Journal of Facade Design and Engineering
The Journal of Facade Design and Engineering (JFDE) presents new research results and new proven practice of the field of facade design and engineering. The goal is to improve building technologies, as well as process management and architectural design.
Authors or their institutions retain copyright to their publications without restrictions.
A matchmaking approach for identifying effective modular prefabricated solutions in different contexts
This article presents an innovative matchmaking approach to identify the most effective modular prefabricated solutions, innovative digital technologies, and circularity criteria across different contexts. Developed with the aim to boost the retrofit rate of existing buildings, our methodology addresses critical energy retrofit needs, aligning with the European Union's ambitious climate-neutrality objectives. Modular and prefabricated solutions can speed up renovations, offering benefits in terms of indoor quality, aesthetics, environmental impact, and cost. The matchmaking approach, developed within the scope of the EU-LIFE BuildUPspeed project, capitalises on best practices (such as prefabricated modular solutions, circularity criteria, and digital technologies) across five contexts (Austria, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands), considering local needs and capacities. A “catalogue” of retrofitting building products was compiled, including guidelines for product implementation (a technical requirements checklist). An extensive mapping of ecosystem characteristics was conducted, considering the construction market’s capacities and social, cultural, technological, and economic shortcomings that limit the use of innovative technologies. Using collaborative dialogue, developers, building experts, and local players were involved in several actions to promote, capitalise on, and identify the most effective prefabricated solutions tailored to different ecosystems. The results obtained can be used to promote targeted investments and customized retrofitting solutions for specific contexts.
Copyright (c) 2026 Giulia Paoletti, Ana Sanchis Huertas, Vera Valero Escribano, Stefano Avesani, Riccardo Pinotti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Cost-Effective augmented reality tool for enhanced building envelope panel handling
As part of a project aimed at upgrading older, non-renovated buildings by retrofitting their envelopes to meet the European climate targets required by 2050, a low-cost Augmented Reality (AR) tool was developed to facilitate the renovation and maintenance process. Considering that the renovation process involves a large number of different panels, which are assembled like a large puzzle in the building using plug-and-play techniques, traceability remains a challenge. To facilitate the assembly of the panels, which contain digital information, and using AR techniques, the panels will be displayed on the real building in their final position. In this way, AR tools will bridge the gap between digital information and the real-world environment, allowing users to visualise information about the position to be installed in the real place. Additionally, the tool will have the option to display further information (such as safety instructions or installation details) related to each panel, ensuring that workers have all necessary information on-site. Developed as a web-based Single Page Application (SPA) compatible with standard smartphones and tablets via WebXR, the tool eliminates the need for expensive hardware or software installations. The tool demonstrates the feasibility of using a cost-effective AR solution to provide necessary information to on-site operators, as well as generating real-time Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and alerts that managers can consult.
Building Information Modelling (OpenBIM)
Copyright (c) 2026 David Ciro Sierra Garcia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integrated Structural and Daylight Optimisation of Variable Transmittance Façades
Traditional fabrication methods for plastic building panels, such as moulding and extrusion, have recently been advanced by large-scale robotic 3D printing (LSR3DP), enabling mass customisation and the production of complex architectural geometries. While existing research on LSR3DP has primarily focused on single-material printing, the exploration of multi-material or multi-property applications remains limited, especially at full architectural scale. This study addresses this gap by developing a performance-driven digital workflow for PETG-based façades that integrates structural efficiency with solar-responsive transmittance gradients. A multiobjective optimisation process using the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) generated 16 optimal façade geometries across four orientations (north, east, south, west), achieving up to 14% reduction in summer solar radiation and 26% increase in winter solar gain compared to a conventional vertical façade, while minimising structural displacement. The optimal south-facing solution was selected for detailed daylight performance assessment. A procedural gradient generation workflow was developed to discretise solar-based transmittance values across varying mesh densities and gradient resolutions. The best-performing variable transmittance configuration achieved 46.24% Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI-a) and 69.21% spatial Daylight Autonomy (sDA), representing a 25.94% improvement in UDI-a over a conventional uniform-transmittance curtain wall. This integrated approach demonstrates LSR3DP’s potential to produce unified, materially expressive façades that embed environmental performance directly into form and material logic, eliminating reliance on mechanical shading systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fady Abdelaziz, Samuel Esses, Kostas Grigoriadis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Designing and constructing corrugated glass facades
Flat glass panels are in use since the time of the Roman Empire. In the ruins of the city of Pompeii, destroyed by the Vulcan Vesuvius in 79 DC, a glass panel in a bronze frame of 300×600mm was found. In this article we describe a mayor improvement in the structural behaviour of glass panels by making the glass curved, or more accurately, corrugated. Both the in- and out-plane loading meet far more resistance against deformation, and the corrugated glass panels have a largely increased bearing capacity with the same thickness of glass the flat panel has. Also architecturally the appearance of a corrugated glass panel in facades is far more appealing.
