Trending facade materials shaping modern architecture

Ar. Mueen Haris, Founder, Ds2 Architecture, describes how sustainable materials such as glass, wood, and photovoltaic panels are revolutionising modern architecture.

Building facades have a significant impact on a structure’s overall appearance and usefulness. In today’s world, where appearances are important, a building’s exterior may make a strong statement. They act as a building’s face, representing its individuality and leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Architectural trends, technical breakthroughs, and environmental considerations have all had an impact on the evolution of facades over time. In recent years, sustainability has emerged as a fundamental motivator in facade design. Architects are adopting novel solutions, such as green walls and photovoltaic panels, to build energy-efficient and environmentally friendly façades. Here, we shall talk about the numerous trending facade materials:

Glass:- Glass facades have been popular for many years due to their ability to achieve a sleek and modern appearance. However, recent advances in glass technology have propelled this material to unprecedented heights. Glass facades are becoming more versatile and sustainable, with energy-efficient glazing systems and smart glass that can vary transparency based on external conditions.

Bio-based facade materials: – Bio-based facade materials are gaining popularity in the construction sector due to their long-term viability and environmental benefits. These materials are generated from renewable resources such as plants, trees, and agricultural waste, giving them a feasible alternative to traditional facade materials like concrete and steel.

One of the most popular bio-based facade materials is wood. Wood has been used in construction for millennia and remains a popular material due to its natural beauty, durability, and versatility. It can be utilised in a variety of applications, including solid wood panels, wood cladding, and engineered wood products such as plywood and veneer lumber.

Another bio-based material gaining popularity in facade design is bamboo. Bamboo is a rapidly growing grass that may be harvested in a few years, making it a highly renewable resource. It is renowned for its durability, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal. Bamboo can be used for cladding, flooring, and even structural elements such as bamboo beams.

Brick Veneer:- Brick veneer is a popular choice for modern homes, providing a timeless and traditional appearance. It is a thin coating of brick that is affixed to the outer wall, giving the impression of a solid brick construction. Brick veneer is a practical solution for homeowners who want a historic yet contemporary facade because it is durable, requires little care, and provides good thermal insulation.

Stucco:- Stucco is a common choice for low-cost facades because to its adaptability. It is a cement-sand-water mixture that may be applied to a variety of surfaces, including wood, brick, and concrete. Stucco has a smooth and seamless finish and can be painted in a variety of colours to produce the desired appearance.

Metal:- Metal is a flexible and popular material for building facades because of its numerous advantages. Metal provides architects and builders with a variety of alternatives, including durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal. Aluminium composite panels, for example, are lightweight, durable, and customisable to achieve diverse design sensibilities.

Wood:- Wood facades bring warmth, natural beauty, and a sense of craftsmanship to a building’s outside. They can be used for both traditional and modern designs. Wood facades require frequent maintenance, such as sealing and painting, to prevent weathering and rotting. However, advances in wood treatment technology have increased its strength and resilience against decay and pests.

Fiber Cement:- Fibre cement is a novel substance that blends cement’s strength and durability with the flexibility of wood fibres. It is gaining popularity due to its ability to replicate the appearance of traditional materials such as wood or stone while still being fire-resistant and low-maintenance. Fibre cement panels come in a variety of colours and textures, giving them a versatile option for facade applications.

Engineered Wood:- Engineered wood, commonly referred to as composite wood, is gaining popularity as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to real wood. Wood fibres, resins, and adhesives are combined to form a more stable and pest-resistant material. Engineered wood facades can mimic the look of genuine wood while providing increased durability and endurance.

Photovoltaic Panels:- With a growing emphasis on renewable energy, photovoltaic (PV) panels are being integrated onto building facades to generate electricity. These panels are intended to absorb sunlight and transform it into useable energy, making buildings more self-sufficient and eco-friendly. PV panels can be effortlessly integrated into a variety of facade materials, including glass and metal, enabling architects to combine aesthetics and sustainability.

Facade materials are continuously changing to meet the demand for sustainable and visually appealing solutions. Glass, metal, fibre cement, engineered wood, and photovoltaic panels are just a few of the popular materials being used to build unique and visually appealing facades. As society prioritises sustainability and design quality, trendy and sustainable facades will become ever more important in influencing the future of architecture and design.

For more details, visit: https://www.ds2.in/

8