The future of façade design is being shaped by the convergence of advanced technology and manufacturing techniques, sustainability objectives and the desire to push architectural boundaries. As our understanding of the environmental impact of building design deepens, architects and designers are finding new ways to create innovative facades that embrace incredible aesthetics as well as energy efficiency, so let’s take a look at a few examples.
Smart facades – building from the past and driving the future forward
By allowing buildings to actively interact with their surroundings, smart facades can provide an entirely new level of flexibility and comfort while maximising energy conservation. These facades can integrate technology, sensors and automation to adapt to changing weather conditions, sunlight angles and user preferences. One impressive example is the Edge building in Amsterdam, which uses an array of sensors, mobile apps, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to control lighting, temperature, and ventilation. Through the use of real-time data, the Edge minimises energy consumption while providing a comfortable workspace for its occupants.
However, sustainability isn’t just about using futuristic technology – it can also mean making clever use of repurposed materials. One of the most innovative approaches can be seen in The Luxury Pavilion, constructed in 2017 out of 100% recyclable material, including a façade made entirely from a mesh of entwined bedsprings.
At MIG Facades we are big believers in the power of sustainable façade solutions, which is why we have partnered with Cosentino as trusted installers of their Dekton system, the only material on the market which is 100% carbon neutral throughout its entire lifecycle.
Perforated brick facades – pushing the boundaries of tradition
Fusing tradition with innovation, perforated brick facades provide a fascinating interplay between classic building materials and contemporary sustainability demands. Bricks can be used to create unique patterns, positioned at various angles to regulate sunlight, enhance privacy and change the character of the building. And during the winter, they can also play a role in warming the building’s interior.
The versatility and durability of brick facades are undeniable, and we often bring these qualities to commercial and high-end residential builds through our own brick slips, which incorporate the highest quality quartz sand and special resins to achieve an innovative take on a traditional aesthetic.
Bionic facades – bringing your building closer to nature
With sustainability now a central pillar of building and façade design, it is not surprising to find some incredible examples of biomimicry in the architectural world. The emergence of bionic facades shows how the clever application of natural elements can go beyond simply enhancing a building’s aesthetic, but also play a functional role in its operation as well.
InDeWaG’s ingenious Water flow Glazing is one such example, which circulates water in a chamber between glass panes. These glass modules are incorporated into building facades to capture solar radiation and transport generated heat through a piped system for various purposes, from heating to domestic hot water. As highlighted through the company’s demonstration pavilion, it offers a beautiful synergy of aesthetics and sustainability by transforming solar energy into usable heat.
We understand the value of using sustainable materials to improve energy efficiency, and our range of natural stone solutions can be used to achieve similar objectives when affixed through rainscreen cladding. While the outer skin of natural stone cladding protects your building by allowing moisture to drain or evaporate away, an additional inner part of the rain screen cladding provides thermal insulation, airtightness and structural stability.