Copyright (c) 2014 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A completely transparent, adhesively bonded soda-lime glass block masonry system
A pioneering, all transparent, self-supporting glass block facade is presented in this paper. Previously realized examples utilize embedded metal components in order to obtain the desired structural performance despite the fact that these elements greatly affect the facade’s overall transparency level. Undeniably, the oxymoron ‘transparency and strength’ remains the prime concern in such applications. In this paper, a new, innovative structural system for glass block facades is described, which demonstrably meets both criteria. The structure is exclusively constructed by monolithic glass blocks, bonded with a colourless, UV-curing adhesive, obtaining thus a maximum transparency. In addition, the desired structural performance is achieved solely through the masonry system, without any opaque substructure. Differing from previous realized projects, solid soda-lime glass blocks are used rather than borosilicate ones. This article provides an overview of the integrated architectural and structural design and discusses the choice of materials. The structural verification of the system is demonstrated. The results show that the adhesively bonded glass block structure has the required self-structural behaviour, but only if strict tolerances are met in the geometry of the glass blocks.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integration of a 3D-Printed Façade Unit in a Curtain Wall System
Plastic materials, known for their lightweight, formability, transparency, and durability, are the state of the art for building façade applications. Recent advances in Large-Scale Robotic 3D Printing (LSR3DP) have enabled the production of bespoke, translucent façade components. While research has largely focused on individual panel properties, there is a gap in developing a comprehensive strategy for integrating these components into a complete façade system. This paper explores the potential of combining custom 3D-printed façade elements with standard curtain wall connections. Quantitative analysis involves constructing and testing a 1 m x 1 m LSR3DP façade assembly for air and water tightness, benchmarking its performance against a conventional curtain wall. Qualitatively, the approach is evaluated through a mock-up, highlighting the architectural possibilities of blending standard and non-standard façade elements. The findings demonstrate that this hybrid system is both technically viable and opens new design possibilities for architects and façade engineers.
Copyright (c) 2024 Francesco Milano, Ringo Perez Gamote, Nik Eftekhar Olivo, Valeria Piccioni, Po Yen Chen, Caitlin Gallagher, Arno Schlüter, Benjamin Dillenburger, Andreas Luible, Fabio Gramazio, Matthias Kohler https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Façade Design Pattern Optimization Workflow Through Visual Spatial Frequency Analysis and Structural Safety Assessment
As the demand for highly efficient yet aesthetically pleasing, complex building envelope structures is rising worldwide, computational analysis and generative design tools are becoming ever so relevant. Previous methods for achieving a natural distribution of structural or shading elements in non-uniform façades are mostly based either on computer-generated pseudo-randomness or a literal biomorphic approach where a naturally occurring pattern is directly projected on the façade surface. As an alternative, this research introduces a novel technique for optimisation that utilises a two-dimensional Power Spectrum Analysis, suitable for numerically assessing the alignment of designed geometry with natural patterns. By integrating this optimisation method into the design process, the façade pattern generation can be automated and optimal design can be selected by evaluating multiple design solutions. Instead of using repetitive geometrical patterns or generated pseudo-randomness, patterns objectively similar to those occurring in nature can be created without directly copying natural structures. The distribution of the structural and shading elements controls the way natural light permeates the building and, considering the data gathered from images of natural scenes, this method can be used to design structures not only with optimal structural and energy performance but also with visual and psychological occupant comfort in mind.
Copyright (c) 2024 Martin Ivanov, Jun Sato https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Data-driven and LCA-based Framework for environmental and circular assessment of Modular Curtain Walls
To assist the sustainable development of the building sector, designers require tools illustrating the most viable design options. This paper, starting by presenting the opportunities and limitations of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology and Digital Product Passport (DPP) instrument when applied to Custom Modules for Curtain Walls, proposes a Semantic Data-driven Framework to facilitate the design of low-carbon and circular façade modules. Based on literature and the practical outcome of the H2020 project Basajaun, this framework integrates computer-aided technologies that manufacturing companies commonly employ to automate an efficient sustainability assessment process using primary data. This solution innovates industrial process management and architectural design and supports the creation of greener products. It also facilitates the output of documents supporting end-of-life scenarios. The development methodology involves investigating required quantitative project data, environmental factors, and circularity information, as well as the definition of flowcharts for the Life Cycle Inventory, extending a best practice for the façade module’s DPP. Furthermore, the methodology implicates data collection and IT implementation and organisation. This is through the definition of an ontology conceived for interconnection between digital systems. The findings shall contribute to implementing the LCA and DPP practices for custom prefabricated façade modules and suggest areas for further development. Challenges include obtaining and sharing data on environmental impacts and circularity, but involving stakeholders and addressing technical limitations can improve sustainability.
