Design Strategies IMPULSE – Sustainable Facades

DESIGN 

STRATEGIES 

SPECIAL ISSUE Impulses from teaching and research 

Summer Semester Report 

09.2023 

SUSTAINABLE FAÇADES

EDITORIAL 

Welcome to the first edition of the Report on Sustainable Façades; a presentation of 

scientific and academic work relevant to the design, construction, and performance 

of façades, as well as their overall relationship with people inside and outside of 

buildings. The initiative to produce this report is driven by the fact that scientific staff 

and students within the Detmold School of Design (former School of Architecture 

and Interior Architecture) of TH OWL conduct research and design projects every 

semester that is relevant to the advancement of façade technologies, fundamental 

to make progress towards healthier cities and sustainable development worldwide. 

Although the theme of this document is centered on building envelopes, as it has 

been conceived within the Institute for Design Strategies (IDS) and the Façade 

Design specialization of the Master of Integrated Design (MID-FD), opportunities to 

contribute are not exclusive for members of the IDS and the MID-FD. Recognizing 

the importance of façades as integral components of every building and urban 

environment, we extend a warm invitation to fellow members of our university 

network, such as the Computational Design program (MID-CD), Architecture, 

Interior Architecture, Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, 

and beyond. Through this report, we aspire to encourage collaboration, dialogue, 

and critical thinking among our diverse academic and professional backgrounds. 

This report is envisioned as a collection of insightful articles as well as a platform 

where innovative ideas can be expressed, serving as a stepstone for fostering a 

stronger scientific mindset within our university community. 

Certainly, this first edition is more than a compilation of the progress done during 

the Summer Semester 2023, but it is also an exploration of a new channel for 

knowledge transfer, which we look forward to refining over time. Our commitment 

is guided not only by the principles of sustainable architecture and circularity, 

but also by the application of scientific methods to promote innovation and best 

practice in the construction industry. We invite our readers to look into our report 

and hopefully find inspiration. 

Alvaro Balderrama & Daniel Arztmann 

EDITORIAL VORWORT 

3

CONTENTS 

INTRODUCTION 

RESEARCH ARTICLES 

9 – COMFORT, AUTOMATION AND ENERGY 

Nathania Nadia 

18 – FACADE-AS-A-SERVICE MODEL 

Alla Vinogradova 

26 – OPTIMIZATION AND ECCENTRICITY 

Jason Daniel 

33 – DEMYSTIFYING THE SHADOW BOX 

Andrei Stan 

42 – ACTIVE SPACE 

Hannah Schäfer 

46 – PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF COLOR 

Zahra Mohebbi 

50 – DIGITAL WORKFLOW FOR 

SOUNDSCAPE ASSESSMENT 

Alvaro Balderrama & Hussam Al Basha 

RESEARCH IMPACT 

58 – GREEN WALLS AND HEALTH 

Marcel Cardinali, Alvaro Balderrama, Daniel Arztmann 

& Uta Pottgiesser 

60 – ESTIMATION OF NATURAL VENTILATION 

Hyeonji Seol, Daniel Arztmann, Naree Kim & Alvaro 

Balderrama 

62 – INVESTIGATING HEAT DEVELOPMENT 

Godo Zabur Singh, Daniel Arztmann & Alvaro 

Balderrama 

64 – CAMPUS SOUNDWALK 

Alvaro Balderrama, Aylin Erol, Johanna Götz, 

Alessandra Luna-Navarro, Jian Kang, Daniel Arztmann 

& Ulrich Knaack 

4 CONTENTS

DESIGN CONCEPTS 

67 – MID S5 PROJECTS 

EVENTS 

103 – PAST EVENTS 

105 – UPCOMING EVENTS 

OUTLOOK 

107 – SUSTAINABLE FAÇADES: 

PROGRESS AND FURTHER STEPS 

IMPRINT 

CONTENTS 

5

1. INTRODUCTION 

Throughout the 21st century, the concept of 

sustainability has been one of the main drivers 

within the development of cities, industries, and 

even people’s lifestyles. Many meanings for this 

concept have been presented over the years, making 

it challenging to pinpoint a universally accepted 

definition. However, at its essence, sustainability 

is about meeting the needs of the present without 

compromising the ability of future generations to 

meet their own needs (Brundtland, 1987) and it is 

commonly associated to three interrelated aspects: 

the environment, the economy and our society (U.S. 

Green Building Council, 2009; United Nations, 2015). 

Aside from its noble origins, the term „sustainability“ 

has gained a polarized reputation due to wrong 

applications of the concept by opportunists 

seeking to profit from it. This misuse is often called 

„greenwashing“, where organizations or individuals 

exaggerate or misrepresent sustainability efforts. 

Greenwashing tactics include vague or unverifiable 

claims, highlighting one “eco-friendly” or “green” 

aspect while ignoring the overall impact. This 

has led to widespread skepticism, challenging 

genuine sustainable initiatives. Differentiating 

true sustainability from deceptive statements can 

sometimes be difficult, especially for the general 

public. Therefore, there is a need for accountability 

and evidence-based claims. 

In architectural-related disciplines, sustainability 

has transformed the market and redefined the 

way that buildings conceived. In order to foster 

positive impacts within the construction industry, 

governments and third-party organizations have 

developed a diverse range of rating systems and 

international standards. Sustainability labels and 

certifications, (LEED, BREEAM, DGNB, Green Star, 

Passivhaus, Living Building Challenge, among many 

others), have emerged as tools to evaluate and 

recognize sustainable building practices. However, 

as in any field, the challenge remains to ensure that 

the application of these labels and practices align 

with their intended goals. 

The vertical elements of building envelopes, also known 

as façades, play a key role in sustainable development 

for multiple reasons. Generally, every façade has 

two sides and they act as the boundary between 

the exterior unconditioned environment and indoor 

spaces where people typically spend most of their 

time. Regarding the interior, façades not only provide 

shelter from natural elements such as rain, wind, or 

wildlife, but they also regulate indoor temperatures, 

sound quality, lighting, air quality and define privacy 

and safety. From the outer side, façades are integrated 

into the urban fabric, shaping the visual identity of 

cities for inhabitants and passersby. However, their 

influence outdoors is not limited to visual aesthetics. 

Façades also play a role in influencing biodiversity, 

temperatures, lighting and shading, wind flow, air 

quality, and contribute to the composition of the urban 

soundscape. Therefore, façades influence public 

health and well-being as they define the character and 

functionality or the urban fabric. 

Assessing if a façade is truly sustainable can be 

complex as it requires an understanding of various 

factors and probably there is not a one-size-fits-all 

solution. Sustainability is fundamentally contextdependent. 

A façade that may be considered 

sustainable in one location but have a vastly 

different impact in another. For example, a façade 

could seem to have a very positive impact during 

the design stage due to low embodied carbon and 

low operational carbon, but it could be negatively 

disruptive in the long-term in terms of visual, 

thermal, acoustic or air quality comfort. Therefore, 

sustainability evaluations must incorporate a holistic 

analysis, taking into account not only the façade‘s 

immediate effects but also its broader interaction 

with the environment, economy, and society within 

its specific context over time. 

This report openly acknowledges the complexity 

and ambiguity of the term “sustainable façades” 

embedded in its title, with the purpose of evoking 

curiosity and critical thinking by both its readers 

and authors. Therefore, we present a compilation of 

scientific research, creative projects, and academic 

exercises with the expectation of deciphering such 

a complex issue, at least to a certain extent. 

Section 2 | Research Articles presents recently finished 

or ongoing work that has not yet been published 

elsewhere. It provides the opportunity to compose an 

6 INTRODUCTION

article in the style of journal or conference papers and 

serves as a step before external publication. 

Different types of contributions are presented: 

“Article” which follows the structure of a traditional 

research paper; “Review” which refers to a narrative 

literature review; “Systematic Review” which refers 

to a structured literature review that follows an 

established protocol (e.g. PRISMA); “Digital Workflow” 

which is intended to explain the use of computational 

tools through a case study. Additionally, Master 

Theses are encouraged to be summarized and 

presented as articles. Finally, the summary of one 

Bachelor Thesis was also included in this edition. 

The suggested length of the contributions in this 

section is 10 pages, however that is only referential. 

Section 3 | Research Impact showcases recently 

published work in scientific journals or conferences. 

A link to the original (external) publication must 

be provided and the length of these contributions 

is fixed to 2 pages combining a summary of the 

publication and illustrations. 

Section 4 | Design Concepts is intended to show façade 

designs by the Master students. In this case, projects of 

the module MID S5: Culture and Climate are presented, 

resulting from their semester task. The length for each 

project is fixed to 2 pages, one with a written summary 

of the concept and one with a full-page illustration. 

Section 5 | Events presents a selection of relevant past 

and upcoming events. Events presents a selection of 

recently past events, namely the BAU construction 

fair in Munich, the 20th Docomomo conference in 

Frankfurt, and the Façade forum: Future Envelope 

2023 in Delft. The Upcoming advertised are 

the Resilience in Building Envelope Design and 

Technologies Conference in Istanbul in October 

2023, as well as the Detmold Conference Week in 

November 2023, and especially, within the DCW, the 

European Façade Network (EFN) Conference 2023 in 

Detmold. 

Section 6 | Outlook concludes our report, reflecting on 

the challenges and opportunities for the future. 

INTRODUCTION 

7

2. RESEARCH ARTICLES 

8 IDS REPORT ON SUSTAINABLE FAÇADES

Article (Master Thesis Summary) 

Human Comfort, Building Automation, and Energy Efficiency 

Nathania Nadia 1,2 

Supervisor 1. Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Daniel Arztmann 1,3 ; Supervisor 2. M.Eng. Alvaro Balderrama 1,4 ; Advisor: Philip Markus 2 

1. MID Façade Design, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Emilienstraße 

45, 32756 Detmold, Germany 

2. Weidmüller Interface GmbH & CO. KG, Klingenbergstraße 26, 32756 Detmold, Germany 

3. Schüco International KG, Karolinenstraße 1-15, 33609 Bielefeld, Germany 

4. Architectural Façades and Products Research Group, Department of Architectural Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Architecture 

and the Built Environment, TU Delft, Julianalaan, 134, 2628 BL Delft, The Netherlands 

ABSTRACT 

Germany aims to achieve 50% renewable energy coverage by 2030 and 100% by 2050 to address climate 

change. Energy efficiency in building components like façades, lighting, heating, cooling, and electrical loads, 

following the Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (Kfw) 55 requirement. Renewable energy sources such as solar 

thermal, photovoltaic, wind power, geothermal, biomass, and hydropower are considered. Building Automation 

Control and System (BACS) implementation focuses on human comfort, including thermal, acoustic, indoor air 

quality, and visual comfort. 

A case study examines the Weidmüller Interface GmbH, a five-floor office building in Detmold, Germany with 

12,370.16 m2 and consumed 905.011 kWh of energy in 2021. The energy consumption per square meter in 

this building is 73.16 kWh/m2, lower than the average typical office building in Germany (100-200 kWh/m2). 

