tiles from Wienerberger

lowering the heating and cooling loads in a building and increasing savings on energy. The air gap also helps in constant elimination of surface condensation and in removing moisture from the indoors, hence, removing humidity from the interior spaces and aiding in the comfort and well-being of the occupants.

ADVANTAGES OF A VENTILATED WALL Ventilated façades are good options for new buildings and as retrofits for existing ones as they are highly aesthetical; having various colours, textures and designs and are lightweight that allows easy installation and repair.

Besides the aesthetic appearance and better performance standards of the materials, compared to the traditional building materials; the advantages of laying a ventilated wall in a building are many: 1. Energy Savings The air cavity in a ventilated façade system helps in regulating heat in a building, thereby, reducing thermal bridges and decreasing cooling and heating loads by 30%.

2. Damp Protection The ventilated façade system provides a proper thermalhygrometric building behaviour.

Moisture accumulation is dispersed by the constant ventilation in the air gap, which further prevents the growth of pathologies like mould; that affect traditionally constructed external walls.

3. Sound Waterproofing The ventilated façade system provides sound weather protection,

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Cladding - Ventilated Systems especially from rains and water due to the air cavity that prevents seepage of water inside the system.

4. Noise Absorption The multi-layered façade consisting of the facing, air gap and insulating material reflect external noise and reduce it by 1020% while enhancing the building acoustics.

5. Aesthetical and Technical Durability A ventilated façade with porcelain or ceramic tiles for cladding makes an ideal façade system. Along with being eco-friendly; the porcelain and ceramic tiles are lightweighted, durable, and resistant to chemicals, pollutants, dust and sunlight.

In India, innovative ventilated façade systems are slowly on the rise, like the clay ventilated façade.

6. Low Maintenance The ventilated façade system requires limited maintenance and periodic cleaning by using soap and water.

of materials for the cladding, considering the aesthetics and quality, is important in improving the building’s appearance and protecting the wall from atmospheric agents and pollution.

2. Vertical metal sub-structure and brackets (mostly of aluminium): The vertical substructure is of aluminium with steel anchoring elements.

3. Air gap 4. Insulating layer 5. Perimeter wall DESIGN OF A VENTILATED FAÇADE SYSTEM A ventilated façade system strictly adheres to industrial design standards and hence, the design phase decision making is crucial to avoid any future improvisations.

VENTILATED FAÇADE LAYERS The multi-layered ventilated façade system comprises of the following functional layers: 1.

External wall cladding (ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, clay tiles, polymer concrete panel, etc.): Sound selection

Ventilated façade layers

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Laying of ventilated façade

Vertical installation system of the ventilated system in a hospital building

Before laying a ventilated façade system, it is necessary to decide on the cladding materials, the design of the façade system and final structural plans.

The installation of the system starts with layout planning and measurements. Depending upon the sizes of the slabs and the joints, intervals or spacing are measured and brackets are fastened in them.

Thermal insulation is laid and the vertical aluminium or steel sub-structure is anchored to the brackets and fixed at the measured intervals. Finally, the wall cladding is fitted to the module which leads to the formation of the air gap.

Proper dimensioning of the air gap ensures effective ventilation throughout the façade.

The type of anchoring: exposed anchoring or concealed anchoring

Horizontal installation system of the ventilated façade in an office building

Cladding - Ventilated Systems is based on the two installation systems, the horizontal installation system and the vertical installation system.

In the ventilated façade with exposed anchoring, the vertical installation system is adopted and the horizontal installation system is applied in the ventilated façade with concealed anchoring.

The right choice for anchoring is based on the aesthetics of the façade and cost aspect of the wall cladding.

VENTILATED FAÇADE WITH CLAY TILES - THE MOST SUITABLE FOR THE INDIAN BUILT ENVIRONMENT With the advancement in façade technology like the ventilated façade systems, there is less of a compromising on aesthetics to meet state-of-the-art quality. And by choosing sustainable envelope designs and environmentally friendly building materials like clay, the advantages are heightened.

In India, the clay is easily available and it being a versatile and naturally occurring building material makes it a sustainable choice. Clay tiles are highly durable, recyclable and cost

Clay tile

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effective with good insulation properties. Clay tiles have good noise absorption properties and provide excellent sound proofing.

They have a long lifespan of 50-60 years, are non-flammable, frost-proof and maintenance-free.

CONCLUSION The technology behind the ventilated façade systems uncovers its holistic benefits and advantages over traditional as well as other modern façade systems. The striking feature of the ventilated façade system is the ability to use air, a renewable resource in the ventilating process. This feature makes the system what it is, a “ventilated façade”. The continuous ventilation in the air gap enables dry insulation of the walls and slabs and expels moisture from the indoors, keeping the indoor temperature at a comfortable level.

The ventilated façade systems give a strong visual impact to the building and once the system is in place and installed, the working of the technology will elevate the performance of the building; by enhancing the comfort and wellbeing of the occupants in the building.

REESHIKA RAI

Project Engineer, Design2Occupancy Services LLP

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Reeshika Rai is working as a Project Engineer with a private environmental services company, Design2Occupancy Services LLP, in Jaipur. She is an associate member of ISHRAE and has been involved in green building facilitation projects and energy optimisation of new and existing buildings through energy simulation.

An environment enthusiast, interested in sustainability practices in the built environment and emerging trends in sustainability.

Passionate about making sustainable changes in the world, one project at a time and would love to see the built environment transform into an eco-conscious industry.

She believes that one’s sensitivity to the surroundings is imperative to bring about a change, and that to be sensitive to the environment is the first step towards the sustainability path.

Cladding – Fire Safety

Fire Safety & External Wall Cladding

M

ost modern high rise buildings we see coming up all around us today have facades and cladding covering almost 60100 per cent of their elevations.

Architects and designers are in search of the iconic building and are constantly experimenting with different materials to clad their projects. Traditionally, natural stone was the most preferred material used in addition to painted masonry walls. However, in the last two decades, a variety of innovative materials have been introduced by manufacturers to clad buildings which are stronger, lighter and more durable as compared to natural stone.

The choices of materials used for cladding high rise building are normally selected on the basis of its appearance, durability, and availability of colours. However, now with the pressure on land availability in urban zones, the need for building taller structures has become the norm. While designing such high rise structures, the designers need to focus their attention more on the safety of the occupants along with all other factors, while selecting the materials to be used in the project.

Fire safety is one such important factor which needs to be the foremost on the designer’s mind.

With the constraints our fire services face in India, it will be totally impractical to expect them to come to the rescue of the occupants of a high rise in the event of a fire.

The non-availability of the suitable equipment and infrastructure to reach beyond a height of 30 meters to rescue the occupants is the reality, which needs to be kept in mind.

Therefore, every product used inside and outside the building must be selected keeping its resistance to

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Use tested products in the buildings to prevent the quick spread of fire to other areas or floors

fire in mind and such products should also not generate toxic fumes when they come in contact with fire. It is also important that these produce specified will not be in any way aid in spreading the fire to other zones. The specifications for fire safety world over has evolved over the last 50 years and the earlier

India introduces a comprehensive fire code the safer projects coming up will be.

FIRE FIGHTING IN BUILDINGS There are two broad categories of issues that need to be considered to make fire safety succeed in a building:

An effective active firefighting system is the need of the hour

Cladding – Fire Safety 1. An effective active firefighting system. This includes: • Detection o Smoke detection o Heat detection o Manual fire alarms, etc.

• Suppression & extinguish the fire o Extinguisher o Sprinkler system o Gas & foam system 2. A passive system which involves: Using tested products in the buildings to prevent the quick spread of fire to other areas or floors in the buildings other than the source where the fire originated. These include facades, walls, false ceilings, ducting and penetration seals, etc.

To have an effective passive fire protection system, the products mentioned above need to be tested for: • Reaction to fire: Measurement of how a material or a system affects the fire development and spread, particularly in the early stages of fire.

• Resistance to fire: Measurement of the ability of a product / system to resist the passage of fire from one distinct area to another, or ensure the structural properties of the building.

X--A1, A2, B, C, D, E, F A1 - Noncombustible A2 - Noncombustible B - Combustible C - Combustible D - Combustible E - Combustible F - Undefined for performance

Most products we use in high-rise projects today need to be tested and certified for either of the above characteristics or for both.

Reaction to fire - Applicable EN specification: • EN 13501-1 Floor & walls • En 13501-5 Roofs • EN 13501-6 Electric cables Resistance to fire - Applicable EN specification: • EN 13501-1 Building elements excluding ventilation services • EN 13501-3 Services installation • EN 13501-4 Components of the smoke control system Accordingly, once these products are tested and classified, then it’s easy for the architects to specify the correct product for any given application.

As far as the cladding materials are concerned almost all the countries have banned all the products which do not qualify under A1 & A2. Using only A1 & A2 certified products as part of the façade will ensure that the fire does not jump from a lower floor to the higher floor aided by the wind outside, thus giving ample time for the occupants to safely evacuate.

Therefore, it’s important that the building designers and developers always remember the responsibility they are entrusted by specifying only those products which are classified A1 & A2 as per EN standards.

A – 1,2,3

M—0,1,2

1) Low smoke 2) Medium smoke 3) High smoke

1) No drops 2) Inflamed drops < 10s 3) Inflamed drops > 10s

Table 1: Fire rated classification as per EN Standard

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JOTHI RAMALINGAM

Director, Winwall Technology India Pvt Ltd

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jothi Ramalingam is a Director in Winwall Technology India Pvt Ltd, which is a group company of Winwall Singapore. He has over three decades of experience in the architectural aluminium industry. His expertise ranges from aluminium extrusions, anodizing, powder coating and performance testing.

Cladding - System Design

Innovative Cladding Solutions for Ambitious Building Skins

C

ladding is one of the most expressive, inspiring and complex aspects of building design.

It is the outermost skin of a building and has a multitude of roles and functions, right from providing a visual character to providing a shield against external conditions.

Various materials like metals, bamboo, timber, cellulose and hybrids have been used to construct cladding materials today. While innovation continues to happen in the façade industry in terms of material possibilities, there is a direct correlation of innovation with the evolving language of building skin designs that are driven by advanced design technologies.

Firstly, ‘cladding’ must be redefined as not just an external skin or a finish, but a surface that also goes from exteriority to interiority of built space. So, a cladding system need not restrict to a façade or a roof structure, but rather a cladding system for an interior space. Both will have their own functions that may include, but not limited to, physical protection, aesthetics or perception.

Today, the role of a façade, interior skin or a cladding, is as complex as the building itself as it needs to strike a balance between all the parameters such as aesthetics, visual character, structural stability, solar heat gain, daylight filtration, visibility, thermal comfort, branding and programmatic zoning, among other aspects. Due to its complex nature, usually, designers opt to

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harness the potentials of a cladding system to either aesthetic effects or to building performance. Very rarely, the two merge, although that’s the intent ideally. But what stops us to integrate all aspects of a cladding system in design? Is it the complexity of the problem or is it the inadequate knowledge of available design tools? Perhaps, it is a combination of both. However, both these issues can be sorted with the help of a specialist.

EMERGENCE OF SPECIALISTS We are currently in the age of specialisation in architecture where multiple streams within the profession have emerged to create an interdisciplinary and multi-layered process of design.

This has led to smarter projects as each specialist, be it energy consultants, structural designers, façade designers, project managers or architects play their respective roles to collaborate on a project. This has a direct relation with innovations in the cladding industry as well. Looking at the importance and complexity of a façade or skin in a building, façade design specialists can take up roles of design and building of façades with their association of engineers and vendors. While there has been a lot of progress in the construction, supply and a material segment of this domain, very few are focusing on the design aspect of façades.

There is also a very limited focus on material sciences and material innovation as cladding industry is currently disconnected with the designer’s need and most of the architects end up making design decisions based on what

is available in the market. There needs to be a two-way process of dependency between designers’ visions and material innovations in the market for a mutually dependent innovation to occur.

Looking at the ongoing intersections of design and technology, many designers have taken up the expertise of façade designing by use of computational design techniques, namely Parametric Design and Algorithmic Design. This allows collaborations with the architects wherein a façade design consultancy can be provided which focuses on parametric design methods that allow a wide range of design possibilities and fabrication options. This leads to explorations of cladding design possibilities at the same time wherein a designer can create a system using advanced design technologies to innovate a system for a building skin or cladding without directly relying on cladding industry’s innovation. Parametric design, if rightly put to use, within the domain of cladding design systems, can aid in developing smarter cladding systems that can perform a multitude of tasks in an optimised way. The parametric design opens vast possibilities of controlling performance-based factors right from the early design stage of a façade project yielding results that speak beyond mere aesthetics. Since the parametric design is a technique and method of designing, we can’t truly make a fair comparison between a nonparametrically designed façade and a parametric façade, but it would not be wrong to say that

Cladding - System Design possibilities of designing smarter and efficient cladding systems are made possible today with the aid of parametric methods.

WORKFLOW FOR INNOVATIVE CLADDING SYSTEM DESIGN Today, designers come up with complex shapes and forms, which can be attained with a multitude of software and methods.

Although the pace of change in technology is on an all-time high in this decade and we must increase the rate of innovation as we are running on a treadmill of time, methods remain the same, more or less, with new software packages allowing advancement in functionality. Parametric design is not about the software platform merely but is based on the way of designing. One can create their own customised ‘software plugins or packages’ using various coding languages, which designers are

slowly getting acquainted with.

Architecture has shaken his hands with computer science and developed it as a cross-disciplinary profession. One can extend the workflow for a parametric design using coding languages that are supported by conventional design tools. Coding is one of the most popularised skills in the west today, not just restricted to the design community. It is gaining popularity amongst designers across the globe as it can allow one to extend their creative canvases to vast avenues. Parametric workflow allows designers to take an objective and informed decisions during the process of design, where every geometry and information is associated with the building through parameters that can be controlled to produce a multitude of outputs and options.

Analysis and fabrication data can also be linked in the workflow

along with key parameters such as material quantities and costing.

Having an objective workflow towards design allows rational decision-making and an efficient and optimised solution for the project with respect to costs, material use, structure, etc. In a nutshell, parametric workflow harnesses the potential of computers to analyse big data and visualise complex forms and associates them to provide an integrated solution. This is an efficient use of computational design for façades and building skins.

ADVANTAGES OF AN INTEGRATED WORKFLOW Throwing light on one of the innovative projects from today - Morpheus Hotel (Macau) by Zaha Hadid Architects has a complex and unusual building skin that required a resolution of

Automated production of construction drawings

Energy analysis

Rotational bricks Structural analysis GFC drawings

Volumetric masking (Architecture)

Digital sketchboard (planning tool)

Building façade construction

Optimised design

Vertical fins Construction system

Fabric assembly Working drawing set

Hexagonal Screen Cost analysys Design iteration (Geometry toolkit)

Analysis

Weightage of evaluation parameters

Feedback loop

A typical parametric workflow where façade is designed in accordance with geometry, analysis and construction drawings (ongoing façade project by rat[LAB] Studio)

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Cladding - System Design

Snippets of Building Skin design and analyses for Morpheus Hotel in Macau,

by Zaha Hadid Architects, London) (Photo courtesy: www.frontinc.com – Construction / Fabrication Associate for Morpheus Hotel project by ZHA)

a cladding system to break down the complexity of geometry.

Various analyses are carried out for integrated into a computationally driven workflow that leads to a resolution to find a buildable solution of the cladding system.

Having an objective workflow towards design allows rational decision-making and an efficient and optimised solution for the project with respect to costs, material use, structure, etc. In a nutshell, parametric workflow harnesses the potential of computers to analyse big data and visualise complex forms and associates them to provide an integrated solution. This is an efficient use of computational design for cladding solutions.

Another project that has an

Façade rationalisation of Soumaya Museum Building, Mexico by FR-EE

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integrated parametric workflow for cladding system design is Museo Soumaya in Mexico designed

by FR-EE - Fernando Romero Enterprise. This has a double curved surface form which requires a cost optimisation strategy to have a cladding system that could be detailed out in a simple manner, even with the complexity of the geometry.

Having expertise in computational design, rat[LAB] Studio often delves into collaborative projects to assist

in façade design and building skin development with other designers and architects by taking up the scope of parametric design consultants. Additionally, the studio also undertakes independent façade design projects by using advanced methods of designing through an algorithmic workflow. The has to lead to many explorations of claddings as we strive towards bridging the gap between available cladding systems in the market and designers’ vision.

One of the ongoing visionary projects by the studio is a collaboration with Architects Urban Zen, Hyderabad for a corporate office. The façade is quite complex as a mix of flat, single curves and double curves surfaces that define the vertical fins that blend to form horizontal members. The studio used 3D printing technology to create prototypes of the façade for creating an efficient structural and façade system and choosing the most appropriate cladding system.

Another collaborative project by rat[LAB] with Urban Zen, Hyderabad, a fluid façade language is explored on a 20-storey building in Hyderabad using parametric and computational methods which

Exploring 3D-printing technology for developing a prototype of the façade system. (Façade Design Consultancy by rat[LAB] for Urban Zen Architects, Hyderabad)

Cladding - System Design

A drape-like façade for a project in Hyderabad by Urban Zen, Hyderabad (Parametric Façade Consultancy by rat[LAB] Studio, New Delhi)

Perforated façade for a Boutique hotel in New Delhi by rat[LAB]

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requires a cladding system that has to be light-weight yet visually solid loaded on a conventional structural system.

Innovation happens in such projects by following a non-linear integrated workflow to achieve a complex result.