Custom prefabricated Modules for Curtain Walls
Copyright (c) 2024 Luca Morganti, Peru Elguezabal Esnarrizaga, Alessandro Pracucci, Theo Zaffagnini, Veronica Garcia Cortes, Andreas Rudenå, Birgit Brunklaus, Julen Astudillo Larraz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prefab Facades – From Prototype to Product?
Building envelopes are not only the prime element of the exterior aesthetic quality of buildings; they have also become a major driver both for building construction cost and operational performance. The importance of prefabrication is growing in the building industry as it allows faster, high-quality, and cost-effective construction while reducing risks associated with onsite labour. Although prefabrication for structural components is a relatively recent development, it has been widely used in the manufacturing of building envelopes for many years, particularly in the case of unitized curtain wall systems. However, whether using prefabricated components or not, façade design development remains a challenge due to the need for façade engineers to rapidly develop technically viable and financially feasible solutions that achieve the desired architectural design intent. Particularly at the early stages of the design process, the turnaround for multiple iterations is often fast-paced, and abortive work is, therefore, not uncommon. This paper outlines an approach to addressing this challenge, attempting to bridge the gap between façade design, fabrication, and installation. A new design approach and tools are presented that allow designers to iteratively validate concepts based on a pre-engineered system that is optimized for performance and take fabrication, transport, installation costs, maintenance, and circularity into account. As a result, the tool/design workflow will ensure consistent quality, meeting budgets and timelines while enhancing material efficiency and fostering energy-conscious and circular envelope design approaches.
Copyright (c) 2023 Lisa Rammig, Andrea Zani, Tim Murphy, Isabelle Paparo, Linda Hildebrand, Steve Abbring, Derick Kopreck, Christine Wu, Joyce Lee, Kate Turpin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The first issue of volume 11 of JFDE elaborates on several topics related to façade design and engineering, focusing on façade systems, their construction, properties, and performance. The topic of prefabrication in façade construction is one of the themes emerging from this issue. The importance of prefabrication is growing in the building industry as it has the potential to improve productivity by allowing faster, high-quality, and cost-effective construction while reducing risks related to onsite construction. Different articles touch on this topic from varying perspectives. In the context of decarbonization and the large number of buildings to be renovated, prefabrication for energy retrofits is a relevant topic. One notable article presents the development and evaluation of prefabricated timber-based façade modules. The results showed significant energy savings and effective vapor release of the prefabricated façade system. Furthermore, prefabrication and pre-engineering of systems require a paradigm shift in design and engineering practices towards more integrated approaches. A Kit-of-Part (KoP) approach to façade design employed by the authors of a different article enables an architect-led design team to validate design options through digital design tools based on a pre-engineered set of components. Information about the products included in the tool includes performance, cost, and environmental impact. Focusing further on the properties of façade components, a paper in this issue investigates large-scale applications in building design regarding the aluminum used in façades and underlines the environmental benefits to be gained from reducing the use of raw materials, with particular emphasis on a sustainable approach to façade design. Finally, the issue addresses shading as an essential component of façade function, examining the influence of different shading devices on both performance and aesthetic aspects of the façade. Overall, the issue provides insights into contemporary trends in façade design, emphasizing the role of pre-engineering and evaluating façade components in contributing to the future of the construction industry.
Copyright (c) 2023 Thaleia Konstantinou, Ulrich Knaack https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An Evaluation Study of Shading Devices and Their Impact on the Aesthetic Perception vs. Their Energy Efficiency
Sunlight control tools, such as shading devices, are used to improve buildings' thermal and visual conditions. One of the concerns about using shading devices is their potential to harm the visual appearance of buildings. This study aims to study the aesthetic perception of different shading devices while concurrently evaluating their energy performance. Augmented reality was used to place virtual shading devices onto a building's façade at Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST). One hundred two students from JUST evaluated eight shading devices on a seven-step semantic differential scale. Participants comprised 49 students from Architecture and Design College and 53 students from other colleges. The energy efficiency of shading devices was tested using DesignBuilder. The results revealed that certain types of shading devices were perceived as more aesthetically pleasing than others. Architecture students and non-architecture students showed significant differences in their affective responses. Regarding shading devices, shape-morphing and horizontal-louvres devices are the most preferred by participants, while egg-crate devices are the least recommended. Regarding energy efficiency, results showed that the tested shading devices improved buildings' energy efficiency by 7% (vertical fins) to 17% (egg crate) compared to the base case and did not negatively impact their visual appearance.
