Volume 2 | Issue 5 May - June 2020
FACE TO FACE Jeroen Kortekaas, Head of Architecture, Bluehaus Group
FAÇADE & FENESTRATION INDUSTRY: INNOVATIONS, CHALLENGES & WAY FORWARD Experts’ views on current situation, the innovations and the future opportunities in façade & fenestration industry
INDUSTRY SPEAKS Mayank Sharma, Technical Specification Manager, Siderise Insulation
System solutions for every
building type Sustainable solutions for every building. Together with our network of partners, architects, specifiers and investors, Schßco delivers tailored products for newbuilds and renovations, designed to meet individual user needs in all climate zones. Everyone involved is supported with a comprehensive range of services at every stage of the construction process. Windows, doors and façade solutions from Schßco meet the highest requirements in terms of design, comfort and security, whilst simultaneously reducing CO2 www.schueco.ae
PREFACE Post COVID-19: The Impact on Construction Industry in the Middle East The performance of the façade and fenestration industry is directly proportional to the performance of the construction industry. If there is any fluctuation in the construction industry, it becomes the major reason that causes the ups and downs in the façade and fenestration industry. Most of the countries in the Middle East region announced the lockdowns to protect the lives of their citizens. The projects put on hold or are delaying because of this pandemic. Contractors are facing delays in project budgets because of the strict lockdown measures and social distancing that has resulted in low productivity. Due to the logistic problems, it is taking more time to source the materials for the projects than the usual time. Social distancing and maintaining hygiene has become a new normal for everyone. Many doors and windows manufacturers are expanding their product portfolios and introducing the products having sensor-based technologies for opening and closing. Automation is gaining momentum and software technologies demand is increasing in the construction segment. This edition’s cover story is focusing on the current technological trends, the challenges the industry is facing, and the way forward for the façade and fenestration industry in the Middle East. Apart from this, there are some case studies, interviews, and a few articles authored by experts on various topics of façade & fenestration. We would also like to inform you that we have started doing the webinars for the Middle East audience after conducting a successful series of webinars for the Indian region. We did our first webinar for the Middle East region on 7th July on “Designing and Building High-Rise & Ventilated Rainscreen Façades”, powered by Fischer Middle East. We were impressed by the tremendous response we got for this webinar and now we are planning to do a few more in the next coming days. Please write to us to share your feedback and suggestions at editorial@wfmmedia.com. You can also suggest some article topics that you would like to read, we will try to bring the articles on those topics for you. Team WFM
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CONTENTS Covid-19 Effect on the Architectural Segment in the Middle East
9
Ghaith Albezreh, Lead Architect, Consultant HSS
Solutions to Make the World a Greener Place Homayoun Navid, Sales Agent, Energy Glass
All About Façade Access
Mohamed Merchant, Associate Director, TÜV SÜD Dunbar Boardman
18
Harout Taghilian, Senior Acoustic Engineer, Ramboll Middle East
Façade & Fenestration Industry: Innovations, Challenges & Way Forward
22
Face to Face
Jeroen Kortekaas, Head of Architecture, Bluehaus Group
Industry Speaks
Mayank Sharma, Technical Specification Manager, Siderise Insulation
50
14
Flanking Sound Transmission between Adjacent Dwelling Units through the Façade
Cover Story
38
4
Case Study Innovative Façade Materials on Buildings in Iran
44
Behzad Atabaki, Founder, Behzad Atabaki Studio and BonnArq Architects Front & Back Cover Courtesy: Shutterstock
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Shefali Bisht shefali@wfm.co.in 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.
COVID-19 AND ARCHITECTURE Covid-19 Effect on the Architectural Segment in the Middle East
Ghaith Albezreh Lead Architect, Consultant HSS About the Author: Ghaith Albezreh is the lead architect at Consultant HSS, with a Master of Arts degree in Architecture and Urban Design from FH Potsdam (Germany) with 17+ years of experience in Germany and the Middle East. Ghaith tends to perfectly mix his solid practical experience and deep academic knowledge to achieve the best results in designing architectural solutions. During his career, he has managed and delivered many complex architectural and construction projects from concept to completion. All that contributed to a track record of achievements and prizes in Europe and ME. He has a huge passion for arts and design in general, especially urban design, adopting green, sustainable innovative futuristic vision.
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In the last decade, globalisation was leading us to a new world map. People, companies, and governments were adapting their lifestyles, processes, and regulations allowing stronger interaction, connectivity, and integration worldwide. The rapidness of the changes brought into our lives made us overlook how tightly coupled with our world became. This year, shortly after celebrating the start of the new decade, an unprecedented wave of uncertainty hits the whole world. No one could have predicted the power, spread, or the impact of the Coronavirus. Now, it became crystal clear how seriously the Coronavirus pandemic has affected our lives. It is not the first time in human history where diseases spread challenged humanity and our existence. Diseases always kept shaping our living environment where architects and engineers were under pressure to address and handle such danger to mankind. Cities and buildings were often redesigned and re-engineered to adapt
to increased understanding of minimising and stopping diseases spread e.g. the introduction of the sewerage network system in London and applying new zoning regulations, as an impact of cholera in the 19th century. It is the commitment of architects to react and come up with innovative ideas during such moments, which saved humanity from countless waves of disease spreads. COVID 19 quarantine and curfew measures forced people to isolate themselves at their accommodations keeping a social distance. This led to a dramatic change in their daily routine, habits, and lifestyle. Whether in private spaces, semi-private spaces like Offices or public spaces many found themselves in a challenge by the new situation. At the private space level, homes have become our workplaces, gym, schools, kindergartens
ŠOtto Herschan/Getty
Joseph Bazalgette (top right) at the northern outfall sewer being built below London’s Abbey Mills pumping station
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Mejiro Studio + Kozo Kadowaki / open garden terrace to enhance light and space quality
and playgrounds, all of that at the same place. People started for the first time recognising the importance of new aspects in their private spaces. They have experienced the pros and cons of different perspectives. Like noticing the light and shadow in their apartments and its influence on their energy and work attitude. The need of having external spaces at their reach to get fresh air like a terrace, balcony, courtyard, or small garden. They reevaluate the vital role of space utilisation, light, green design, and smart technology in bringing quality and safety for their families.
Smart office solution to control, light, AC, Curtain, and CCTV
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Dubai World Trade Centre converted into a field hospital with a capacity to treat 3,000 Covid-19 patients
The new apartments’ layout needs to be introduced, allowing higher flexibility, and adapting new construction methods like using adjustable walls and separators. This would enable repartitioning an open plan apartment into various dedicated spaces, the new layout should consider having work and learning areas utilised with sound isolation setups, and separated entrance to introduce a level of sanitation. This would allow keeping our shoes, tools, and shopping bags from contaminating our private space.
Innovative and bold ideas are required to enable multi-tasking spaces in small areas. For example, flexibility in transforming the space for eating to a home-office space and vice versa. Another challenging topic is finding solutions for low cost and high-density residential and labour complexes. Such environments are usually overpopulated which makes it hard to control and stop the spread of the viruses. Businesses and offices were severely affected by COVID-19. Offices supporting higher interaction and connectivity were accidentally helping the virus to spread. As a result, most companies had to close their offices and apply remote work procedures, leaving large areas not utilised despite the cost. During this pandemic more awareness about the necessity of keeping social distancing started to raise. Many questions here to be addressed, how can the Office layout fulfil new quotas or regulations about allowing employees per square meter? Should the office area be larger, allowing the
dedicated isolated workstation to each employee? Or smaller, adapting remote work procedures as the core model. For the first model, the high cost needs to be considered, while on the second model the productivity and feasibility of online remote work to be proved. A third model that combines both can provide solutions for both cost and efficiency problems. In the future offices, many aspects will be reviewed and restructured e.g. sanitised entrances with temperature scanning, Lifts’ sizes and numbers, traditional waiting areas, meeting rooms’ layout, additional hand washing units, self-cleaning bathrooms, antibacterial fabrics and finishing along with reducing of flat surfaces e.g. using copper instead of stainless steel. Installing ventilation systems that allow filtering and disinfecting air contamination, especially in the air-conditioned working environment. Additionally, offices need to be equipped with contactless activated security doors and elevators Dubai’s latest rooftop experience, developed in response to Covid-19, is a drive-in cinema at Mall of the Emirates
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using voice commands or face recognition. Smart technology and IoT devices to control office environments like light switches, AC temperature, and curtains. One fact that we must admit, the world will not be the same as before COVID-19 in terms of gatherings and usage of large public spaces. Malls, airports, schools, gardens, theatres, operas, fitness studios, and even warship houses and temples would be affected. We should be innovative enough to find new solutions, allowing people to use these spaces safely while keeping the recommended measures and required distancing. This is important as the spiritual and human experience in such places is irreplaceable and should not lose its value and quality. Attending gatherings like sports events, concerts or prayers cannot simply be virtualised. During the pandemic, we have all witnessed the crash of the health system in many countries under the massive pressure and huge numbers of infected patients. Our health system and its facilities were and will always be the first defence line to such pandemic. Therefore, this should get extra consideration. The learned lesson is that we need architectural mechanisms to accommodate the high numbers that arise under such a pandemic. A solution
German studio Opposite Office proposes plan to convert unfinished airport into a ‘super hospital’ in Berlin airport
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would be introducing modular constructions and prefabricated modules that had been increasingly common. These modules can be used in converting halls, squares, open areas, or public buildings to an emergency temporary hospitals and infection treatment stations. Architects and city planners need to face future overpopulation problems by targeting horizontal expansion instead of a vertical one. Bringing more concepts and ideas to support normal life continuity during exceptional circumstances. Introducing green architectural elements and lifestyle like more space for using bicycles and sports in the fresh air. Upgrade infrastructure to empower sustainable development and futuristic smart cities. Such a great example is the continuous efforts taken by the Emirate’s government as one of the pioneer governments in the world, which proved itself against this pandemic and acted in a very wise, smooth, agile, and an effective way to handle the situation. COVID-19 challenged all of us, but I always believed that challenges are the main motivation for the human to rise and reach higher levels of achievements and at this time I am firmly positive and optimistic about the ability of architecture facing such situation and creating a healthier greener smarter environment for the new generation.
PHOTOVOLTAIC GLASS Solutions to Make the World a Greener Place
Homayoun Navid Sales Agent, Energy Glass About the Author: Homayoun Navid is currently working with Energy Diamond Company as the Middle East exclusive sales agent of Energy Glass company, Italy. His interest is in making all buildings with sustainability materials. The company has over 70 years of experience in the field of glass worldwide and provides its best experience. The scope of this company is based on various dimensions in the glass industry, including glass faรงades, energy glass, BIPV glass, solar glass, decorative glass, etc. Navid interest is to make all buildings with sustainability materials.
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BAPV is used to refer to photovoltaics that is a retrofit - integrated into the building after construction is complete
PHOTOVOLTAIC GLASS
into the building after construction is complete.
Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are photovoltaic materials that are used to replace conventional building materials in parts of the building envelope such as the roof, skylights, or façades. They are increasingly being incorporated into the construction of new buildings as a principal or ancillary source of electrical power, although existing buildings may be retrofitted with similar technology.