In another recent façade project by the studio, the skin of the building is envisaged as a porous surface with punctures made through CNC cutting of MS Sheets, while globally emerging into a continuous pattern when seen from a distance. Interpreting from the brand identity of the client, a pattern is generated parametrically, with variable punctures emerging out from a central focal point, spread on the full façade of 3300 Sq ft as a pattern that cuts direct glare, brings in indirect illumination into the space, as well as marks the building with a highlight feature on the busy street affront.

The pattern is fragmented into 40 panels of regular sizes placed on an MS Grid Framework, anchored to the building slabs. Each panel is numbered for quick sorting and site assembly which come together to form a patterned façade for

a banquet cum boutique hotel space.

Since cladding systems are not only restricted to exterior building skins, interior spaces provide their own set of opportunities and possibilities. In an interior design project of an Experience Center by rat[LAB] INTERIORS, a faceted language is spread to create a shell-like cladding system that integrates high-tech design tools with low-tech construction strategies.

Four surfaces (three walls and a ceiling) are mathematically subdivided into triangles of varied sizes and angles through computational methods that allow optimisation of material and construction time. CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) milling is carried out on large slabs of Marble Stone to generate 3-dimensional surfaces clad on to surfaces at different angles. Each marble stone, as an individual triangle, is further subdivided to form smaller fractals leading to ridges and valleys.

Similarly, in another project by rat[LAB]INTERIORS, residential space is transformed by adding an innovative cladding system, but this time with a fluidic wavelike artistic gesture. Space was developed with the intent of having fluidity in space as a

Faceted Shell Project as an Experience Center for a stone showroom in Noida, by rat[LAB] INTERIORS

Cladding - System Design

SUSHANT JAI-AMITA VERMA Cofounder, rat[LAB]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Residential project in New Delhi depicting curvilinear morphologies by Anchal Chaudhary & Sushant Verma (Photo courtesy: Suryan Dang for rat[LAB]INTERIORS)

wave captured in motion. This project demonstrates the use of mathematically driven algorithms that transform the orthogonal nature of contemporary furniture or art into fluid forms and curvilinear morphologies. These

Sticky Rice Asian BistroRestaurant Design by Anchal Chaudhary & Sushant Verma (Photo courtesy: Suryan Dang for rat[LAB]INTERIORS)

algorithms have been used to generate formal sculptures that are then constructed from digitally formed timber profiles and painted with a weather-resistant polyurethane coating, among other finishing alternatives.

In a recently finished restaurant project by rat[LAB]INTERIORS, a faceted cladding system is designed as an articulated and expressive language that physically and visually connects the ‘outside’ and ‘inside’ leading to a vibrant cohesive space. This exhibits a true blend of cladding innovation for interior and exterior space.

For innovation to occur in the cladding industry, there needs to an integrated workflow where design, fabrication, materiality and structure can all be considered in a seamless workflow. This can happen with an appropriate blend of technology and design for architects to achieve efficient and smarter results.

Sushant Verma is a design entrepreneur, architect, computational designer & educator, currently leading rat[LAB] Studio (Research in Architecture and Technology) (www.rat-lab.org) that investigates the intersections of design, art & technology through architecture, interior design and art installations.

He holds a Masters Degree in Emergent Technologies & Design from Architectural Association, London and is a former architect at Zaha Hadid Architects, London & a Sr. Editor at Arch2O. He is the founder of the rat[LAB] EDUCATION, which is an initiative to spread the idea of computation in design through independently-organised design workshops. Recipient of MAK Schindler Award from Vienna / Los Angeles and a finalist for AIA Emerging Leaders Fellowship from Chicago, his work is widely published and exhibited. A prominent TEDx Speaker on Smart Cities, he was recently selected to be a MentorOfChange for Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)

by NITI Aayog (National Institute for Transforming India).

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Effectiv C

ladding is an exterior finishing system akin to a skin or an additional non-load bearing layer which serves a dual purpose. It not only helps in protecting the interiors of the building from the harsh weather elements but also makes the outside decorative and attractive. The right cladding helps to maintain the buildings weathertight and cost-effective, at the same time provides thermal insulation, reducing the temperature variation inside the building. It also helps to improve interior acoustic and day lighting.

The cladding can influence the value, saleability and safety of the building. So cladding your property effectively is a wise investment that pays both short and longer-term dividends.

There are now more cladding systems in the market than ever before. Finding the most appropriate choice may take a little time, but cladding – used creatively and intelligently – is a great way to stamp your own personal style on a property. Ready to invest in new cladding, but not sure where to begin? Here’s our round up of everything you need to know…

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Cover Story

Exterior Wall Cladding

Infinity House by GA Design

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KRISHNA MURTHY Principal Architect, Folds design Studio

B.D. SINGLA

Head of Technical Services, Arvind SmartSpaces

Mundhra Chemicals, Sonipat, Image courtesy - ADCPL

What is cladding? Is it a surface treatment that we are designing for the aesthetics of the building or we are detailing for encasing the build volume? In today’s context buildings are designed in two ways: 1. Building volume of spaces and then surfacing the building; 2. Design a surface and then detail the internal spaces.

In both ways, cladding material or surface treatment has become the prime necessity for an architect to design. Surfaces should be designed with a context and a purpose. If so than these surfaces should be intelligent surfaces, says Krishna Murthy, Principal Architect, Folds design Studio.

According to B.D. Singla, Head of Technical Services, Arvind SmartSpaces, the skin of a building (i.e. cladding) has witnessed a huge evolution in its variety and

popularity in all building typologies.

The introduction of pre-engineered structures, market demands of speedy project execution, the zest for quality and innovative options, foreign investment, the stress on getting the global outlook for the Indian companies are the drivers for the demand in the cladding industry.

Why do we need cladding? The exterior cladding of any building may participate in many ways to support the building to withstand external/ atmospheric impacts, says Singla - for example: • To protect against weather – heat (direct sun or indirect), cold, wind, rains, pollution, etc.

• To provide thermal insulation to the exterior façade and maintaining internal heat load conditions

JASMINE HANDA

General Manager Construction, Tattva Mittal

ANUP NAIK

Partner and Director, Space Matrix

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SUSHANT JAI-AMITA VERMA Cofounder, rat[LAB]

ASHWANI KHANNA Head - Marketing, Fundermax

AR. REZA KABUL

Principal Architect, Reza Kabul Architects Pvt Ltd

Curved metal cladding, Image courtesy - BES Consultants

โ ข To provide an acoustic barrier against busy urban conditions outside the building Earlier, wall cladding was considered as a part of visual art, but today it has gone beyond the looks to become a necessity, says Jasmine Handa, General Manager Construction, Tattva Mittal. Over the years, choices, as well as the functions of cladding, have enhanced, now for wall cladding, there are many options like laminate, plastic, metal, vinyl, wood, and there are cladding manufacturers available across India. Even the end users are looking for something that has good quality, is sustainable over a time period in all weather conditions, and cost- effective as well as aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

TRENDS IN THE USE OF CLADDING MATERIALS The building industry is in its major cusp of change, says Anup Naik, Partner and Director, Space Matrix.

Application of technology has played a big role in this momentum shift. The most visible change is in the cladding materials. Traditionally, various types of stone were very popular, though today, the range is enormous: ceramics, aluminium composite panels (ACP), terracotta, Corian, zinc, corton steel, copper, concrete fibre boards, glass reinforced concrete panels, fibre reinforced plastic, wood, wood composites, exterior grade laminates, glass, LED faรงades to name a few. Rapid transformation is seen in the fixing technology of these materials moving away from the traditional wet fixing to dry systems, saving tremendous time in the building cycle.

Agreeing with Naik on availability of diverse cladding materials, Sushant Jai-Amita Verma, Cofounder, rat[LAB] observes that the market has seen changes in terms of functionality and performance too. With the introduction of pre-engineered structures, the market demands speedy project execution and innovative designs. Wall cladding comes with a variety of uses and functionalities. In the past three years, the market has seen doubledigit growth in the use of cladding materials, points out Verma. Modern cladding material scores in a number of ways like increased protection against weather and pollution, less water absorption, increased mechanical strength, more thermal insulation, improved acoustical properties, etc.

The Indian faรงade market is majorly ruled by glass and stone, followed by

RAJAN GOREGAOKER

Principal Architect and Director (Partner), GA design

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Zinc cladding, Image courtesy - BES Consultants

Cover Story

RAJAN GOVIND Director, BES Consultants

SHABBIR KANCHWALA Senior Vice President, K Raheja Corp

TAVISHI RANA

Façade designer, HBG Corp

AR. L A MURTHY Founder Partner, ADCPL

Metal cladding with lights, Image courtesy - BES Consultants

aluminium composite panels (ACPs), HPL, fibre cement boards and wood, adds Verma.

Ashwani Khanna, Head Marketing, Fundermax adds that few new and innovative materials such as exterior grade laminates (as per EN438-6) give a high degree of design freedom for people who create. Glass fibre reinforced concrete and metal claddings (zinc, copper, and steel) are gaining popularity and shaping the market due to their versatile properties. Some of the key advantages of these cladding materials over traditional ones are eco-friendliness, thermal efficiency, energy renewability and sustainability.

According to Ar. Reza Kabul, Principal Architect, Reza Kabul Architects Pvt Ltd, the old trends of stone, marble, terracotta / clay tiles have come back in fashion. The only difference is that artificial material with these finishes is available in the market now, which look like the natural materials, but all don’t have the same feel. Ceramic tiles are one of the materials which are widely

AR. AMIT MURAO Partner, ADCPL

GRC cladding, Image courtesy - BES Consultants

used in many projects, he adds. There are a variety of sizes available from small to large slabs, which facilitate in creating unique patterns in the façade without wastage of material,” says Reza. Also, fibre cement boards are one of the new trends in the market, which come in a variety of finishes, mostly printed replicas of the natural marbles/stones/wood. These boards can be used by laser cutting desired pattern or intricate designs to create the required aesthetical look.

With the evolution of organic forms

ASHOK KUMAR BHAIYA CMD, Aludecor

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Intelligent & Responsive Cladding

Mutlipurpose Hall at Satara by Folds Design Studio

A

n intelligent and responsive surface is the necessity in today’s context for any building to sustain.

Cladding materials can never be earthquake resistant, can be fire resistant, but structurally designed surface materials with a purpose could be. Intelligent façades can be responsive and aesthetical. If the commonly available cladding materials are used intelligently, then they can be responsive and interactive with the environment as they have their inbuilt properties.

Their properties can be defined and detailed for sustainable living.

Today’s needs are to build spaces with time management, cost, availability and maintenance, and to design with various responsibilities and liabilities.

Therefore, a lot of details are scrutinised before execution.

Intelligent façade detailing with interactive and responsive surfaces gives the opportunity to design and execute various possibilities.

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Mutlipurpose Hall at Satara by Folds Design Studio

M e c h a n i ca l l y / e l e c t r o n i ca l l y designed Kinetics surfaces are the new trends to build sustainable buildings. Surfaces designed with calculative analysis on digital software give opportunities to mould many materials with respect to the local climatic conditions.

Hence cladding and surface textures can be executed easily.

They may not be cost effective. The purpose to design and execute such surface helps in creating interactive and intelligent surfaces with various possibilities. Such materials executed to respond to the environment in precise formats.

These surfaces have more flexibility to control the environment as they can be calibrated. Such surface claddings can also be designed to form structural members for seismic calculations. Landscape can also be integrated. Such surfaces or textures gives the opportunity to design futuristic buildings.

Biomimicing nature and reinventing new materials with

scientific calculations opens up diverse possibilities to achieve different forms and textures with various energies. These complex structures can be built along with surface texturing with the aid of 3D printing technologies. The built forms can carry energies, information and technical data of different subjects within and reduce lots of service activities and amalgamate with the context. In such buildings, the surface can also become the structural members and carry different loads, which can be seismically calculated and approved along with fire resistant applications. These print forms can also be designed to conserve and reuse energy. They can also change their forms as per the environmental conditions. With such advanced technologies, the built forms can be controlled by artificial intelligence.

(Krishna Murthy, Principal Architect, Folds design Studio)

Cover Story

Organic forms in façade architecture - Bungalow, Vengurla, Folds Design Studio

in architecture, cladding materials have also evolved to complement this design style. Apart from aluminium, which is bendable to a certain extent, glass fibre reinforced (GFRP) is used as it can be moulded into various organic shapes, says Rajan Goregaoker, Principal Architect and Director (Partner), GA design.

According to Rajan Govind, Director, BES Consultants, use of textured materials, metallic finishes and natural materials like terracotta, stones are some latest trends.

Shabbir Kanchwala, Senior Vice President, K Raheja Corp lists some of the popular cladding materials and their advantages: • Terracotta: This material has an earthy look and is 100% natural. It is fire resistant and is often seen in heritage buildings.

• High Pressure Laminates (HPL): This material is mass produced, easy to install and is available in a wooden look with a lot of varieties.

• Stone and ceramic tiles: This material is easily available, is eco-friendly and gives an earthy look.

• Façade cladding systems like Aluminium Composite

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Panels (ACP), glass, metal cladding panels, GRC (Glass Reinforced Concrete), FRP (Fibre-reinforced Plastic), GRG (Glass Reinforced Gypsum), UHPC (Ultra High Performance Concrete), Stone CNC (Computerised Numerical Control) are some of the latest cladding technologies that are emerging India.

According to Tavishi Rana, Façade designer, HBG Corp, the most common trends being ventilated façade cladding, parametric façades, energy generating solar panels, GFRC, perforated aluminium panels and kinetic façade claddings.

The material for wall cladding can be selected on the basis of application, construction type,

material type and end-use. The selection is done very smartly depending on the location, weather, surrounding area, type of property - residential, commercial, industrial, etc., which can help to plan for the material accordingly.

Nowadays, there are materials that are sustainable yet easy to maintain, buildings that are using such materials have a low maintenance cost, points out Handa.

SMART CLADDING TECHNOLOGIES & SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS For many years, architects have been using precast concrete panels, metal screens and timber panels as the main cladding materials, but the focus has shifted more towards sustainability, so those materials that provide cost savings to the client and

Key parameters to decide cladding material: • Aesthetic appearance • Applications – location, exposure to the sun, ease of execution • Cost • Strength • Durability • Eco-friendliness (B.D. Singla, Head of Technical Services, Arvind SmartSpaces)

Cover Story

Waterproof membrane2 Alternative option using layers of secondary battens

55º

32

80

120

106.92 Perf. band

106.92 Perf. band

106.92 Perf. band

106.92 Perf. band

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106.92 Perf. band

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Note: Product % Open Area = 17.8%

Perforated liner cladding - Tattva Mittal

Outer cladding

Ursa hometec cladding roll Bracket

Rail Inner liner panel Thermal break pad

Purlin

Perforated Liner Cladding system Tattva Mittal

Dynamic façade or responsive façade is a building exterior that can change in response to its surrounding environment to maximise its performance. In this way, the 'skin' of the building

is not static, but dynamic and can transform according to requirements. The dynamic façades act as filters between the indoors and the outdoors, facilitating the users providing appropriate shade, sunlight, ventilation and a visual union with the world in motion outside. With the help of new techniques (sensors & motors), façades calculate the elevation angle of the sun and respond accordingly by constantly changing the orientation of shading elements throughout the day. The façade also has a layered design which includes opaque and transparent elements, which can be moved around on top of each other according to the time of day and weather conditions. Overall, the system is made up of a thermoactive wall and three sheets, which

Pre-treated support battens2 at 600mm centres3 Use double battens to support abutting boards4 Ventilation cavity5

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200 Pitch

Treated secondary batten/ studding or free standing frame1.2,1.3

Exterior cladding layers, Image courtesy - Tattva Mittal

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Exisiting outer wall

TPP 1000-32 PERFORASTED LINER

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help reduce the carbon footprint of a building are one of the primary considerations for designers.

Ar. Reza Kabul looks forward to smart solutions for the façade with analysis and reports that can be extracted from modelling the project in the environmental conditions of that location. Maybe in future, there might be cladding solutions with inbuilt sensors which could monitor the health of the building.

“Recently, architects in this domain have been experimenting with different materials and we have seen a few new types of cladding materials such as perforated screens, WPC panels and timber panels being used in low rise built forms and we are also starting to see an increase in the use of mineral fibre panels replacing the old traditional metal panels. Fritted glass double glazing is also seeing a resurgence, thanks to its versatility and the fact that not only does it provides transparency to the building, it also helps reduce the solar gain of the built form thus reducing operational costs,” says Verma of rat[LAB].

Façade design alternatives have shifted to utilising dynamic fenestration and shading systems for optimal control of daylight and solar gains, observes LA Murthy, Founder Partner, ADCPL. Integration of dynamic façades with other building systems is one of the many choices which could potentially save energy in buildings.

Vimhans Hospital, Nehru Nagar, Image courtesy - ADCPL

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Clay tile thickness available in 20 mm & 30 mm

Cover Story

The Zen Ladakh Resort, Leh, Image courtesy - ADCPL

can be coated with a maximum of three different functional layers: insulation, thin film, photovoltaic and sun-protection.