The building incorporates geothermal which covers 80% of the heating consumption and rooftop solar panels, 

which contributed 2.45% of total energy consumption in 2021, as renewable energy sources. Based on surveys, 

employees are generally satisfied with the thermal conditions, acoustic quality, lighting, and indoor air quality, 

scoring an average of 3.45 out of 5.00. 

Four scenarios were developed to identify energy-saving measures, maximize renewable energy usage, and 

enhance human comfort. Automation of energy management and ventilation is crucial, while manual control 

of lighting and sun shading is practical. Scenario 4 achieves a 12% reduction in heating energy consumption 

through measures like manual lighting control in specific areas, manual sun shading, and fully locked windows. 

By incorporating geothermal energy, additional rooftop solar panels, façade solar panels, and wind turbines, 

renewable energy can increase up to 47.02%. However, this falls short of the target for nearly zero-energy 

buildings by 2030. Implementing the adjustments in scenario 4 improves human comfort by optimizing thermal 

conditions, enhancing acoustic and indoor air quality, and reducing reflective glare with angled façade solar 

panels. 

Keywords: human comfort, building automation, energy efficiency, renewable energy 

1. Introduction 

Climate change and Global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) 

emissions continue to be highly significant topics of 

discussion, especially due to the tangible impacts 

has already been felt by humanity, including an 

increase of 1,5 ºC. To achieve net zero energy by 

2050, governments, companies, and citizens must 

embrace the shift from fossil fuels to renewables. 

Governments must introduce policies that promote 

the efficient generation, use, and storage of 

renewable energy, as well as incentivize the switch to 

renewables for businesses and private households. 

Retrofitting buildings presents a significant 

challenge, to retrofit 20% of the current building 

stock to a zero-carbon-ready level by 2030 as part 

of the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario. This 

objective requires a deep renovation rate exceeding 

2% annually from now until 2030 and beyond. 

The analysis will explore ways to enhance renewable 

energy capacity and achieve net-zero energy in 

specific office buildings. By adjusting an adaptation 

in the automation system and considering energy 

savings, the study will assess occupant comfort 

through surveys and questionnaires. The goal 

is to not only improve energy efficiency but also 

ensure user satisfaction. The analysis will answer 

the question about the way to increase the office 

building energy performance to comply with 


9

Gebäudeenergiegesetz (GEG) / building energy law 

with consideration of user satisfaction 

2. Literature Review 

2.1. Energy Efficiency in Buildings 

Building heating and cooling, responsible for 

40% of the EU’s energy usage, is a critical area for 

development (European Commission, 2020) because 

buildings have an energy efficiency rate of about 

75%, including heating and cooling, hot water, fresh 

air, humidification, dehumidification, and lighting. 

In April 2018, the Parliament implemented regulations 

for building energy efficiency, regarding developing 

long-term plans for renovating structures to achieve 

100% renewable energy usage by 2050. Additionally, 

the EU aims to get at least 50% of its electricity 

consumption covered by renewable sources by 

2030. In Germany, the commonly used standard for 

energy efficiency is Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau 

(KfW). KfW 55 is the required efficiency level for new 

buildings, ensuring they use only 55% of the primary 

energy of a reference building specified in the 

Building Energy Act/Gebäudeenergiegesetz (GEG) 

2023 (Izzi, 2023) 

2.2. Renewable Energy in Buildings 

Erneuerbare-Energien-Gesetz (EEG) / renewable 

energy in Germany is a major energy policy 

amendment in decades states to have much faster 

expansion and to share the renewable energies in 

gross electricity consumption, targeted 80 percent 

by 2030. There are several available and applicable 

renewable energy in the building, such as façade 

solar panels, photovoltaic, wind turbine, geothermal, 

biomass, and hydropower. A solar cell or photovoltaic 

element is a component that converts energy 

contains in light directly into electric energy (Klaus, 

2008). The photovoltaics market is experiencing 

rapid growth, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate 

(CAGR) of cumulative PV installations reaching 30% 

between 2011 and 2021. The growth of photovoltaic 

technology is evident in the widespread use and 

availability of façade solar panels, which have shown 

effectiveness of up to 20%. Ongoing research is 

focused on thin film-based photovoltaics, organic 

solar cells (OSCs), and solar thermal venetian blinds 

(STVB). 

The wind is the oldest source of energy used by 

mankind, compared to other renewable energy 

and it has already been used in Germany since the 

eighteenth century. The mini wind turbine has been 

developed in the USA that can generate a lot of 

electricity without making any noise or taking up a 

lot of space. Geothermal energy refers to the heat 

that is generated and stored within the Earth. It is 

a renewable energy source that can be harnessed 

for various purposes, such as heating, electricity 

generation, and cooling. It can be accessed by drilling 

deep into the Earth‘s surface to reach reservoirs 

of hot water or steam, which can then be used to 

power turbines and generate electricity. 

Biomass is a renewable energy source, meaning it can 

be replenished over time. To increase the amount of 

usable energy from biomass, new technologies can 

be developed to convert it into usable products such 

as electricity and fuels. Hydropower is a renewable 

energy source that harnesses the energy of flowing 

or falling water to generate electricity. It is derived 

from the gravitational force of water, typically in 

the form of rivers, dams, or waterfalls. Hydropower 

plants utilize turbines and generators to convert the 

kinetic energy of moving water into electrical energy. 

2.3. Human Comfort 

Usability refers to the extent to which a system, 

product, or service can be effectively, efficiently, 

and satisfactorily used by specific users in a given 

context. Assessing usability involves engaging 

occupants through Human-Centered Design (HCD) 

methods to understand their needs and satisfaction 

levels. Important considerations for architecture to 

meet HCD guidelines include factors like color, light, 

acoustics, healthfulness, stimulation, community 

balance, and adaptability. 

Human comfort analysis will use a Likert scale and 

open-ended questions to the employee that is 

focused on seven aspects, four main aspects from 

the ALDREN community. The desire for control in 

one‘s surroundings is linked to psychological need 

satisfaction and autonomous motivation (Burger, 

1992). However, automation systems in modern 

offices have taken control away from individuals, 

reducing their ability to influence their environment. 

The ALDREN community has identified four key 

components to assess indoor environment quality 

(IEQ): thermal environment (T), acoustic environment 

(A), indoor air quality (I), and luminous environment 

(L) (ALDREN, n.d.). The other three aspects are 

building automation systems, interior design, and 

future development. 

2.4. Building Automation and Control Systems 

(BACS) 

BACS (Building Automation and Control System) is 

an energy-efficient system that optimizes energy 

usage in buildings, ensuring occupant comfort. It 

utilizes tools, programs, and engineering services to 

enhance the safe and efficient operation of technical 

buildings through automated controls. BACS is 

especially effective in managing micro-climate 

conditions like daylighting and natural ventilation, 

particularly in lighting and HVAC systems. On 

average, BACS installations result in approximately 

37% energy savings for space heating, 25% for water 

heating, and 37% for cooling/ventilation and lighting. 

3. Methodology 

3.1. Case Study: Office Building Weidmüller 

Detmold 

The office building called CTC – Costumer and 

Technology Center is located at Klingenbergstraße 

26, Detmold, Germany. The five-story building is 

10 RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 1. Site Anaalysis 

Figure 3. Horizontal section of triple glazing in an 

office building 

Source: Weidmüller Interface GmbH 

Figure 2. Building Analysis 

Figure 4. Thermal bridge on a vertical section 

Source: redrawn data from Weidmüller Interface 

GmbH 

the main headquarters building for Weidmüller 

Interface GmbH & Co. KG, built in 2020 by MERWITZ 

Gmbh & Co. KG. The design of the building has 

already considered the efficiency of the energy use 

in passive (static design) and active (automation 

implementation). The building mainly is used as an 

office with small percentages for showroom and 

maintenance in the basement. 

The 12,370.16 m2 building‘s facade is oriented 

towards the south, aligning with the direction of 

the summer and winter solstices. The wind mainly 

comes from the northwest, and occasional noise 

disturbance is caused by the main street located in 

the eastern part of the building. 

As per the Building Energy Act/Gebäudeenergiegesetz 

(GEG) 2023, which aligns with the Kfw 55 

requirement, one of the standards focuses on the 

U-value of windows and transparent components. 

The requirement states that the U-value should be 

equal to or below 0.9 W/(m2K). In this building, the 

window system consists of a 50 mm triple glazing 

installed externally. The window installation is not 

directly aligned with the concrete structure. The 

window system used is the Schüco AWS 75 SI, the 

window type is a tilt window with an inward opening 

design. It incorporates a triple-glazing configuration 

with a thickness of 50mm. 

The energy efficiency of each building is determined 

by calculating the energy consumption per total 

office area. For this office building, the energy 

consumption is 905,011 kWh, and the total area 

is 12,370.16 m2. Dividing these values, we get an 

energy efficiency rating of 73.16, which falls under 

energy-efficient class C. In terms of renewable 

energy utilization, this building currently harnesses 

two sources: rooftop solar panels and geothermal 

systems. The geothermal energy usage amounts 

to 195,805 kWh (21.63%), obtained from a 45 m 

deep geothermal system. Additionally, the rooftop 

solar panels, comprising 144 modules, generate 

22,156 kWh (2.45%) of energy. The building uses an 

automation system for heating and cooling, lighting, 

and sun shading. 

3. Results 

This chapter aims to provide an overview of 

different scenarios based on the current condition 

and prioritized factors. Scenario 2 focuses on 

maximizing energy efficiency by considering various 

factors to achieve optimal energy savings. The 

following scenario emphasizes the importance of 

human comfort and aims to maximize satisfaction 

levels. In the chapter summary, we will outline and 

highlight the most effective approach that balances 

energy savings and human comfort. The goal is to 

achieve the highest possible energy savings while 

considering human comfort. 

Scenario 1 is the first scenario, it will provide an 

overview of the current situation in three main areas: 

energy efficiency, renewable energy, and human 

comfort concerning building automation. The 

section on energy efficiency will cover topics such as 

heating and cooling settings, energy consumption 


11

Figure 5. Meeting and phone room 

Figure 6. Typical Office Plan 

adjust is the setting of the heating system, where 

the working hour can be reduced to 19°C and at 

no occupied time, divided by two settings; from 6 

pm to 9 pm is set to 15°C and decrease 4 degree 

until 3am next day and get it back to 15°C until 6am 

in the morning, it can decrease energy use up to 

75%. Another way to save energy consumption is to 

change the automation of lighting into manual turn 

on in meeting and phone room in the middle area 

and also in three different multifunctional rooms, 

due to the radius of 6m is overlapping with the aisle 

and it makes the light keep turning on even no one 

uses the room. 