Most building-integrated installations are BAPV. Some manufacturers and builders differentiate the new construction BIPV from BAPV.
The advantage of integrated photovoltaics over more common non-integrated systems is that the initial cost can be offset by reducing the amount spent on building materials and labour that would normally be used to construct the part of the building that the BIPV modules replace. These advantages make BIPV one of the fastest-growing segments of the photovoltaic industry. The term buildingapplied photovoltaics (BAPV) is sometimes used to refer to photovoltaics that is a retrofit – integrated
In the 1980s, photovoltaic module add-ons to roofs began being demonstrated. These PV systems were usually installed on a utility-grid-connected building in areas with centralised power stations. In the 1990s, BIPV construction products specially designed to be integrated into a building envelope became commercially available.
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PV applications for buildings began appearing in the 1970s. Aluminium-framed photovoltaic modules were connected to or mounted on, buildings that were usually in remote areas without access to an electric power grid.
A 1998 doctoral thesis by Patrina Eiffert, entitled An Economic Assessment of BIPV, hypothesized that
and integration with high-density urban design. These authors suggest enabling long-term use likely depends on effective public policy decisions as much as technological development. TYPES OF BIPV PRODUCTS • Crystalline silicon solar panels for groundbased and rooftop power plant • Amorphous crystalline silicon thin-film solar PV modules which could be hollow, light, red blue yellow, as glass curtain wall and transparent skylight • CIGS-based (Copper Indium Gallium Selenide) thin-film cells on flexible modules laminated to the building envelope element or the CIGS cells are mounted directly onto the building envelope substrate • Double glass solar panels with square cells inside
BIPVs are used to replace conventional building materials in parts of the building envelope such as the roof, skylights, or façades PV applications for buildings began appearing in the 1970s
one day there would an economic value for trading Renewable Energy Credits (RECs). A 2011 economic assessment and a brief overview of the history of BIPV by the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory suggests that there may be significant technical challenges to overcome before the installed cost of BIPV is competitive with photovoltaic panels. However, there is a growing consensus that through their widespread commercialisation, BIPV systems will become the backbone of the zero energy building (ZEB) European target for 2020. Despite the technical promise, social barriers to widespread use have also been identified, such as the conservative culture of the building industry
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BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES • Flat Roofs: The most widely installed to date is an amorphous thin-film solar cell integrated to a flexible polymer module which has been attached to the roofing membrane using an adhesive sheet between the solar module back sheet and the roofing membrane. (Clarification needed) Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) technology is now able to deliver cell efficiency of 17% as produced by a US-based company and comparable building-integrated module efficiencies in TPO single-ply membranes by the fusion of these cells by a UK-based company. • Pitched Roofs: Solar roof tiles are (ceramic) roof tiles with integrated solar modules. The ceramic solar roof tile is developed and patented by a Dutch company in 2012. • Modules shaped like multiple roof tiles. • Solar shingles are modules designed to look and act like regular shingles while incorporating a flexible thin-film cell. • It extends normal roof life by protecting insulation and membranes from ultraviolet rays and water degradation. It does this by eliminating condensation because the dew point is kept above the roofing membrane.
• Metal pitched roofs (both structural and architectural) are now being integrated with PV functionality either by bonding a freestanding flexible module or by heat and vacuum sealing of the CIGS cells directly onto the substrate. • Façade: Façades can be installed on existing buildings, giving old buildings a whole new look. These modules are mounted on the façade of the building, over the existing structure, which can increase the appeal of the building and its resale value. • Glazing: Photovoltaic windows are semitransparent modules that can be used to replace many architectural elements commonly made with glass or similar materials, such as windows and skylights. In addition to producing electric energy, these can create further energy savings due to superior thermal insulation properties and solar radiation control. ADVANTAGES OF PHOTOVOLTAIC GLASS • Electricity produced by solar cells is clean and silent. Because they do not use fuel other than sunshine, PV systems do not release any harmful air or water pollution into the environment, deplete natural resources, or endanger animals or human health.
Photovoltaic windows are semitransparent modules that can be used to replace many architectural elements commonly made with glass
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• Photovoltaic systems are quiet and visually unobtrusive. • Small-scale solar plants can take advantage of unused space on rooftops of existing buildings. • PV cells were originally developed for use in space, where repair is extremely expensive, if not impossible. PV still powers nearly every satellite circling the earth because it operates reliably for long periods with virtually no maintenance. • Solar energy is a locally available renewable resource. It does not need to be imported from other regions of the country or across the
world. This reduces the environmental impacts associated with transportation and also reduces our dependence on imported oil. And, unlike fuels that are mined and harvested, when we use solar energy to produce the electricity we do not deplete or alter the resource. • A PV system can be constructed to any size based on energy requirements. Furthermore, the owner of a PV system can enlarge or move it if his or her energy needs change. For instance, homeowners can add modules every few years as their energy usage and financial resources grow. Ranchers can use mobile trailer-mounted pumping systems to water cattle as the cattle are rotated to different fields.
PV system can be constructed to any size based on energy requirements
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FAÇADE ACCESS All About Façade Access
Mohamed Merchant Associate Director, TÜV SÜD Dunbar Boardman About the Author: Mohamed Merchant is an Associate Director at TÜV SÜD Dunbar Boardman, Europe’s leading elevator, escalator and access consultancy. Operating throughout Europe, the Middle East and India, TÜV SÜD Dunbar Boardman is part of TÜV SÜD, one of the world’s leading technical service providers, which has more than 24,000 employees located across over 1,000 locations. He has 20 years’ experience in mechanical engineering, including 19 years in the façade access industry. During this time, he has designed and delivered façade access strategies and systems for major developments within the UK, Europe and the Middle East, including high-rise residential and commercial office developments, retail centres, refurbishment projects, hotels, hospitals and historic buildings.
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IMPORTANCE OF FAÇADE ACCESS Architecture is constantly evolving with increasingly challenging building envelopes and maintainability is one of the key aspects when detailing the iconic façade. Practical, economical and effective maintenance of the façade is a prime concern in the overall design concept. The development of a façade access solution is a long-term process and the building maintenance strategy will be in place for the life of the building. Façade cleaning and maintenance has also evolved, using bespoke systems blended within the tight operating space whilst meeting the everincreasing demand for replacing façade panels and plant components during the service life of the development. Façade access is highly specialised and niche industry with very limited expertise on global scale and sector-wide experience within the construction industry.
DESIGN IMPLEMENTATION OF FAÇADE ACCESS SYSTEMS Façade maintenance varies from regular cleaning of the glazing to significant replacement of failed panels. Once the options to avoid working at height, set out in the working at height hierarchy, have been exhausted, then façade access equipment, whether it is temporary or permanently installed on the building can be employed to achieve the required access. Operatives are exposed to the hazard of falling from height. This may happen when: • Safe access points in and around the FAE are not considered • Structural failure • Accidental tipping when the FAE snags on building façade • Exposed to the hazard while installing the system or while maintaining the system
Façade access is a highly specialised and niche industry
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โ ข Risk to general public in the vicinity of the FAE i.e. hazard of being struck by falling objects The options for access are from the top down or bottom up. For low rise developments, up to 40m, Mobile Aerial Work platforms can be employed providing sufficient consideration is given to the landscaping to allow the machines area to work. Above this level top down building maintenance units (BMUs) come into their own. At one time the roof was the preserve of MEP and the space required for a BMU was easily found at the edge of the roof, this allowed smaller lighter machines to be employed for access to the faรงades. As roofs evolved to become either the 5th elevation or communal spaces with terraces, gardens and penthouses the competition for floor area meant that the traditional areas available became more constrained. This frequently led to a longer reach single BMU located on the core of the building leaving the perimeters free and unobstructed. These machines are larger and heavier but with the load borne by the strongest part of the building. Regardless of the position of the BMU on the roof building, coverage can be a particular problem on buildings with complex faรงades. Twisting facades create problems of their own and sky bridges create a similar dead area as balconies. Counterweighted
Working BMU scissor lift
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cradles for underhanging areas, separate systems for inset areas will add weight and cost to the machines or additional systems to the building. The challenges caused by complicated facades become magnified when adding glass replacement into the equation. GLASS REPLACEMENT An increasingly common option is to use the BMU to replace the glazing or other sections of the faรงade with the facility of an auxiliary hoist in addition to the cradle for the operatives. (Note: Total suspended load on glass lifting winch is limited to 1 ton as per BS EN 1808). The reality is that once glass has been installed it will generally last beyond the lifetime of the building unless subjected to an external force. After practical completion of a building the breaking of individual panes of glass is relatively rare with instances of warranty failure being a more likely reason for panels to be replaced. In some instances, glazing panels are replaced internally (due to internal beading or within balcony zones) however the panel is delivered externally due to restricted lift or lobby sizes. Clear operating zone will be required for transporting glazing manipulator within the building to the location where replacement is required.
BMU glass fitting
FAÇADE LOADINGS In general operation the cradle of the BMU will lightly touch the façade unless an external force is placed upon it. In normal operation the only external force will be the wind. The use of the cradle is limited by the wind speed. In general, the equipment shouldn’t be used if the wind speed is likely to exceed 12m/s (25 mph) this equates to a Force 6 (strong breeze) on the Beaufort scale. On the weather side of the building, suspended platform will be held against the façade and the wind loading will be the same. On the lee side, the cradle is shielded from the wind. The building sides have the most risk, but the suspended platform is presented end on with its smallest profile. The lee corners of the building can be the worse points as a rotor. Solar shading fins, louvers and brise soleil can also pose problems with the loads on them being localised STRUCTURAL LOADING The effects of ‘in-service’ and ‘fall arrest’ (overload / overspeed / accidental) loads imposed upon the
building structure from the operation and storage of façade access equipment are significant and should be coordinated with the structural engineers throughout the design process. Load paths through the structure should be accounted for when evaluating the reactions of the façade access systems in all its operational and stored positions when fully loaded. Equipment connections to the structure should be welded, bolted, or cast in place. The attachment method should be defined during early design stages so that correct provision to periodic inspect of the fixings are integrated within the roof finish. Safety and stability factors are determined by local codes and industry standards and should be incorporated in the design calculations of the access equipment and building structure. This is particularly important for steel structures due to the possibility of beam torsion and the necessity of additional reinforcing steel in those areas. BS EN 1808 recommends the BMU specific factors be applied to the design loads for the superstructure.
Equipment connections to the structure should be welded, bolted, or cast in place
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ACOUSTICS Flanking Sound Transmission between Adjacent Dwelling Units through the Faรงade
Harout Taghilian Senior Acoustic Engineer, Ramboll Middle East About the Author: Harout Taghilian holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics and a Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control. He started his career in Noise and Vibration Engineering in 2013 in Lebanon. In 2018, he moved to Dubai to work at Ramboll. After obtaining his Diploma with distinction and having more than five years of work experience, he was professionally registered with the British Engineering Council as an Incorporated Engineer through the Institute of Acoustics. Throughout his career, Harout worked on numerous projects in Lebanon and throughout the Middle East region providing solutions for different kinds of acoustic problems. His expertise covers a wide range of building acoustics and environmental noise control projects. Harout is currently working as a senior acoustic engineer at Ramboll Middle East, specialising in Noise and Vibration Control Engineering.