“Since technology has moved in rapidly into the design fold, we are able to simulate various conditions in the buildings and its users may encounter in its life cycle. This knowledge has forced the façade technology, to make itself agile and climate responsive”, says Naik. With the advancement in technology, we can see dynamic façades that are connected to sun trackers, which respond to the suns movement – movable louvers open and close automatically to control light and heat ingress into the built environment, shading devices expand and contract to reduce the glare and heat gain, ventilated façades control the air draft inside the double layer, based on the heat gain to reduce the surface temperature. Building integrated photovoltaic façade, generate electric energy, which

Sunset Streaks - A project by Fundermax

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could work as a sizable offset on the power demand, observes Naik. These aspects have definitely ushered a new era of the passive right approach in the sustainable design domain of buildings.

Khanna too agrees that smart cladding systems are used for optimising temperature levels inside a building nowadays. The materials used in the cladding system are with low U values.

To make a project sustainable, energy conservation is of primary importance.

Glass façades incorporate Lo-E technology in colder climates where the glass allows heat transmission, but does not let the heat escape; in warmer climates, performance glass is used which reduces the solar factor improving on air conditioning cost, observes Goregaoker. Sun breakers on the façade are aesthetical elements, at the same time reduces the heat gain in buildings.

The implementation of smart cladding technologies not

Optical and mesmerising - A project by Fundermax

only curb the building’s energy consumption but also helps improve safety, comfort and security for the residents, adds Kanchwala.

Intelligent façades have the ability to adapt to the local weather.

These allow users to take control of its performance as per the needs such as shielding during extreme heat and opening up during cool weather. Furthermore, the use of louvers in cladding provides diffused light into certain public areas which allows air movement, thereby reducing the need for air conditioning in certain areas of the building. Cladding with insulation cavities can also help reduce energy consumption and heat ingress into the building. Kanchwala adds that locally available cladding materials are beneficial as they do not require long distance transportation and helps save the cost on fuel. The colour of these materials also affects the total heat gain. Furthermore, the sun path plays an important role in deciding the glazed and the non-glazed component of the façades.

According to Rana, recent smart technologies for cladding, including solar energy generating panels and dynamic wind façades, can reduce the carbon footprint and energy loads of the building.

These cladding technologies in the future will have a huge role to play in making buildings “zero energy”.

A more “frugal approach” would be, the use of waste plastics, recycled steel , broken tiles as cladding materials for new buildings, she adds.

VENTILATED ENERGY CONSERVING FAÇADES According to Ar. Goregaoker, ventilated façades incorporate a technology where the cladding system is installed at a certain gap from the building face and the system itself has vertical gaps between the cladding materials so as to let the natural air to flow in the space between. Ventilated

Cover Story towards sustainable development.

Kanchwala agrees with this, adding that ventilated claddings have relatively low maintenance, ability to reduce water absorption into the building, resist pollution and they increase the mechanical strength of the building. Energy generation through the seamless integration of photo voltaic and fire resistance are plus points.

Rear Ventilated Façade Systems are installed on substructures that leave ample space between the wall and the panel. During monsoons, this façade system drains the rain water away from the walls. It is a sustainable system and can help reduce the power consumption of AC in buildings. It

creates a gap between the building wall and façade, which reduces the overall U factor of the system by allowing active air movement, explains Khanna. This improves heat and noise reduction while also imparting better weather protection.

Ventilated cladding allows taking in diffused light, reduce glare and exposure to dust in the window system behind it. Good thermal and vapour barrier performance increases the building’s life and in some cases increase the quality of the air surrounding the façade.

The main purpose of a ventilated façade is to create an interface between the interior and the exterior environments.

Radiacion Solar

New Cladding System to Save Energy Recently, two researchers have developed a ventilated façade with a double chamber and flow control device that significantly saves energy in buildings. This sustainable, efficient solution can be applied in both renovations and new buildings due to its simplicity. Conventional ventilated façades are composed of an inner sheet, thermal insulation, ventilation chamber and exterior finish. The new façade adds a second air chamber between the existing one and the façade insulation.

Both chambers are interconnected by the bottom of the façade. Another feature is a new element at the top to regulate the airflow in the chambers, depending on the gradient of the existing temperature between inside and outside the building. This presents two improvements over conventional systems. Energy gains/ Dispositivo losses are reduced De Control De Flujo through the façades, and consequently, reducing the energy consumption due to air flow. Secondly, the design of the system helps to reduce the vertical temperature Membrana gradient along with the envelope, homogenising the air temperature Diagram of the faÇade functioning in summer (left) in the chambers and winter (right). throughout the year.

Credit: Jaime Santa Cruz and César Porras Radiacion Solar

façades are a complex, multi-layer structural solution that enables "dry" installation of ventilated walls. This reduces the amount of heat that buildings absorb in hot weather conditions due to partial reflection of solar radiation, says Amit Murao, Partner, ADCPL. The heat is absorbed by the covering, the ventilated air gap and the application of insulating material.

This, in turn, helps in achieving a considerable reduction in the costs of air conditioning. Vice versa, in winter, ventilated walls manage to retain heat, resulting in savings in terms of heating. Handa too agrees that the process achieves a well ventilated façade cladding involves combining a substructure and an insulation layer to the support wall that covers the building by means of a port structure (mainly made of aluminium).

By employing a ventilated energy conserving façade, an energy concept can be developed for each building that ideally combines heating requirements for winters, cooling requirements for summers and the perfect day light quality, note Murao and Rana.

Ar. Reza Kabul adds that ventilated cladding is easier to maintain in which the panels can be replaced without effort as they are generally fixed on aluminium framework with clips. Due to partial reflection of the sunlight and air movement behind the panels, the amount of heat which the building absorbs is reduced, thus reducing the consumption of air conditioners, which is a step

Credits: https://phys.org/news/2017-11-façades-energy-efficiency.html (Sushant Jai-Amita Verma, Cofounder, rat[LAB])

GA Design, Indu Villa

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Shangri La, Bengaluru - A project by Aludecor

RAIN-SCREEN CLADDING DETAILS & ADVANTAGES According to Murthy and Khanna, rain-screen cladding system is a form of double-wall construction that uses an outer layer to keep out the rain and an inner layer to provide thermal insulation. It prevents excessive air leakage and carries wind load. The outer layer breathes like a skin while the inner layer reduces energy losses. The main benefit of rain-screen cladding systems is that it protects the structure of the building, whether it’s a steel frame or masonry based system, from the weather elements, especially rainwater. It does this because the cladding panels form a barrier to rainwater, preventing it from penetrating across the rear ventilated cavity and reaching the exterior wall of the building. This process is helped by air continually circulated up through the ventilated cavity, driving away any moisture that penetrates between the panels, upwards and out at soffit level before it reaches the building structure.

The rain screen assembly allows for water getting past the outer (face) barrier to weep down and outward (gravity assisted and pressure equalised) once the wind abates through a series of

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engineered flashings and weepassemblies, explains Sushant Verma. The key to this system is to allow for pressure equalisation behind the face materials which will allow the water to drain away instead of continuing its way through the wall assembly.

According to Ashok Kumar Bhaiya, CMD, Aludecor, with rain screen cladding, which acts as a ventilated façade as well, there is no need for any weather sealant to be used. The air gap between the building and rain screen creates pressure equalisation which will not allow any air or water infiltration.

Appropriate pressure equalisation also helps in minimum undulation in metal composite panels.

According to Govind, rain screen is a terminology used to refer a building envelope, not necessarily a watertight system, the main function is to protect direct rain and used for common or service areas of the building. Otherwise used for architectural or choice of external finishes.

Reza Kabul notes that its advantages are similar to ventilated surfaces and also their design parameters, only the terminology defers as per climatic conditions.

Care has to be taken such that the system is designed to provide proper drainage for water which can get collected in the cavity of the structural support system for the cladding.

Rana says that there are two basic types of rain-screen cladding – drained and ventilated rainscreen and pressure equalised rain-screens. The drained and ventilated rain-screens require a sufficient level of detailing so that the water in between the cavity can vent outside, whereas the pressure equalised rain-screen allows movement of air inside the cavity so that water is evaporated itself.

A rain-screen façade consists of a ventilation cavity of around 25mm right behind the cladding panel, explains Kanchwala, preventing

Shreepati Arcade at Mumbai - A project by Reza Kabul Architects

energy loss and structural decay.

The insulation can be positioned within the cavity and the openings at the top and bottom of the clad, which can allow the evaporation of moisture vapour and drainage.

External wall insulation is superior in performance as it eliminates the condensation risks associated with internal or cavity wall insulation.

This is important for renovation schemes and in new construction, the use of back ventilated rainscreen cladding provides the designer with the opportunity to use economical single skin load bearing block work for infill walls.

Most wall systems (brick and stone veneer, siding, EIFS, cement board, etc.), says Verma, are designed to work as part of a rain screen wall system – there are few barrier walls left, other than precast concrete panels, which have a rain screen caulking system that helps drain these assemblies.

According to Goregaoker, a wide range of metal and metal composite materials (MCM) can be used to manufacture rain screen cladding systems. They can be of aluminium or other metals such as copper, zinc and stainless steel continuously bonded under tension to either side of a thermoplastic or mineral core. Adding to this, Handa says that rain-screen cladding keeps the underlying structure dry, which means less maintenance as

Cover Story

Le Méridien Thimphu - A project by Reza Kabul Architects

there are fewer incidents of rust or corrosion on metalwork.

Advantages of rain screen cladding: • Accounts for improved thermal performance of the building • Enhances water management • The use of lightweight façade materials like aluminium panels mean that the loadings on the underlying building structure are much less than masonry-based materials • Modern rain-screen cladding systems are lightweight and strong, making it relatively easy to create engaging, striking designs that appear to defy gravity • All rain-screen cladding material is lightweight in nature and also accounts for easy installation • Modern rain-screen cladding systems allow individual panels to be removed, giving your maintenance team easy access to services Disadvantages of rain screen cladding: • An additional load being applied to the existing structure • The internal structural elements have to be designed and executed, ensuring the

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provisions for external façade or screen element fixing requirements • Additional cost part • Improper joinery and fixing may cause water seepages and corrosion to metal elements • Should be used for vertical surfaces only rather for horizontal or skyward sloping surfaces • Specifications and contracting methods need to be closely coordinated and controlled to assure satisfactory performance of the entire system Materials & methodologies for fire safe & earthquake-resistant cladding: Façade materials play a key role in fire safety, as it would be extremely difficult to control the building fire on the exterior. Hence, more focus is needed in selecting appropriate materials, and this requires designer knowledge on material behaviour and performance, points out Murao. Such materials used for external cladding should have been tested for its combustibility, ignitability, flame spread and burning droplets.

Before making buildings more earthquake resistant, we also need to consider earthquake resistant cladding as it is the future of construction design. Lightweight wall claddings reduce the forces exerted on the structure and foundations when the building is subjected to lateral seismic loads.

Lightweight sheet claddings on buildings tend to rely on the flexibility of the fixings to the frame to accommodate lateral distortions of the structure, says Murao.

Rana observes that the most common way of the spread of fire is – spreading by the material of the cladding and via the air gap. The easiest way to ensure fire safety in buildings is by using fire tested and rated materials for claddings, compartmentation of

cladding areas so that the fire does not spread, cavity barriers, and use of high fire rated insulation for cladding.

As NBC stipulated the flame spread index (FSI) on the surface of the cladding material has to be considered, notes Ashwani Khanna. Windows and glazing junction areas are vulnerable areas from which fire can spread into the building. Exterior grade laminates are flame retardant material that doesn’t propagate fire. Further, covering the windows and cladding junction by fire seal reduces the scope of fire spread on the façade or into the building.

In case of a fire, the exterior walls get susceptible to radiant and convective heat which quickly transfers a ground fire to the structure’s roof, elucidates Kanchwala. To combat this, the exterior walls can be protected by fire-resistant materials such as stucco, plaster, cement, concrete masonries like brick, stone or blocks. The key points regarding fire safety are to prevent spreading of smoke and fire in the building.

Suitable fire stops and smoke seals play a crucial role in preventing the spreading of fire. Provision should be made for required openings for safe evacuation and passage of smoke. The framing which grasps the cladding makes it strong and prevents the structure from collapsing during a fire spread.

According to Handa, wellconstructed buildings can help

Classy sophistication - Fundermax Project

Cover Story A studied choice of the material is made adhering to the following points: • A tested fire resistance level of the material and the system Fire resistance levels are calibrated to minutes for structural stability, integrity and insulation • Combustibility parameters and fire hazard properties need to be prescribed as a mandatory checkpoint for cladding materials • Compliance of the fire laws and the specifications in the national building code should be a prerequisite • Spandrels, insulation and horizontal fire barriers should be fire rated to prevent vertical transmission of fire • Test reports and certificates from a registered testing authority for cladding materials should be made mandatory • A key aspect which does not get addressed is the maintenance, as the building ages the systems suffer fatigue, and most often fire barriers, joints and insulation give way and lead to fire leaks. A maintenance policy should be a prerequisite for any building sanction • Guidelines for product properties focussing on hazards, encompassing linings assemblies and materials (Anup Naik, Partner and Director, Space Matrix)

prevent tragedies due to the fire by using materials that are relatively fire-resistant. Materials nowadays are rated in the order of their ability to restrict the fire from affecting the structures. Hence the smart way is to construct a building in which a fire would take effect slowly, allowing the occupants plenty of time to escape in emergency situations.

Govind says that cladding material shall not use combustible or character of fire propagations. For

Swathed in Ivory - Fundermax project

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these risks materials such as timber based are not recommended for cladding. Commonly used ACP must be selected carefully such that material is free from combustible poly ethelene (PE) core. Due to recent fire instances in a few international buildings, there is greater awareness of Fire Retardant ACP (FR) panels, which is recommended instead of PE core ACP materials.

With regards to fire safe cladding material, a minimum of two-hour

fire rating on materials is required, points out Reza Kabul. Since the fire in the Address Hotel in Dubai the industry is moving away from ACP as a cladding material and heading towards tiles and high pressure laminates, he adds.

For earthquake resistant cladding, notes Kanchwala, the material selected need to have movement and should resist lateral forces. It is mandatory to select the appropriate façades during the stage, with the use of unitised lazing façade that is often used in tall towers to resist movement.

Earthquake generally have no direct impact on cladding materials and its choices, however brittle or stiffer materials are not advised for high risk seismic zones, says Govind. Furthermore, seismic resistant design of cladding systems will have to be taken care of supporting systems and fixings to the building. For earthquake resistance, explains Reza, the cladding needs to be dry cladded onto the building and the joint should not be rigid but account for movement due to earthquakes.

The material should not crack and falls during an earthquake.

The thickness of the material plays an important part. For tiles, they should be 10mm plus. High pressure laminates, even though they are thin, they are very flexible and do not break easily.

Arena Space by GA Design

Cover Story

“New-Age Cladding Materials are Rapidly Gaining Ground” An interview with Shankho Chowdhury, Executive Business Head, Decoratives, CenturyPly

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l e ase b r i e f o n the latest t r e nd s in c ladding m at e r i al s Although the traditional wet façade elements such as bricks, stones and wood are still widely used and have a ready market, new-age elements and composites around ceramic, vinyl, fibre cement are also rapidly gaining ground.

Technological advancements and novelties in the industry are aiding

in evolving consumer preference.

Currently, high pressure laminate cladding and stone veneers are the most popular cladding options in India. Other than this, metal claddings are also in the trend, mostly for commercial buildings and factories. Using fibre cement as a cladding element is still a new concept in India and we believe it has a huge scope and its market is growing rapidly.

Tell us about smart cladding technologies for sustainable buildings New researches on nanomaterials, biomaterials and smart composites imitating natural nanostructures and processes are trialled almost every day within the radical technologies. In the architectural field, and especially in the sector of building cladding, only a trivial amount of such advanced technologies has settled.

As an alternative to traditional

mechanisms and techniques, architects and civil engineers are nowadays using enhanced composite materials to provide crafted and efficient façades.

What are ventilated cladding & energy conserving façades?

The building envelope and the building services system are mostly responsible for deciding the building energy efficiency. There have been advances in façades, designed for introducing the air crater to improve the façade performance, such as Double Surface Façade (DSF) and Opaque Ventilated Façade (OVF). The DSF consists of manifold glazing layers and the OVF consists of the primary wall and an additional cladding, which can be added both externally or internally. Artistically utilising the exhaust air of indoor air conditioning systems to flow through the ventilated façade can further enhance the façade thermal

SHANKHO CHOWDHURY Executive Business Head, Decoratives, CenturyPly

A project by CenturyPly

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Cover Story performance. Composite materials like artificial stones, solid surfaces, laminates and other less known elements are usually adopted for ventilated façade solutions and help projects achieve high levels of building sustainability certifications.

Please tell us about materials & methodologies for fire safe and earthquake-resistant cladding?

Cladding material plays a pivotal role in building a fire and earthquake resistant structure. It is always advisable to pay attention to the core while selecting cladding materials.

For fire-retardant cladding systems, the core should be non-combustible or at least semi-combustible.

Planks or weatherboards made from fibre cement or steel, Greenguard certified HPL panels, aluminium and re-constituted timber products are some of the materials for fire-retardant cladding.

For the earthquake-resistant cladding system, the cladding materials should be lighter to make the structure resistant to sideways loads. Materials such as fibre-cement, PVC or aluminium can be used in this purpose. Sheets and panel materials made from plywood can also make a difference.

Alike lightweight roofing, because of their lower mass, lightweight wall claddings lessen the forces exerted on the structure and foundation when the building is subjected to lateral seismic loads.

the vulnerability to fire as otherwise, it would be extremely difficult to control the fire on the exterior.