Figure 7. Multifunctional room 

per kWh in 2021, the lighting system in a typical 

office room as an example, the automation system 

for sun shading, and the window system. 

In the phone room, there are two LED panels 

above and below, while the middle meeting room 

has four LED panels. These panels are active for 

about two-thirds of the working hours (6 am to 6 

pm). To reduce energy loss from lighting during the 

unused four-hour period, keeping all doors closed 

to avoid movement detection in the green area is 

recommended. This measure saves up to 1152 W 

per day, considering the combined power of the six 

LED panels (36W each). A similar approach can be 

applied to three other functional rooms, accounting 

for one-third of the total working hours. By installing 

18 LED panels (rated at 36W each) and using them 

during the eight hours of unused time, significant 

energy savings of 5184W per day can be achieved. 

Scenario 2 focuses on maximizing energy savings 

and exploring different options to achieve the 

highest level of energy efficiency. The first thing to 

To accurately calculate energy savings, installing 

a solid barrier to prevent the green area from 

triggering motion sensors or manually controlling 

the motion sensors is necessary. Assuming full 

use of the lights, the estimated total energy saved 

throughout the year is 1,584,000 W or 1,584 kWh/ 

year, taking into account 1152 W plus 5184 W 

multiplied by 250 working days. It‘s important to 

note that this estimation has limitations, including 

variations in dimmer percentages and the duration 

of lighting turn-on due to the influence of external 

sunlight on the sensor. 

To reduce energy consumption, another effective 

measure is to turn off devices that remain in standby 

mode during the night, weekends, and holidays. The 

table below presents calculations for a monitor, three 

different types of printers, and a coffee machine. The 

calculations take into account 11 public holidays, 104 

weekends, and 255 working days in 2021, with 12 

hours of operation on working days and 24 hours 

on free days. 

Combining the energy savings from the monitor, 

printer, and coffee machine results in a total energy 

savings of 2,340.013 kW in 2021. The individual energy 

savings are 1,891 kW for the monitor, 402.453 kW 

for the printer, and 46.56 kW for the coffee machine. 

Since the printers spend a considerable amount of 

12 RESEARCH ARTICLES

Table 1. 

Device and energy stand by 

Total possible saving of energy 

650 monitors (0,5W standby) 1.891 kWh 

3 Hp printers (6,5W standby) 113.49 kWh 

6 Ricoh printers (0,8W standby) 279.36 kWh 

3 Ricoh printers (0,55W standby) 9.603 kWh 

8 Coffee machines (1W standby) 46.56 kWh 

time in sleep mode when not in use, their energy 

consumption in standby mode will be considered 

when estimating the annual energy usage based on 

the data provided for each printer brand and model. 

The diagram below illustrates two vacant rooftops 

that are currently being used as ground space 

instead of being utilized as green roofs. The first 

green roof area has space for approximately 164 

photovoltaic modules, and the second green roof 

area can accommodate around 160 modules, 

considering the presence of a maintenance area on 

the rooftop. Furthermore, the south-facing surface 

of the sloping roof can accommodate approximately 

56 modules, as shown in the diagram. 

There are two options for utilizing the additional 380 

photovoltaic modules. The first option is to match 

the capacity of the existing solar panels, which is 

270 kWp. The second option is to install entirely 

new panels with a maximum capacity available in 

the market, which is 500 kWp. When comparing 

the actual data to the calculations from PVGIS, it is 

important to note that the effective kilowatts (kW) 

per panel is 62.55% of the kilowatt-peak (kWp) rating. 

This difference is taken into account when calculating 

the energy output of a 500 kWp solar panel with an 

optimal angle of 39°. 

Based on the calculations mentioned earlier, the 

energy generation for the additional 380-module 

solar panel can be determined for the year 2021. 

The calculations are divided into four categories: 

the current panel configuration, the current panel 

with an optimized angle, the additional panel with 

the same capacity as the existing PV system, and 

the additional module with the maximum capacity 

available in the market. 

Calculation of 270 kWp 

1 solar panel saving = 168,88 kWh 

168,88/270 = 62,55 % (percentage of 

efficiency panel) 

Simulation Situation 2 (optimized angle) 

Energy Consumption in 2021 = 905.011 kWh 

Solar panel capacity 

= 270 kWh 

Solar panel energy actual (56,985%) = 168,88 kWh 

Additional PV panel 

= 380 panels 

Actual energy savings = 

380x 168,88 kWh 

= 64.174,4 kWh 

+7.09% saving from energy consumption in 2021 

Calculation of 500 kWp 

500 x 62,55%= 312,75 kWh 

Simulation Situation 2 (optimized angle) 

Energy Consumption in 2021 = 905.011 kWh 

Solar panel capacity 

= 500 kWh 

Solar panel energy actual (56,985%) = 312,75 kWh 

Additional PV panel 

= 380 panels 

Actual energy savings = 

449 x 312,75 kWh = 118.845 kWh 

+13,13% saving from energy consumption in 2021 

The following calculations utilize PVGIS to explore 

various scenarios. The objective is to determine the 

maximum capacities for different configurations: 

(a) Existing solar panel + additional solar panel with 

the same capacity 

(b) Existing solar panel + additional solar panel with 

the maximum capacity 

(c) Existing solar panel with optimized angle + 

additional solar panel with the same capacity 

(d) Existing solar panel with optimized angle + 

additional solar panel with the maximum capacity. 

Figure 8. Photovoltaic and wind turbine placement 


13

Table 2. 

PV existing panel 270 kWp with 15° angle a(144 modules) 

PV existing panel 270 kWp with 39° optimized angle (144 modules) 

PV additional panel 270 kWp with 39° angle (380 modules) 

PV additional panel 500 kWp with 39° angle (380 modules) 

22.156 kWh 

24.319 kWh 

64.174,4 kWh 

118.845 kWh 

Table 3. 

Solar additional panel 270 kWp with 39° 

optimized angle (380 modules) 

Solar additional panel 500 kWp with 39° 

optimized angle (380 modules) 

Solar panel existing panel 

270 kWp with 15° angle 

(144 modules) 

86.336,4 kWh 

(9,54%) 

141.001 kWh 

(15,58%) 

Solar panel Existing panel 270 

kWp with 39° optimized angle 

(144 modules) 

88.493,4 kWh 

(9,78%) 

143.164 kWh 

(15,82%) 

Considering the location, surrounding conditions, 

and regulations, it is possible to install a commercial 

small wind turbine in this area with a maximum 

height of 20 m. This turbine has the potential to 

generate an output exceeding 10 kW. At a height of 

20 m, the average wind speed has been measured 

to be 5.75 m/s. The specific turbine model, the Lowwind 

turbine TN535, is certified for installation at 

this height and falls within the category of turbines 

designed for 5.5 m/s wind speeds. 

Based on projections, this turbine has an estimated 

energy output ranging from approximately 36.451 

to 40.357 kWh per year. On average, it generates 

around 37.360 kWh annually. These figures provide 

an indication of the potential energy production 

from the turbine in a given year. 

Another possibility is installing two rooftop mini wind 

turbines, utilizing the building‘s strong columns. The 

ANTARIS 2.5 kW mini wind turbine can operate from a 

wind speed as low as 2 m/s. It has three rotor blades 

with a diameter of 3 m and a maximum speed of 

41,080 rpm. If the ANTARIS 2.5 kW turbine is selected 

and operated continuously for 8,760 hours (1 year), it 

is estimated to generate approximately 21,900 kWh 

of energy. This estimation gives an approximate idea 

of the turbine‘s expected energy output over a year. 

Figure 9. Plan wind turbine location 

Source: redrawn from Bing maps 

Figure 10. Wind Turbine TN535 

Source: (WindDual, n.d.) 

Figure 11. Wind Turbine TN 535 Specification 

Source: (WindDual, n.d.) 

When combining the existing PV panel with two 

possibilities of wind turbine integration, namely 

(a) the existing PV panel with an additional 380 

modules of the same capacity, and (b) the existing 

PV panel with an optimized angle and 380 additional 

modules with optimal capacity, the wind turbine can 

generate approximately 21,900 kWh of energy. 

The total calculation for additional solar panels 

+ two wind turbines on the rooftop + one wind 

turbine 20m = 

Possibility (a) 86.336,4 kWh + 21.900 kWh + 37.360 

kWh = 145.596,4 kWh (16%) 

Possibility (b) 141.164 kWh + 21.900 kWh + 37.360 

kWh = 200.424 kWh (22,14%) 

14 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

The total calculation for 

additional solar panels + 

two wind turbines on the 

rooftop + one wind turbine 

20m = 

Possibility (a) 86.336,4 kWh 

+ 21.900 kWh + 37.360 kWh 

= 145.596,4 kWh (16%) 

Possibility (b) 141.164 kWh + 

21.900 kWh + 37.360 kWh = 

200.424 kWh (22,14%) 

Figure 13. Existing picture when the sun shines 

through the wall 

Figure 12. Mini Wind Turbine ANTARIS 2,5 kW 

Source: www.braun-windturbinen.com 

Scenario 3 focuses on optimizing human comfort 

by implementing strategies based on questionnaire 

results to enhance user satisfaction. The chapter 

also includes calculations for utilizing solar panels on 

building facades to reduce glare and improve visual 

comfort. 

There are two options: one is to increase the 

temperature setting to 23 degrees Celsius for 12 

hours during working hours, from 6 am to 6 pm. 

It is assumed that this change may result in an 

approximate energy consumption increase of 2-5%. 

Taking the middle number, the estimated energy 

consumption increase would be around 3%. 

To enhance user comfort, incorporating façade 

solar panels is an effective approach that generates 

renewable energy while reducing glare in the 

Geothermal energy used in 2021 is 244.756,25 kWh 

per year 

103% x 244.756,25 kWh= 252.098,9375 kWh 

workplace. Using Grasshopper software, an analysis 

reveals that the south-facing façade receives the 

highest amount of sunlight throughout the year. The 

façade can be divided into six sections, each with its 

area size, based on the building‘s shape, as shown 

in the figure below. However, it should be noted that 

areas A and B on the façade do not cover the entire 

south-facing area due to shadows cast by adjacent 

building masses. The determination of areas A and 

B was made using a real photograph of the building 

taken at midday. 

The Climate Studio, a plugin integrated into 

Rhinoceros software, was utilized to determine the 

average reflected radiation on the south-facing 

Figure 14. Facade area to put facade solar panel 

façade. The radiation peaks in June, surpassing 75 

kWh/m2, and gradually decreases until reaching 

its lowest point in December, measuring less 

than 25 kWh/m2. Starting in January, there is a 

significant increase from approximately 35 kWh/m2, 

culminating in June. By considering the highest and 

lowest radiation values observed for a year, which are 

implemented in an area of 1,427.79 m2, two potential 

values can be calculated. These values are then 

multiplied by the total implemented area, resulting 

in the cumulative energy generated from one year 

of application. The calculation for the highest solar 

radiation indicates a potential annual gain of up to 90 

kWh/m2, whereas the calculation for the lowest solar 

exposure yields 15 kWh/m2. 