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As the world’s population increases, multifamily dwellings must be constructed to accommodate higher densities. Due to the increasing world population, many people are living in multistory apartment buildings. Noise from adjacent neighbors can adversely affect the comfort of the residents. Accordingly, it is important to control noise transmission between dwelling units by specifying suitable constructions.
• Ceilings
Different countries have different regulations/ minimum code standards when it comes to sound insulation between multifamily dwellings. Walls and floors should be designed so that adequate airborne and impact sound insulation is provided.
It is not economical to select acoustically high performing partitions and later inadvertently short circuit their efficiency by having flanking sound transmission. Accordingly, it is important that different design disciplines are coordinated during the early stages of the design and pay close attention to proper detailing to avoid any retrofitting and noise complaints when the building is occupied.
The major reasons for noise complaints in multifamily dwellings are due to lightweight building structure, poor acoustical design, and poor quality of workmanship. It is a good design practice to select wall systems that are reliable and easy to construct to reduce issues during construction. Achieving adequate sound insulation between dwelling does not just depend on the selection of the wall type but also the proper detailing and installation of the partition. The focus of this article will be on airborne sound transmission and specifically on flanking sound transmission through the façade junction. Manufacturers and suppliers typically provide the sound insulation performance of their products as a laboratory Rw/STC value. It is important to understand the difference between a laboratory tested partition (Rw/STC value) and an on-site tested partition (DnT,w/ASTC value). When tested under controlled conditions in a laboratory, the partition is installed in an optimum way without typical flanking paths present. In reality, when a partition is installed on-site a reduction in acoustic performance can be expected due to flanking sound, penetrations (electrical outlets, mechanical services penetrations, etc.) and workmanship. Flanking is a description of the sound that passes around a sound insulating wall or floor by indirect paths (rather than directly through an intervening partition), and it can drastically reduce the on-site level of the sound insulation. Examples of common flanking paths include:
• Mullions • Transoms • Raised floor access • Penetrations
One of the common overlooked flanking sound transmission between adjacent dwellings is via the connection between the internal partition and the exterior façade.
Interior partitions separating different dwelling units will eventually meet an exterior wall. Ideally, the wall should join the exterior façade with solid construction so that the acoustical performance is maintained. However, we often see that this is not the case where the internal walls intersect at a façade mullion. The issue with such an interface is that the exterior mullions are constructed from thin, hollow, aluminum extrusions which have very little mass and are therefore a “weak” acoustic link. This is shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1: Flanking sound transmission through the façade - Typical example
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In a recent project, we conducted field sound insulation tests to investigate the sound insulation of a partition separating adjacent dwelling units with and without treating the flanking sound transmission through the façade mullion. The tests were carried out between the same rooms to check the improvement of the façade mullion treatment.
Figure 2: Typical details for treating flanking via the mullion
To reduce flanking sound transmission, the mullion should be covered with additional layers of plasterboard, FC sheet, or heavy metal. Figure 2 shows a typical detail for such a treatment. The number of plasterboard layers on each side of the mullion will depend on the Rw/STC requirement of the dividing wall. It is important that the glazing is not continuous across the wall line between spaces and that a break is provided. Another issue is when the internal partitions do not align with the façade mullions. This is not ideal from an acoustic point of view and additional measures to be provided to reduce flanking sound transmission. This has to be looked at on a case by case basis in coordination with a professional acoustical consultant. In addition to horizontal flanking sound transmission, vertical flanking sound transmission should also be controlled. Usually, in high-rise constructions, the exterior curtain walls are supported from the edge of the floor slab, and because of the gap left between the floor slab and the external façade, there is flanking sound transmission. Again, this problem can be avoided by proper design and coordination between the façade designer and the acoustical consultant.
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After covering the façade mullion with additional layers of plasterboard and insulation, the airborne sound insulation increased from Dntw (C,Ctr)=40 (-2;-5) dB (without treating the mullion) to Dntw (C,Ctr)=51 (-2;-8) dB. If we look at Dnt,w +Ctr value (which the Dubai Green Building Regulations requirement is based on), we can see that the performance increased from 35 dB (40-5) to 43 dB (51-8). But what does this 8 dB improvement mean in terms of subjective perception? The subjective response for variation of sound pressure level has been investigated for a group of people and the results are summarised in the table below. Looking at Table 1 we can see that by only treating the façade mullion, the perceived loudness of the noise is almost halved.
Change in Sound Level (dB)
Change in Apparent Loudness
3
Just perceptible
5
Clearly noticeable
10
Half or twice as loud
20
Much quieter or louder Table 1: Subjective effect of changes in sound pressure level
CONCLUSION People are becoming more and more demanding for acoustic privacy in their homes especially when a person is purchasing a permanent home rather than renting an apartment. To minimise annoying disturbances caused by noise transmission between dwelling units or between noise-sensitive areas, architects and designers must have a general knowledge of the principles of sound transmission and provide proper design to mitigate any noise issues. As seen from the test results discussed earlier, paying attention to a small detailing increased the acoustic privacy significantly. We are living in times where designers must pay adequate attention to acoustical comfort. During the design stage, there are several options for controlling noise transmission and some options may be rejected due to the requirements of different disciplines. It is during this stage where other options can be discussed, designed, and implemented on-site. It should be noted that in addition to noise transmission between dwelling, attention shall be paid to intrusive noise (aircraft and road traffic, recreational noise, etc.), MEP noise and vibration, and impact noise which are other sources of noise complaints in multi-storey apartment buildings. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Correcting a noise problem after construction usually costs much more than preventing one. The real costs don’t only include the material cost for the retrofitting but also loss of reputation, public confidence, and the time required for coordinating and retrofitting (especially if the rooms are already occupied by tenants). TERMINOLOGY USED IN THIS ARTICLE CAN BE FOUND BELOW Apparent Sound Transmission Class (ASTC): Apparent sound insulation of a partition separating two spaces. All sound transmission, including any flanking sound transmission, is ascribed to the partition. The actual transmission loss of the
partition (measured in an acoustic laboratory) will usually be higher than the apparent transmission loss. Sound Reduction Index (R) And Spectrum Adaption Term Ctr: The sound reduction index (or transmission loss) of a building element is a measure of the loss of sound through the material, i.e. its attenuation properties. It is a property of the component, unlike the sound level difference which is affected by the common area between the rooms and the acoustic of the receiving room. The weighted sound reduction index, Rw, is a single figure description of the sound reduction index which is defined in BS EN ISO 717-1: 2013. The Rw is calculated from measurements in an acoustic laboratory. Sound insulation ratings derived from the site (which are invariably lower than the laboratory figures) are referred to as the R’w ratings. Ctr is a spectrum adaption term to account for lowfrequency noise (Ctr). Sound Level Difference (D): The sound insulation between two spaces may be expressed by the sound level difference needed between them. A single figure descriptor, the weighted sound level difference, Dw, is sometimes used (see BS EN ISO 717-1). This parameter is not adjusted to reference conditions. The standardised level difference, DnT, is a measure of the difference in sound level between two rooms, in a given frequency band, where the reverberation time in the receiving room has been normalised to 0.5 s. This parameter measures all transmission paths, including flanking paths. The weighted standardised level difference, DnT,w, is a measure of the difference in sound level between two rooms, which characterises a range of frequencies and is normalised to a reference reverberation time. Sound Transmission Class (STC): The sound transmission class is a widely used American rating for a building partition’s isolation value based on laboratory measurement. It is a single number rating calculated in accordance with Classification ASTM E413 using values of sound transmission loss. It provides an estimate of the performance of a partition in certain common sound insulation problems.
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COVER STORY Façade & Fenestration Industry: Innovations, Challenges & Way Forward Façade and fenestration industry is a technology-driven industry and innovations keep on happening in this industry. In today’s time, making sustainable buildings is the topmost trend in the construction segment, which is increasing the demand for sustainable and environmentally-friendly façade & fenestration solutions and technologies. Automation is another trend that has revolutionised the façade & fenestration industry. Being one of the largest industries in the Middle East, façade & fenestration industry offers huge opportunities as well as more challenges. The COVID-19 breakdown has brought a tough time for the construction industry, which has a direct effect on the façade & fenestration segment. But, it has also opened a door for innovations to make the buildings hygienic. Automation can play a vital role in achieving the hygienic aspect. In this cover story, we interviewed eminent personalities from the industry and presented their thoughts to know about the important trends, current challenges, and opportunities in the façade and the fenestration industry.
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CONTRIBUTION OF FAÇADE & FENESTRATION TO THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF BUILDINGS Belarmino Cordero, Technical Director of Façades, AESG believes, if we focus first on operative energy, the envelope plays a role in controlling the heat exchange between the external and the internal environments.
Belarmino Cordero Technical Director of Façades, AESG
Vivek Chavan Head of Projects, Sobha Groups (Dubai)
Ideally, the energy optimisation of a building should start at the beginning of the design process in coordination with the architect. Bioclimatic principles such as optimising building massing (minimum envelope surface for maximum building volume), adjusting the percentage glazing or shading for each orientation has a large potential to reduce energy consumption for less cost but can only be integrated with the design early on. He adds, from a system design perspective, appropriate performance targets should be specified on the parameters affecting energy transfer through the envelope - solar radiation, thermal resistance, and air infiltration. This shall contribute to minimise the energy required to condition the building. A step further can be taken through systems such as photovoltaics, which can be integrated within the façades or roofs to positively contribute by generating energy. According to Vivek Chavan, Head of Projects, Sobha Groups (Dubai), there are two ways façade and fenestration can contribute to the energy efficiency of buildings, which are: 1) Climate-based design methods for high-performance façades • Orienting and developing geometry and massing of the building to respond to the solar position • Providing solar shading to control cooling loads and improve thermal comfort
Douglas Sum Associate (Façade Service Group Leader), Aurecon
©Aurecon
International Tower, Abu Dhabi
• Using natural ventilation to enhance air quality and reduce cooling loads
©Aurecon
Jumeira Al Naseem, UAE
• Minimising energy used for artificial lighting and mechanical cooling and heating by optimising exterior wall insulation and the use of daylighting 2) Climate type design strategies for sustainable façades: Heating-dominated climates, coolingdominated climates & mixed climate Douglas Sum, Associate (Façade Service Group Leader), Aurecon notes that energy efficiency has become a very important feature in buildings in today's time. Glass plays a vital role in making the building energy-efficient. Using the right glass for the façade system creates a big difference and achieving the energy efficiency targets of the buildings. The glass allows natural light in the interiors of the building hence reducing the need for artificial lighting. SUSTAINABLE AND EFFICIENT FAÇADE/ FENESTRATION AND ITS KEY FEATURES Cordero explains that sustainability is a broad concept and reducing the operational energy of
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a building is only a part of the whole picture. For a building to be truly sustainable, it is necessary to adopt circular economy fundamentals: The procurement should look at sourcing materials that are abundant or can regenerate. The process for their extraction, manufacture, transportation, and installation should require as little energy as possible. The systems should be designed and maintained for the longest design life possible to extract the maximum value from them and consider decommissioning at the end of the service life to recover and regenerate products and materials. Chavan says, the façade system delivers the greatest performance to the building owner and occupants when it becomes an essential element of a fully integrated building design. This work examines the growing interest in incorporating advanced glazing elements into a more comprehensive façade and building systems in a manner that increases comfort, productivity, and amenity for occupants reduces operating costs for building owners and contributes to improving the health of the planet by reducing overall energy use and environmental impacts.