Hence, it is always advisable to select appropriate materials for cladding, considering the industry standards, material behaviour, combustibility and performance.

Usually, in India, most of the material procurements in façades are based on budget and not specification-centric, which not only endanger the structures but also the surroundings to high risk. While choosing materials for fire-retardant cladding one should always focus on the core of the material, which should have combustibility. The specially formulated double hardened resin, which is used for the impregnation, contributes to the fire-safety property of the product.

Brief on fire safety norms and

standards to consider There are different norms and standards considered for different material used. However, EN 438 – part 6 & ASTM E84 can be mentioned.

Tell us about the market for the fire resistant cladding material Consumer awareness for fireresistant cladding is growing rapidly in India and this is imparting a positive impact in the market. Evolving requirements are influencing the available choices of fire-retardant cladding options.

At present, the market has a varied variety of fire retardant HPL panels, which also come with Green-guard certification.

This qualifies these products to be used in ‘Green Buildings’ and in other delicate environments such as schools and healthcare institutions.

Tell us about the importance of fire safe design, materials and technologies Materials used for cladding affect

Innovative classing in a residential project

Balcony cladding help projects achieve high levels of building sustainability

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Cover Story FIRE TESTING OF CLADDING MATERIALS Sushant Verma stresses on the need for testing the materials for the extreme conditions and make the necessary corrections before installation. The role of independent performance and fire testing labs has gained importance in the last few years. These testing labs are for simulating weather conditions as per the design criteria and putting up a mock-up sample through a series of tried and tested procedures to validate the theoretical assumptions used during design. After the testing in the laboratory, the façade approval is given to the façade contractor to begin the installation of façade at the site. Many testing specifications have been designed to test the façades over the last few decades, few of them are ASTM, AAMA and ASNZ. The cladding design intent should be to prevent the fire spread in the building, notes Khanna. The aspect in fire propagations is as per NBC, BS 476 part 7 for cladding material and preventing fire ingress through an opening in the cladding structure, e.g. windows, glazing junctions etc.

The ingression through the opening in the cladding structure can be addressed by providing a fire seal, preventing the fire/flame from entering inside the cladding cavity.

The material property prevents the surface fire spread. Exterior compact laminates are manufactured in accordance to EN438-6 is a flame retardant material and flame spread Index (FSI) is less than 25

Soffit and wall cladding - A project

by CenturyPly

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as per ASTM E 84 ensuring that the norms of surface flame spread adhere. The cladding material should not release any toxic fumes, should not be dripping and should follow all standards as per NBC. The curtain wall structure is a multi-storey structure where exterior walls are not a part of the load bearing structure.

As the common construction methodology, the floor slab is supported by interior beams and columns. And we mostly encounter a perimeter void typically in the range from two to eight inches between each floor slab and exterior curtain wall, observes Verma.

Perimeter voids are hidden from view after construction, but when such openings are left unprotected they provide the perfect space for fire and smoke to spread upwards.

Fire norms provide guidance on the different fire rating class and testing of cladding materials, says Rana. These norms are specific to different types of buildings and the number of floors a building has.

In ordinance with the European standard EN-13501-1, the cladding panels can achieve a classification from A1 to D, A1 being the most resistant to fire.

Most of the challenges are faced in the selection of materials which fit the fire safety norms, says Reza Kabul. As a standard, most of the vendors provide 2-4 hours of fire resistance for the cladding materials.

Care has to be taken during the installation process with proper fire stops, which need to be designed on every floor. Advancements in the software’s help us to design critical junctions, complex designs and parametric façades with better efficiency & safety.

According to Ar. Goregaoker, concrete is an excellent fire-resistant material. It is non-combustible and has a low thermal conductivity which means a fire will take a long time to affect the structure, giving time for evacuation and protection from spreading of fire. Concrete

is not a very stable material to be used in earthquake prone areas. So, steel reinforced concrete is used as earthquake resistant cladding material. Aluminium itself is a bad conductor of fire, but the core within the panels is susceptible to catching fire and therefore the new technology of using fire retardant core and making the ACP panels fire retardant is now a common requirement. Also, proper designing of smoke seals and implementation is necessary to prevent smoke from travelling from one area to the other.

FIRE SAFETY - NORMS & STANDARDS These days, with the rise in highrise buildings, safety norms and product verification are of utmost importance, says Goregaoker. Fire retardant materials, checking for combustibility are some standards we need to maintain while choosing our façade material. According to Reza Kabul, the norms & standards to be followed is the one by the Bureau of Indian standards (BIS).

Generally, the cladding material which is selected is based on the test and quality certificate provided by the vendors. If further quality control is required, the physical samples are tested by independent labs to confirm the materials.

Fire safety norms are being taken seriously worldwide. In India, the National Building Code 2016 has made lots of changes. Still, a lot of work is required in case of cladding material as this portion still remains challenging, notes Ashok Kumar Bhaiya, Aludecor. According to NBC, we require 2-hours fire resistance in cladding for fire separation less than 3.7m. In other parts of the globe, where the density of buildings has increased and fire separation is less than 3.7m, the cladding material used is A2 – s1, d0 grade of EN135011. These materials need no testing for 2 hours as it will not catch fire at all and there are no chances of smoke or droplets. In the country like ours, where the cities are old and

Cover Story Fire Rated Cladding Materials Fire rated/retardant or resistant materials for cladding are selected on the basis of not only fire resistance of it, but the aesthetic appeal as per the design intent of a building, the climate of the region where the building is located, the cost and requirements to safeguard from fire for certain duration, etc. Some of the key materials and their ire resistance basics are stated below: Fire Retardant Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) These ACPs are available in various colour options with thermal and sound insulation layer properties.

The fire rating is done as per the European and British standards, i.e. EN13501-1-B1 Grade, BS476 - Part 6 & Part 7. The coating thickness would be approximately 30 to 35 microns. Some of the manufacturers provide such ACP sheets which do not release excessive heat onto other adjacent materials which can cause a fire. It is majorly made of inorganic materials and density of non-combustible content in the core is to be 70-75%. These external cladding panels will not contribute to the rapid spread of flames towards the upper floors of the building. It can withstand fire for two hours, as exterior cladding of typical Indian construction.

Stone Stone is a non-combustive material in terms of catching fire. The fixing base in the wet cladding system would be a cement & sand mixed mortar while in the dry cladding system, a clamp with fastener is provided on to the base wall and taking a load of stone slabs above 15 to 25 mm thickness.

However, there are many drawbacks in stone as a fire resistant material. Hot stone when subjected to sudden cooling develops cracks and can lead to failure of the structure. For example, granite, when exposed to severe fire, explodes and disintegrates. Limestone is least recommended as it crumbles and gets ruined by ordinary fire. Only compact sandstone having grains may be used as it can stand the exposure to moderate fire without serious cracks.

Brick Clay bricks are one of the oldest construction materials used in many ways for the external cladding purpose. It is used as a load bearing element when constructed as a wall with appropriate thickness and also used as an exposed cladding material withstanding against temperature drops, rains and pollution.

First class bricks moulded from good clay can stand exposure to fire for a considerable length of time. The properties of bricks which render them fire resistant are the size of bricks, the method of construction and the component of fire resistive material in bricks i.e., clay. It has been well established that brick masonry construction is most suitable for safeguarding the structure against fire hazards.

Brick Curtain House - designed by Work Group Architecture, Surat

Fibre Cement Boards There are exterior grade fibre cement boards with multiple properties like less water absorption ratio, non-combustible/fire resistant, termite resistant and, up to a certain extent, providing sound insulation as well. Locally, many brands are supplying boards for exterior cladding considering its noncombustible aspect.

(B.D. Singla, Head of Technical Services, Arvind SmartSpaces)

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Cover Story unplanned having high population concentrations, only Firewall A2 should be used for cladding.

Every country or region follows the different fire classification and certifications like ASTM E 84, BS 476 Part 7, NFPA 285, BBA. The class of the cladding material under standard fire classification norms must be considered while choosing, says Khanna of Fundermax.

According to the International Firestop Council: • A properly designed & tested perimeter fire barrier system not only protects the perimeter joint but critical wall framing and support elements as well • All model codes call for the rating of the floor to extend to the exterior wall • All model codes require minimum spandrel height • All model codes allow spandrel height exceptions in certain sprinklered conditions • Designing the wall to keep the firestop system in place for the rated period of the floor is an obvious necessity • Designing and installing the firestop correctly is the final step • Joints move and may present a weakness in fire containment BIS STANDARDS & ECBC NORMS FOR CLADDING MATERIALS BIS codes are generally referred for technical details and submission guidelines, which are required to get necessary approvals for fire safety of the project. BIS standards for cladding materials follow

Ekta Tripolis - A project by Reza Kabul Architects

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the British norms of material classification for fire safety, to be rated as Class 1 as per BS 476 part 7, notes Khanna.

ECBC (The Energy Conservation Building Code) has set specific parameters for constructing an energy-efficient exterior façade of a building, points out Handa. The norms specify that a building can be up to 60% covered with glass, in which case a superior quality glass is preferred that is good for thermal performance.

ECBC standards are incorporated in the design by making the simulation model in the software’s which help the project to make it energy efficient.

All parameters of the façade are checked, and solutions are created to check the maximum efficiency.

According to ECBC norms: • Glazing panels should be provided with tempered glass for venting out fumes and for fracturing the glass into smaller pieces.

• The space between slab and façade spandrel to be provided with fire stops and fire-rated GI backup panel to stop fire travelling from one floor to another.

• Knock-out panels should be installed, which are identified by non-removable reflectivedot located on the lower corner of the glass to be visible from the ground by the fire fighters.

• In case of falling glass from the affected floor providing tempered/toughened or laminated glass is the best protection.

• The glass proposed to be used for internal fire compartmentation should be either low radiation or insulated fire rated glass.

The National Building Code (NBC) specifies that the surface flame spread index of cladding material should be less than 25 as per ASTM E 84, Class I. There are several international

standards, widely referred for cladding materials are EN 13501, ASTM E84, BS 476 Part 6 & 7 and BS 8414. These standards specify fire and smoke spread characteristics and acceptable norms with testing standards.

CONCLUSION Cladding acts as a protective barrier around the outside of a building to help regulate the interior atmosphere, preventing external elements from affecting the main structure while creating a pleasing aesthetic appeal. Designing the façade of a building is a complex task due to the multiple criteria to consider - like the availability of a variety of materials and technologies for cladding, safety and security factors, and the number of stakeholders involved.

The most important requirements while choosing cladding materials are performance, appearance and good warranties against fire, wind and seismic activities. The decision for the cladding material is mainly influenced by building type, client requirement, geographical and climatic aspects of the location (or the project context), product availability and reputation, product cost, client’s budget and project delivery methods. The main issues with cladding are the maintenance, the quality of the materials, fire safety, weather tightness, etc. This article highlights the key influences and the issues related to the selection of cladding materials for buildings.

Regency Anantam, GA Design

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Brand Watch

Caldwell Acquires

From right to left: Uday Shetty – Director; Tim Ferkin - Market Development Director; Eric Mertz - President & CEO; Rakesh Ghai – Managing Director; Umesh Ghai – Director; and Steve Lewis – Technical Manager

C

aldwell Manufacturing Company, one of the world’s leading hardware suppliers based in North America, has acquired Archintex. 130 year-old Caldwell recently formed Caldwell South-East Asia with its plans to expand its Asian operations.

Archintex already supplied Caldwell’s branded products such as Cotswold to companies’ in India. This acquisition will enable Caldwell to expand its branded lines and partner product lines within India and the rest of the South East Asia market. Adding the strength of Caldwell’s scale, distribution, products and significant investment in R & D, to

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the local market knowledge will ensure a bright future for Caldwell.

Archintex started its business in 2012 selling hardware in India. As a part of their expansion plans, they were looking for strong partners to help grow sales, and provide a full hardware solution for the end user and they found Caldwell, who has a strong infrastructure and expertise of over 700 employees and 9 manufacturing facilities.

Talking about the huge potential in India, Eric Mertz, Caldwell CEO, said that India is set to grow 7.3% this year and 7.5% the next – that’s faster than China.

By 2050, it’s expected to overtake America as the second-biggest economic power on the earth,

and most excitingly of all, much of that growth will come from construction.

Speaking about this acquisition, Tim Ferkin, Market Development Director, Cardwell says, “We have been working closely with the Archintex senior team for many years now. They know our products and the market, and that’s why they’re the perfect partners for us as we seek to expand our presence in India”.

Rakesh Ghai, Director, Archintex, said that Caldwell is known for reliable and innovative hardware, which India is looking for. “They were ready for a collaboration in India, looking at the growth of the Indian market, and we were looking for technical and R&D partnership. So we joined hands and look forward to a bright future”.

Uday Shetty, Director, Archintex said, “Both the companies found a good synergy and teamwork.

With this collaboration and the technical services from Caldwell, we look forward to a long and successful journey”. He added that Caldwell will continue distribution of the other products, providing a complete solution to their customers.

With this development, Caldwell will see it become a key technology hub helping the company develop partners across Asia. India will become Caldwell’s technical and supply chain hub for the region.

DLF Cyberpark - Gurugram

Convention Center

Product Watch

Schmalz

S

chmalz, one of the market leaders in vacuum automation and ergonomic handling solutions, has revised its SQC vacuum clamping system for glass machining and made the design perfect for the interfering contours of the original equipment. This makes the use of Bystronic glass grinding machines even simpler.

Thanks to the quick-change system that can be operated without tools, setup times are significantly reduced.

Schmalz has developed the system, especially for CNC machining centres made by Bystronic. This allows grinding of glass workpieces, for example

Optimises Vacuum Clamping System for Glass Machining designer and automotive glass on all sides. The clamping system consists of the suction cup mount (base), the suction cups and the covers for the unused vacuum connections. The cover protects the connections and mechanical parts of the change system from contamination. When changing workpieces, the users can retrofit the system very quickly. The base is fixed with a hollow bolt and can remain permanently on the machine table. The suction cups can be easily attached. To remove the suction cups, only one push button must be pressed. The covers are also effortlessly attached and can be locked in a similar way to a bayonet fastener. Additional tools

Round and square suction cups allow a flexible and secure all-round machining

are not required.

The new Schmalz system is also very flexible: Depending on the glass geometry, the user can now choose between square and round suction areas. As a result, the Bystronic machines can be retrofitted on a one-to-one basis with Schmalz suction cups. Due to the slim shaft of the aluminium housing below the suction area, the suction cups can be placed closer to the processing edge.

The machining becomes even more precise and low vibration.

Combined operation with the original equipment and Schmalz suction cups is also possible.

The cups installed on the machine table suck in and fix panes of different geometries.

Smooth machining and peripheral grinding is possible as a result. Users produce very precise and dimensionally stable parts.

An abrasion-resistant coating allows the absorption of high lateral forces between the suction cup and the glass part.

The workpiece always remains securely in position even with strong lateral forces.

Glass sheets are handled particularly gently.

Incorrect clamping can quickly lead to damage and expensive waste.

In order to prevent this, Schmalz makes the interchangeable sealing frames of its system with the material HT1, which leaves very few marks.

WFM | MAR - APR 2019

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Product Watch

Calacatta Nero porcelain slab wall cladding by CMC

Latest Porcelain Slabs from

C

lassic Marble Company (CMC) has introduced its latest porcelain slab, offering – Calacatta Nero. Launched under the Quadra range of design surfaces, the Calacatta Nero is a sombre white slab that has been rendered a splash of grey. The shiny polished slab has a thickness of only 12 mm and is available in 3000 X 1500 mm size, apt for wall-cladding and façade applications. The black and white amalgam creates dramatic patterns forming a beautiful background for contemporary decor. CMC, through a strategic tie-up with the Indonesian tiles maker PT Quadra ‘Dinamika Internasional’, is offering the Indian market a new hi-tech, extra-large

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format, porcelain slab product.

Quadra is a very popular product in the international markets and is admired by the architectural world for its superior quality and versatility.

Quadra is a homogeneous full body design, which has edges in the same finish and looks like the upper surface of the slab. This allows the slab to be installed at any angle, as the designs on its cross-section remain visible, maintaining visual continuity.

This unique feature enables architects to bring consistency in designs.

Ideal for wall-clad installation, the products can be used in diverse interior areas including building façades. The material

CMC

is non-porous and is completely resistant to chemicals, scratching and fire, hence, its outer surface remains protected and unaffected even during harsh weather conditions ensuring its longevity.

Its end-to-end uniform thickness makes the installation process extremely smooth, causing no gaps or uneven impressions between the joints enhancing the exterior appearance of the structure. Made using environmentally friendly, sustainable material, the Quadra slabs have maximum strength and durability and are low on maintenance.

For more details, contact: 91 22 4140 4140; Website: http://www. classicmarble.com

Face to Face

“Sustainable & Sensible

Approach Can Create Better Designs”

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Face to Face

AR. HIREN PATEL Founder & Principal Architect, Hiren Patel Architects (HPA), Ahmedabad

Hiren Patel is an architect, interior and landscape designer known for his innovative designs that are in harmony with man, nature and materials. He has gone through several ups and downs in his 27 years of experience in this industry. But he still wakes up every morning determined to take any challenge head on. His philosophies include minimalism, exclusivity and sustainability, which are the essence of architecture. His eagerness to learn reflects in his persona as he takes pride in embracing change as he believes that it is the only constant in life. Hiren is also a vivid painter and makes big watercolour paintings inspired by landscapes. He is a teacher, mentor, friend and confidant to everyone who crosses paths with him.