There is a slight adaptation for scenario 4 in heating 

and cooling, where the setting temperature for 

working time is the same as scenario 1 which is 21- 

23°C and decreases two times on the no-occupied 

time from 21:00 until morning 3:00, a decrease 

of 2 degrees Celsius can lead to energy savings of 

approximately 2-5%. Taking the middle number, the 

estimated energy consumption decrease would be 

around 3%. 

Renewable energy will be implementing these 

combined renewable energy solutions, a significant 

contribution can be made toward meeting the energy 

requirements while maximizing energy generation 

from both solar and wind sources. Geothermal 

energy + Solar panel + wind turbine + façade solar 

panel = 195.805 kWh +141.164 kWh + 59.260 kWh 

+ 29.298,25 kWh = 425.427,25 kWh (47,02% from 

energy consumption) 


15

4. Discussion 

Building automation systems are implemented for 

heating, cooling, lighting, and sun shading. The heating 

and cooling system is set at 21 degrees Celsius, 

but some employees request adjustments due to 

coldness. Energy conservation is crucial, and the 

Dutch government recommends 19 degrees Celsius. 

Occupancy detectors or sensors can automatically 

adjust temperature settings based on occupants. 

Lighting is affected by building automation, and 

motion sensors can cause energy waste in unused 

areas. Survey results support manual lighting control 

and manual sun shading control, but automated sun 

shading is not highly efficient. 

Employees desire open windows near their desks, 

causing debates about indoor air temperature 

and quality. The ventilation system relies on 

underground air filters and CO2 sensors. Energy 

savings calculations for lamps in meeting rooms 

and multifunctional rooms have limitations due to 

insufficient information on lamp dimmer percentages 

Description: Qcell-Qpeak Duo M G11 400W 

Weight: 21,2 kg per square meter 

Module size: h= 1692 mm, w= 1134 mm 

Efficiency sun radiation converts to electricity: 

22,8% 

Total sun radiation to the south facade 

2a) highest sun radiation: 

1427,79 m2 x (90 kWh x 22,8%) = 

1427,79 m2 x 20,52 kWh = 29.298,25 kWh / m2 

Figure 15. Facade solar panel 

Source: segensolar.de 

and energy consumption. These calculations assume 

a 1% energy savings for every one-degree increase 

or decrease in temperature, which is only taken into 

account by energy data from 2021. 

Renewable energy calculation involves adjusting solar 

panel angles, adding roof modules, implementing 

façade solar panels, and calculating energy from mini 

wind turbines and a 20-meter-high wind turbine in 

the parking area. PVGIS.com input data determines 

effectiveness, while 2021 energy collector data 

determines efficiency. Sample companies‘ technical 

data sheets are used for energy collector calculations, 

adjusting for building conditions. The façade 

solar panel computation constraint is resolved by 

adjusting the tilt angle, influenced by ClimateStudio 

and Rhino models. 

The Smart Readiness Methodology (SRI) was 

introduced in 2018 to establish a standardized 

EU scheme for rating smart building readiness. It 

covers 54 building areas, including heating, cooling, 

ventilation, electricity, electric vehicle charging, 

lighting, monitoring, and control. SRI‘s research is 

limited, highlighting the need for further exploration 

and application in real-world cases(Becchio, 2021), 

(Märzinger T, 2019). 

Implementing smart-oriented retrofitting scenarios 

that prioritize building automation and control 

measures can significantly improve the energy 

efficiency of buildings, potentially elevating their 

performance to a „C“ class (65-80%). These retrofits, 

particularly when aimed at achieving Nearly Zero 

Energy Building (NZEB) standards, enhance the 

optimization of energy usage. Additionally, retrofitting 

16 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

scenarios that enable buildings to interact with 

the grid have the potential to achieve an energy 

surplus, thereby further supporting the integration 

of buildings into the broader energy system. 

5. Conclusions 

The article emphasizes the importance of reducing 

energy consumption and increasing renewable 

energy while considering human comfort. A survey 

among 66 office building employees revealed 

that thermal, acoustic, indoor air quality, visual, 

building automation, interior design, and future 

development were the main topics covered. Users 

ranked ventilation and energy management as 

the main systems to control automatically, with 

security system control second. Lighting was ranked 

lowest, followed by sun shading. To enhance energy 

efficiency, renewable energy, and human comfort, 

four scenarios were categorized into four. 

Scenario 2 focuses on optimizing energy 

consumption by lowering air temperature during 

working hours, turning off all electricity to devices, 

and manual control of lights in specific rooms. 

Maximizing green roof areas, adjusting roof slopes, 

and installing wind turbines contribute to renewable 

energy generation. Scenario 3 prioritizes human 

comfort by increasing temperature during working 

hours to 23°C, resulting in a 103% increase in energy 

consumption. Manual control of lighting and sun 

shading is emphasized, with independent window 

opening options considered. Façade solar panels are 

proposed as a renewable energy solution to improve 

visual comfort and address glare issues. 

Burger, J. M. (1992). Retrieved from Desire for Control: 

Personality, social, and clinical perspectives: https:// 

doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4757-9984-2 

European Commission. (2020). EU Climate Target 

Plan 2030; Key contributors and policy tools. State 

of the Union. 

Izzi, R. (2023, 01 25). Net4Energy. Retrieved from 

Merkmale Eines KfW Effizienz-Haus 55: https:// 

www.net4energy.com/de-de/smart-living/kfweffizienzhaus-55 

Klaus, D. (2008). Energy Design for Tomorrow (Energy 

Design für morgen). Axel Menges. 

Märzinger T, Ö. D. (2019). A Methodology to Integrate 

A Quantitative Assessment of the Load Shifting 

Potential of Smart Buildings. Energies, 1955. 

WindDual. (n.d.). Windkraftanlage TN535. Retrieved 

from www.windkraft-anlagen.com 

Scenario 4 combines energy efficiency and user 

comfort, adjusting temperature settings during and 

outside working hours, and turning off electronic 

devices after working hours. A comprehensive 

approach to renewable energy utilization includes 

optimizing solar panel angles, adding new panels, 

leveraging geothermal energy, installing façade solar 

panels, and incorporating wind turbines. However, 

the cumulative renewable energy contributions fall 

below the 50% target set for Nearly Zero Energy 

requirements by 2030. 

ACKNOWLEDGMENT: 

This paper is written based on the master thesis 

in façade specialization in Technische Hochschule 

Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Detmold, Germany. 

REFERENCES 

ALDREN. (n.d.). ALDREN. Retrieved from Comfort & 

Well-being: https://aldren.eu/comfort-well-being/ 

Becchio, C. C. (2021). Exploitation of dynamic 

simulation to investigate the effectiveness of the 

smart readiness indicator: Application to the energy 

center building of Turin. Science and Technology for 

the Built Environment, 1127-1143. 


17


Facade-as-a-Service: model of circular economy for curtain 

wall 

Alla Vinogradova 1 

Supervisor 1. Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Daniel Arztmann 1,2 ; Supervisor 2. M.Eng. Alvaro Balderrama 1,3 

1. MID Façade Design, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Emilienstraße 



3. Architectural Façades and Products Research Group, Department of Architectural Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Architecture 

and the Built Environment, TU Delft, Julianalaan, 134, 2628 BL Delft, The Netherlands 

Abstract 

The construction industry faces the challenge of adapting to a changing world with evolving user needs, 

lifestyles, and regulations. To promote sustainability and minimize waste, integrating circular economy 

principles into construction is crucial. This approach focuses on reducing resource consumption, promoting 

durability, maintenance, and recycling. Reusing materials, especially in European construction, can significantly 

reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, challenges like deconstruction, remanufacturing, and supportive 

procurement policies need to be addressed. 

Façades pose unique challenges due to their diverse materials and global supply chains. Understanding design 

and service factors that affect reuse is essential. The Façade-as-a-service (FaaS) approach, combining products 

and services, is a promising strategy for a circular economy. Yet, practical challenges, especially integrating 

existing and emerging products into building envelopes, must be resolved. 

This master‘s thesis examines a model of FaaS for a curtain wall facade to identify its strengths and weaknesses. 

The study focuses on the FaaS life cycle and factors influencing the building‘s service life and potential 

resolutions. 


The construction and design industries have 

witnessed significant transformations in recent 

years, driven by technological advancements, 

changing market dynamics, and the increasing 

importance of sustainable practices. In this context, 

FaaS has emerged as an innovative business model, 

offering a fresh perspective on the design and 

implementation of building facades. This thesis 

aims to explore the distinct characteristics of the 

FaaS model, while acknowledging the absence of 

information regarding key partners, key resources, 

cost structure, and revenue streams. Instead, it 

primarily focuses on design strategies and the 

execution of comprehensive services, which play a 

central role in shaping the success and impact of 

FaaS providers. 

It is important to note that the term „Facade-asa-Service,“ 

originally introduced by J.F. Azcarate- 

Aguerre, T. Klein, A.C. den Heijer, R. Vrijhoef, H.D. 

Ploeger, & M. Prins in their research paper „Facade 

Leasing: Drivers and barriers to the delivery of 

integrated Facades-as-a-Service,“ serves as a key 

reference in this context. 

2. Market analysis 

Several growth drivers and restraints influence 

Europe’s construction market. Urbanization, 

sustainable infrastructure investments, and 

population growth are boosting the industry. 

However, high material costs and the COVID-19 

pandemic have been challenges. The facade industry 

is shifting towards energy efficiency and sustainability 

due to environmental concerns and regulations. 

To meet customer demands, facade companies 

focus on innovation, including eco-friendly materials 

and digital design tools. The market size is growing 

steadily, driven by the emphasis on energy efficiency 

and aesthetics. Customers prioritize energy efficiency, 

aesthetics, and sustainability in facades. The target 

market includes commercial, residential, and public 

infrastructure sectors, each with specific needs. 

To succeed, companies must address customer 

needs and navigate challenges through technological 

advancements and offering energy-efficient, 

visually appealing, and sustainable solutions in the 

competitive landscape of Europe‘s construction 

market [1][2]. 

18 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 1. Overview on market analysis 

3 . Mission 

Current FaaS is a concept aimed at promoting 

sustainability and circularity in the building industry. 

It involves the implementation of services related to 

facade leasing, with the overarching goal of achieving 

sustainability leadership. FaaS envisions a future 

where building facades are designed, constructed, 

and managed in a way that minimises resource 

consumption, reduces waste, and maximises energy 

efficiency (fig. 2). 

• How it works 

FaaS providers cater to both residential and 

commercial customers, recognizing the diverse 

requirements of these segments. It operates on 

a subscription-based model, offering customers 

the flexibility to pay for facade services on an 

ongoing basis. While the subscription model is 

prevalent in FaaS, there may be instances where 

upfront investment options are available. This 

gives customers the choice to invest in the facade 

infrastructure, allowing them to have ownership and 

control over the assets while still benefiting from 

FaaS services. 