Key Parameters of Sustainable and Efficient Façades • Orientation and fenestration: The orientation of a building determines its exposure to sunlight. Since the angle of the earth relative to the sun varies throughout the year and the sun moves across the sky during the day, solar exposure on a façade is continually changing. Strategies for controlling solar heat gain depending on the building’s orientation. • Material selection: Material selection is an important factor in designing sustainable façades. Improving the thermal performance of building envelopes and minimising thermal bridging are extremely important design strategies for sustainable façades. Thermal bridging within a wall occurs where a highly conductive material, such as metal support, penetrates the façade’s insulation layer. Thermal bridging can occur in all types of façades. • Heat and moisture movement: Heat transfer through façades follows a basic principle of physics: heat flows from higher to lower temperatures. This takes place through one or more of the processes that include conduction (heat flows between two façade materials in contact with each other), convection (heat is conveyed by air currents within the façade), radiation (heat flows as electromagnetic energy through materials and air spaces within the façade), air leakage (heat is conveyed by air passing through the façade).
Sum opines that when one is designing the façade, the energy model should be taken into consideration to have the most optimum impact on the energy consumption in the building. The second thing that can make the façade sustainable includes using recyclable products and incorporating environmentally friendly products to bring sustainable buildings ADVANCEMENTS IN THE FAÇADE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES The building industry is behind other industries in terms of innovation, but that is precisely why there is now great potential for improvement in
• Thermal comfort: Thermal comfort is defined as “that condition of mind which expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment”. Since it is a condition of mind, comfort is inherently based on one’s experience and perception; there are large variations in physiological and psychological responses for different individuals. Six primary variables affect thermal comfort are: air temperature, air movement, humidity, mean radiant temperature, occupants’ metabolic rate, and occupants’ clothing. While each of these variables can be separately measured, the human body responds to them holistically. These in turn are significantly influenced by the construction of the glazing units, the material properties of the glass, and the effectiveness of shading elements used with the window. • Daylight: When considering daylight and visual comfort, designers need to consider illumination levels, daylight distribution, and protection against direct sunlight and glare. The integration of building systems is also important, since façades, lighting, shading elements, HVAC systems, and building controls need to function together to have the largest effect on building performance. Translucent glazing materials can be used to provide filtered, uniform, and glare-free daylight. By combining transparent vision glass at eye level with translucent glass above and below, designers can enhance the daylighting while giving occupants views to the outside. Vivek Chavan, Head of Projects, Sobha Groups (Dubai)
efficiency, sustainability, and quality. Encouraging advancements are being made in the development of new materials, construction processes, and artificial intelligence applications, says Cordero. Chavan says, buildings are capable of producing up to 33% of carbon emissions, because of which architects are striving towards designing smart façades that are energy efficient. A façade is like a “barrier” between the habitual spaces and the outside environment and most of the energy transfer (heat/cold) takes place through it. Smart façades should be sustainable and its most important criteria are that it should be material and energy-efficient i.e. the façades should consume
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or release the least amount of energy to maintain comfort in the interiors. The three design parameters for biomimetic smart façades are air/ wind, shade, and the climate which relates to thermal and visual comfort. Apart from these, an energy-efficient façade should also take into consideration factors like solar radiation, wind speed, and humidity. To help designers inculcate nature into the design, a software known as Bio TRIZ converts data analysis from biology into technology. Using this, architects designed a roofing system inspired by a honeycomb that reduced the heat transfer by allowing longer wave radiations to pass vertically through the open pores of the comb and drastically reducing the surface temperature. Panel warp analysis
Chavan adds, solar panels are also an example of biomimicry as they are termed as “artificial leaves” that convert the radiation of the sun for human use and renewable energy, just like the leaves of a tree. Another interesting adaptation of the properties of a “leaf” called the Oxalis oregana, which has the capability of tracking the path of the sun and changing its angle, consequently, has been seen in responsive façades that reduce energy load and can also be applied to existing highly glazed buildings by retrofitting. Thermo-bimetals are alloys which contains two separate metals layered on top of each other. Developed by the combination of steel and copper, this product is capable of bending or reshaping itself when exposing to sunlight, ultimately to provide shade without using electricity. The sheet of this thermo-bimetal has many cuts and fenestrations that provide adequate ventilation by capturing the hot air as it rises and releasing it outside. A one-of-a-kind material that can operate on its own to provide shade, light, and air, designed to function in a hot climate, it is an incredibly smart product ready to be explored in all capacities. According to Sum, designing more energyefficient façade system and window installations in a way that makes the buildings use natural light and provide thermal comfort to the occupants are the major advancements. Another advancement is the addition of dynamic elements, for example the roofs can be programmed to open to get the fresh air inside the building and at the same, the shading can be adjusted automatically. PREFERRED FAÇADE/FENESTRATION MATERIALS
©AESG
Cordero believes that it should vary project by project depending on the specific priorities in the brief. The architectural aspirations, energy targets, budget, fire requirements, etc. will weigh in differently on each project. Where possible, the material selection should take advantage of the local resources, manufacturing capabilities, and the lessons learned from local vernacular architecture. According to Chavan, the preferred materials are glass façades, aluminium composite cladding, solid aluminium sheet cladding, honey-comb cladding, UPVC doors & window system, and ceramic/cota de-esta/ natural stone cladding. Sum believes that aluminium is the preferred material for fenestration. However, many people
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prefer to use PVC, but there are many issues of using PVC. Steel is another preferred material that is widely used as the fenestration material. ROLE OF SOFTWARE FOR EFFECTIVE FAÇADE/ FENESTRATION DESIGN Cordero says, CAD tools have traditionally contributed to increase the efficiency, accuracy, and coordination, but BIM and parametric software are now taking efficiency and coordination to new levels. An interesting application is in the early stages when parametric tools allow analysis to be run on numerous configurations and provide the design team with immediate feedback.
software’ (also known as ERP systems) which can manage an array of your entire business. ERP systems bring all business processes and data on one platform. There is INTRANET, SAP also is in use for operations”. COMFEN, an early-design energy modelling tool, is designed specifically to make informed decisions about building fundamentals by considering the design of the building envelope, orientation, and massing on building performance. It supports exploratory work early in the process by architects, but is also useful for engineers and consultants later in the design process.
Shangrila Hotel Tower, at HH Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai
Chavan opines that the most interesting feature in the software is the CAD interface. The most prominent fenestration software comes with an internal CAD interface which is simple and userfriendly. An easy to understand the arrangement of all relevant functions provides you with a ready to use the CAD output. For structural design analysis, the STAAD-PRO software is mostly used.
©Vivek Chavan
Parametric software can also be used to rationalise free-form geometry. An example can be found in Ciel Tower in Dubai Marina, a 360m high tower by Norr with a glazed curved façade. While fabricating curved glass panels were possible, it is quite expensive. To reduce cost, the panels were designed to be fabricated flat and then cold-bent to shape. Certain rules had to be set responding to engineering principles. There is, for example, a maximum curvature that can be achieved without inducing excessive stress on the glass and the structural silicone. This and other structural or manufacturing constraints were embedded within a script that analysed the geometry. Where the allowable curvature was exceeded, the design had to be adjusted in an iterative process. With traditional tools, this process would have been very labour intensive. The benefit of doing this parametrically is that once the script was generated, subsequent geometry adjustments or options could be explored with minimal additional work.
He adds, “to begin with, let’s talk about software which specifically focuses on designing and fabrication of doors, windows, and façades; here the profile and the hardware database play a key role. Then we have ‘Enterprise Resource Planning
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©Vivek Chavan
Sum states that the software plays a very important role in designing effective fenestration design. Different software can be used in each step of the construction process, from modelling, façade designing, creating the 3D structure of the building, and installing the fenestration materials. He believes software connects every process of the building construction from engineering to designing, to fabrication. PERFORMANCE PARAMETERS THE FAÇADE & FENESTRATION NEEDS TO ADDRESS According to Cordero, the building envelope needs to address a long list of performance parameters that include energy and sustainability, health and comfort, safety, durability, etc. It has to do so while protecting the architectural intent, ensuring that the design is feasible and can be procured on time, in the budget, and to the required quality. Chavan suggests the following parameters: • Enhanced sun protection and cooling load control while improving thermal comfort and providing most of the light needed with daylighting • Enhanced air quality and reduced cooling
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Dubai Mall
loads using natural ventilation schemes employing the façade as an active air control element • Reduced operating costs by minimising lighting, cooling, and heating energy use by optimising the daylighting-thermal trade-offs • Improved indoor environments, leading to enhanced occupant health, comfort, and performance • High-performance architecture
with
building
aesthetics/
• High-performance with sound insulations • Fire resistance as per the requirement of fire ratings • To maintain pressure equalisation • Water & air permeability tested as per specified standards He adds façade system solutions must respect the constraints of latitude, location, solar orientation,
acoustics, earthquake and fire safety, etc. Since climate and occupant needs are dynamic variables, in a high performance building the façade solution must have the capacity to respond and adapt to these variable exterior conditions and to changing occupant needs. According to Sum, the façade should be sustainable and environmentally friendly. It should be strong and should have good air and water tightness. It has to provide good acoustic and thermal insulation. These all are factors that make the building cost-effective and it is one of the most important features of a highperformance fenestration. COVID-19 EFFECT ON FAÇADE & FENESTRATION With construction being considered a vital sector, many sites have been allowed to remain open observing strict safety measures. This has kept consultants and contractors busy despite the challenging months. “We have managed to maintain a healthy pipeline of work by leveraging our diversification across multiple markets, covering Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Improved remote working capabilities have allowed us to effectively pool our resources to successfully deliver on international projects”, says Cordero. Chavan believes that the façade industry also impacted the same as the real estate industry. There are both aspects of the crisis as well as opportunities. Due to the impact of COVID-19, the industry may find shortages of liquidity, materials, and labour, etc. many upcoming new
projects will be getting halted under recession. The cost of products, materials & labour will be increased. Demand for high performing façades may be decreased in the short term due to cost constraints. The glass separations/façades & fenestrations into the offices/buildings will be increased in futuristic design. High demand will be expected for fenestrations due to existing project completions delayed/impacted as façade delivery is almost at completion. The industry is facing a tough time due to this pandemic. The logistics across the country are seriously affected and the labours started going back to their respective countries. The flow of funds has been hampered and the confidence of clients is going down. HOW TO DEAL WITH THE AFTER-EFFECTS OF COVID-19? The building industry has adopted safety protocols to reduce human interaction and minimise transmission risk through manufacturing, transportation, and installation. This has been, however, a short-term emergency response. In the longer term, a further push for automation can be expected, says Cordero. On the design side, practices have been successful at shifting face to face communication to video-conferencing with minimal disruption. The pandemic has acted as a catalyst to implement this already available technology and has revealed its potential to reduce transport and
©Aurecon
Motiongate theme park, UAE
its associated costs, time, energy, and emissions. It has also enhanced collaboration across geographies. He suggests, to thrive, design practices need to systematically re-evaluate their offering and work more efficiently. We need to step up qualitatively to add more value to our Clients. It is time to be creative and innovative. Automation through the parametric software will play an important role in increasing efficiency. Chavan advises using all HSE parameters and protocols, to preserve the resources for expected high demand after the open up projects, to hedge low-cost materials on drop-down prices, to take liquidity help from banks for sustaining and better utilisation, and to develop the facility as per product demand on post effect of the pandemic. Sum thinks that the conventional way has been paused and there is a need to think of an
effective way of delivery of the projects. There is a need to adopt design automation and robotics installation which is a way to move forward to sustain this industry. Another important thing is that the design of the building is supposed to be flexible enough to adapt to the rapidly changing environment. ADVANCEMENTS IN AUTOMATION IN FAÇADES AND FENESTRATION According to Chavan, façades fabrication facilities are progressing with automated robotics machineries. Earlier manpower utilisations are more in most of the areas from cutting, notching, slitting, cleating, punching, assemblies to glazing. Robotic stainless steel welding is very seamless and productive. It will reduce the labour cost in highly demanding and high-quality Middle East markets. Robotic welding and metal fabrication involve highly complex and sophisticated technology. Generally, nowadays working on
©AESG
Facade options study
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automated CNC machineries, it is also getting effective productivity & desired quality. Sum opines that the design can be automated by writing programs and scripts. We are also writing the scripts to generate the designs, especially the connecting fabricator joints when you have the model ready. All the fabrication data can be generated by pressing one button. The CNC machines by now can be automated and the fabrication data can be automatically inputted in them. The robotics are in trend to make the fabrication process easy. WAY FORWARD FOR THE FAÇADE & FENESTRATION INDUSTRY IN THE MIDDLE EAST The new needs and the ability of technology to address them shall drive change in the industry. Cordero says “in my view, the main drivers of change revolve around the need to take action
against climate change (energy and sustainability), improve the health and safety of the occupants and users of public spaces (particularly fire safety and comfort) and reduce costs”. Chavan notes that the real estate developers & façade consultants/engineers need to take interests and extend supporting hands for the façade & fenestration industry in the Middle East. Façades are higher cost materials, therefore banks/developers need to support with liquidity/ cash flow, to undertake direct interest and deploy industry experts for proper delivery, to overcome with reasonable/workable design solutions. He also suggests that the contractors/ subcontractors secure their resources along with banking & client support. They need to study & enhance their products as per current market requirements and secure supply chains for the way forward.