Copyright (c) 2023 Anwar Ibrahim, Dr. Freewan, Ms. Obeidat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Numerical Analysis of Aluminium Façade Components
This paper commences with a scientific literature review of current research that underlines the environmental benefits to be gained from using smaller quantities of raw materials in the construction industry, with particular emphasis on a sustainable approach to façade design. Life cycle assessment modelling is advocated to validate the sustainability of building structures to achieve optimal solutions. A real-life application of the design of an aluminium façade bracket is presented, demonstrating that a weight reduction of up to 35-45% is attainable by exploiting the post-elastic properties of a material. The work described ranges from a discussion of the current conventional numerical techniques adopted by the industry to the most recent and advanced computational methods permitted by the introduction of Eurocode 9. This code facilitates a substantial enhancement in structural performance by incorporating an evaluation of the material's elastic-hardening behaviour and allows for a noteworthy reduction in component size and increased geometric design flexibility.
Copyright (c) 2023 Augusto Mastropasqua, Mauro Stefani, Paolo Rigone, Enrico Sergio Mazzucchelli, Paolo Giussani, Morteza Ammari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Energy retrofit with prefabricated timber-based façade modules
The introduction of prefabrication into the building façade retrofit market is still difficult due to many financial, economic, and social constraints, as well as technical and performance requirements that differ from those of new construction. The technical feasibility, construction details, and actual comfort and energy-saving benefits provided by the installation of prefabricated façade modules are still being investigated, as is one goal of the specific case study presented here. The Renew-Wall project aims to create a new modular, timber-based, non-intrusive system for retrofitting buildings, developing a series of significant and fully customisable innovations compared to currently available solutions. This paper describes the main properties of the designed prefabricated façade system, with a focus on its energy and thermo-hygrometric performances. Simulation and laboratory tests are compared with an experimental analysis conducted on two identical mock-up buildings (test cells) during a two-year monitoring campaign in which only one of the two test cells was retrofitted. The results show simulated average annual energy savings of 67%, perfectly in line with what was measured on-site. The prefabricated façade system also demonstrates efficient vapour release and a reduced risk of mould and fungus attack.
Copyright (c) 2023 Nicola Callegaro, Rossano Albatici https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Automation process in data collection for representing façades in building models as part of the renovation process
A key barrier in building-facade renovation processes is that, contrary to new designs, an initial building model where the design process is based rarely exists, and the technologies usually employed to create it (e.g., based on point cloud scanning) are costly or require modeling skills. This situation is a clear limitation, especially in early decision stages, where the level of detail required is not very high, and the analysis and studies to consider the renovation plan (e.g., simplified energy simulations and renovation potential, or estimation of the number, types, and dimensions of the prefabricated modules incorporating solar panels) highly depend on such digital models. This paper introduces a process that, based on freely available data such as open GIS sources (local Cadasters, OpenStreetMap…) and façade images, can semi-automatically generate the 3D building model of the existing conditions, and in a second step also suggests the prefabricated facades module layout for building upgrades. Additionally, no onsite visit is needed. When the upgrade is focused on the façade, a big opportunity is identified for generating the building model and a realistic representation of its envelope, only using online data sources as input. The process developed consists of a set of easy-to-use software tools that can be used independently or combined in a workflow, depending on the available data and starting conditions. Time saving is very clear and costs can be reduced.
Copyright (c) 2023 Kepa Iturralde, Peru Elguezabal, Asier Mediavila https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative cost analysis of traditional and industrialised deep retrofit scenarios for a residential building
In this paper, the economic competitiveness for deep retrofit actions between the industrialised off-site and the traditional on-site approaches are discussed by using a comparative Life Cycle Costing (LCC) analysis. This assessment was based on a deep analysis of all renovation-related cost and timing processes, from design to operation and maintenance phases. The study was based on three retrofit scenarios for an existing building in Italy undergoing a deep renovation. The Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) was developed starting from real costs and a list of bills collected by the design team and the industrialised technologies developers. Afterwards, the LCC modelling was performed for all scenarios. The results show that the two deep retrofit approaches (traditional and industrialised) are comparable in terms of investment costs, even if a gap of around -7% and +16% still exists. This highlights a potential for technological optimisation. Moreover, the operation and maintenance phase has shown to be key to transforming the expected higher quality of the industrialised components into a prolonged life expectance, hence highly impacting the whole cumulated Net Present Value. Finally, the analysis of the End of Life (EoL) phase in case of possible reusing of some dismantled components in the industrialised scenario resulted in contributing in a relevant way to increase the final value of such an approach.