Current FaaS business model combines Product 

and Service components to offer a comprehensive 

solution in the construction industry (fig. 3). At its 

core is the facade system, serving as the minimum 

viable product that enables reuse and repurposing 

Figure 2. Overview on compay mission 


19

of elements at the end of its lifecycle. By integrating 

its own facade system, the current FaaS model 

ensures control, customization, and compatibility. 

Alongside the product, FaaS provides services such 

as maintenance and remote control, ensuring optimal 

facade performance and extending its lifespan. This 

integrated approach addresses the evolving needs 

of clients, offering a functional, customizable, and 

sustainable solution. As FaaS continues to evolve, 

the potential for incorporating other facade systems 

further enhances its flexibility and value proposition, 

positioning it as a forward-thinking solution in the 

construction industry. 

When it comes to the FaaS business model, 

outsourcing plays a crucial role in ensuring the 

delivery of comprehensive services. FaaS providers 

typically rely on a network of specialised suppliers to 

fulfil various aspects of the facade design, fabrication, 

installation, and maintenance processes. These 

suppliers bring specific expertise and resources to 

the table, contributing to the overall success of the 

FaaS model. Here are some key suppliers involved in 

the outsourcing aspect of FaaS: Material Suppliers. 

Fabricators, Installation Contractors, Maintenance 

Service Providers, Technology and Software 

Providers. 

The facade undergoes regular maintenance and 

inspections according to an automated schedule. 

Utilising remote control capabilities, FaaS monitors 

the performance of the facade in real-time, enabling 

early detection of issues and prompt interventions. 

This proactive approach ensures the optimal 

functioning of the facade throughout its lifespan. 

Within the lifecycle of a facade, several stages 

and processes ensure its optimal performance 

and sustainability. The FaaS model incorporates 

various strategies to achieve this goal, with a focus 

on efficient maintenance, controlled disassembly, 

refurbishment, and responsible material 

management. By implementing these practices, 

FaaS providers aim to minimise waste and maximise 

the reuse of facade elements. 

During facade lifespan it is being maintained 

according to the automated schedule, remote 

controlled and refurbished if necessary. After it is 

lifespan it is disassembled carefully so the module 

stays intact and transported to the storage where it 

is waiting until the new project. When it is decided to 

re-use elements of the facade for the new project, 

this element is treated and again transported to the 

site where it is assembled. The manufacture of new 

elements is essential, and when the element cannot 

be safely reused, it is recycled. However, even though 

there is always input of new materials and elements, 

the circle is closed, striving for almost no waste (fig. 4). 

• Facade system 

The current FaaS business model features a modular 

panel facade system that combines the advantages 

of modular facades and Cross-Laminated Timber 

(CLT). This sustainable and versatile building material 

meets evolving construction industry needs and 

aligns with the demand for eco-friendly practices. 

The CLT used in the product is renewable and has 

lower embodied energy compared to traditional 

construction materials like concrete or steel. Off-site 

prefabrication of the modular panels allows for faster 

Figure 3. Product and service summary 

20 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 4. Circularity in the context of one facade lifespan 

construction, reducing time and costs. The CLT panels 

provide robust structural strength and stability, 

withstanding various loads such as wind and seismic 

forces. Additionally, the solid wood construction of 

CLT offers inherent thermal insulation properties, 

contributing to improved energy efficiency and 

occupant comfort. The facade panels also have 

good acoustic insulation, creating quieter indoor 

environments. Moreover, CLT panels exhibit good fire 

resistance due to their charring effect during a fire, 

enhancing fire safety in buildings [3]. 

Within the lifecycle of a facade, several stages and 

processes ensure its optimal performance and 

sustainability. The FaaS model incorporates various 

strategies to achieve this goal, with a focus on efficient 

maintenance, controlled disassembly, refurbishment, 

and responsible material management. By implementing 

these practices, FaaS providers aim to minimise waste 

and maximise the reuse of facade elements. 

During facade lifespan it is being maintained according to 

the automated schedule, remote controlled and refurbished 

if necessary. After it is lifespan it is disassembled carefully 

so the module stays intact and transported to the storage 

where it is waiting until the new project. When it is decided 

to re-use elements of the facade for the new project, 

this element is treated and again transported to the site 

where it is assembled. The manufacture of new elements is 

essential, and when the element cannot be safely reused, it 

is recycled. However, even though there is always input of 

new materials and elements, the circle is closed, striving for 

almost no waste (fig. 4). 

Figure 5. Design of modules 

Moreover, CLT panels exhibit good fire resistance 

due to their charring effect during a fire, enhancing 

fire safety in buildings [3]. 

• Module design 

The availability of pre-designed modules offers several 

advantages. Firstly, it simplifies the design process by 

providing a catalogue of standardised modules that have 

already undergone thorough testing and validation. This 

saves time and resources by eliminating the need to 

design each facade component from scratch. Secondly, 

it enables clients and designers to visualise and select 

the desired modules, considering factors such as size 

and shape. 

Figure 5 shows the preliminary modules designs to cater 

to various project requirements within the FaaS model. 

The window modules are designed to incorporate 

openings for windows within the facade. Two window 

module sizes are depicted: 2m by 2.5m and 1.5m by 

2.5m. The solid modules, shown in the same scale as 

the window modules, do not include any openings. 


21

Figure 7. Facade with custom design 

Figure 6. The principle of modular facade system 

Within the current FaaS model, the modular 

approach is highlighted in Figure 6, showcasing 

the versatility and adaptability of the facade 

system. By utilising pre-designed modules, clients 

and designers can easily combine them in various 

compositions to meet their specific aesthetic and 

functional needs. This modular approach is crucial 

as it accommodates the diverse dimensions and 

specifications of different buildings, ensuring a 

tailored solution for each project. 

The modular approach also offers manufacturing 

and assembly advantages. The pre-designed and 

prefabricated modules can be produced in controlled 

environments, streamlining production processes 

and ensuring consistent quality. Their modular nature 

facilitates swift and efficient installation, reducing 

construction time and minimising disruptions onsite. 

Custom modules further enhance flexibility 

by catering to the unique requirements of each 

building. This allows to precisely fit the facade to the 

distinct characteristics of each structure, resulting 

in improved performance and an enhanced visual 

appeal. 

The implementation of custom modules is a critical 

aspect of the FaaS model, ensuring adaptability 

to fit buildings of any size. Custom solid blocks 

refer to custom modules without any openings or 

penetrations. These modules serve as building blocks 

to fill specific sections of the facade where windows 

or openings are not necessary or desired. Another 

type of custom module commonly implemented in 

the FaaS model includes blocks with doorways. 

• Customization 

Since the outer layer is not prefabricated, it allows 

flexible customization to accommodate the variations 

that exist in building structures across different 

projects. Due to the customization flexibility mentioned 

earlier, it becomes effortless to create a distinct visual 

impact and achieve a unique architectural identity for 

every project. The ability to customise the facade‘s 

outer layer ensures that each project (fig. 7). 

• Services 

Outsourced Maintenance: Current FaaS model takes 

on the responsibility of maintaining the facades 

it delivers. By outsourcing maintenance tasks to 

experts, FaaS providers ensure that the facades 

remain in optimal condition throughout their lifecycle, 

minimising the burden on customers and maximising 

the longevity of the infrastructure. 

Customer Service: FaaS provides customer service, 

recognizing the importance of maintaining strong 

relationships and addressing customer concerns 

promptly. This includes providing support during 

installation, addressing maintenance needs, and 

ensuring open lines of communication to foster trust 

and satisfaction. 

Remote Control: FaaS leverages remote control 

capabilities to monitor and manage facades efficiently. 

This enables real-time monitoring of performance, 

early detection of issues, and remote adjustments as 

needed, reducing the need for physical interventions 

and minimising disruptions for customers. 

Automated Schedule: FaaS providers implement 

automated scheduling systems to optimise 

maintenance activities and minimise downtime. 

By data-driven insights and predictive analytics, 

maintenance tasks can be scheduled proactively, 

ensuring optimal performance and minimising the 

impact on customers. 

Internet of Things (IoT): FaaS integrates IoT 

technologies into the facade infrastructure, enabling 

advanced functionalities IoT sensors and devices can 

monitor energy usage, environmental conditions, 

and performance metrics, providing valuable data for 

optimization and decision-making [4] [5]. 

• SWOT analysis 

SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool used in 

business to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, 

opportunities, and threats associated with a 

specific concept or venture. It involves assessing 

internal factors such as strengths and weaknesses 

within the organisation, as well as external factors 

such as opportunities and threats in the market or 

industry. The analysis helps businesses identify their 

competitive advantages, areas for improvement, 

22 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 8. Overview on SWOT analysis 

potential growth opportunities, and potential risks 

or challenges. By understanding the key elements 

of a SWOT analysis, businesses can make informed 

decisions and develop effective strategies to 

capitalise on their strengths, address weaknesses, 

exploit opportunities, and mitigate threats [6]. 

Figure 8 depicts SWOT analysis for suggested FaaS 

business model: 

FaaS boasts several strengths, including the 

ability to provide customised facades tailored to 

specific project requirements, resulting in unique 

aesthetics and tailored solutions. The model‘s 

emphasis on efficiency, achieved through predesigned 

modules, standardised processes, 

and digital tools, significantly reduces time and 

costs in facade construction. Moreover, FaaS 

prioritises sustainability by promoting the reuse 

and recycling of facade elements, contributing to 

eco-friendly construction practices. The model‘s 

service capabilities, such as automated scheduling, 

customer service, and remote control, ensure 

efficient facade management and timely issue 

resolution. Additionally, FaaS integrates engineering 

processes using cloud platforms, simulations, 

tagging, and material banking, which enhances 

design and operational efficiency. 

Despite its strengths, FaaS faces challenges and 

threats. Heavy reliance on outsourcing for facade 

design, fabrication, installation, and maintenance 

may lead to coordination issues and quality control 

challenges. The limited number of pre-designed 

modules may also restrict design flexibility for 

highly unique or complex architectural projects. 

Additionally, the initial investment required for digital 

twins, databases, and monitoring systems could be a 

barrier for some stakeholders. To seize opportunities, 

FaaS providers can capitalize on the growing market 

demand for energy-efficient, sustainable, and 

aesthetically appealing construction projects. They 

can cater to the increasing focus on sustainable 

practices and leverage technological advancements 

to enhance efficiency and performance. Expanding 

services beyond facades to offer integrated solutions, 

such as energy management and smart building 

technologies, can also open new avenues for FaaS 

providers. However, FaaS must navigate intense 

market competition and address the challenge of 

raising awareness and understanding of its value 

proposition among potential customers. Adherence 

to building codes, regulations, and certifications 

is critical to avoiding compliance challenges and 

maintaining credibility in the industry. 