Ar. Hiren Patel talks about his design firm, his projects, his design principles and much more in a candid interview with Window and Faรงade Magazine (WFM).

WFM | MAR - APR 2019

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Face to Face

P

lease tell us about your practice?

I started my architectural practice in 1989, after graduating from CEPT University, Ahmedabad.

The driving force behind the journey of over three decades has always been the openness to continuous learning, the quest for excellence and the sheer joy and pride in our work. As an architectural firm, we have grown exponentially by accepting every challenge that came its way.

We not only provide technically sound advice, but cutting edge technology and engineering, trendy, modernistic architecture, interiors and landscape designs.

I have poured in my passion, commitment, wholehearted enthusiasm, hope and my energy in all my work, maintaining a high level of integrity and commitment.

Today our pallet of work covers everything from a small residence to heritage buildings and palaces to huge entertainment complexes, from an individual shop to large commercial megaliths.

At HPA, H stands for happiness, P for positivity and A for accountability.

That tells our philosophy. We are a small team of 20 people based at

Contrasting tones of wood along with screens allow visual enhancement and ventilation

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Ahmedabad, the place is known as the Mecca of architecture. We do architecture, interior design and landscape design.

We are constantly looking for timeless quality in all our works.

What inspired you to become an architect?

My father was a town planner and my two elder brothers studied civil engineering. I saw them making models and at a young age itself I came to know that an architect will design for engineers. Also, our neighbours were key faculties at NID, and that too made me get into architecture. Right from my childhood, I was fascinated by seeing architecture around. So I preferred to enter this field rather than any other choices. I could have chosen computer science or medicine as I was a bright student.

Could you please talk about a few of your ongoing projects?

We are working on various projects in various places across the country - from hotels to private houses to small extension of community centres. For us, all our projects are quite exciting.

Right now, we are working on an ITC hotel project in Ahmedabad,

The entire house is cladded with natural stone

which is an inspiration from Gujarat‘s heritages like step wells, Vadnagar’s Toran and the jaali at the Sidi Saiyyed Mosque. This is a huge hospitality project.

We have a green office, which has a free form of the roof and working spaces below, and the office is surrounded by a beautiful garden.

Also, we have a private house built completely in exposed RCC (concrete) which has cantilevers in all sides. This floating house is in the middle of existing trees.

We are working on a few big real estate projects. We put our heart and soul in all our projects so that the end users get a better experience and living.

HPA is doing a few projects for corporate companies including pharmaceutical companies, F&B, sanitary ware companies, etc., designing their administration building and also interiors.

Tell us about your completed projects featuring innovative façade and fenestration designs?

All our projects have a deep relationship with their surroundings and nature. This makes all our work more open to nature, having large fenestrations.

In most of our projects, we have huge verandas in front of them to protect the windows.

Considering the materials for façades, our choice could be wood, aluminium or uPVC. Also, screen façade is a major design element in our works.

Recently we finished a house which has inspirations from western classical houses. Such houses have wood windows, and we created a similar feel in thin aluminium sections.

We have used wood for façade screens, as the wood gives a cosy feel and it cuts down the harsh sun and also creates interesting patterns of light and shadows.

In one of our projects, we have

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Face to Face used a pivoted window screen from wood which gives lots of possibilities for openings.

A similar system was taken further and bamboo pivoted windows were created for the community centre for underprivileged kids.

Façades and cladding industries in India have gone through a sea change in the past decade.

Tell us about the latest in façade & cladding material and technologies available in the Indian market and those used in your projects?

We have endless options for façade treatments and in the selection of cladding materials and techniques. In our projects, we use more of natural materials for cladding, but the other man made options are also very creative and we are open to those too.

Metal cladding options are available and they give a lot of design possibilities. Corten steel and zinc metal façades are quite in vogue and are popular among designers.

Also, high laminated façades are light and easy to install. Such cladding materials work very well for high-rise buildings.

Metal screen inspired from roof temples in South India helps relieving humidity. Vertically aligned bamboo sticks act as railing inspired by villages

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The dry cladding technics are also good and give protection to the building too. Such cladding increases the overall life of the building.

What are the key factors to consider while designing and installing façades & fenestration?

The key factors to consider are the ease of maintenance and the timeless quality of the materials used in the façade / fenestrations.

We prefer natural materials for façades. But at times, especially for high rise buildings, such natural materials for entire façade become difficult to source. Here designers use the lighter material with the impression of the natural materials and use the natural material only in areas where one can touch and feel.

This is a very practical approach.

This saves the cost of buildings, the maintenance cost of the building at the same time gives the desired results.

For better outside views, the building requires large openings and also as the height increases, such large opening faces lots of wind pressure. Here one can go for thin window solutions in aluminium or steel.

The pivoted windows of waste bamboos, created for the community centre for underprivileged kids, increase ventilation and cool the interiors

Please brief on the technical factors which help to build energy efficient façades and fenestration?

Deep and wide openings bring in a lot of daylight inside the spaces and they can protect the interiors from the harsh sun too. This makes a building more energy efficient and is a basic design principle for a hot climate.

We are lucky to have direct sun rays which is available in most part of the country throughout the year.

Generating energy from the glass is a good idea even if it is a bit expensive. We need to invent and produce such glasses locally.

Also, if the cladding is used for aesthetics, the same can help in sun protection too. The dry cladding generates a cavity between the external façade and the main structure. The air trapped in between keeps the building cool, as it works as an insulator.

What are your views on future façades & fenestration technologies, and materials?

In India, we are experimenting with various technologies for façades and it is just the beginning. As our economy is getting stronger, many more such options will get introduced which would be more affordable. With these, we will end up building much better façades and buildings in the future.

We are expecting a lot more changes with the introduction of 3D printing technologies and the use of the same at the site. Introduction of robotics in the construction of buildings caters to more accuracy and safety in construction.

According to you, what is an intelligent façade? How can intelligent façades bring in the greenhouse effect and also restricting intensive use of air conditioners?

The intelligent façade is not a complicated design solution.

Face to Face Simple, intelligent thinking can bring a great design solution and reduce the power consumption of the air-conditioners in the hot climate, and also make the interiors warmer in cold climate.

Sustainable approach and sensitivity can help for better design. In India, we are on the fast track and good policy making will definitely control the wrong deeds in construction and can make a better living environment for all.

Please tell us about the latest trends in exterior cladding designs and materials?

People and designers are looking for permanent solutions. That is why coloured or painted cladding is getting more popular compared to painted façades.

I would say that exposed concrete or exposed brick work is still preferred by many designers over any cladding solutions.

With so many design software available, the designers are driven by these tools which could help create

The play of operable screens and louvers create a sense of permeability within the built structure while generating ventilation around the courtyard

a lot more design alternatives. This, surely, is good for the fraternity, but sensible work is a must.

The projecting screen provides the interiors with interesting light and visual privacy

There are many cladding materials available in the market. How do you choose the apt one for your project? What are the criteria?

We look at the natural materials as our first choice. And second is the materials which emulate the natural materials. Many a times, we need to depend on various technologies which could help to make materials resembling these natural ones. We cannot keep cladding buildings with wood since this will lead to deforestation and we will end up not having forest anymore.

Hence we have to make do with replica of it and that is what is happening at the moment. These are smart façade solutions, which are sensible, economical and easy to maintain.

What is your advice to young, aspiring architects?

Keep working, and be sensible to design and to your duty. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take our profession lightly.

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Case Study

The Courtyard House

The rooms and verandhas covered with wood, overlooking a central courtyard, which holds the reflection pool

T

he courtyard house at Ahmedabad is designed with a grid of 7’x7’. The house has been designed in such a way that all the living spaces and passages faces and opens into a garden, which was also the main design concept since its inception, thus creating a central courtyard which holds the reflection pool making it a major design element. This also makes the design an introvert one, leaving the garden at the backside,

but still visible and accessible from all the rooms of the house.

The formal living room comes first along with 2 bedrooms followed by 9’ wide passage parallel to the central courtyard and reflection pool. The passage ends to the dining room and family room. This area is a maximum used area, thus has a big verandah all three sides, which adds the value to the north side garden. This house has big openings and skylights to allow an ample amount of light inside the house throughout the day. It is also a crucial feature in Ahmedabad climate. Here light is essential, but not the heat. Screens and

deep verandah protect these huge openings from harsh Sun. Verandahs also become wonderful outdoors spaces during relatively cool evenings and mornings.

Courtyard House is made of RCC roof structure covered with wood.

The verandah and upper rooms are also covered with wood. Floors are covered with natural marble stone and wooden planks. Custom designed doors and windows are made of wood and laminated glass.

Basic principles of architecture have been applied to the house and use of art and art-objects make the spaces of ‘timeless’ quality.

Architecture, interior & landscape design are done by HPA, thus synchronised well with each other.

QUICK FACTS:

Project: The Courtyard House.

Architect: Hiren Patel Architects.

Location: Ahmadabad, Gujarat, India.

Built up Area: Gross floor Area: 800 Sq m; Courtyard Area: 114 Sq m Completed: 2012

The deep verandahs protect the huge openings from harsh sun, and also become wonderful outdoors spaces

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Casement

Sliding Folding

Sliding

Louvered

Railings

Retractable Roof

214-215, Sunny Mart, New Atish Market, Jaipur, Rajasthan - 302020.

Pergolas

Case Study

The Aerial Foliage

T

he design for the house at Surat for a big joint family is a bit like a jigsaw puzzle.

We carefully crafted many small spaces, called dens, to give a family a place to explore one's hobbies. The spaces were designed in order to connect the family at the same time provide the desired privacy too.

The climate of Surat being hot and humid calls for competent ventilation as well as natural light.

Since the plot being camouflaged by buildings from three sides, we had to offer various pockets at different levels, which aid in receiving proper ventilation and

natural light.

The plot is linear and narrow, hence we had to majorly work in a 3-dimensional way, and emphasis on massing was one of the crucial aspects here.

Hierarchy of spaces (open - semicovered - covered) has been taken into consideration while designing the house.

The house comprises of 7 bedrooms for family members aging between 7- 70 years.

Implementing our philosophy of greens and gardens, two small pockets of lush green gardens adorn the ground floor. Vertical gardens and a terrace deck with planters can

Play of levels and volumes adding a visual and spatial connection

be found on the double heighted family room on the the 1st floor.

Play of levels and volumes added a visual and spatial connection with the overall journey. Introduction of natural elements into the interior creates an interesting connection of landscape and interiors.

The entire house is clad with natural stones (Travertine) to make it maintenance free. The internal floor spaces are finished with natural marble and wood. All the materials used is in its purest form.

The house also showcases different art work promoting the work of the local artists.

QUICK FACTS:

Project: The Aerial Foliage.

Location: Surat, Gujarat, India.

Designer: HPA Site Area: 4870 Sq ft Built up Area: 11743 Sq ft Wall Cladding: External Traventine Italian Marble.

Start Date: January 2015.

Completion Date: December 2016.

The entire house is clad with natural stones (Travertine) to make it maintenance free.

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Photography Courtesy: Chankya Patel & Patrick Bingham-Hall

Face to Face

The House with a Travertine Stone Wall

T

he residences in Ahmedabad calls for competent cross ventilation as well as constant connection and openness to the outside green space, both physical and visual. The identity of the Parth Patel Residence is portrayed by the Travertine Stone wall on the entrance along with a rustic metal finish cladding that overlaps on the stone wall, which not only stands out but also prevents the sunlight to directly enter the house.

Instead of creating dark, gloomy spaces, the residence has been planned in such a way that sunlight enters almost from all the directions so that the spaces inside are always lively and lit up.

Implementing our philosophy of greens and gardens, we made sure that each room receives the

QUICK FACTS:

Name: Parth Patel Residence Architect: Hiren Patel Architects (HPL) Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

The residence has been planned in such a way that sunlight enters almost from all the directions

view of the green spaces outside, along with natural light and cross ventilation to have a comfortable climate inside the house whilst battling the scorching heat outside.

The house welcomes us with a huge double height entrance foyer and Statue of a Deity, along with a direct visual connection to the outside landscape. The verandah connecting the garden is planned carefully and the water feature helps to create a cool environment around the verandah by a couple of degrees.

Wooden louvered windows are

placed on the outer faรงade of the master bedroom while sliding glass windows are placed on the inside that creates a buffer space to trap the heat so that the temperature inside the bedroom remains cooler by a couple of degrees. The louvered faรงade gives an interesting character in the elevation of the house. The roof above the master toilet is raised for the sole purpose to allow indirect light to enter inside and minimise the use of electricity in the daytime.

Site Area: 11771.43 Sq ft Completed: June 2018

The identity of the residential project is portrayed by the Travertine stone wall on the entrance along with a rustic metal finish cladding that overlaps on the stone wall

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Face to Face

The Curtain House

Provision of various pockets at different stratum aids in defining each space with its utility Spaces carved out from the cube are designed to attain maximum light and ventilation

T

he basic idea behind the design of the Curtain House was to utilise the maximum area permissible under bylaws and spaces carved out from the cube to attain maximum light and ventilation. The outer skin was designed in order to filter out light

QUICK FACTS:

Project: The Curtain House Architect: Hiren Patel Architects (HPA) Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India Site Area: 4918.00 Sq ft Completed: October 2017

at south faรงade. Provision of various pockets at different stratums aids in defining each space with its utility.

Space is divided into three levels wherein the ground floor slots in for the parking area and, first floor slots in for all the common spaces and guest rooms and second floor covers of all the private spaces. The whole decorum of the house gives a very cosy impression of the internal spaces. A very even character is given to the wood finishes and panelling which is very uniformly synchronised with the other elements of the house. The house is a perfect matrix of various elements like brass inlay, coloured tapestry, flamboyant paintings, illuminating light fixtures and various artworks to enhance the vigour of the house.

The outer skin is designed in order to filter out light at south faรงade

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503-504, 5th floor, A wing, Marathon Futurex Mafatlal Mills Compound, N.M. Joshi Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai - 400013.

Tel: +91 22 6103 3456. W: www.glasswallsystems.in

Industry Speaks

A Leader with the Belief of Leading by Example Saurabh Mittal is the Managing Director & CEO of Greenlam Industries Ltd. Over the past two decades, he has been responsible for carving a niche at Greenlam Laminates and the allied decorative products. Given his hands-on engagement across the entire value chain, he has always been deeply involved with the manufacturing process while progressively adding production capacity that is simply the best in the industry.

SAURABH MITTAL

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Greenlam Industries Ltd

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With an affinity to successfully execute marketing initiatives, Mittal personally build brand Greenlam, which undisputedly commands the market. His sales experience is especially strong in the B2B segment as he built a distribution network that has provided incomparable market reach. An alumnus of Mayo College, Ajmer and a Commerce graduate from the University of Madras his charismatic leadership, personal drive and strategic thinking has rallied the company to attain market leadership, both in domestic and international, in a very short period of time.

In a candid interview with Window and Faรงade magazine, Saurabh Mittal explains his journey with the company Greenlam Industries, their products, the evolution of the cladding industry in India and much more.

P

lease tell us about your company Greenlam Industries, and yourself?

How long you have been in this business and in the Indian market?

Greenlam is among the world’s top three, Asia’s largest and India’s number one surfacing solutions brand. With its presence in over 100 countries, Greenlam has focussed on developing quality products with great passion for innovation.

We offer end to end surfacing solutions to customers with the varied range of product offerings, which consist of laminates, compacts, interior and exterior cladding solutions, restroom and locker solutions, decorative veneer,

Industry Speaks engineered wooden floors and engineered wooden doors.

Our manufacturing units, based at Behror, Rajasthan and Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh, are best in class, using the latest technologies along with R&D centers to deliver unparalleled products to our customers. Across product segments, Greenlam has the largest production capacities with 14.02 million laminate sheets, 4.20 million Sq m decorative veneer, 1.00 million Sq m engineered wood floor and 0.12 million doors annually. Greenlam also boasts of the largest and widest distribution network of over 14,000 distributors, dealers and retailers across the country. In the international

Clear white and vermillion red: White and red shades always exude a bold and modern finish, radiating a crisp and classic look

market, Greenlam is present in over 100 countries with its own marketing and distribution setup in 13 countries. With an 18 per cent share in the organised domestic market, Greenlam is the largest laminate player in the country.

We started our business in the year 1993 with just one-production line plant in Alwar, Rajasthan. We initiated commercial production of laminates in 1993 and started commercial production of decorative veneer in 2002. In the year 2014, we started the commercial production of engineered wooden floors and MFC and we are India’s only manufacturer of the same.

In the year 2015, we started the commercial production of engineered wooden doors at Behror and became India’s first organised manufacturer of the same (doorsets and frames).

Tell us briefly about your journey with the company over the years, also about your major success stories in India?

I started my journey with Greenlam in 1997 and since then, I have not looked back. Greenlam forayed into the laminates industry in 1993 and changed the outlook of the market, today completing 25 years of excellence.

Greenlam Industries is a pioneer in innovating the laminates market in India. We were the first company who commenced the advertising of products, especially textures, which was never done before. In other words, marketing has been one of our biggest strength. From introducing compact and unicore laminates to presenting scratch resistant laminates, we are the first company to offer anti-bacterial cubicles and lockers. Not just the quality, we offer technically advanced products and have an exclusive warranty of 10 years for our products.

Not only laminates, today, Greenlam Industries has become

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Industry Speaks

Clear white and trusted teak: The combination of white with teak species looks magnificent, making your home the centre of attraction.

an integrated manufacturer of all surfacing needs with solutions for façades, restrooms and cubicles, doors and frames, laminates, decorative veneers and flooring.