©Aurecon
St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, UAE
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Innovation in Façades: Sustainability in Focus Introduction Over the last years, sustainability became a ‘household’ term in almost every business sector that we somehow grew tired just hearing about it. Mainly because Return-on-Investment-driven markets like most in the Middle East, used this more of a marketing tool than what is supposed to be its real essence. Combined with the commercial pressure on the market happening already before the Covid-19 pandemic, we could hardly feel its genuine implementation at all. Sustainability happens earlier than even choosing a façade material or a design. When you read the comprehensive meaning of sustainability, you may even be surprised at the areas it is covering and how they are connected to each other.
Micha Pawelka Managing Director, Priedemann FZCO
A sustainable design developed by a company out of a sustainable corporate culture, is like a farmer who plows and fertilizes his land to ensure years of fruitful harvesting. He doesn’t focus on a short-term single profitability but he invests in the preparation and maintenance of his land to ensure a long-term productivity. This sustainability culture goes well deeper than the superficial marketing stunts to benefit not only the company’s shareholders but also the employees on a long-term perspective. A sustainable company treats each of its employee like a family
Priedemann Facade Lab showroom
member and not merely just an ID number. They prefer to grow leaders within the company rather than hiring external individuals who may not have the same ethical compass like theirs. All these aspects help us understand sustainability from a wider perspective, subsequently impacting the operational chain of any company. Role of Façade & Fenestration in Making EnergyEfficient Buildings The façade serves as the enclosure or ‘skin’ of the building. Compared to a solid wall, the façade is ONE transparent part that shields the habitats from environmental nuisances. The performance of the façade or the window is important, but the interface with the solid parts is of the same significance. While a façade or a window might be a good performing unit, it becomes almost useless if it is not assembled properly. Similarly, a well-executed interface does not improve the performance if the installed materials have poor quality. Together with the HVAC system, the façade forms the most important building part with regards to energy-efficiency. From an investment point of view,
the façade is one of the most important building elements that give the building also a face, a Design. Sustainable and Efficient Façade/Fenestration First of all, the question is how sustainable a façade can be if the building in which it shall be installed is not sustainable. The sustainability starts with the view on the building's lifestyle. Construction always utilises resources. It uses and wastes resources at the same time, and therefore a construction should be driven by the conservation of resources. It starts with the planning of the building, the plot itself, the construction, the usage, and the dismantling and recycling of the used materials. Architects adopting this focus on a material’s embodied carbon footprint, indicate sustainability since it covers not only the manufacturing of material but its use, subsequently, its recyclability. So, to design sustainable façades, we have to look at the environmental impact of the used materials and their expected lifecycle from manufacturing to recycling until it is re-used. In general: using less, but better materials, recycled material and ensuring recyclability after use, sourcing locally, and ensuring low maintenance requirements.
©Festo AG
Fully glazed façade of Festo AutomationCenter
Fully parametric 3D-detailing and complex 3D-printed profile geometry
Clients have to be aware that this approach has an impact on the cost of a façade or a window. And this impact can only be considered as a saving when we regard the lifecycle of the unit, and not only looking at the short-term purchase price. Advancements in the Façade Materials and Technologies Glass applications have made a big step forward. We have better coatings available with higher selectivity, materials are coated and manufactured locally. Light-weight materials, such as GRCs, are becoming more available and are no longer a special solution. We now also see more options for adaptable glass coatings, like electrochromic glass. The photovoltaic (PV) technology is improving and soon we may see transparent PV cells where the architect is not limited anymore. However, the biggest development for us is the adaptable façades that react to the environment independently. Priedemann is at the forefront of these developments with our ACT façade, a kind of a double-skin façade on-demand and ARKOL, a solar-thermal venetian blind system with embedded photovoltaic. While nowadays façades are still shielding and reflecting energy into the sky - the future façade will collect and use the energy as active skin. The technology is generally developing towards the digital embedment of the façade. Future façades will collect data to improve usability and adaptability.
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And who knows? In the same way, in which you can return your fridge or your car to the manufacturer for recycling at the end of its lifecycle, you may also return your façade and ‘exchange’ it with one that meets the latest technical performance envelope. In the future, we may be able to rent or lease a façade, instead of buying it, including full maintenance. Preferable Façade/Fenestration Materials? This is probably not easy to answer, but I want to touch one aspect here: The most used façade material is aluminium and there is a continued discussion on the sustainability of aluminium since it is very resource-intensive when manufactured. However, this resource intensiveness can be minimised by up to 95% when aluminium is recycled. This is a huge potential with regards to recyclability but requires careful consideration in the design and specification. Effective Façade/Fenestration Designs: Role of Software Software plays an important role in every stage. We need software and there are many options used in the market. The software can do everything but we see it as more important to understand and use the communication between and the adaptability of different software rather than focus on one specific software. For example, Revit is used more as a communication tool than design software. Similarly with BIM, there are many requirements and requests in the market and on projects; but we, and our clients as well, realise the limits when it comes to façade design. We are expecting a changing landscape of façade engineering with regards to
the digital disruption. Digitalisation and parametric design are not new for us. We have been doing it for more than 10 years. In our experience, BIM is just one of the many tools, but our approach is more comprehensive. Our research focus is on “Intelligent Façade Engineering” (IFE), which is a virtual, integrated procedure for optimised designing, accomplishing, and management of façade constructions in accordance with the method of BIM. To do that, all relevant information is put into a digital database and linked up as a virtual component orientated 3D façade model. The primary function of the parametric volume model is to generate data for detailed design and construction documentation, for order lists and lists of material integrating with controlling CNC manufacturing automates. But even this will not be the end, we collaborate with partners on working on the next steps for the industry. We invest in software, space, and most importantly in human capital to tackle these important tasks. Indicators of High-Performance Façade/ Fenestration Some believe it is the U-value, hence, we have challenges explaining to our clients that conditioning the air inside your building is much costlier than investing in intelligent and smart solutions for an active shading solution or, even better, in a smart skin to generate power. Lunch breaks during Covid19 times
In the past, we had the U-value Olympics in Germany: The lower the better, triple-glass, vacuum glass. This shall change to factors like embedded carbon footprint, recyclability, and the integration of adaptable façade solutions. We look forward to a new Olympics, where buildings are competing with each other on which is generating more power. Effect of COVID-19 on Façade & Fenestration Industry When it comes to humanity, there is no difference, be it the façade & fenestration industry or any other industry. Our priority is for our family members to be healthy and safe, both the personal family and the Priedemann family. And so far, we are blessed with regard to health. We were reacting quite early and we were able to protect our teams accordingly. Compared to other industries, we might be luckier for the construction industry is usually a big driver of the economy. Most running projects usually continue, which is our global experience during the pandemic. That is why we are currently in a challenging but stable position. We are even hiring at the moment. Suggestions to Deal with the After-Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic Well, it is hard not to limit the outlook to the financial topic because that is where we were mostly affected by directly. Besides this, we probably all learned that health and safety are much more relevant than short-term financial benefits. It might be the reason to have a more sustainable look into our investments into buildings. We also expect some impact on the design itself. Office spaces or entrance solutions might change. Natural ventilation is much more important than we ever expected and contactless interaction and handling within a building might be more important. Last but not the least, we all have learned suddenly that we do not need to jump immediately in an aircraft to attend a meeting. There are many smarter solutions that we realise only during challenging situations at times. Major Challenges in Façade/Fenestration Design and Applications Well, the first challenge is to adapt to the postCOVID-19 situation and this may require some creativity and unconventional solutions. Then, we have to design more sustainably: Select solutions that need fewer resources, less energy and make more out of less.
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©DAW SE
The demo-façade with solar thermal strip collector
Thirdly, I want to mention the huge work and potential which is waiting on existing buildings. There is a massive energy wastage problem with current buildings and with ACT façade, we can have solutions in place to upgrade and enhance installed façades rather than wasting them, which would not be sustainable at all. Advancements in Automation in Façades and Fenestration Since we are designing towards an active façade skin, an adaptable façade, or adaptable materials, the advancement will be façade integrated sensors. They are going to collect user data, and with machine, learning capability to adapt to the users’ needs and requirements using analytic algorithms. The system will learn and it will enhance usability and comfort. We can already see this trend in accessory applications, giving a glance at what is waiting for us. Future of Façade & Fenestration Industry in the Middle East We are known for our efforts to continuously share our knowledge with our clients and the façade community in the history of façade consultancythe root of this discipline and the reason it evolved. And this was always a matter of quality: Quality of design, the quality of manufacturing, and the installation. And we believe this has become valid and important in a crisis, more than ever. In some
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countries, buildings, residential towers, became almost a short-lived commodity where long term qualities do not matter. This development does not fit the importance of the façade discipline and it will have an impact on the quality and hence on the sustainability of a building. Therefore, we believe quality will prevail. What will be designed and what will be built, will focus more on quality and sustainability. In a time where investments are a challenge, owners will have to look on a long-term Return-on-Investment, hence on the lifecycle. Of course, the pandemic changed almost everything in the market, even national strategically government plans slowed down and changed, and it will take some time until we can see if and how they recover. A crisis also discloses the fitness of a company and we saw Multinational companies stumbling and almost falling within weeks of the lockdown. This might also be applicable to our industry and the survivor will focus on better quality business. We all realised that we need to consume much less than we were used to. We learned to appreciate what we have and save and protect the existing. We expect and are prepared that the same will happen with regards to existing buildings. Smart engineering solutions will be required to retrofit and upgrade existing buildings and façades for another façade lifecycle and Priedemann is ready for such demand.