4. Discussion 

The FaaS model encompasses every stage of the 

supply chain, ensuring a comprehensive approach 

to facade design, production, and installation, 

maintenance, and EoL management. By incorporating 

all stages within the supply chain, FaaS providers 

can optimise efficiency, enhance sustainability, 

and deliver exceptional value to their customers. 

Figure 9 represents which stages the FaaS model 

in comparison to the conventional facade business 

model covers. The following sections outline the 

various stages of the supply chain covered by 

the FaaS model: FaaS provider collaborates with 

architects, engineers, and other stakeholders 

during the initial design and planning phase, as 

well as works closely with specialised fabricators 

and manufacturers to produce facade components 

according to its own design specifications. FaaS 

company coordinates the logistics of transporting 

the fabricated facade elements to the construction 

site, closely monitors the installation to guarantee 

adherence to safety standards and design intent. 

After that FaaS provider offers ongoing maintenance 

services to ensure the facade‘s optimal performance 

and longevity together with the responsibility for 

end-of-life strategies. 


23

Figure 9. Comparing Conventional Supply Chains with FaaS. Adapted from [8][9] 

Looking ahead, the implementation and upgrading 

of facades will be governed by emerging regulations 

and standards that prioritise energy efficiency, 

sustainability, and safety [7]. This anticipation reflects 

the growing recognition of the need to enhance 

the performance and functionality of facades 

through technological advancements and materials 

innovation. The integration of a life cycle perspective 

in product design, along with the adoption of 

digitalization, is emphasised as pivotal in promoting 

resource efficiency, sustainability, and the circular 

economy in facades [10]. By considering the entire 

life cycle of a product, from raw material extraction 

to disposal, designers can make well-informed 

decisions regarding materials, manufacturing 

processes, energy efficiency, durability, recyclability, 

and end-of-life management. Applying digital tools 

and methods such as BIM, digital twins, and sensing 

technologies enables optimization, continuous 

improvement, and data-driven decision-making 

throughout the facade life cycle (fig. 10). Additionally, 

the use of digital material passports enhances 

circularity by providing transparency and accessibility 

to information about facade materials, facilitating 

their reuse, refurbishment, and recycling [11]. 

One significant outcome is the identification of 

common elements in PaaS business models that can 

be applied to FaaS. These elements include customer 

segmentation, dealer networks, flexible payment 

options, maintenance approaches, customer service, 

and remote control capabilities. These findings 

provide a foundation for designing a functional and 

market-driven FaaS model that caters to the specific 

needs of customers in various sectors, such as 

commercial, industrial, and potentially residential. 

However, the implementation of FaaS as a new 

business model in the construction sector faces 

several challenges and limitations. These challenges 

Figure10. Role of digital tools over facade lifespan 

24 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

include limited market awareness, contractual and 

legal complexities, financial constraints, and the 

intricacies of disassembling and salvaging existing 

facades. The author of the thesis acknowledges 

these obstacles but also emphasises the importance 

of addressing them. One critical aspect is the lack 

of awareness and understanding among potential 

customers regarding the environmental issues and 

challenges associated with EoL facades. Without this 

awareness, customers may overlook the sustainable 

and cost-effective solutions offered by FaaS. 

The author suggests that starting a FaaS business 

with its own facade system would accelerate the 

transition toward CE, thereby demonstrating the 

tangible benefits of FaaS and increasing market 

awarenes: having its own facade system allows the 

company to have complete control over the design, 

quality, and functionality of its offerings. It enables 

the company to tailor the system to meet the unique 

needs and preferences of its customers, ensuring 

a superior user experience. It can continuously 

innovate and improve its products based on 

customer feedback and emerging trends in the 

industry. The company is not reliant on third-party 

systems that may not be easily customizable or may 

have limited compatibility with other products or 

technologies. 

5. Conclusion 

In conclusion, the discussion highlights the significant 

potential of FaaS as a transformative business model 

for building facades, aligning with the principles of 

the circular economy and driving sustainability. The 

integration of a life cycle perspective, digitalization, 

and advancements in technology and materials 

play crucial roles in achieving resource efficiency 

and facilitating the transition to a closed-loop 

economy. However, there are challenges to 

address, including market awareness, contractual 

complexities, financial considerations, and the 

logistics of disassembling existing facades, which 

must be overcome for successful implementation. 

Future research and development efforts should 

focus on addressing these challenges and exploring 

regulatory and technological advancements that will 

shape the future of the facade industry. 

References 

1. “Europe Construction Market Size, Share & 

Growth Forecast 2029 | BlueWeave,” BlueWeave 

Consulting. https://www.blueweaveconsulting.com/ 

report/europe-construction-market 

2. Dataintelo, “Facade Market Research | Global 

Industry Analysis & Forecast From 2022 To 2030,” 

Dataintelo, Dec. 20, 2022. https://dataintelo.com/ 

report/facade-market/ 

3. U. Pottgiesser and H. Strauß, Product Development 

and Architecture: Visions, Methods, Innovations. 

Walter de Gruyter, 2013. 

4. E. Karacabeyli and B. Douglas, CLT Handbook: 

Cross-Laminated Timber. 2013. 

5. 56. A. Abass, D. Okon, S.-O. Temitope, and M. 

Nuraddeen, “Façade Cleaning as a Means of Effective 

Building Maintenance,” ResearchGate, Sep. 2022, 

[Online]. 

6. M. Makosiewicz and M. Pecánek, “How to Achieve 

Product-Market Fit (5 Steps),” SEO Blog by 

Ahrefs, May 2023, [Online]. Available: https://ahrefs. 

com/blog/product-market-fit/ 

7. S. Lingegård, “Product service systems: 

business models towards a circular economy,” 

in Edward Elgar Publishing eBooks, 2020. doi: 

10.4337/9781788972727.00013. 

8. J. F. Azcarate-Aguerre, A. Andaloro, and T. Klein, 

“Facades-as-a-Service: a business and supply-chain 

model for the implementation of a circular façade 

economy,” in Elsevier eBooks, 2022, pp. 541–558. 

doi: 10.1016/b978-0-12-822477-9.00005-x. 

9. A. Andaloro, Juaristi, Avesani, Santoro, and 

Orlandi, “Envelope For Service,” Facade Tectonics 

Institute, Dec. 2022, [Online]. Available: https://www. 

facadetectonics.org/papers/envelope-for-service 

10. K. Whalen, “Three circular business models that 

extend product value and their contribution to 

resource efficiency,” Journal of Cleaner Production, 

vol. 226, pp. 1128–1137, Jul. 2019, doi: 10.1016/j. 

jclepro.2019.03.128. 

11. “Towards the circular economy Vol. 3: accelerating 

the scale-up across global supply chains.” https:// 

ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/towards-thecircular-economy-vol-3-accelerating-the-scale-upacross-global 

It is important to note that the proposed FaaS model 

places a strong emphasis on environmental concerns 

and embraces the principles of CE. This approach 

goes beyond mere technological advancements 

and requires a broader reconsideration of the 

social, economic, and legal aspects that underpin 

engineering and construction projects. It calls for 

a reevaluation of long-standing beliefs concerning 

utilitarian value, ownership, and bankability, which 

have remained largely unchanged for centuries. 

By challenging and reshaping these traditional 

perspectives, the FaaS model seeks to pave the way 

for more sustainable and environmentally conscious 

practices in the industry. 


25


Multiple Criteria Optimization Based on The Study of Eccentricity 

Due to Self-Weight On A Transom 

Jason Daniel 1 

Supervisor 1: Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Jens-Uwe Schulz 1. Supervisor 2: Prof. Dipl.-Ing., M.Eng. Daniel Arztmann 1,2. , Advisor: Thomaz da Silva Lopes Vieira 1. 

1. MID Façade Design, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Emilienstraße 45, 32756 Detmold, Germany 


Abstract 

In the realm of structural design, eccentricity emerges as a significant phenomenon, resulting in unique 

structural behaviors, architectural expressions, and engineering challenges. Its application can either benefit 

the designer or present new hurdles, depending on its context. Especially, in the domain of structural façade 

design, the eccentric nature of loads imposed on transoms by the self-weight of glass introduces internal 

deflection, and bending moments in both transoms and mullions. In this scenario, it is necessary and beneficial 

for the design of the façade. The absence of eccentricity, in this case, would result in the façade bending 

outside. This could lead to additional bending when the imposed loads are applied in the direction of the fall. 

Hence, to avoid this situation, eccentricity in the glass loads is considered. However, the limits up to which the 

eccentricity of the glass loads is beneficial for the façade design are not clear and it is not easy to study the 

effect of these phenomena without advanced and reliable computational tools. Fortunately, contemporary 

digital tools provide powerful means for researchers to investigate eccentricity and its impact on structural 

elements, enabling wider participation and advancement in cutting-edge research. One such tool is the RFEM 

structural analysis software developed by DLUBAL SOFTWARE. By comprehending the loading eccentricity 

phenomena observed in façade transoms caused by the self-weight of glass, an attempt is made to optimize 

multiple criteria, such as cost, material consumption, and embodied carbon of the façade by increasing the 

eccentricity while preserving the structural integrity of the façade. This study on eccentric loading in structural 

design, particularly in the context of façade systems, holds immense importance for optimizing structural 

design solutions and achieving sustainability objectives. The utilization of advanced digital tools allows for an 

enhanced understanding of eccentricity, facilitating the development of innovative strategies to address its 

challenges effectively. 

Keywords: Transom; mullion; eccentricity; glass; Multiple criteria optimization; RFEM; Dlubal; stick facade 

construction 


Design is a purposeful and explorative process, 

often involving conflicting criteria, including cost and 

responsible material use due to finite resources. 

Addressing climate concerns, optimizing multiple 

factors, including carbon emissions, is crucial. 

This study examines multi-criteria optimization in 

structural design. 

Finite Element Method enables structural analysis, 

here done with RFEM 6.02 software. It models 

plates, shells, and members, considering norms. 

Stick façade systems have transoms and mullions, 

holding glass infill. 

In traditional systems, glass on carriers attaches to 

transoms, causing eccentric loads due to its weight. 

Load transfers through mullions and brackets to 

concrete slabs. 

1.1. Aims and objectives 

Through this work, the aim is to understand the 

effects of the eccentric loading of glass panes on 

the aluminium structural members and look for 

potential ways to optimise multiple criteria like costs, 

material usage and embodied carbon. 

The following steps would help us to understand 

the effect which eccentricity has on the structural 

elements due to the self-weight of the glass 

1. Calculate the wind pressure, area load due to the 

glass self-weight, various deflections and required 

material strength for the mullions and transoms 

using the analytical method. 

2. Make the panel line drawings in AutoCAD. 

3. Modelling a façade panel in RFEM 6.02. 

26 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 1. Load due to glass self-weightt 

4. Model the required section details for the mullions 

and transoms in RFEM 6.02. 