What are the exterior cladding product categories offered by Greenlam Industries?

Exterior wall cladding has reached to new heights over the past decade and can be made from all kinds of materials like ACP, glass, real wood, metal, ceramic, concrete, etc. However, taking into account the effects of global

warming, we as manufacturers need to think of sustainable ways in which we can do our bit for the environment. At Greenlam, sustainability is very critical for us and therefore in the quest of creating sustainable places we offer smart and sustainable façade options.

Greenlam’s exterior grade compact laminates are a duo of style and character and are specially designed to beautify your exteriors. They come with a revolutionary GLE Technology that offers three layers of protection

Caramel streak: The sweet shades of caramel in pale brown hues make for a stunning upgrade

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that makes them resistant to UV light, microbial threats, weatherproof and fire-resistant, hence apt for exteriors. Claddings come with special fasteners which are made using non-corrosive materials that offer better colour fastening properties. The exterior clads allow you to decorate your home, office or entire building structures.

These façades are anti-graffiti, chemical resistant and can withstand extreme temperature conditions from -60°C to +80°C. Façades activate space, drawing out relationships between light, environment and view. They also accommodate varying levels of privacy. Besides saving up to 30 per cent energy, they add warmth and elegance.

Owing to the recent fire accidents, the demand for fire retardant façades has increased.

Since it is extremely difficult to control a fire from the exteriors, fire retardant façades play a key role in fire safety. Greenlam clads comes with fire retardant property due to which it minimises smoke emission and delay the temperature rise, making it more resistant to fire and ill effects. The beauty and endurance of the clads enhance the look of your exteriors and last for a lifetime.

Industry Speaks

Trusted teak: Woodgrain patterns in teak texture ensure an elegant and chic flair

Please tell us about your doors and frame products?

Mikasa Doors, from the house of Greenlam Industries, come as a single, factory-finished unit. The complete doorset is a natural progression over the outdated carpentry methods where the door and frame were provided separately. The final product is ready-to-install, unlike the current method in which the door is installed early and suffers damage during the later stages of construction.

Mikasa doors are easy to maintain. The cost for these doors and frames is known upfront unlike traditional methods where it is disaggregated. Being factory finished, they require no polishing or regular maintenance. It is important to know that aesthetics, fir and finish of these doors are extremely premium and superior.

Additionally, UV lacquer and polishing line is used in the process following the latest European practices. Mikasa provides superior quality locks, latches, door handles which provides the perfect solution to make the house secure.

Mikasa also produces fire rated doors which provide a safe exit, in

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case of emergency, by preventing the spread of fire and smoke and limiting it to a certain level. Nonfire rated doors are made of five layers with a solid core which are sturdy and can bear a heavy load.

The different layers of a door make it durable, strong and provide protection to the house. Also, specialty doorsets are constructed for areas exposed to high levels of radiation, such as hospitals and laboratories. These are designed to achieve optimum levels of sound reduction of up to 45RwdB with a minimum thickness of doors being 44 mm.

Mikasa Real Wood doors provide a wide range of wooden doors which are durable as well as stylish.

The weather in India varies from region to region and it is difficult to choose doors which can resist all weather conditions. Mikasa’s all-weather doors can be used anywhere without thinking about the weather of a place. Just like a perfect package, Mikasa gives a complete door solution as doors, frames and accessories which are shipped from the factory as a fully furnished single doorset to suit every room and purpose. All the components – door leaf, frame and

architectural ironmongery – work together as a unified product, meeting certified performance levels.

With Mikasa Doors, customers also get the choice of surfacing material ranging across veneers, laminates or paint.

In the door’s space, we recently launched Mikasa DURA collection.

Mikasa’s Dura doorsets come with a comprehensive 6-side protection which provides extremely high impact resistance. These doors are designed to stand the test of time. Dura doorsets is a function of 5 layers of tubular core and a 6-side protection that shields the doors from the hostile weather and makes them apt for both, residential and commercial ecosystems.

Throw some light on your company facilities and structure?

Greenlam's products are produced in the world class state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities situated at Behror in Rajasthan and Nalagarh in Himachal Pradesh. Greenlam is an environmentally responsible company that takes the role of a leader with the belief of leading by example. Greenlam exports to over 100 countries worldwide

Industry Speaks

Greeenlam’s manufacturing facility at Behror in Rajasthan

Greeenlam’s manufacturing facility at Nalagarh in Himachal Pradesh

with 13 international offices. That being said, Greenlam Industries was awarded the largest laminates exporter from India from last eight years consecutively by 'The Plastics Export Promotion Council'.

Today, Greenlam is one of the most preferred global brand in the building material space.

From the very first step in the manufacturing process to the final product, everything is carefully monitored and meticulously scrutinised for quality. The idea is to develop a range of products that last for years while minimising environmental pollution.

Our superior design, quality, systems and environmental commitment have been awarded the ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, Green Label, Green Guard, FSC and PEFC certifications.

The company is structurally well placed to deliver strong growth. Backed by an established distribution network and brand value in the surface décor industry, we strive to strengthen our corporate citizenship through engagements with various NGOs working in the fields of health, education, environment and

vocational training. Greenlam has currently identified some priority projects to be undertaken by the CSR Committee, which are, promoting education, including special education, health care and gender equality.

How do you see the cladding industry evolving in India?

The Indian cladding industry has undergone a dramatic change in the last 10 years. The primary two reasons because of this would be - one, the increase in demand of smart cities, sustainable buildings and green projects and, two, an aware consumer who is constantly on the lookout for unconventional options. This is where Greenlam exterior cladding comes in because the end product is sustainable and green as well as has a Green Guard Gold Certificate.

According to a study by Grand View Research, Inc, the global façades market size is expected to reach USD 339.46 billion (Rs. 1.7 lakh crore) by 2024. The fact that industrialists and consumers have shifted towards advanced ecofriendly façades, which is estimated to fuel the market growth in the

coming years as well.

We look forward to catering this demand and serving our customers the best of our offerings.

To give a brief, Greenlam clads have a wide range of solid, wood and abstract patterns. The variety of colours and designs make it possible to use it for innovative applications like - on main gates, pergolas, fencing, router cut entrance gates, balconies, etc. They are ISO certified and come with an advanced and revolutionary GLE technology that makes them fade resistant, resistant from microbial threats, waterproof and fireresistant, hence ideal for exteriors.

What has been your or your organisation’s contribution in bringing about the current revolution in the façade cladding and the fenestration sector?

If we look at the traditional methods of cladding, the most commonly used materials were bricks, glass or ACP. While these materials did serve the purpose of protecting a building, it was a rare occurring that the cladding would last through the years.

Today, the cladding industry has

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Industry Speaks moved forward where we have smart products that guarantee protection for your walls and simultaneously give you bold and beautiful exteriors.

Greenlam’s exterior grade compact laminates come with an unmatched GLE technology that makes them fade resistant, microbial proof, weather-proof and fire-resistant, hence apt for exteriors. Claddings from Greenlam come with special fasteners which are made using non-corrosive materials that offer better colour fastening properties. As mentioned above, Greenlam introduced the concept of innovative cladding materials such as fire-resistant exterior cladding. We also were the first company to conduct training sessions and workshops for various architects, interior designers and installers, on the benefits of cladding, what is involved in the process of cladding installations, etc.

With the expansion of technology, we are yet to see the apex for the outer covering of the building. Architects and façade designers are experimenting with all kinds of façade products, which takes care of dust, sun, extreme winters, heat, apart from adding beauty to the overall structure.

One primary reason why compact laminates are gaining importance is due to its eco-friendly material.

Greenlam clads is the preferred choice as they are all eco-friendly and are ISO certified.

Please tell us about a few of your iconic and innovative projects?

Some of our most innovative projects have been Hotel Sarvana Bhavan in Chennai, Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation, Command Control Center in Vijaywada, the NHAI’s Highway Nest which is ongoing for pan India among many other projects.

Along with these, Chief Minister Secretariat Receiving Counter

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in Patna was an exemplary project. Like so, we also decorated filmmaker Upendra Rao’s house which is situated in Bengaluru.

Some of our major assignments have been in Lucknow as well, such as, Charbagh Metro Station and LMRC Training Center. With these iconic projects, it is evident that there is an increased awareness for laminates, veneers and engineered wood floors among people when it comes to beautifying their houses.

We have also done various residential and commercial cladding projects in many countries other than India like COOP network of supermarkets at Slovakia; a residential project, Kharkov, Ukraine; another residential

colony project, Vilnius, Lithuania; Municipality of Kucukcekmece Semt Konagi; Marka Yapi, Istanbul; Pirlanta Villas, Kisikli, Istanbul; Sunset Park, Istanbul, and many more.

As per your view, how important is the role of right cladding in achieving system performance, optimum acoustic and thermal insulation as well as in achieving the desired aesthetics?

We believe that it is important to understand that different types of wall cladding complement different structures.

Therefore, without the correct combination, the external cladding might not work best for your home or building.

Novel use of shades of caramel in pale brown

Industry Speaks

The muted tones beautifully highlight the crisp lines and edges of your home

Shades of caramel and brown is a favourite trend

Since exterior cladding is prone to external factors like water, wind, heat, dust and rain, etc., it is essential that the panels act as a protective outer shell of your building. Greenlam exterior clads come with a 10-year warranty with an exclusive range, which is fire retardant, making them highly durable. Plus, being easy to maintain, they also help reduce the cost of maintenance needed for a building.

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Coral streak:These anti-aging compact laminates beautifully stand the test of time

Greenlam Clads offer interior wall cladding as well. While interior clads are water resistant, antibacterial, anti-graffiti, scratch, solvent, energy saving, abrasion and impact resistant, they come with 10 years of warranty. As Greenlam clads are equipped with a modular system, they can be easily installed and are low maintenance which makes them an ideal refurbishment option.

How well aware do you think the decision makers are in general about the availability of the cladding products, its functionality and categories?

In India, when we talk about decision makers such as architect, consultants, clients, PMC, contractors and builders, they are partially aware of our cladding products. When I say partially, it means that they know the product, but are not acquainted with its details.

However, those who are located in metro cities, they are relatively familiar with the products but are not informed of its benefits. On the other hand, decision makers who are in non-metro cities, may be unaware of the products entirely.

Whichever the case is, there is a clear opportunity for us. The Indian market is highly cost conscious and there are natural materials available too like stone and more.

Hence, as a brand we need to be competitive in terms of our pricing.

Cladding is bifurcated into two categories, dry and wet. We also supply dry cladding materials with which breathable façades are made. The fact that the majority of our present sites are nonmetro cities, there are numerous opportunities in these areas.

What is the emphasis laid on R&D, especially for the Indian market?

In our business space, new product development is more to do with the design and changing dĂŠcor trends. While our products are technologically advanced, sustainable and offer smart solutions, it is important to know that we have not compromised on the design aspect. For Greenlam Exterior Clads, the designs we offer are all inspired from natural elements such as stone, wood and more.

We keep a close track on the predictable trend in interiors through market research, with

Industry Speaks designers and architects across the globe. The international exhibitions and furniture fairs give a broad perspective to the forecast design and colour trend.

Having said that, we are constantly working towards improving our product quality. With an endeavour being the best in the industry, we are making sure that our customers get the best of our products.

What do you see as the main challenges faced by the cladding industry?

When we first started our journey for Greenlam Exterior Clads, the initial challenge was to create awareness about the concept and usage of the product in the Indian market. However, in the cladding industry, the price and aesthetics of the product are considered to be the highlight of the purchase and amidst that functionality takes a back seat. Our clads are all-weather proof and fire-resistant, which makes them apt for exteriors.

When we came up with the idea of breathable façades, our aim was to reduce power consumption and protect a building from all sort of weathering break downs. If we compare the façade applications with countries like Europe, the relevance goes beyond aesthetics.

The primary concern lies in whether the product is providing protection from all kinds of weather inclusive of the power it consumes.

Tell us about your channel expansion strategies in the market.

Entering into new products is our strategy for future growth. With a product portfolio, which includes laminates, compact laminates, decorative veneers, engineered wood floor and engineered wood doors and doorsets, we offer a onestop solution for customers. There is a huge opportunity to explore.

This will also help us to balance the business during any downturn in

Coral streak: These exterior grade laminates are green guard and NSF certified as well as come with 10 years of warranty

the decorative surface business.

For channel expansion, we focus on increasing our network of distributor and dealers in new cities and interior towns of the country. We have also opened our display centres in various cities to make it easier for the consumers to choose from a variety of products available in the market.

What keeps your company ahead of its competitors in terms of products and services offered?

Simply put, we are distinguished through our unique and differentiated products and manufacturing practices. We offer integrated decorative solutions to cater to the needs of customers across price segments. While launching new products, an extensive research goes behind the making of them, so that our customers get the best of our creations. We have introduced technologically advanced products in the market under all brands such as anti-fingerprint laminate, HD gloss, VRB, Synchro Collection (synchronised embossed laminates) in Greenlam laminates.

Furthermore, Decowood Veneers and Mikasa Floors both feature a unique Herringbone Collection.

With over two decades of

experience in the surface décor space, we have been the pioneers in introducing décor trends in India and the international markets as well. As the largest producer of laminates in Asia, Greenlam has managed to stay ahead due to its robust strategies of product innovation, design, marketing, distribution and efficient manufacturing. We offer

Exterior façades are scratch and weather resistant with anti-fungal properties

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Industry Speaks

The exterior claddings are scratch and weather resistant and provides your exteriors a splendid finesse

a vast portfolio, which includes laminates, compact laminates, decorative veneers, engineered wood floor and doors and doorsets, making us a one-stop solution in the industry.

Innovative technology and creative solutions have been our guiding principles from day one.

That being said, we have always ensured that superior quality is available to our customers with timely delivery of products due to our wide network and swift

service. Additionally, we have a wide network of distribution centres, channel partners and regional distribution centres which are always stocked and ensure timely product delivery. Greenlam has managed to stay ahead due to its robust strategies of product innovation, design, marketing, distribution and efficient manufacturing.

How do you see the cladding and door industry evolving over the

Novacento Pine: Pine species give you a rustic and country style finish to your faรงades

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The perfect imperfections of teak work wonders for exterior faรงades and make your home a gorgeous sight

next 5 years?

Owing to the recent years, the market is gradually turning from unorganised sector to organised sector. This means there is an advent of positive changes in terms of systematic working in the construction industry, which truly starts from identifying materials and putting the same into a tender.

For cladding, since the awareness of the products is increasing, the purchasing power of the individuals is on the rise too making the future of clads extremely huge. Though when we talk about natural resources, they are not available in most of the locations and bringing them to a desired location may not be cost effective as well. Given our India and global presence, we see this as an opportunity to disperse the product worldwide.

For us, the door industry too has an optimistic future since Mikasa gives a complete door solution as doors, frames and accessories which are shipped from the factory as a fully furnished single doorsets to suit every room and purpose. Additionally, these doors can be installed even after the construction of a building.

Project Watch

An Office in a Green Oasis Bhartiya Centre of Information Technology, Bengaluru

B

hartiya Centre for Information Technology (BCIT) is a modern, self-contained office complex that prioritises adaptability, spatial flexibility and energy efficiency to achieve a collaborative, socially-oriented workspace for the modern Indian workforce.

With Bengaluru becoming one of the fastest growing hubs for IT development in the past eight years, the 25-acre master plan for BCIT brings back the idea of the green oasis as a vital node of the Bhartiya City.

Consisting of three towers arranged

on the periphery of a 5-acre park, BCIT strives to bring the notion of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;an office in a parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to life. The three towers are also linked to each other at the podium level, which is free of any vehicular movement (except fire tender access) making it a haven for pedestrian connectivity and cultivating the idea of chance interactions and networking. The IT Centre integrates itself with the larger scheme of the Bhartiya City through its centralised location, that allows the residents of the Bhartiya City to walk to work and enjoy a greater standard of living through reduced commute

Bhartiya Centre of Information Technology, Bengaluru

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timings and consequently lowered environmental pollution.

Two towers of the master plan stand completed; of these, the first one is occupied with a LEED Gold rating, materialising the envisioned sustainable design.

The Block 1 of BCIT consists of a G+9 tower, housing four saleable units on each floor. The office units are located around a central circulation and service core, allowing equal access to each workspace. The Block 2 has been designed as a G+13 tower, and Block 3 as G+18. The building floor plates are rectilinear, with their longer sides facing east-

Project Watch

The buildings have breaks introduced in the longer façades in order to reduce the net glazed surface

west in two buildings, and northsouth in one.

FAÇADE STRATEGY A façade strategy utilising opaque and translucent panels articulated by vertical fins has been derived to optimise daylight penetration; a combination of fritting on the glass panels and tinted performance glass has been used to control heat gain from east and west, which also introduces dynamism in the façade appearance. The panel sizes have been configured to ensure maximum material savings, and

The breaks in the façade also allows the centrally located core area to be ventilated and lit naturally

A façade strategy utilising opaque and translucent panels articulated by vertical fins

run in sync with the structural grid.

The buildings have breaks introduced in the longer façades in order to reduce the net glazed surface – this also allows the centrally located core area to be ventilated and lit naturally, reducing the dependence on mechanical systems. The width of the blocks allows for maximum ingress of daylight at each floor, enabling natural lighting within the offices and reducing dependency on artificial lighting.