Copyright (c) 2023 Stefano Avesani, Martino Gubert, Jamal Abdul Ngoyaro, Miren Juaristi Gutierrez , Riccardo Pinotti, Davide Brandolini https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Off-site prefabricated hybrid façade systems
The residential sector is responsible for the largest share of global energy consumption, while the existing building stock in Europe is relatively old. This issue, in combination with the low rate of new constructions, highlights the necessity for deep renovation of existing buildings to reach NZEB standards. At the same time, in the last decades, off-site prefabricated solutions have gained popularity in the building market, allowing the reliable and effective integration of diverse components and reducing the total renovation cost and occupants’ disturbance. The current study describes three all-in-one “Plug & Play” prefab renovation solutions and their assessment in terms of thermal, static, acoustic, and fire performance. The assessing performance is selected depending on their incorporated element as well as the national regulations of the country where the renovation solution is going to be installed. The assessment aims to ensure their characteristics’ satisfaction with the European and national requirements. In parallel, the assessment identifies the accurate behaviour of prefab façade systems both in passive and active mode and improves/optimises any possible design drawbacks.
Copyright (c) 2023 Ioannis A. Atsonios, Emmanouil Katsigiannis, Andrianos Koklas, Dionysis Kolaitis, Maria Founti, Charalampos Mouzakis, Constantinos Tsoutis, Daniel Adamovský, Jaume Colom, Daniel Philippen, Alberto Diego https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Implementation of a multifunctional Plug-and-Play façade using a set-based design approach
An immediate paradigm shift is needed to transform the deep renovation market for improved building performance and expanded energy efficiency horizons. The financial, social, and sustainability challenges of the EU targets suggest research towards reliable, inter-compatible, and interoperable solutions aiming at combining different energy conservation measures. This work proposes the implementation of a lightweight Plug-and-Play (PnP) building system for façade renovation using a set-based design approach. The PnP module, based on a main structure in the form of a Light Steel Frame (LSF) and a metal-faced sandwich panel, is combined with various market-ready components. The efficient integration of these third-party products is highlighted by defining and demonstrating the design process, implementing a solution driven by the reach of a highly industrialised solution, easy to assemble and install, customizable, scalable, and adaptable to the existing buildings. With the set-based design matrix, different integration scenarios are investigated through virtual prototypes. Moreover, to facilitate the shift from design to construction of the integrated PnP module, the study proposes three prototyping levels to demonstrate the efficiency of the design integration methodology and the technical feasibility of both the various module's configurations and the overall module, exploring them through the realisation of preliminary, full-scale façade and actual environment-applied prototypes.
Copyright (c) 2023 David Masip, Grazia Marrone, Irene Rafols Ribas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Following the need of urban areas to maintain the existing building stock and simultaneously upgrade the overall energy performance, the renovation down-to-nZEB state has already become a necessity. In this regard, a vast range of prefabricated solutions have been developed lately. The main objective of such solutions would be not only to constitute an effective system to tackle building energy consumption but also to be versatile in terms of implementation and economic viability. In this regard, an adaptable off-site prefabricated envelope solution with an embodied HVAC system called “SmartWall” has been developed. The SmartWall can minimise thermal losses through the well-insulated envelope while, at the same time, its integrated HVAC system efficiently maintains indoor thermal comfort conditions. This study examines the virtual implementation of the SmartWall as a “Plug-n-Play” renovation solution to reach the nZEB state of a typical apartment in a multi-family residence in Athens. The analysis considers two SmartWall alternatives using conventional and eco-friendly materials. The results indicate a reduction of 88% in primary energy consumption without affecting thermal comfort conditions and highlighting that the nZEB state can be ensured if the SmartWall application is enhanced with photovoltaic modules.
Copyright (c) 2023 Emmanouil Katsigiannis, Petros Gerogiannis, Ioannis A. Atsonios, Aris Manolitsis, Maria Founti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Active glazing components, which can dynamically regulate incoming solar radiation, are particularly interesting, as they simultaneously impact multiple aspects, such as thermal and visual comfort and overall energy consumption. Near-infrared EC windows (also referred to as “plasmochromic”) enable selective spectral control of the incoming solar radiation and efficiently respond to ever-changing lighting, heating and cooling requirements. They allow to selectively filter a large amount of near-infrared solar radiation passing through the window, thus blocking solar heat gain during hot summer days and letting it permeate over sunny winter days whilst independently regulating the amount of daylight. This article delves into the core attributes of such glazing systems, showcasing recent advancements in their design and fabrication. By evaluating key metrics like luminous transmittance (TLUM), solar transmittance (TSOL), and total solar heat gain coefficient (g-value), the paper presents a preliminary performance assessment of smart glazing employing this technology. Furthermore, the authors prospect the importance of implementing appropriate control strategies for these systems to fully exploit their potential in reducing energy consumption while maximising comfort.