5. Consider the respective European norms and 

national annexes to determine the allowable 

deflections and limits. 

6. Consider the appropriate supports for the façade 

panels. 

7. Consider the various load cases and load 

combinations acting on a typical façade according 

to both the ultimate limit state and the serviceability 

limit state. 

8. Perform the structural simulation for four 

scenarios. 

9. Prepare a cost estimate for the two solutions. 

10. Estimate the material usage between the two 

solutions. 

11. Estimate the difference in embodied carbon 

between the two solutions. 

12. Validation of the software load cases with the 

analytical method. 

13.Conclusion of results. 

Generally, structural checking tools available either 

online or in the software format possess limitations 

to a certain degree. The limitations include the lack 

of comprehensive design checks, lack of integration 

of codes and standards in the software, and lack 

of interoperability with computer-aided design 

tools. The software tool RFEM offers solutions to 

the above limitations and is powerful. Through this 

work, a workflow for modelling a façade panel and 

importing the required member sections, setting up 

the various load cases and load combinations for 

both the ultimate limit state and the serviceability 

limit state based on the respective European norms 

and national annexes is established. 

Studies regarding the behaviour of aluminium mullions 

and transoms under the effect of eccentricity due to 

the glass self-weight are not thoroughly addressed. 

As one of the goals of the study is to show a way to 

optimise the embodied carbon in facades by opting 

for a better design, the study adds value to the 

theme “Reducing the embodied carbon in facades 

through structural design”. 

2.Methodology 

The methodology to study the effect of eccentric 

loads due to the glass self-weight involves both 

analytical and computational methods to arrive at 

the results and cotnclusion. This is because some 

of the results from the analytical method are used 

as inputs for the computational study and also to 

validate the load consideration in the computational 

model. The study workflow is given below. 

As the goal of the study is to optimize multiple criteria 

like cost, material usage and embodied carbon, an 

emphasis was made to make the considerations as 

realistic as possible. Hence, a building in Wolfsburg, 

Germany was chosen for the case study. This serves 

as the basis for the considerations of loads and all 

Figure 2. Methodology 

Autocad , RFEM, Excel , calculator 


27

other factors in the coming chapters. This serves 

as the basis for the analytical method as well. It 

adds further weightage to the validation of the load 

considerations in the computational method. 

Case study 

For the case study, the model of the office building 

shown below was used. The location of the office 

building is Diesel Strasse, 38446 Wolfsburg, 

Germany. The elevation was found to be 55m. 

The primary structure of the building is made 

of reinforced concrete. It has five floors and the 

building height is 20m, building length is 44m and 

the building width is 88m. 

Scenario 1 – Standard façade panel with eccentricity 

Scenario 2 – Façade panel without eccentricity 

Scenario 3 – Façade panel with extended eccentricity 

Scenario 4 – Standard façade panel with eccentricity 

and large profile depth 

The working steps are given below. 

RFEM modelling – Facade panel 

The structural simulation is performed for the four 

scenarios below. 

Figure 3. Office building and façade 

Figure 5. Rectangular section of the profile 

used in the study 

Made using DLUBAL RFEM 

Figure 4. Schueco system profile 

Schüco International KG, Order manual mullion/ 

transom facades Schüco Façade FWS 60, Schüco 

International KG, 02, 2023. 

Figure 6. Load considerations 

C. Hachem-Vermette, „Introduction to Building Envelope,“ 

in Solar Buildings and Neighborhoods, Green Energy and 

Technology, Springer, Cham, 2020. doi: 10.1007/978-3- 

030-47016-6_2 

28 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 7. Line drawing in Autocad 

Figure 9. RFEM modelling - placement of mullions 

Figure 8. Imported line drawings from Autocad 

Figure 10. RFEM modelling - facade panel 


29

Figure 13: Scenario 2_DS1_ULS_Results deformation 

Figure 11. RFEM modelling - facade panel with supports 

4. Results 

Design situation 1 – Ultimate limite state 

Validation of wind, dead and temperature loads 

1. According to the analytical method, the total transom 

deflection is 0.445mm. As per the computational 

simulation of scenario 4, The total transom deflection as 

per scenario 1 is 0.5mm. 

2. According to the analytical method, the total mullion 

deflection is 9.24mm. As per the computational simulation 

of scenario 4, The total mullion deflection as per scenario 

4 is 9.6mm. 

3. According to the analytical method, the total member 

elongation due to temperature load is 0.43mm. As per the 

computational simulation, The total member deflection is 

0.4 mm. 


As the deflections are close to each other, the 

computational model and results are validated. 



30 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

5. Conclusion 

Based on the data and analysis presented, the following 

conclusions can be drawn from the study. 

1. Validation of loads and deflections: The computational 

simulation results align closely with the analytical method 

for the validation of wind, dead, and temperature loads. 

The deflection values obtained from both methods are in 

close agreement, validating the accuracy and reliability of 

the computational model. 

2. Structural stability: By varying the eccentricity, it is 

possible to achieve structural stability while reducing 

costs, material consumption, and embodied carbon. The 

study demonstrates that this approach offers a viable 

option for optimizing the design of façade systems. 

3. Valid for cases with larger glass thickness: The 

study showcases that the proposed design approach, 

considering the minimum required glass thickness, yields 

reliable results for the analysed scenario. It validates the 

effectiveness of the design strategy and indicates that the 

results can be extrapolated to scenarios with greater glass 

loads, ensuring the integrity and stability of the façade 

system. 

4. Reduced material consumption and costs: The 

comparison between scenario 3 and 4 shows a significant 

reduction in material consumption of 6.7 tonnes. This 

reduction not only led to cost savings of 16912.8 Euros 

but also aligned with sustainable practices by minimizing 

resource depletion and reducing the environmental impact 

associated with material extraction and manufacturing. 

The observed decrease in material consumption highlights 

the potential for achieving cost-effective solutions while 

promoting environmental sustainability in the construction 

industry. 

5. Reduced embodied carbon emissions: The analysis 

reveals that the increase of eccentricity due to the selfweight 

on the transom leads to a reduction in embodied 

carbon emissions. Specifically, there is a difference of 

48 tonnes in carbon emissions for life cycle stages A1- 

A5 and for stage C. These findings highlight the positive 

environmental impact of the proposed design approach. 

Based on these conclusions, it can be inferred that the 

increase of eccentricity due to the self-weight in the façade 

transoms can effectively achieve structural stability, 

reduce embodied carbon emissions, save costs, and 

optimize material consumption. These findings contribute 

to the advancement of sustainable construction practices, 

emphasizing the importance of considering innovative 

design strategies to enhance the performance and 

environmental efficiency of building façades. 

6. References 

1. J.S. Gero, „Creativity, Emergence and Evolution in Design,“ 

Knowledge-Based Systems, vol. 9, no. 7, pp. 435-448, 1996. 

2. J. Byrne, M. Fenton, E. Hemberg, J. McDermott, M. O’Neill, 

E. Shotton, and C. Nally, „Combining Structural Analysis 

and Multi-Objective Criteria for Evolutionary Architectural 

Design,“ in Applications of Evolutionary Computation. 

EvoApplications 2011: EvoCOMNET, EvoFIN, EvoHOT, 

EvoMUSART, EvoSTIM, and EvoTRANSLOG, Torino, Italy, 

April 27-29, 2011 Proceedings, Part II, pp. 204-214. 

3. E. Glaylord and C. Glaylord, „Structural Engineering 

Handbook,“ McGraw-Hill, New York, 1979. 

4. Dlubal Software GmbH, „Online manual for RFEM 6,“ in 

RFEM 6, 29 June 2023, Dlubal Software GmbH. 

5. T. Sivaprakasam, „Structural Behaviour and Design of 

Aluminium Facade Mullions Under Wind Actions,“ Doctoral 

dissertation, Queensland University of Technology, 2019. 

Available: qut.edu.au 

6. A. D. Lee, J. A. Alimanza, P. Shepherd, M. C. Evernden, 

„Axial Rotation and Lateral Torsional Buckling of Extruded 

Aluminium Mullions in Curtain Wall Facades,“ Structures, 

vol. 20, pp. 658-675, 2019. 

Available: www.sciencedirect.com. 

7. Schüco International KG, Schüco Façade FWS 50 

Installation 1x1, Schüco International KG, 06, 2017. 

8. R. S. Camposinhos, „Glazing Stick Facade System Under 

Wind Action,“ 2019. 

9. A. Ghafooripour, „Past, Present, and Future of Structural 

Engineering, Extraterrestrial and ROBO-Structures The 

Future of Structural Engineering“ Structural engineering 

institute (ASCE/SEI), 2020. 

Available: researchgate.net 

10. R. D. Marshall, E. O. Pfrang, E. V. Leyendecker, K. A. 

Woodward, R. P. Reed, M. B. Kasen, et al., „Investigation of 

the Kansas City Hyatt Regency Walkways Collapse,“ report, 

National bureau of standards building science series 143, 

U.S. Department of commerce, May 1982, [Washington 

D.C.]. 

Available: digital.library.unt.edu 

11. EN 1990:2002+A1: Eurocode – Basis of structural 

design, 2005. 

12. EN 1991-1-1: Eurocode 1: Actions on structures - Part 

1-1: General actions - 

Densities, self-weight, imposed loads for buildings, 2002. 

13. EN 1991-1-4:2005+A1: Eurocode 1: Actions on structures 

- Part 1-4: General actions - Wind actions, 2010. 

14. Dlubal Software GmbH, Wind zones 

Available: Dlubal 

15. DIN EN 13830: Curtain walling - Product standard, 2015. 

16. EN 755-2: Aluminium and aluminium alloys - Extruded 

rod/bar, tube and 

profiles - Part 2: Mechanical properties, 2008. 

17. S. Georgescu, P. Chow, and H. Okuda, „GPU Acceleration 

for FEM-Based Structural Analysis,“ Arch. Comput. 

Methods Eng., vol. 20, pp. 111-121, 2013. doi: 10.1007/ 


31

s11831-013-9082-8. 

Available: springer.com 

18. P. Sonnleitner, P. Bauer, P. Resch, A. Ercusi, and B. Mühl, 

„Design, optimisation and construction of the façade of 

the KTM Motohall,“ Ernst und Sohn, project report, 2021. 

Available: www.ernt-und-sohn.de 

19. K. Awasthi, „Methodology to ascertain sliding interlock 

properties for insulated and non-insulated systems,“ 

Master‘s thesis, Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen- 

Lippe, Detmold, Germany, 2019. 

Available: www.th-owl.de 

20. The Institution of Structural Engineers, „How to 

Calculate Embodied Carbon,“ 2nd ed., 2002. 

21. Schüco International KG, Order manual mullion/ 

transom facades Schüco Façade FWS 60, Schüco 

International KG, 02, 2023. 