Refuge terraces have been introduced in the north and south façades, which can also be used as break-out zones for the offices, enhancing the user experience and allowing further daylight penetration.

The façade strategy have helped facilitate minimal dependence on mechanical lighting, reducing the carbon footprint of the building – one among many green features of this LEED Gold-rated building.

OTHER NOTABLE FEATURES Affordable and clean energy: The natural site slopes have been used to allow the first basement to be naturally ventilated in part, reducing the energy requirement of the building.

Optimised circulation scheme: Within the tower, the office units are located around a central circulation

A combination of fritting on the glass panels and tinted performance glass has been used to control heat gain

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Project Watch QUICK FACTS

Project: Bharatiya Centre of Information Technology Location: Bharatiya City, Bengaluru Client: Arjun Aggarwal, Milestone Buildcon Pvt. Ltd. Principal Architects: Manoj Choudhury, Mahesh Thakur, Swapna Pikale, Ramesh Deshpande & Sachin Vidwans Consultants: • Façade: Façade India Testing Inc. • Structural: Innotech Engineering Consultants Pvt. Ltd. • Mechanical: Ralys Consulting Engineers • Electrical: Ralys Consulting Engineers • Plumbing: Sampath Kumar Associates Ptv. Ltd. • PMC: DTZ International Property Advisors Ptv. Ltd. Date of Commencement: May 2012 Expected Date of Completion: 2022 (Tentative) Photographer: Prashant Bhatt and service core, allowing equal access to each workspace. At the broader schematic level, the common park is accessible to all and encourages interaction and socialisation among all users.

Landscaping strategy for promoting the wellness: The larger landscape zone between tower 3 and the first 2 towers has been carefully designed to incorporate sports courts to promote a healthy lifestyle, gathering spaces for interactions and knowledge sharing, and leisure spaces for unwinding

The design allowing equal access to each workspace

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and relaxation. The 25-acre master plan for the Bhartiya Centre for Information Technology consists of a 5-acre open space designed as a park, which act as the green lungs of the campus and promote wellness of the users.

Water conservation: Small water bodies within the landscape have been located after a study of the shade areas, to reduce evaporation.

The water is sourced from the recycled STP water, ensuring selfsufficiency. Site paving of grass and concrete encourage percolation of surface run-off to the water table.

The larger landscape zones

MANOJ CHOUDHURY

Director, Edifice Consultants Pvt Ltd

ABOUT THE ARCHITECT: One of the Directors at Edifice, Manoj Choudhury has been a vital cog in the Edifice machine since 1999. He currently runs the healthcare and urban design verticals and also oversees business development.

Manoj has previously helmed Edifice's Bangalore operations with great success, and has been crucial to Edifice's growth as a company as well as a team.

Manoj has also built company's commercial development design vertical from scratch. He deems himself the eternal student, learning from everything that crosses his path and applying these lessons across projects and competencies.

His portfolio of projects handled as a part of Edifice, spread across the healthcare, urban design and commercial development sectors, includes: AMRI Hospital in Bhubaneswar, Mother and Child Care Hospital at Kolkata, Asian Heart Institute at Mumbai, Wipro, Ascendas, Bhartiya City, Tata Realty, Mahindra World City in Jaipur & Chennai, and I.T.C. at Guntur.

Advertorial

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have Achieved Quality Milestonesâ&#x20AC;?

IQBAL SINGH ANAND Chairman, ALP Group

TEJBIR SINGH ANAND Managing Director, ALP Overseas

T

ell us about your company.

ALP Group, founded in 1984 is globally acknowledged as the pioneer in EPDM weather strips for the automotive industry in India. The group has been in the business for 35 years, having 5 state of the art production units located in various parts of India and manufacturing units in Africa and Thailand. ALP group constitutes of 14 companies with a presence around the globe.

The group has achieved quality milestones by getting necessary industry certifications - the ISO 9001, OHSAS 18001 and TS 16949.

It has achieved the PPM levels

Where are your products manufactured?

The products are manufactured both in India and abroad. The group comprises of 8 plants with a geographical presence in major parts of the world, including our 6

ALP Group Corporation Office Gurgaon, Haryana (India)

ALP Nishikawa Co. Pvt. Ltd. Lalru, Punjab (India)

ALP Overseas Pvt. Ltd. Rudrapur, UK (India)

ALP Aeroflex India Pvt. Ltd. Rudrapur, UK (India)

ALP FPI Parts Pvt. Ltd. Neemrana, Rajasthan (India)

ALP Polymer Park Pvt. Ltd. Neemrana, Rajasthan (India)

ALP Nishikawa Co. Pvt. Ltd. Ahmedabad, Gujarat (India)

ALP Africa Pty. Ltd. South Africa

APS Company Ltd. Thailand

ALP Plants (domestic & international)

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of under 5 for the major OEM companies.

The main line of the products manufactured by the ALP Group is the profile and weather sealing systems, body kit accessories, thermal insulation EPDM tubes and sheets, acoustic insulation solutions, profiles and sealing for buildings, doors, windows and shower cabins.

WFM | MAR - APR 2019

plants in India, and 1 each in South Africa and Thailand.

What are the advantages of your products/services?

ALP Group has an expertise in design and material engineering. Moreover, they have a highly qualified and experienced team of engineers and designers. Best quality standards in the global automotive industry are followed when it comes to the design and manufacturing of the products. A comprehensive research work is carried out by the research and development department of the group using the advanced equipments before manufacturing any product.

Brief on any one of your new product launches?

The Design and Development (D&D) and Research and Development (R&D) department of the ALP Group has successfully developed and launched a wide range of the PVC profiles for the shower cabins.

The profiles have been designed with an extreme focus on creativity, technology and innovation. The profiles are suitable for the swing/ sliding door shower cubicles that ensures water tightness and easy to clean. The key features of the PVC profiles are: easy installation, secure fixing glass, absorbs floor undulations, and aesthetically appealing.

The profiles have passed through several stages of quality testing to ensure no compromise on safety.

For more details on the company and their product, contact: ALP Group Corporate Office, Plot No. 32, Sector-18 (HUDA), Gurgaon-122015 (Haryana), India; Phones: + 91-124-4731500,

+ 91-124-4731600

Project Watch

A Sustainable Business Centre in Chennai

Arcot Plaza, Kodambakkam, Chennai

A

rcot Plaza at Chennai is designed to be a sustainable business centre which offers worldclass commercial spaces for its users on an affordable budget.

The form of the building was a direct response to the climate. The building has an iconic presence on the street and due to the iconic design fetched higher rent per Sq ft. Also, the building consumes 15 percent less energy due to the climate-sensitive design features which reduce the life-cycle cost of the building.

CLIENT BRIEF: The site (8000 Sq ft.) was located in one of the major arterial roads of Chennai â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Arcot Road. The client brief was to create a multitenanted commercial building which would serve the banking sector in the area and maximise the economic potential of the site. The building needed to have an iconic presence in the streetscape of Chennai.

Arcot Plaza, Kodambakkam, Chennai

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ARCHITECTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INTERPRETATION: Usually commercial buildings in third-world cities like Chennai are energy-guzzlers with unplanned service lines all over, with fully glazed windows trapping the heat, AC units dripping on the users, poorly organised circulation and are major fire-hazards.

Arcot Plaza was designed after

Project Watch Grade-A commercial spaces in the micro-market of Kodambakkam.

North light faรงade - internal view

detailed research on the shortfalls of such commercial centres. It was designed to be a sustainable business centre which offered world-class commercial spaces for its users. From the inception of the project, care was taken to address

the user comfort and ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources during its construction and life-cycle. The building satisfies all the local bye-laws applicable as per the municipal master-plan. It serves to upgrade the availability of

THE DESIGN: The idea was to maximise the visibility of the building and tap the potential in terms of footfall as the site is located between the existing railway station and an upcoming metro station. The ground plane was designed as a public zone. The front edge of the site was designed as a public plaza extending the pedestrian side-walk into the site with the building having an inviting double-height atrium for the retail branch. The office floors have a separate entrance lobby at the rear with a vehicular dropoff. The terrace was designed to accommodate a large terrace garden which cuts the heat load of the offices and provides a breakout space for the office workers.

Faรงade concept

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We are opening high quality uPVC windows all over the World...

www.adopen.com

Ph: 0130-4091122, 0130-4091066 | E-mail: info@adoindia.com Address I : Plot No. 11, Sector-57, Phase-IV, Kundli Sonipat Haryana-131028 Our authorized profile seller: Duron Polyvinyls Pvt. Ltd., Khasra No. 4651/279, Daultabad Road, Gurgaon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 122001, Mob No: 9910174583, 9971144583, Email id: nishanktandon@gmail.com

Ph: 0130-4091122, 0130-4091066 | E-mail: info@adoindia.com Address I : Plot No. 11, Sector-57, Phase-IV, Kundli Sonipat Haryana-131028 Address II : Site No. 262- P, Bommasandra Industrial Area, Bommasandra Jigani Link Road, Phase IV, Bengaluru-562106

Project Watch

Façade exploded view

Some of the design objectives achieved through the project are: • Maximise site visibility creating a public plaza and an iconic form • Creation of an iconic building with the lowest possible budget • Natural light without glare for office spaces • Solar passive design with appropriate shading features • Climate responsive design with lower heat-gain • Maximum visibility for retail spaces with higher foot-falls • Achieve maximum revenue potential

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SUSTAINABILITY: The form of the building was a direct response to the climate.

The northern side faces the street.

Care was taken to protect the glass frontage of the building with appropriate and innovative shading-devices there-by providing effective day-lighting and reducing the solar heat-gain on the building.

The retail façade is protected by the office floors cantilevering from above. The western and eastern side has been designed with appropriate openings to facilitate cross-ventilation inside.

The building is designed to harvest 100 percent of the rain-water.

Provisions have been planned for grey-water recycling to reduce the requirement of the building on metro-water. Solar energy use is planned for common areas.

The walls are made of AAC blocks which have superior thermal insulation over bricks and is also more cost-effective as it reduces the dead-load of the building. Low-

maintenance materials have been used which reduce the amount of energy spent on cleaning the building. Also, most materials are locally available making replacements cheaper and easily available.

Night View

Project Watch QUICK FACTS

Project: Arcot Plaza Location: Kodambakkam, Chennai Client: Individual Architect: Architecture Plus Value Principal architect: V.S. Vigneswar Type: Commercial building (Business centre) Usage: Multi-tenant banking (retail branch + back office) Materials used for façade & fenestration: Custom fabricated stainless steel mullions, solar-rated glass (ST-167), polycarbonate fins with SS frame, clear silicon sealant Site Area: 8000 Sq ft.

Commencement date: September 2013 Completion date: November 2016

Western façade

Principal Architect Architecture Plus Value, Chennai

ABOUT THE ARCHITECT:

Built Area: 16,000 Sq ft.

INNOVATIVE DAY-LIGHTING FAÇADE: The northern façade of the building for the office floors was designed to give glare-free daylighting for the work spaces. The triangulated translucent polycarbonate fins placed at carefully determined patterns cut the direct sun-light. In Chennai, during summer the setting sun moves northward. During such months the fins provide diffused

V.S. VIGNESWAR

light. During other times they cut the glare from the bright sky. It also offers an interesting view of the street from the office spaces breaking the monotony of the spaces. Also, the glass used is solar rated glass to cut heat-gain. The exploded diagram explains the façade construction system.

THE SUCCESS: The building has an iconic presence on the street and due to the sensitive design fetched higher rent per Sq ft. Also, the building consumes 15 percent less energy due to the climate-sensitive design features which reduce the life-cycle cost of the building.

Eastern façade

V.S.Vigneswar is a practicing architect and visiting faculty based in Chennai. He heads Architecture Plus Value, an award-winning architectural practice of high quality design repute. What defines A+V is the commitment to the idea of adding value through sensible design. A+V currently handles more than 1.5-million Sq ft of projects in Chennai, Bangalore and other places, many of which have received recognition in national and international platforms. Vigneswar completed his Bachelors degree in architecture from CEPT University, Ahmedabad and his Masters (MSc-Exchange) at T.U. Delft, The Netherlands. His work has been recognised by the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA Awards for Excellence 2016) and also published in various leading forums. Besides his practice, he has also served as a visiting faculty at some of the top architecture colleges in Chennai. (Website : www.aplusv. in, Phone : +91-9566157840).

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Post Event Report

WINDOW TECHNOLOGY SCALING THE VERTEX OF

Zak World of Windows | April 05, 2019 | Taj Vivanta, Guwahati

A

ddressing the performance and functional aspects of architecture and after successfully completing 14 editions in various cities of India, Zak World of Windows was held in Guwahati, at The Taj Vivanta on 5th April 2019.

15th Edition of World of Windows in Guwahati

Architecture as science tells us that there is more to space than just cementing building blocks together. Guwahati’s fast developing skyline tells us that architects have long sought to communicate their craft through

their buildings. Being one of the fastest growing cities in the country, modern pace and development have completely changed the face of this city and has made it an epitome of a new emerging India - restless and energised. As a

The event featured some of the most important and dynamic experts in the field of fenestration from Guwahati

result of the upcoming boom, with development being the key word, there’s a lot to learn and experience in Assam’s most dazzling city Guwahati. In this quest, the event

Zakir Ahmed, Founder-CEO, Zak Group at the inaugural

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ANIRBAN BASU

Zonal Sales Manager - East India, Profine India

- 15th edition of the Zak World of Windows held at the Taj Vivanta in Guwahati - featured some of the most important and dynamic architects from Guwahati who, in their prime, are working their way one-building-at-a-time, to make our â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;space for livingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; more exciting.

The forum aimed at the proper understanding of fenestration and addressed the issues like design and application challenges, measuring the performance of windows and their effectiveness in bringing life to the interior spaces. The experts from the respective fields engaged in a panel discussion debating some of the pressing technical issues vis-avis sustainability through windows, functionality and usability, etc. New technologies and products were

ASHISH KAPOOR

Director - Sales, Schueco India

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AMITABH SARMA

SAYED ANWAR

also on display helping redefine the way windows are looked at.

The event began with Anirban Basu, Zonal Sales Manager - East India, Profine India speaking about Koemmerling uPVC Window & Door. He was then followed by Amitabh Sarma, Architect at Akar Foundation who spoke on the topic - Your Window to the World, wherein he described how windows have changed and shaped through times and have come to become what they are today. Engineered Components for Windows & Doors was presented by Sayed Anwar, Country Manager, Schlegel Giesse. Ashish Kapoor, Director Sales, Schueco India spoke about German Aluminium Systems from Schueco for the Indian

Market.

Shubham Jha, Senior Sales Engineer - Kolkata, Kinlong spoke about The Importance of Hardware Standardisation and Safety and the topic, Innovation in Sealant for Windows & Doors was addressed by Sandeep Rajpoot, Regional Head - East, McCoy Soudal.

The event ended with a panel discussion on Evolving Window Scenario in Guwahati for which Chandan Kumar, Regional Sales Manager, Schueco India moderated the discussion which consisted of the following panelist - Santosh Banka (Architect, Banka Associates), Farid Khan (CEO & Director, Profine India), Ashish Kapoor (Director - Sales, Schueco India), Orpita Das (Director, Alclad

Architect at Akar Foundation

SHUBHAM JHA

Senior Sales Engineer - Kolkata, Kinlong

Country Manager, Schlegel Giesse

SANDEEP RAJPOOT

Regional Head - East, McCoy Soudal

Post Event Report

EXHIBITORS AT THE EVENT

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Post Event Report Fabrication), Gaurav Jaina (Joint Secrectary, Areida), and Ronojoy Sen (Architect, Planning Consortium). They discussed about components defining a perfect window, challenges faced in suggesting and installing a good quality window as per design, the parameters defining the retail market and projects - whether they are different or overlapping, consideration for selecting a window type for an apartment across various segments of complex; high end villas; hospitality and retail.

Organised by Zak Trade Fairs & Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd, this is a part of the build up to the mega exhibitions on glass, fenestration & aluminium extrusions will be held in Delhi from the 12 - 15 December, 2019.

SANTOSH BANKA

FARID KHAN

ASHISH KAPOOR

ORPITA DAS

GAURAV JAINA

RONOJOY SEN

Architect, Banka Associates

Director, Alclad Fabrication

Panel discussion on evolving window scenario in Guwahati

CEO & Director, Profine India

Director - Sales, Schueco India

Joint Secrectary, Areida

Architect, Planning Consortium

Moderator - CHANDAN KUMAR, Regional Sales Manager, Schueco India

The forum witnessed a huge gathering

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www.nidoworld.com

Post Event Report

Discussing Advanced Façade Solutions

Zak World of Façades | April 26, 2019 | ITC Maratha, Mumbai

T

he 60th global edition of Zak World of Façades was held successfully at ITC Maratha, Mumbai on 26th April 2019. Being one of the leading international façade design and engineering industry conference, it attracted over 450 delegates this time. In this 7th edition in Mumbai, the

experts shared their thoughts on the recent trends in the façade industry. The focus of the conference was on ‘Advanced Façade Design through Innovation and Technological Evolution’.

Zak World of Façades conference is currently being organised in 25 countries, which

include the Middle East (UAE, Qatar, Kuwait & Saudi Arabia), South Asia (India & Sri Lanka), South East Asia (Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam & Indonesia), East Asia (Greater China & South Korea), Africa (Kenya, Egypt, Morocco & South Africa), Europe (United Kingdom, France, Germany & Sweden), Australasia

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SYED AHAD AHMED

Director, Zak Group Addressing the august audience

(Australia & New Zealand) and the United States of America.