Copyright (c) 2023 Mirco Riganti, Julia Olivé, Francesco Isaia, Michele Manca https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing the circular re-design of prefabricated building envelope elements for carbon neutral renovation
Buildings and the construction industry at large are significant contributors to the catastrophic climate breakdown. The built environment is responsible for 37% of the total global carbon emission, of which about a third arises from the energy used to produce building and construction materials, usually referred to as embodied carbon. One of the key strategies to reduce the environmental impact of buildings is to significantly improve their energy efficiency, which is referred to as deep renovation. Prefabricated building envelope elements intended to prevent heat loss through the building envelope are considered a key deep-renovation technology. Connecting prefabricated elements to a building reflects a potential stream of waste if applied linearly with severe negative environmental impact in terms of natural resource depletion and exposure to pollutants. This article reports on a quantitative Design for Disassembly (Dfd) indicator to assess future recovery potential and, subsequently, its impact on embodied carbon emission of the circular redesign of three different prefabricated building envelope elements. Although none of the redesigned elements are yet considered 100% circular, the development of these three prefabricated building envelope elements showcases that the environmental impact can be substantially reduced following a well-structured and dedicated innovation process. The reduction of the environmental impact is indicated by lower quantities of embodied carbon up to 50% and an improved design for disassembly, reflecting a higher reuse potential of building materials and components. Several limitations and directions for further research were identified to advance the development of circular, prefabricated deep-renovation building envelope elements.
Copyright (c) 2023 Ivar Bergmans, Silu Bhochhibhoya, John van Oorschot https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Energy-saving potential of thermochromic coatings in transparent building envelope components
Advances in the energy management of buildings are essential for reducing the carbon footprint in the building sector. Applying special window coatings of varying optical properties offers new chances for improved energy efficiency. Thermochromic vanadium oxide (VO2) is an important material for this development and is, therefore, one of the most investigated thermochromic materials. It changes its transmittance in the infrared spectral range in response to a changing temperature. In this study, VO2 coating was deposited on ultra-thin flexible glass in a continuous roll-to-roll sputtering process. The thermochromic layer had a thickness of 70 nm, and it was embedded between two zirconium oxide layers of 170 nm each. The luminous transmittance of the stack was 50%. A solar modulation of 9.6% was reached between the low and high-temperature states. The transition temperature between the cold infrared transparent and the warm infrared opaque state was determined to be 22°C. Different application scenarios for this material were evaluated. The modulation of the solar transmittance was calculated for the combination of VO2 with state-of-the-art low-e coatings. Our findings show that such a combination does not offer a benefit for reducing the energy demand of a building. However, a stand-alone implementation of thermochromic coatings has a high potential if the energy consumption of the building is dominated by cooling demands.
Copyright (c) 2023 Matthias Fahland, Jolanta Szelwicka, Wiebke Langgemach https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Definition and design of a prefabricated and modular façade system to incorporate solar harvesting technologies
The current research presents the design and development of a prefabricated modular façade solution for renovating residential buildings. The system is conceived as an industrialised solution that incorporates solar harvesting technologies, contributing to reducing energy consumption by employing an “active façade” concept. One of the main challenges was to achieve a highly flexible solution both in terms of geometry and enabling the incorporation of different solar-capturing devices (photovoltaic, thermal, and hybrid). Therefore, to be able to provide alternative customised configurations that can be fitted to various building renovation scenarios. Guided by the requirements and specifications, the design was defined after an iterative process, concluding with a final system design validated and adopted as viable for the intended purpose. A dimensional study for interconnecting all the technologies composing the system was carried out. Potential alternative configurations were assessed under the modularity and versatility perspective, resulting in a set of alternative combinations that better fit the established requirements. Complementarily, the system also integrates an active window solution a component that incorporates an autonomous energy recovery system through ventilation. The main outcome is explicated in a highly versatile modular façade system, which gives existing buildings the possibility to achieve Nearly Zero Energy Building requirements.
Copyright (c) 2023 Izaskun Alvarez-Alava, Peru Elguezabal, Nuria Jorge, Tatiana Armijos-Moya, Thaleia Konstantinou https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Multifunctional façades for renovation through industrialization
This Special Issue compiles results of EU H2020 funded projects working on the development of multi-functional envelope solutions for deep renovation of buildings. The projects have a common and aligned objective to develop and demonstrate plug & build smart components, including insulation materials, heating and cooling elements, ventilation, smart windows, energy production, solar harvesting, and storage with necessary connecting and controlling parts to be integrated in a prefabricated envelope system. They highlight that plug & build solutions are suitable for mass production by industry for buildings undergoing deep renovation to NZEB standards. They also underline that the development and implementation of digital based technologies can boost the application of such industrialized concepts.