DEWA Headquarter, Dubai - World's Largest Zero Energy Building Quick Facts: Client: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority Architect: Obermeyer Middle East Technical features: Unitised system, BIPV solar panels, GFRC/GFRP fins and Mashrabiya Scope: Façade and BMU consultancy, concept design, schematic, working and final drawings, performance specification Status: Under construction
DEWA headquarter, Dubai
This project is going to be the world’s largest zero energy building equipped with compact solar panels covering an area of 20,000 square metres. It will produce more than 6600 MWh per year of renewable energy. This means the building will generate its entire required power on-site with no grid connection. The photovoltaic solar panels are placed on the roof and integrated into the façade.
It is geared to achieve a platinum rating from LEED, as it also intends to have a state-of-the-art building management and control system that will shut down unnecessary usage of lighting, cooling, and water supply automatically.
The façade unit with solar thermal venetian blind
©Fraunhofer ISE
ArKol and DESTINI, Germany – R&D Project
ArKol (2016-2020) - a German research and development project, was meant to create two innovative façade collectors that will give engineers the freedom to design solar architecture: On one hand, the solar strip collector gives a high solar thermal performance while the material and the distance between the strips can be picked from a wide range. On the other hand, solar thermal venetian blinds were developed. They are appropriate within the double skin façades, they can draw in and tilt as the conventional venetian blinds,
Quick Facts: Partners: Priedemann Facade-Lab, Fraunhofer ISE, DAW SE Technical data: Building integrated solarthermal systems (BIST) Status: R&D in progress, TRL 5/6 Scope of work: Research & Development
harvest thermal energy and can reduce the solar heat gain coefficient (g value). Both two innovative technologies use heat pipes to gather the heat effectively. The subsequent project "DESTINI" proceeds with the development of solar thermal venetian blinds, aiming to demonstrate the system in an operating façade within the building project SpringPark VALLEY. In this, the performance can be assessed with a detailed performance monitoring. The venture began in May 2020 with accomplices from research and the construction industry.
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FACE TO FACE “Inevitably Sustainability will Play a Far Greater Role in the Future”
Jeroen Kortekaas Head of Architecture, Bluehaus Group
About the Author: Jeroen Kortekaas is the Head of Architecture at Bluehaus Group. In his career, he has been involved in every phase of the design process, from concept design to construction documentation, for both small and large-scale projects. He completed his Masters in Architecture in 2004 from Delft University of Technology and has been chalking up extensive international experience since then. Apart from working in the Netherlands, Jeroen has also lived and worked in China and the Middle East. He has built up an impressive portfolio covering educational, residential, large-scale, and mixed-use projects. Now, he is also developing hospitality and high-rise projects. Here are the excerpts from his recent interview with Window & Façade Magazine…
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What inspired you to become an architect? How is your journey so far since you started your career? In junior and secondary school I always liked to draw and physics and mathematics came quite easy to me. Architecture seemed to be a natural choice as it can be considered both art and craft, design, and engineering. Since my graduation from the Delft University of Technology in 2004, I have lived and worked in The Netherlands, Shanghai China, and Dubai in the UAE. I have worked on all scales in a variety of sectors, building up a portfolio covering residential, retail, large-scale mixed-use, as well as expertise in hospitality and high rise projects. Currently, I hold a senior leadership position, Head of the Architecture business unit, within Bluehaus Group and I enjoy leading a multi-disciplinary team to create the best possible design and continue to use my creativity for viewing architecture from different angles. I like being on the forefront of developing innovative design strategies and strive to bring a conceptual approach to every project.
ŠAles Photography FZ LLC
Al Rajhi Headquarter, Riyadh
Could you please tell us about some of your major projects? I have been lucky to have worked on numerous prestigious projects in various countries. Most notably the Raffles Hotel in Jeddah comprising of two individual towers, a 240-meter tall residential tower, and a 140-meter high hotel tower along the Corniche Road with a cantilevering ballroom. Before this, I delivered the tower component of the Al Rajhi Headquarter in Riyadh, a 240-meter tall office tower with unique twisting cores placed on the outside of the tower (concept Design by SOM). Furthermore, I worked on the Mica Mall on Kish Island in Iran. This mall features 300,000 Sq m of leasable area with a vast array of entertainment features such as an aquarium, indoor skydiving, and a cable car track. Also, I designed a 3,000 key hotel called the Conghua Resort Hotel in Conghua, China. And last but not least I worked within a team on the highly acclaimed TWM Kempinski Hotel in Muscat, Oman. This hotel has the most amazing lobby to be found in the hospitality sector. Currently, I am working on three incubator offices in Sharjah for the Sharjah Government, several high-end residential villas, and a yacht club building in Dubai and Bluehaus is coping well with the challenges in the current climate. Bluehaus Group has completed over 2 decades in the Middle East. How has its journey so far? For the first 10 years since the inauguration, Bluehaus grew as an interior design consultant focused on Workplace strategy and design. The key milestones for that decade were simple, but memorable achievements such as headcount reaching 10, then 20; and moving to larger offices from Bank Street to Gold & Diamond Pack and then TECOM; coupled with more propelling achievements such as attaining our first multinational workplace client, our first multiple repeat customer and our first regional framework with a multi-national. Our second decade of operation has delivered greater challenges, presented more risk, and seen tremendous reward as Bluehaus diversified its service offering to include architecture and MEP engineering design; diversified its vertical target markets to include hospitality, F&B, leisure & entertainment, public spaces; residential and retail design. Further, geographical market penetration and an investment in technology that has secured our continued focus on innovation. And here we are today!
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What future opportunities and trends do you see in the architectural segment in the Middle East? There will be a plethora of opportunities related to digital innovation such as 3D printing, digital fabrication, and the evolution of sophisticated software packages. 3D printing will start to scale up which will allow larger building components to be printed, or even complete structures. The digital fabrication of building elements, driven by new powerful software could lead to greater customisation at a cost-efficient price point. This in turn shall lead to more unique structures and building envelopes. Furthermore, I think there will be a greater need for energy-efficient buildings. For example, and although not often used in the Middle East, crosslaminated timber seems to be a new structural solution to achieve more sustainable buildings as well as triple glazed window assemblies.
According to you, where is the architectural segment is heading in the Middle East? There seems to be an ongoing trend currently to design and build contracts driven by great pressure on budgets and completion dates to mixed results. However, contractors are quickly adapting to this new way of procurement and at Bluehaus, we have noticed an increase in partnerships with contractors. Locally, now Expo 2020 has been delayed by a year, the necessity to complete projects before the commencement of this event has been removed. This has caused clients and developers to re-assess their current portfolios and future developments and in several instances provided some welcomed breathing space. In some cases, projects have been brought forward, namely refurbishments, to leverage from the window provided by having Expo a year later. For the wider region, Saudi Arabia remains a key market
ŠWoods Bagot
Kempinski Hotel, Muscat, Oman
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Could you please tell us about the latest façade and cladding technologies and materials available in the UAE market and those you used in your project? In general, the construction industry is very slow to adopt new technologies. However, recently in the United Arab Emirates, the biggest catalyst for a change of façades and façade technologies revolved around certain aspects of the fire life safety of buildings such as improvements to the fire-resistance rating of materials and assemblies, the introduction of fire cavity barriers and the omission of bituminous layers within the wall built-up. Inevitably sustainability will play a far greater
role in the future. There are already huge improvements observed for high-performance glass which reduce solar transmission whilst limiting the reflectance of the glass. New fabrication methods allow double curved glass and double-curved façade panels. Most likely, it is not about introducing new materials to the market as such, but stretching the properties of existing materials to allow for new uses within the building envelope. For example, I am experiencing an increase in insulation layer thicknesses to improve the thermal properties of the façade. That being said, the appetite for using new materials and technologies by clients and developers within the current market conditions remains somewhat subdued. Building materials require a proven track record within the climatic conditions of this region before these materials will be truly taken into consideration.
Kempinksi Hotel’s ballroom
©Woods Bagot
with several large scale developments continue to gather pace and we are also excited by the energy being seen in Abu Dhabi.
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Could you please brief on the technological benefits of the well-managed façades? Well-managed façades not only relate to the maintenance of the façades during the operation of a building but should take be taking into account at the commencement of the design. You should spend enough time during the design stage to fully develop the building envelope, improve constructability, allow for testing and commissioning which should result in more efficient construction, and reduce building operating costs. What are your views on the future façade and fenestration technologies as well as materials? The key here is environmental concerns, using recycled and recyclable materials that should contribute to achieving higher sustainability targets. The ultimate goal is to realise selfsustainable buildings. In the future, I can see photovoltaic panels being completely incorporated
within the façade and kinetics façades being the norm. These changing façades are responding to the change in climate conditions per day or per season, continuously adapting to provide the optimum performance of the façade. What are the challenges the architectural segment is facing due to this Covid-19 situation? Across the board, many sectors and disciplines, have been enormously impacted by Covid-19. Probably the biggest constraint on the business environment is the limitation of liquidity and cashflow, which is trickling down through the market. This brings a raft of other challenges to the table such as a few upcoming projects, hard-fought acquisitions with reduced margins, and delayed payments of invoices. However, having navigated two previous economic crises, Bluehaus has acted swiftly and with great care, at this moment we remain cautiously positive about the construction segment.
©Woods Bagot
Kempinski Hotel’s lobby/entrance
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Has this pandemic affected your business? How are you dealing with this situation? Of course, everybody has been working from home, most likely without facing too many problems. At Bluehaus, we like to learn from this unprecedented event, and going forward, we are implementing a ‘4+1 work week’. This means our team members have the choice of working Thursdays in the office, or from home – or in some cases, they may choose to work a Thursday in the office due to deliverables or and another Thursday from home as they need to focus. It is proven by Gallup that this balanced and flexible way of working results in higher levels of staff engagement. The Covid-19 situation has taught us that the world is changing, moving away from doing some things the old way, and forced us to adapt and bring new policies, procedures, and working methods into our office for this new era. We are excited about this. As a well-known architect, what sustainability means to you and how do you ensure the sustainability aspects of your projects? If the client or developer is the end-user of the building, the targets and ambitions related to sustainability are often quite easily met. There is a common interest between all parties and stakeholders. Once this scenario changes into a developer partnering up with an operator, resulting in a third party being the end-user, problems start to occur. There is suddenly a discrepancy between the party increasing their capital outlay for more efficient and often more costly solutions or equipment and the third party enjoying the savings made by this increase in costs for the said solution or equipment. This can only be solved by
the intervention of the Authorities by imposing stricter regulations towards sustainability. It is to note that great advancement has already been made such as the Estidama sustainability scheme and the net-metering of PV panels feeding unused electrical power back into the grid. Every architect should keep in mind that construction has an enormous impact on the environment, including transport of construction materials, disruption to nature, and the long term energy consumption. In my opinion, the greatest opportunity for the construction industry is to re-use and renovate existing building stock as opposed to demolish and re-build. If we collectively double the lifespan of buildings, we are twice as sustainable. What is your advice for young and upcoming architects? Persevere and try to gain some valuable experience early on and leverage from that to find that niche you can thrive in.