The event took off with a warm welcome note by Syed Ahad Ahmed, Director, Zak Group.

Addressing the august audience, he said, “I am proud that Zak World of Façades is conceptualised in India and that we could take it globally as well. We started on 27th July 2012 in Bangalore with a very small networking event in the evening and the event has just grown strength to strength.

We are currently in 25 countries, which speaks about the interest in façades and façade engineering globally”.

Ashish Kapoor, Sales Director, Schüco India who was the convener of the event initiated the conference proceeding on an optimistic note. Kapoor said, “This

ASHISH KAPOOR

Sales Director, Schüco India was the convenor of the event

is our 5th year together and we are proud to announce that we have a Global Partnership with Zak Group and Zak World of Façades present in 25 countries. Schüco is the presenting partner for all the Zak conferences in each of these 25 countries”.

Ashish Lahoti, an Associate at the well-known Japanese architectural firm Nikketan Sekkei, gave the keynote and first presentation of the event on the topic – ‘Façades as an Interface of Public Realm’. His presentation covered the topics, innovation & client identity, socio-economic context and environmental impact on façades. He spoke about the use of bio-skins in their projects, presenting a few case studies. He also explained on ceramic façades with water circulation, and how

The first panel discussion on Challenges in Designing High-Rise Buildings with Glazed Curtain Wall

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ASHISH LAHOTI Associate, Nikken Sekkei

the system helps to keep the interiors cool during hot summer days. His presentation on another interesting project - Mokuzai Kaikan, Tokyo, the headquarters of the Tokyo Lumber Wholesalers Association, which has a façade crafted from Japanese cypress wood, was remarkable.

The next speaker was Mahesh Armugam, Regional Director, South-Asia, Meinhardt Façade Technology, who elaborated on ‘Empirical Approach for Parametric vs Manual Complex Geometry’.

He also presented a case study on the TCS Tower in Siruseri, Chennai featuring a complicated 17m cantilever with 5 different geometries and tested for 9Kpa wind load. His presentation covered topics like the traditional way of designing and building façades

MAHESH ARMUGAM

Regional Director, South-Asia, Meinhardt Façade Technology

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唀倀嘀䌀 圀䤀一䐀伀圀 倀刀伀䐀唀䌀䔀刀匀 ☀

䀀㄀ ─ 䐀䤀匀䌀伀唀一吀 䘀伀刀 䄀匀匀伀䌀䤀䄀吀䔀 䴀䔀䴀䈀䔀刀匀

嘀䤀匀䤀吀 圀圀圀⸀唀圀䐀䴀䄀䤀一䐀䤀䄀⸀伀刀䜀 伀刀 䌀伀一吀䄀䌀吀 ⬀㤀㄀ 㤀㠀㜀㄀㄀ 㠀㘀㄀㠀㈀ 䘀伀刀 䴀伀刀䔀 䐀䔀吀䄀䤀䰀匀 一伀圀℀

Post Event Report

JEAN-PAUL MOONEN

Global Segment Manager, Architecture, Akzonobel

versus designing complex façades through parametric modelling, using tools like Grasshopper.

Jean-Paul Moonen, Global Segment Manager, Architecture, Akzonobel described the concept of ‘Powder Coating Technologies Supporting Façade Design’. He explained the new technologies that can support façade designs and digital support tools for designers and specifiers. Mathew Penrose, Vice President, Vector Foiltec elaborated on ‘High Performance, Lightweight, Long Span Building Envelopes with ETFE’ along with a case study presentation on the ETFE and steel structure at Project Jewel, Changi Airport in Singapore.

After the tea/coffee break, Rajan Govind, Director, BES Consultants started the second session and

STEPHEN TANNO

Director - Pre Construction, Schüco International

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MATHEW PENROSE Vice President, Vector Foiltec

talked about the ‘State of Building Construction Tolerances’. He also threw some light on the reality of the current state and impact on façades, explaining the missing links between owner, developer, designers, engineers, façade contractors, project managers, and façade consultants. He also stressed on the need for testing for quality of construction of curtain walls and installation of windows, considering their tolerance levels.

Stephen Tanno, Director - Pre Construction, Schüco International gave the next presentation on achieving the design perfection with value engineering and how the short falls in construction will lead to inferior final products. He also discussed the topics like the shortfall of the final product visà-vis the initial design and how

JONAS UPTON-HANSEN Managing Director, UHA London

RAJAN GOVIND Director, BES Consultants

to avoid it, avoiding the design to meet timelines.

Jonas Upton-Hansen, Managing Director, UHA London shared his presentation on Pragmatic Formalism, which included Formmaking: Process for shaping buildings and developing their 'identity', designing 'inside out vs outside in' and dialogue vs single vision. He explained his vision with the help of four case studies from different countries having different constraints.

It was followed by a panel discussion on "Challenges in Designing High-Rise Buildings with Glazed Curtain Wall". KR Suresh, Regional Director, Axis Façades moderated the discussion and gave the chance to the dignitaries to ask their questions to the key panelists and give their

RAVI SARANGAN

Director, Edifice Consultants

Regd. Off: 6/103, Mittal Industrial Estate, Andheri-Kurla Road, Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 059, Maharashtra, India.

Ph.: 91-22-4204-4204 | E-mail: osakarubber@vsnl.com

Post Event Report

PRAMEENA KARUNAIRAJ

Business Development Manager Sun Shading Façade, FunderMax India

views. The panelists included Ananya Gandotra, Head Design, Birla Estate; Rahul Kulkarni, Director, HOK India; Anuja Sawant, Principal, SSA Architects; Saurabh Chatterjee, Director, Skyline Architects; and Hitesha Thakur, VP - Estimation, Glass Wall Systems. The panel discussion saw very interesting presentations by the panelists, explaining how design can add value to the high-rises.

The third session began with an outstanding presentation by Ravi Sarangan, Director, Edifice Consultants.

He presented case studies of the design of Atal Akshay Urja Bhawan, New Delhi (HQ of The Ministry of Renewable Energy), which is an attempt to go beyond net zero and create an energy positive building. The project featured many innovations like solar walls

DEVESH KUMAR Technical Head, Aludecor

and roofs, fins and mesh with vegetative walls (using landscape elements on façades), along with the ideal window wall ratio of 27%.

He also described the design of the HQ for Montecarlo in Ahmedabad – a dynamic façade cladded with Sage Glass, featuring an interesting and complicated façade with various innovations.

Prameena Karunairaj, Business Development Manager - Sun Shading Façade, FunderMax India spoke about the benefits and techniques for designing cladding for high-rise buildings. She also elaborated on the pre-requisites for fire safety in high-rises.

Devesh Kumar, Technical Head, Aludecor spoke about propagation of fire on façade and fire safety codes around the world.

He stressed on the need for better fire codes for materials and its implementation.

JEAN-PAUL HAUTEKEER

Global Strategic Market Director High Performance Building, Dow Consumer Solutions

Jean-Paul Hautekeer, Global Strategic Market Director - High Performance Building, Dow Consumer Solutions spoke on innovations in the façade technologies in high performance buildings and emphasised on the ‘Possibilities with Silicone for High Performance Buildings’. Dr. Bernd Koll, Technical Marketing Manager, Kuraray Europe shared his views on the right choice of the acoustic & structural interlayer. He explained the acoustic challenges, standards for materials, noise insulation, lamination technologies and methods for better acoustics.

Hitesha Thakur, VP - Estimation, Glass Wall Systems detailed about the new façade materials available in the market.

DR. BERND KOLL The 2nd panel discussion on Early Façade Contractor Involvement (EFCI)

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Technical Marketing Manager, Kuraray Europe

Post Event Report

EXHIBITORS AT THE EVENT

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Post Event Report

HITESHA THAKUR VP - Estimation, Glass Wall Systems

The last session of the conference saw the presentation by Bhami Ilyas, Regional Business Manager, CPP Wind Engineering & Air Quality Consultants. He delivered an effective presentation on Wind Engineering for Façade Pressures in High-Rise Towers. The last presentation of the conference was given by Sourabh Kankar, Regional Manager, Gujarat Guardian. He covered the topics like GGL go to a solution provider, the evolution of glass façades for better occupant comfort and innovations in glass.

The conference ended with a panel discussion on "Early Façade Contractor Involvement (EFCI)"

BHAMI ILYAS

Regional Business Manager, CPP Wind Engineering & Air Quality Consultants

moderated by Stephen Tanno.

The panelists included Sudipta Ray, Sr. Vice President - Projects, K Raheja Corp; Sandip De, General Manager - Design & Build, Shapoorji Pallonji; Kirtisagar Bollar, Associate Architect, Architect Hafeez Contractor; Sushant Shah Deo, VP & Head - Special Initiatives, Larsen & Toubro; Aditya Thota Srinivas, Head - Sales, FunderMax India; Siddharth Shirur, Cofounder & Partner, Vistaar Architects & Planners; and Capt. Edwin Saldanha, Managing Director, Doors & Doors System.

The sponsors included: Schüco,

SOURABH KANKAR Regional Manager, Gujarat Guardian

Glass Wall Systems AkzoNobel, Aludecor, McCoy, Fundermax, etc.

Window & Façade magazine was the media partner of the Zak World of Façade conference.

Zak World of Façades - a one day conference brings all the professionals with architectural, construction and engineering background together to discuss the latest trends in the façade industry.

The conference gives a platform to the companies in the façade and fenestration industry to network with the other professionals and learn new technologies. In its last 59 editions, Zak World of Façades has attracted over 25000 delegates.

Networking at lunch break

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International Exhibition on Building Materials, Construction Technology, Green Building Products, Construction Machinery & Equipments.

Theme : Green Build

05 - 06 - 07 June, 2019 Pragati Maidan, New Delhi (India)

ORGANIZERS

CO-ORGANIZERS

GRIHA

ENQUIRY : Tel : +91-120-4138 410 Mob : +91-9811913376 +91-9650568963 Email : event@ies-india.com Web : www.ies-india.com

www.indiabuildtech.com

Buzz

Japanese Architect Arata Isozaki Wins the 2019 Pritzker

A

rata Isozaki – a Japanese architect and planner has been awarded the 2019 Pritzker Architecture Prize. Born in 1931, Isozaki was deeply influenced by the aftermath of World War II and the destruction of his hometown of Ōita, after which he became fascinated by the temporal nature of the built environment.

Isozaki graduated from the Department of Architecture at the University of Tokyo in 1954 and began his career with an apprenticeship under the guidance of 1987 Pritzker Prize Laureate Kenzo Tange.

He established Arata Isozaki & Associates in 1963.

“Isozaki is a pioneer in

Architect Dr Bimal Patel Honoured with the Padma Shri Award

D

r. Bimal Patel, President of CEPT University in Ahmedabad, was honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri Award. Dr. Patel is an architect, urban designer, urban planner and an academician. He has been working in the industry for the past 30 years.

He has designed many award winning projects, including the Aga Khan Academy in Hyderabad, Ahmedabad Management

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Association, Bhuj Development Plan and Town Planning Schemes (post-earthquake), CG Road Redevelopment, Entrepreneurship Development Institute, Gujarat High Court, Himmatnagar Canal front Development, IIM Ahmedabad New Campus, Kankaria Lake Development, Sabarmati Riverfront Development and the Swarnim Sankul.

understanding that the need for architecture is both global and local - that those two forces are part of a single challenge,” wrote Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, Jury Chair in a statement. “For many years, he has been trying to make certain that areas of the world that have long traditions in architecture are not limited to that tradition, but help spread those traditions while simultaneously learning from the rest of the world.”

Isozaki is the eighth Japanese architect to be awarded the prize.

The 2019 awards ceremony will be held in May at the Château de Versailles, which will be followed by a lecture in Paris.

He has also won various prestigious awards, including the Aga Khan Award for Architecture (1992), World Architecture Award (1997), UN Centre for Human Settlements Award of Excellence (1998), Architecture Review High Commendation Award (2001), Prime Minister’s National Award for Excellence in Urban Planning and Design (2003) and the HUDCO Design Award (2013). He is a Diploma in Architecture from the School of Architecture (now CEPT University), and has done Masters in Architecture & Planning and also a PhD in City and Regional Planning from the University of California, Berkeley.

Buzz

Aparna Joins Hands with Craft Holding for Aluminium Exterior Solutions

(From left to right)- Aparna Reddy (Executive Director, Aparna Enterprises Ltd), Ashwin Reddy ( Managing Director, Aparna Enterprises Ltd), Grant Craft (Chairman, Craft Holdings Limited), and Stuart Orr (CEO, Craft Holdings Limited) at the signing of the JV agreement for Aparna-Craft Exteriors Pvt. Ltd in Hyderabad.

C

onstruction and building materials leader, Aparna Enterprises announced its joint venture with Hong Kong based construction solutions provider Craft Holding Ltd. The joint entity will manufacture and retail aluminium exterior solutions under the brand name Aparna-Craft Exteriors Pvt. Ltd. The synergy will witness the brand setting up a manufacturing facility in Bachupally Hyderabad, spread across 50,000 Sq ft, with a production capacity of 0.6 million

Sq ft of curtain walls and aluminium windows per annum initially.

Announcing the joint venture, Ashwin Reddy, Managing Director, Aparna Enterprises Ltd., said, that aluminum exteriors as a market segment has a huge potential owing to rapid urbanisation and infrastructure development across the country. Craft is a leader in this field in many of the geographies across the world and Aparna-Craft Exteriors will thrive to be the one in India. “Indian building façades

Smart Labs 2.0 Exhibition: A display of Design, Technology & Innovation

S

mart Labs, a collaborative collective between rat[LAB] Education & RVS School of Architecture, Chennai, is an integrated programme to introduce computational design techniques, methods, workflows on a 6-month basis. The second batch of Smart Labs culminates in May 2019 as the batch graduates with an open exhibition of their works showcasing design, technology and innovation carried out in the

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6-month part-time programme that takes place in Chennai & New Delhi. Students have developed their studio projects with a focus on advanced architectural design and computational techniques. They have been exploring a number of spatial interventions to create an experiential and experimental space in Chennai. The final exhibition is a reflection of the wide range of tools and techniques the studio explored across the time of 6 months.

and fenestrations is fast growing and is pegged at around 10,000 crores, we are confident that our combined energies will help us to serve this growing opportunity,” added Reddy.

Grant Craft, Chairman, Craft Holdings said that the new partnership will bring their expertise into India and would strengthening their journey to deliver innovative façade solutions across the world. They are also hopeful that the tie-up will give them a strong networking capability and a business foundation and thereby help them realise the façade opportunity in India over the long term.

Aparna-Craft Exterior Pvt. Ltd. will provide customers with complete end-to-end façade solutions right from designing, engineering, production and execution. AparnaCraft will utilise the technology expertise of both companies to produce world-class aluminum façades.

Aparna Enterprises has 29 years long expertise in providing excellent construction and building materials solutions in India and Craft Holdings’ has unmatched façade engineering and fabrication capabilities.

These include optimisation strategies, environmental strategies using computational design, augmented reality, physical computation, introduction to structural optimisation & simulation, evolutionary design tools and building skins and façade. They were also introduced to digital fabrication techniques and had a hands-on experience with laser cutting, CNC milling and 3D printing as they developed prototypes of their projects. The explorations, outputs, ideas and process will be demonstrated through highly stimulating experiential articulations.

More details at: HYPERLINK "http:// www.rat-lab.org/smartlabs" www. rat-lab.org/smartlabs

Buzz

Wienerberger’s Aspect Clay Façade for DMRC Projects

D

elhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will use Aspect Clay Tile, an environmentally friendly façade tile from Wienerberger, for its constructions. DMRC began its first service in 2002, and right from the inception, DMRC, has recognized the need for social and economic credibility and has taken a number of measures to protect the environment and conserve the resources.

DMRC's commitment to the protection of natural resources and efficient use of energy across its construction is what drives its innovation. The organisation always follows green policies like protection of the environment, energy management, water management, waste management, etc. With the onus of implementing the policies and maintaining the structure, DMRC was looking for a façade that was environment-friendly and sustainable and that offers

extensive longevity. Aspect Clay Tiles fitted perfectly into the bill considering its sustainable and long-lasting nature. The tiles were further customised to include a special red glossy finish for the metro line which was a key success in terms of planned look.

Wienerberger’s Aspect Clay Façade is environmentfriendly, sustainable and offers major technical and architectural advantages as façade cladding.

Clay as a building material lasts for generations. A correctly executed façade cladding, with clay façade tiles, is an excellent heat insulator.

Thanks to its mass, ceramic has a high heat buffering capacity. The effect is as good as a building sheathed in a continuous second skin, which minimises heat loss in winter and prevents over-heating during summer.

Monnanda Appaiah, MD, Weinerberger AG, says, “The focus with Delhi Metro was on building a façade that lasts for

generation considering it to be a public utility space. We as a company have always focused on providing building solutions that are visually captivating, aligns with contemporary design and offers maintenance free durability. The speciality of Aspect Clay Tiles is that it also offers architectural or design advantage apart from being environment-friendly and sustainable.

The customised red glossy finish for this metro line makes it look aesthetically appealing.”

Facade and curtain wall systems are of paramount importance when considering issues of green building and sustainable design.

It becomes imperative for a building construction specialist to understand the importance of improving the performance and sustainability of the building envelope.

The regular high environmental cost façade often leads to increased energy consumption.

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