Copyright (c) 2023 Maria Founti, Stefano Avesani, Peru Elguezabal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Influence of Automated Façades on Occupants
Several studies performing building simulations showed that the automated control of façades can provide higher levels of indoor environmental quality and lower energy demand in buildings, in comparison to manually controlled scenarios. However, in several case studies with human volunteers, automated controls were found to be disruptive or unsatisfactory for occupants. For instance, automated façades became a source of dissatisfaction for occupants when they did not fulfil individual environmental requirements, did not provide personal control options, or did not correctly integrate occupant preferences with façade operation in energy-efficient controls. This article reviews current evidence from empirical studies with human volunteers to identify the key factors that affect occupant response to automated façades. Only twenty-six studies were found to empirically investigate occupant response to automated façades from 1998 onwards. Among the reviewed studies, five groups of factors were found to influence occupant interaction with automated façades and namely: (1) personal factors, (2) environmental conditions, (3) type and mode of operation, (4) type of façade technology, and (5) contextual factors.. Overall, occupant response to automated façades is often poorly considered in research studies reviewed because of the following three reasons: (i) the lack of established methods or procedures for assessing occupant response to automated façade controls, (ii) poor understanding of occupant multi-domain comfort preferences in terms of façade operation, (iii) fragmented research landscape, on one hand results are mainly related to similar contextual or climatic conditions, which undermines their applicability to other climates, while on the other hand the lack of replication within the same conditions, which also undermines replicability within the same condition. Lastly, this paper suggests future research directions to achieve a holistic and more comprehensive understanding of occupant response to automated façades, aiming to achieve more user-centric automated façade solutions and advanced control algorithms. In particular, research on the impact of personal factors on occupant satisfaction with automated controls is deemed paramount.
Copyright (c) 2022 Pedro de la Barra, Alessandra Luna-Navarro, Alejandro Prieto, Claudio Vásquez, Ulrick Knaack https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
We are proud to publish a new issue of the Journal of Façade Design and Engineering. This first issue of volume 10 covers a broad range of themes such as adaptivity, automation, circularity, refurbishment, daylight, acoustics, and user interaction are addressed by peer-reviewed articles. We would also like to take this opportunity to share some changes in the JFDE editorial team and publishing process. Prof. Tillmann Klein is changing his role from editor-in-chief to editorial board member. Tillmann Klein has been a front-runner in open-access publishing since JFDE was launched in 2013. Together with Ulrich Knaack he was responding to a call from the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) to develop new Journal models. The editorial team is most grateful for its outstanding contribution to making JFDE a reference point in the façade design and engineering field. The role is taken over by Dr. Thaleia Konstantinou, who has been promoting the Journal as managerial editor in the past years. As we go forward, we strive to ensure scientific quality as well as relevance for society and industry. JFDE has revised the editorial process giving a larger responsibility to the editorial board to control the scientific rigour of our published articles. We have also introduced procedures to regularly extend the editorial board. It makes us very proud to have reached the 10th year of publishing with JFDE, respected and valued by our authors and readers. Thanks for this! And, of course: to be continued!
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Circular, biomimicry-based, and energy-efficient façade development for renovating terraced dwellings in the Netherlands
Many studies concerning lowering the Operational Energy (OE) of existing dwellings have been conducted. However, those studies barely cover its collateral Embodied Energy (EE). As the Circular Economy is gaining momentum and the balance between OE and EE is shifting, the Life Cycle Energy Performance (LCEP) is becoming increasingly relevant as an indicator. LCEP accounts for all the OE and EE a building consumes during its lifespan. However, clear insights into the LCEP are still to be investigated. This study focuses on developing a circular and energy-efficient renovation solution for a common terraced dwelling typology in the Netherlands. The energy-efficient renovation is based on three circular strategies: Biomimicry, Urban Mining, and Design for Disassembly (DfD), covering the aspects of EE and future reuse of building materials and components. The developed renovation solution reduces 82% of the LCEP compared to the existing scenario. With additional photovoltaic (PV) modules, the dwelling reduces 100% of the LCEP. Applying biomimicry, urban mining, and DfD-based renovation can significantly lower the overall LCEP and its collateral environmental impacts to achieve a Life Cycle Zero Energy circular renovation.