Aqua Raffles, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
©Woods Bagot
Kempinski Hotel’s grand deluxe sea view room
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INDUSTRY SPEAKS “Integrity is at the Heart of Everything We Do at SIDERISE”
Mayank Sharma Technical Specification Manager, Siderise Insulation
Mayank Sharma is the Technical Specification Manager at Siderise Insulation and oversees the Middle East and South Asian Market. He works extensively with contractors, architects, and developers in the region, assisting and advising them on matters relating to applicable code compliance and completion of projects. Holding a degree in Mechanical Engineering with experience working with firms like Knauf Insulation, Proleed Engineering Consultants and Carrier Corporation Mayank understands what drives businesses and how to spread best practices within the Industry. In a conversation with Window & Façade Magazine, Mayank Sharma shared his views on the current situation of the industry, Siderise’s products, and the trends in the thermal ad fire protection products in the market. Excerpts…
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Please brief us about your Siderise’s journey? What are the milestones you have achieved? My Siderise journey has been a roller-coaster ride, travelling across the globe for multiple seminars, industry events, and extensive product testing. For me, my greatest achievement while working in SIDERISE Insulation has been supporting and developing a local technical support team in the Middle East as we grow and explore new territories. My role is a very interesting and intriguing one as I aim to be the knowledge link between key people who influence the performance requirements of buildings. For example, translating the laboratory and field monitoring research into something designers and site contractors can use each day. Tell us about your product offerings? What benefits do they offer? SIDERISE are the market leaders for developing
specialist fire, thermal and acoustic solutions for the construction industry. Our range includes high-performance fire stopping products for applications including floor and wall compartmentation. Our passive fire protection systems are industry-leading and third-party certified. The SIDERISE curtain walling firestop was the first to market internationally, and our reactive solution for ventilated façades was the first within the Middle East. Name some of the major projects in the Middle East in which your products have been used? SIDERISE is proud to have been involved in projects all over the world. Our technical team works closely with the architects, contractors, and installers throughout each project to bring them successfully to fruition. We would like to share some of our successes with you that
Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
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includes Coca-Cola Arena, Royal Atlantis, One JVC, Jumeirah gate, various towers within Dubai Creek Harbour, Vida Residence Downtown. What sustainability means to Siderise? A commitment to sustainability is the only way forward for SIDERISE. We must help provide solid solutions that reduce the impact of the built environment on the environment and the world’s natural resources. We are committed to delivering high performance, sustainable, and cost-effective insulation solutions for the industrial and built environments, and at the same time, minimising the impact of our products on the wider environment. It is fantastic to be working toward such an objective and we have some incredibly committed colleagues. I must admit this is one of the things that most attracted me to this job. As part of our commitment to sustainable development, we focus on how our products are
made, transported, and used, as well as on what happens to them at the end of their service life. We do this across the SIDERISE Group using a series of ‘Lean’ principles which achieve: • Sustained continuous improvement • Increased production efficiency • Increased customer value You are one of the leaders in the industry. What are Siderise’s USPs and how it has maintained a consistent growth since its commencement? SIDERISE Insulation’s market-leading support for the architect, designer, and specifier, selecting the right solutions for your project is one of the keys to its success. You can trust us to keep our promises, and we can offer excellent leadtimes thanks to our technologically advanced manufacturing plant and skilled workforce. Customer service is at the heart of everything
The Royal Atlantis, Dubai
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we do, which is why we do all we can to make specifying and using Siderise products easy for our customers.
One JVC, Dubai
What are the current trends in thermal and fire protection products in the Middle East? Passive fire protection material market size is poised to surpass USD 27 billion by 2024 according to a new research report by Global Market Insights, Inc. The desire for taller structures and with a strive for improved energy efficiency by adding exterior insulation, we sometimes encounter potential conflicts with fire and life safety codes. With the popularity of building certification programmes to net-zero energy building initiatives to the active building enclosure movement, expectations continue to increase for building performance, facility life, and occupant health and safety. Because two of the most critical aspects of high-performance buildings are air/water tightness and the enclosure’s thermal performance, the necessity of using more insulation, and high-quality air/water barrier and flashing materials, will continue to increase as the industry trends toward highly energy-efficient building envelopes.
One JBR and Meydan Tower JBR, Dubai
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Jumeirah Gate, Dubai
What is the current situation of your industry when the world is facing this COVID-19 challenge? We cannot ignore that the COVID-19 pandemic is having a global impact on the delivery of construction projects. A capital liquidity crunch is the main issue for the property and construction sectors. Investment has been reduced across the market due to the blocked cash flow of developers. For developed projects, the commercial business has been affected by the huge fluctuations in retail that have led to rental income decreases, while companies may decide to reduce office floor space to reduce rental costs. If this situation
Mankool Mixed Use, Dubai
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Boulevard Heights and Residences, Dubai
cannot be mitigated, a greater impact will be seen on future development projects. The business has been slower for both developers and consultants, but, working on the assumption that the government will implement the appropriate quantitative easing measures to boost property development, the impact will be likely short-term instead of resulting in a crisis. Due to the current severe pandemic situation globally, the outlook is not clear yet. We will therefore likely see new construction contracts, entered into in the postCOVID-19 era, to expressly provide for such risks, including, for example, government lockdown and quarantine measures, supply chain delays/
as a valuable regional showcase, and Dubai is promising to ‘astonish the world’ when their turn comes around in October next year.
Jumeirah Gate, Dubai
shortages, and health and safety measures. In the era of global integration, we are closely linked. If the world economy falls into a depression, no one will be exempt - including us. Currently, the general situation is going in a good direction. What practices should be adopted by the industry to overcome these challenges and deal with the after-effects of this pandemic? A feature of construction projects is the relatively long construction period, which usually lasts for a few years. Therefore, the impact of this year may cause a greater impact next year or the year after. If we have a rapid economic recovery in the second half of the year, the overall industry will be able to develop steadily in 2020 - the risk resistance capacity of the construction industry is relatively strong. The COVID-19 outbreak has changed the way people live and work to some extent. What we needed to do in person before may not be necessary now - for example, in our site work, there are now artificial intelligence automation machines that can help. Meanwhile, our clients are also gradually changing from the real estate industry to logistics, e-commerce, AI automation, and other diversified industries. SIDERISE has developed a simple-to-use inspection application to enable the efficient recording and assessment of the installation of our products - and the issue of the recorded information in a clear and concise report. It allows the user to effectively inspect, record, and seamlessly audit the quality of the installation work. Importantly, this process highlights any issues in need of a resolution.
The United Arab Emirates will play host to approximately 180 countries with Expo 2021, and more than 25 million worldwide visitors are expected to attend the six-month showcase of global innovation and technology. On the other hand, the 22nd edition of the world’s premier football showcase will be held in the Middle East for the first time, and extensive new infrastructure will be required to bring the event to life. Seven new state-of-the-art stadiums are being built to host the event, with designers drawing upon aspects of Qatari culture in their work. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is a country changing at quite a speed. After opening its doors to tourists in 2019, the world’s eyes have turned to the Kingdom, and it has plenty to show off. What are your goals and plans for the next 4-5 years? My primary goal will be to continue providing market-leading support to all our associated stakeholders along with considerable geographical growth within the region by driving, developing, and growing architectural specifications across the region. We also see great potential within the APAC region in the coming years.
The Royal Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
What are the major opportunities for your business in the Middle East? The World Expo has long since been regarded
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CASE STUDY Innovative Façade Materials on Buildings in Iran
Behzad Atabaki Founder, Behzad Atabaki Studio and BonnArq Architects
About the Author: Behzad Atabaki has founded “Behzad Atabaki Studio” in 1999 and also co-founded “BonnArq Architects” in 2014 which both are recognised for their work in art, architecture, urban design, and landscape architecture. Winning the first prize in the competition, together with Parshia Qaregozloo, he has been the co-curator of the Iran Pavilion at Venice Architecture Biennale 2016. In 2019, he won the “ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR” award in the Middle East Architects Award. Believing in the multidisciplinary approach to architecture and urbanism, Atabaki has earned three master’s degrees in three interrelated fields of “architecture” (1998), “urban design” (2002) as well as “landscape architecture” (2006). Since 2010, he has been teaching “architectural design” regularly at a University.
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Park Residential, Tehran, Iran - Using Brick on Façade Our conceptual image of a home is a haven far from the madding urban crowd, away from the noise, visual pollution, and a place of retreat from everyday worries where we can rest and rewind. However, what comes first to the mind when thinking of the inner space of “home”, is the notion of “protection”- against all above. Standing for such a sense of security would be the “curtain” hanging and dancing, “symbolising” a home behind. Creating a shared ground between architecture and the city, in this building as a group of “homes”, the curtains swinging with the breeze, which would call up the image of a warm hearth and home, acting both as a representation of a house guard without and the warmth within, have been used as the façade to recall the moment when they, swinging in the breeze along the soft rows of “bricks”, have just stepped aside to let the light into the pleasant space of the house they encurtain.
FAÇADE INSTALLATION For the brick surface to be easily observable, it was decided that the brightest-coloured bricks be used, moreover, brick-covered cubes are installed over darker and rough surfaces of stone-covered background. To achieve the curve of the bricks over the cubes with ultimate precision, 227 horizontal sections (each 20 centimeters in height) were provided in the real size, they were cut in reverse on plasterboards for a better control and also to facilitate the brick rows implementation. In the end, to allow the façade to stay clean, a water-repellent cover was applied over all the stone and brick surfaces.
Fact File Project completion year: 2017 Area: 4195 square meters Lead architects: Behzad Atabaki Design team: MohammadReza Badeleh, Golshan Narimani, Arezoo Zaredar, Yasaman Lashgari Client: Reza Farahbakhsh Construction: Bamtir co, Hassan Farahbakhsh Structure: Mahban Sazeh co. Electrical & Mechanical equ: Mahban Sazeh co. ©Parham Taghioff, Behzad Atabaki
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Niayesh Office Building, Tehran, Iran - Using Single Material (Stone) on Façade Niayesh Office Building overlooks a busy expressway in Tehran and is set on a disproportionate semitriangular plot of land. The main objective of the design was to create a form that would not reflect this disproportion. The central concept behind the design was to set the layers free from a monotonous repetition or other structural confinements. Here, each layer moves independently from the one on top or the other below. The floor layers, while not exactly similar, build up in a free manner and take on a light single-material stone-cover to create a harmonic and a homogenous identity/quality of the building. In the sunlight, dark shades are drawn over these monochrome shapes which make the lines take on a more horizontal characteristic. This characteristic is further highlighted by the height of the building in proportion to its area (seven floors on the ground). The windows, further define this concept, where some are again stretched alongside the building as they mean to help the eye glide around it. The building’s identity also takes cues from the high level of kinetic energy surrounding the site in that it resembles a photographic image of a fast-moving object that is seen as stretched (and sometimes) wavelike lines. All this provides the building with free-floating lines that run all around it and connect the north-south orientation very smoothly, avoiding any sharp angles and giving it an aesthetic consistency on every level.