Copyright (c) 2022 Ana Luíza Binow Bitar, Ivar Bergmans, Michiel Ritzen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The PowerSkin conference series is a biennial event organised cooperatively between TU München, TU Darmstadt, and TU Delft, which is already in its fourth edition, having started in 2017. This coming edition of PowerSkin has also been supported and organised with the support of RWTH Aachen. The conference addresses the role of building skins in accomplishing a carbon-neutral building stock. Therefore, integrating the environmental dimension of material and construction into the design phase is increasingly essential. This is done primarily by considering the energy and emissions linked to the building fabric's fabrication and its ability for reuse and recycling. For this reason, the focus of the PowerSKIN Conference 2022 is the building fabric with its environmental potential to unlock. Therefore the theme is: "Build in stock – renovation strategies: inorganic, circular materials vs organic, compostable materials". This theme is discussed through the following sub-themes: Envelope: the building envelope as an interface for interacting between indoor and outdoor environments, new functionalities, technical developments and material properties. Energy: new concepts, accomplished projects, and visions for the interaction between building structure, envelope and energy technologies. Environment: Façades or elements of façades which aim to provide highly comfortable surroundings where environmental control strategies, energy generation and/or storage are an integrated part of an active skin. This special issue of the Journal of Façade Design and Engineering dedicated to PowerSKIN 2022 showcases the conference's most prominent and relevant papers, aiming to enhance their visibility for a larger audience.
Copyright (c) 2022 Ulrich Knaack https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the Impact of Geometry and Fibre Arrangements on Daylight Control in Bistable Kinetic Shades
Bistable laminates are composite structures that exhibit more than one static configuration, showing a "snap-through" behaviour that results from residual stresses generated during the curing process. This study focuses on finding adequate fibre and laminate arrangements for bistable laminates used in functional kinetic shadings. We present a study with a mixed-methods approach, combining experimental prototyping and performance simulation studies. We fabricated and analysed the geometry of a series of prototypes, conducting daylight studies to assess the performance of different laminates and fibre arrangements and showing how specific fibre arrangements can help control daylight throughout the day. We concluded that controlling fibre arrangements of bistable laminates could increase the functionality of bistable kinetic shadings in terms of daylight control, leading to more differentiated shapes between their two stable states, which corresponds to the open and closed positions of the shadings. Increasing such a difference increases the range of system configurations and, therefore, the ability to respond to various external lighting conditions and internal user requirements.
Copyright (c) 2022 Elena Vazquez, Jose Duarte https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The acoustic and daylighting effects of external façade sun shading systems
External sun shading devices are increasingly used in sustainable buildings to reduce the greenhouse effect in the summer and the glare effect due to direct solar irradiation through transparent surfaces. The acoustic effects of these devices have been investigated in recent studies that suggest the possibility of optimising these elements to improve acoustic comfort in indoor environments, even with open windows. Nevertheless, there are few studies that analyse the combined effect of these devices on acoustic attenuation and improved daylighting. In this paper, the results of acoustics and daylighting simulations are reported, considering different dimensions, distances of the louvres and orientations of the façade. The main results of previous works concerning the effect of lining the bottom side of each louvre with sound-absorbing material are also briefly summarised. The acoustic effects of different configurations of the louvres are evaluated in terms of Insertion Loss in the façade plane. For the lighting simulations (daylight factor, daylighting uniformity and daylight glare probability), the variation of the shielding effect is studied considering the spacing between the louvres and the orientation of the façade for different times and seasons for latitude in the South of Europe.
Copyright (c) 2022 Simone Secchi, Patrizio Fausti, Gianfranco Cellai, Martina Parente, Andrea Santoni, Nicolò Zuccherini Martello https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Empirical validation of co-simulation models for adaptive building envelopes
The thermal performance of adaptive building envelopes can be evaluated using building performance simulation tools. Simulation capabilities and accuracy in predicting the dynamic behaviour of adaptive building envelopes can be enhanced through co-simulation. However, it is unclear how accurately co-simulation can predict the performance of adaptive building envelopes and how the accuracy of adaptive building envelope models created in co-simulation setups can be assessed and validated. Therefore, this study presents new evidence on the empirical validation of co-simulation setups for adaptive building envelopes by establishing an assessment framework to determine the extent to which they can accurately represent the real world. The framework was applied to a case study to validate a co-simulation setup for a blind automation system using monitored data from MATELab, a full-scale outdoor test facility with realistic indoor and outdoor conditions. The validation of the co-simulation model of MATELab resulted in a median CV-RMSE index, a measure of model accuracy, of 5.9%. This indicates that the simulated data points have a small variance relative to the measured data points, showing a good model fit. In the future, modellers from the façade community can use the assessment framework for their co-simulation setups.
Copyright (c) 2022 Esther Borkowski, Alessandra Luna Navarro, Michalis Michael, Mauro Overend, Dimitrios Rova, Rokia Raslan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0