Fact File Project: Niayesh Office Building Location: Tehran, Iran Client: Reza Farahbakhsh Architect: Behzad Atabaki Architectural team: Soheil Korjani, Sayna Afshar, Hamed Sarhadi, Behnaz Atabaki Structure: Hesab Company Project completion year: 2013 Site area: 476 m2
The interior moves along the same concept of spatial smoothness and flow. The units have been designed based on an open office system and may be partitioned according to their desired functions. To benefit from the daylight and the fascinating views of the city, mountains and the sky, large windows have been installed. Exterior lines flow into the interior in a calmer softer way, and then onto the ceiling where they have formed track of lights and together with other lighting designed into the ceiling that provides the lighting at night. The bright white colour of the walls, the floor, and the ceiling reflects the same concept of the mono-material and harmonic façade.
©Parham Taghioff, Behzad Atabaki
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Aftab Office Building, Tehran, Iran - Utilising High Contrast Material (Black & White Stone) on Façade Aftab Office Building is located in a dense area of office buildings in a narrow alley. The initial ideas of the design were formed by the image of “light” penetrating through layers of curtain shades and the disorderly light and dark lines, and this conflict found objectivity in black and white colours. The etudes continued in a form which led to designing the main façade by black domination as well as an interference of delicate white lines and surfaces, while the interior area, as a contrast to the exterior (and the façade) was allocated to a white space as an absolute light with a delicate rhythm of darkness as black thin lines.
The continuity of the action between black and white and also inside and outside is an effort to eliminate dullness of the alley view as well as providing the building with free-floating components. In the interior space, the goal was to use large windows to provide the place with sufficient daylight and a vast view. The external lines of the main façade have penetrated inside the units and have formed black linear slots for lighting on the ceiling which have contained the interior spotlights, and along with other spotlights in the ceiling, provide night lighting. The bright white colour of walls, floors, and ceilings reflects the same idea of the single-material and providing a harmonious and homogeneous space.
Fact File Project completion year: 2017 Area: 2800 m2 Photo: Behzad Atabaki Design team: MohammadReza Badeleh, Golshan Narimani, Arezoo Zaredar, Yasaman Lashgari Clients: Mansour Rafie, Reza Gouya Construction: Omran Alanak co., Farzad Shadkam, Farhad Sinaiee, Nima Rafie Structure: Shenasa MEP: Gholoubi ©Parham Taghioff, Behzad Atabaki
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POST EVENT REPORT Webinar on “Designing and Building High-Rise & Ventilated Rainscreen Façades”
WFM Media, a digital platform of F&F Middle East FZ-LLC organised its first webinar for the Middle East region on 7th July 2020 on “Designing and Building High-Rise & Ventilated Rainscreen Façades”. This webinar, powered by Fischer Middle East, saw a large number of interactive participants and caught the attention of the industry members, architects, façade consultants, contractors, builders, developers, etc. We received more than 1000 registrations. The idea behind organising such webinars is to create awareness about issues that are relevant to the field of façade & fenestration and also help the companies to disseminate their knowledge and to showcase their products. The webinar was hosted by Amit Malhotra and Ahad Ahmed, Cofounders of F&F Media and Publications.
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You can watch the video of the Webinar on YouTube. Check the link to watch the video:
AGNES KOLTAY, Director & CEO, Koltay Façades
TOPIC: Special Aspects of Designing and Building High-Rise Façades
• How the high-rise and low-rise approach differs? • Integration of performance aspects • What to watch in concept design • Materials and systems typical to high-rise construction (and what to avoid)
MOSTAFA ELHOSSEINY,
Technical Manager, Fischer Middle East
TOPIC: Modern Design of Ventilated Rainscreen Façade
• The next-generation systems for façade fixing • Fixing solutions for thin façade member • Various options for concealed fixing • Firestopping in façades
MUZAFFER AHMED SYED, Regional Manager Firestop, Fischer Middle East
A gn e s Kol ta y mentioned that the main difference between the high-rise and low-rise buildings is the quantity of the material that goes or supplied for the façade of the buildings. She also told that the low-rise buildings are much more accessible and easier to install materials than the high-rise buildings. For high-rise buildings, the prefabrication would be the preferred method to bring materials together and install them on the building. High-rise buildings have a certain behaviour as a response to external impact like wind, earthquake, etc. High-rise buildings have their natural movement in these conditions so the façade is structured by considering these effects, but in low-rise buildings, there are no such complications in designing the façades for them. She said that the movement of the structure also created a big difference between low-rise and high-rise buildings.
M os ta f a E l h os s e i n y spoke about fixing systems that are very important for high-rise as well as lowrise buildings. He described the factors that should be considered to choose the fixing materials for the façade that include façade material thickness, offset from the wall, and type of the wall. He also described some major challenges that are faced when using the fixing systems while installing the façade. He explained the solutions offered by Fischer that can help in making the fixing job easy. He spoke about the universal mechanical systems offered by Ficher that can be used in fixing thin, as well as thick façade materials, including ceramic, porcelain tiles, natural stone, HPL, fibre cement, and cast stone. He explained the working process of the system. M u z a f f e r A h m e d Sy e d explained the need for fire consideration in façades. If the façade is exposed to fire, the façade system loses structural integrity that results in falling of burning objects which might pose a massive risk of injuries and can ignite a secondary fire. To elaborate it clearly, he showed some real incident pictures of buildings that caught fire. He talked about the Abbco Tower, Sharjah, which recently witnessed the fire incident, and because of improperly sealed perimeter joints/cavity perimeters/untested materials, it caused lives and a huge liability loss. He also talked about the curtain wall and ventilated façades, and explained the fire safety challenges in both the façade systems and reasons for fire spreads in both.
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56 WFM | MAY - JUNE 2020
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PRODUCT WATCH The Linus® Smart Lock Wins Red Dot for Outstanding Design Quality The Linus® Smart Lock from Yale has won the Red Dot Award in the Product Design 2020 category for its good design quality in the security system category.
To achieve this look, famous Swiss product designer, Yves Behar used softer surface transitions, rounded edges, and a textured finish on the lock for a sense of refinement that invites tactility.
Linus® Smart Lock is a combination of intelligent design and the most state-of-the-art technology. It is a new, motorised smart lock from Yale. Intuitive and easy to install, Linus® reimagines home safety by allowing its users to remotely lock and unlock the door, check door status, grant virtual guest keys and see who is coming and going, all while fitting the most stylish and modern homes of today.
Having designed for the likes of Apple or HP, Yves intended to create a smart lock that follows the Yale philosophy by exceeding our consumers’ performance and durability expectations and giving them a real feel of the smart homes of tomorrow.
Featuring the most advanced software, Linus® is controlled through the user-friendly Yale Access app and was manufactured with premium materials for better strength and durability. Designed with a stunning brushed metal finish available in silver and matte black, Linus® features a convenient size, measuring 52mm in width, 58mm in depth, and 150mm in length. An illuminated LED light ring is presented on its refined, rounded surface to reveal whether the device is locked.
Linus® Smart Lock is a combination of intelligent design and the most state-of-the-art technology
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Kate Clark, Managing Director, Yale EMEA, said “We are delighted to have been awarded this prestigious and much sought-after seal of quality. This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our team to ensure that Linus® will provide homeowners with not only an enhanced level of protection and utmost peace of mind but also internationally recognised functionality and superb design.” For more details, visit: middleeast.yalelock.com/ en/yale/middleeast/news/introducing-our-newlinus-smart-lock/
Linus® is controlled through the userfriendly Yale Access app
PRODUCT WATCH dormakaba Launches New Range of Products to Provide Hygienic Entrances dormakaba has launched an all-in-one aesthetic tower to make entrances the first line of defense for hygiene. The freestanding ergonomically designed ‘Safe Entry Checkpoint Tower’ has an external body temperature check, face mask check, wireless sanitiser sensor, and counting of people in crowd control. The features are displayed on a user-friendly screen, prompting the users what to do next. The ‘intelligent’ guidance, irrespective of which option was selected first makes it very simple to use. The optional ‘Crowd Control ‘function comes with additional sensors. One sensor per entry /exit point is required. Modular expandability to network multiple sensors from various entry/exit points. The real-time capture of occupancy to prevent overcrowding is possible by high-density time-of-flight technology (ToF) for highly accurate 95% people counting accuracy.
The temperature and face mask check uses high resolution, low light CMOS sensor camera. Mask detection uses the AI facial recognition algorithm. The 8 -inch IPS touch LCD screen, with 400 lux offers high visibility under strong and direct light. dormakaba is of the first in the market to give a designer-friendly, ergonomic solution to welcome guests at any entry, without being obtrusive. Suitable, for all applications from schools to offices to F&B outlets and with simple integration with automatic doors and physical barriers, this gives customers both safety and security. For more enquiries, contact: info.mea@dormakaba. com ‘Safe Entry Checkpoint Tower’ has an external body temperature check, face mask check
The temperature and face mask check uses high resolution, low light CMOS sensor camera
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BUZZ Azizi Developments Confirms the 94% Work Completion of the Palm Jumeirah Project Azizi Developments has confirmed that nearly 94% of the work has been completed on its luxurious residential development, Mina. The project is located on the east crescent of the iconic Palm Jumeirah. The structure, blockwork, and internal plaster are 100% complete, while the tiling, HVAC, MEP, façade works, and elevator works are all 99% complete.
Spanning across nearly 38,500 sq m of built-up area, Mina features 178 units, comprising 120 onebedroom apartments, 54 two-bedroom residences, and four spacious, lavishly designed penthouses scheduled to be completed within Q3 of 2020, said the statement from Azizi. The project also features several retail units spread across over 1,847 sqm.
Morocco’s Pavilion at Dubai Expo Features Giant Rammed Earth Façade The morocco pavilion planned for expo 2020 Dubai will depict how the country’s traditional construction techniques can find new relevance in contemporary design. The project is designed by OUALALOU + CHOI. With comprising 22 stacked rectangular volumes, the building’s rammed earth façade will be the largest of its kind, while visually resonating with Morocco’s vernacular earth villages. Although the expo has been postponed until 2021 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,
construction work on the pavilion has already begun. The pavilion’s exterior appears as a 33 meter (108 ft.) high rammed earth façade, which measures 4,000 square meters (43,056 square feet). The material plays a key role in passively regulating indoor conditions in hot and arid places, making it ideal for use in Dubai’s climate. Other passive strategies used in the design of the building include wooden interior façades which are double as sunscreens. OUALALOU + CHOI explains that the structure is an example of how traditional Moroccan building methods can serve to inspire more sustainable models of urban development.
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