22. C. Hachem-Vermette, „Introduction to Building 

Envelope,“ in Solar Buildings and Neighborhoods, Green 

Energy and Technology, Springer, Cham, 2020. doi: 

10.1007/978-3-030-47016-6_2. 

Available: link.springer.com 

23. ETEM, „E 85 curtain wall technical catalogue,“ May 2019. 

Available: www.etem.com 

24. The Aluminium Association, „The Aluminium Design 

Manual,“ 2010. 

25. Eurocode 1: Actions on structures - Part 1-2: General 

actions - Actions on structures exposed to fire,“ EN 1991- 

1-2, 2002. 

26. The institution of structural engineers, “The structural 

carbon tool v2”, 2022. 

32 

RESEARCH ARTICLES


Demystifying the Shadow Box: A Systematic Review on the 

Design of Shadow Box Spandrel Units in Curtain Wall Assemblies 

Andrei-Silviu Stan 1 

Supervisor 1. Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Daniel Arztmann 1,2 ; Supervisor 2. M.Eng. Alvaro Balderrama 1,3 

1. MID Façade Design, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Emilienstraße 45, 32756 Detmold, Germany 


3. Architectural Façades and Products Research Group, Department of Architectural Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, TU 

Delft, Julianalaan, 134, 2628 BL Delft, The Netherlands 

ABSTRACT 

A shadow box in a curtain wall is a spandrel unit comprising transparent glass on the building‘s exterior and 

an opaque infill on the interior side. This technique is widely used in modern building designs due to its energy 

efficiency and aesthetic benefits. The PRISMA research strategy is used to synthesize a wide range of scholarly 

works, including peer-reviewed research articles, conference proceedings, technical reports and patents in 

order to examine in detail the design aspects of shadow box spandrel elements, including aesthetical concerns, 

thermal insulation, the structural stability of glazing, and water vapor control. The review found that shadow 

box spandrel constructions require careful consideration in their design and installation to ensure optimal 

performance and longevity. The best practices for designing and installing these models in curtain walls 

were identified, including considerations for thermal insulation, glazing structural integrity, and water vapor 

management. The review also identified gaps in the existing literature on this topic, suggesting areas for further 

research. Shadow box spandrel constructions are a popular option for curtain wall assemblies, but require 

careful consideration in their design and installation to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The findings 

of this review provide valuable insights for architects, engineers, and construction professionals regarding the 

use of shadow box panel constructions in curtain walls, and suggest areas for further research to improve the 

design and performance of these assemblies. 

Keywords: Shadow box, Spandrel, Curtain wall, Façade, Performance 


Over the past decades, technological advancements 

have significantly influenced contemporary 

architecture leading to a fondness for fully 

transparent glass designs alongside a preference for 

uniformity in both the field of vision and spandrel 

areas. Propelled by these aesthetic considerations, 

architects have started to engage the shadow box 

spandrel as a design technique. The term „shadow 

box“ was initially meant to define a somewhat 

shallow glass box, often used to showcase keepsakes 

like medals and certificates. Adopted by the 

construction industry, the shadow box spandrel has 

become a go-to method for achieving streamlined 

exteriors. The shadow box panel, used in curtain 

wall framing, consists of an outer transparent glass 

layer separated by an air cavity from an opaque 

material, which hides insulation within the framing 

system. A metal or membrane barrier separates 

the spandrel component from the building interior, 

creating a vapor barrier. This system is appreciated 

for its design flexibility and aesthetical charm, yet it 

isn‘t without its faults - the primary concerns include 

condensation, contamination, and overheating. 

Before the development of the paper at hand, there 

were no existing systematic reviews on shadow 

box construction, though there were several non- 

Figure 1. Typical shadow box construction 

detail courtesy of (Jackson J. 2022) 


33

systematic ones. Walsh M. (2018) reviewed the 

design of shadow box spandrel panels based on 

the four ventilation practices identified in his work 

titled “Shadow Box Design - To Vent or Not to Vent”, 

while Arztmann D. (2016) provided general design 

insights on the same topic in “SHADOW BOXES 

– RE-ENGINEERED”. These prior works, however, 

didn‘t provide a comprehensive, systematic picture 

of shadow box designs as they lacked systematic 

screening criteria, had limited scopes, and lacked 

critical appraisal of referenced studies. 

1.1. Objective 

Aiming to close the existing research gap, the author 

presents a systematic review that meticulously 

evaluates the use and performance of shadow 

box constructions. This effort involves an in-depth 

exploration of design principles, thermal insulation 

attributes, the structural integrity of glazing, and 

interior water vapor concerns. 

The research questions driving the systematic 

review are as follows: 

• What is the current state of the art in shadow box 

spandrel constructions? 

• What are the main challenges associated with 

these assemblies? 

• What solutions have been proposed for solving 

these challenges? 

• How can the design of shadow box spandrel 

constructions be improved? 

• Can a set of design rules be developed to guide the 

design of shadow box spandrel constructions? 

By answering these research questions, this review 

aims to address the service implementation in order 

to identify the current state of research and practice 

r egarding the use of this particular construction 

method in completed projects. The review will also 

identify the main challenges facing construction 

professionals when working with shadow box 

spandrel constructions, as well as the solutions 

proposed to address these challenges. 


The study follows the PRISMA guidelines for 

conducting a systematic literature review. A 

comprehensive literature research was conducted 

using various search engines and databases to 

identify relevant literature. The selection criteria 

for the papers included in the review are outlined, 

including exclusion criteria such as: 

• articles not written in English; 

• articles not relevant to facade construction; 

• duplicates; 

• articles without full text available; 

• articles that do not report on the performance of 

shadow box spandrel panels; 

• articles not accessible through the university‘s 

online databases or direct contact with the authors; 

The research mainly depended on two bibliographic 

databases (Scopus, Web of Science) and an academic 

database (Google Scholar) to extract pertinent 

literature from inception until February 2023. The 

databases allowed for designing search syntaxes 

that excluded non-English and irrelevant articles. 

Reference lists of included full-text studies and 

relevant articles were also explored for additional 

related literature. 

The study selection process involved exporting 

search results from Scopus and Web of Science to a 

preliminary Excel list, while Google Scholar‘s results 

were manually filtered and added. Additional papers 

from the scoping phase were inserted into this 

centralized collection. This setup enabled application 

of further exclusion criteria and elimination of 

duplicates. Subsequently, the chosen articles were 

assembled into a matrix with unique identifiers, 

complete citations, country of publication, reference 

type, and access status. 

The review accommodated diverse study types 

and employed six matrices to organize data around 

key topics determined during the scoping phase: 

construction principles, glazing recommendations, 

aesthetic considerations, ventilation strategies, 

water vapor control, and thermal performance. Plus, 

data extraction tables were established specific to 

the focus of each paper. 

The quality assessment, performed post-data 

extraction, included all studies identified to provide 

a comprehensive and unbiased review of existing 

knowledge, despite discrepancies among studies. 

While no studies were excluded, some showed 

potential bias due to industry funding, like works from 

the Facade Tectonics Institute. Furthermore, the 

European Patent Specification for Panelized Shadow 

Box by Weinryb S. (2016) made superiority claims 

without evidence of performance, necessitating 

further research. Glazing product documents from 

companies like PPG Industries (2011) and Pilkington 

North America Inc. (2012) might introduce bias, since 

they might avoid mentioning their products‘ use 

in shadow boxes to safeguard their brand image. 

Hence, the results should be analyzed considering 

possible funding source influences. 

The analysis was conducted using narrative 

summaries based on the observations, 

recommendations, and conclusions of the selected 

studies pivoted around the main topics established 

in the data collection process. Results were reported 

judiciously to avoid bias. For the discussion chapter, 

34 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 2. PRISMA flow diagram 

a more subjective approach will be adopted, 

analyzing findings in relation to research questions 

and objectives, allowing an in-depth exploration 

of implications and acknowledging any influencing 

biases or limitations. 

3. Results 

The PRISMA diagram flow methodology was used 

for a reliable systematic review. Initially, nine papers 

were sourced from databases and twelve from 

other scoping search sources. However, duplication 

resulted in the removal of five papers. Post-screening 

with exclusion criteria, one paper was omitted, while 

five additional papers, accessed from the references 

of eligible documents, were included. Consequently, 

twenty papers were analyzed in the meta-study. 

Refer to Figure 2 below for the resultant diagram. 

The publication years of the references span from 

2002 starting with (Zobec M. 2002) to 2022 marked 

by (Jackson J. 2022). The chronological relation 

between the references and their publication year 

is shown in Figure 3 below. The higher frequency 

of entries between 2014 and 2018 signaled by the 

flattening of the curve indicates that this period saw 

a greater number of papers being published. 

Country-wise, most were published in the USA. 

Figure 4 highlights the global distribution of 

the publications, but referencing the publishing 

institutions‘ locales, not necessarily the origin of 

research or authors‘ nationality. 

Document types included: 

1. Conference papers (65%) - presented in 

professional or academic conferences. 

2. Journal articles (15%) - published in academic or 

professional journals. 

3. Patent documents (5%) - legal records granting 

exclusive rights to an invention. 

4. Technical notes (15%) - offers insights and 


35

Figure 3. Graph highlighting the chronological relation between the references and their publication year 

Figure 4. World map chart illustrating the distribution of publications across various countries 

Figure 5. Pie chart illustrating the 

distribution of document types 

Figure 6. The variation of the analyzed 

documents in regards to accessibility 

36 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

proposed solutions to challenges in a field. 

Half of the documents were open-access. But note 

that the accessibility data pertains only to the 

extraction databases and may vary with different 

databases or sources. 

The study‘s classification was undertaken to offer a 

clearer perspective and understanding of the data 

extracted. Upon review, the selected references 

fell into five categories based on their research 

focus: Glazing Recommendations, Aesthetical 

Considerations, Water Vapor Control, Thermal 

Performance, Ventilation, or General Design 

Recommendations. The references were classified 

according to the main and secondary topics they 

addressed. This classification scheme enabled 

references to be systematically organized based 

on their main areas of concentration and related 

secondary themes. 

T he anal y sis was conduc ted using narrati ve summaries 

based on the observations, recommendations, and 

conclusions of the selected studies pivoted around 

the main topics established in the data collection 

process (glazing recommendations, aesthetical 

considerations, ventilation strategies, water vapor 

control and thermal performance) 

To ensure objectivity, the results were reported 

in a judicious manner without any inappropriate 

emphasis on the findings of any one particular 

study. This was done to avoid introducing bias into 

the narrative synthesis. Subsequently, a subjective 

approach was taken in the discussion chapter of the 

research paper, where the findings will be interpreted 

and analyzed in light of the research questions and 

objectives. This approach will allow for a more indepth 

exploration of the implications and potential 

applications of the findings, while acknowledging 

any limitations or biases that may have influenced 

the analysis. 

4. Discussion 

Majority of reviewed papers agree that a shadow 

box construction involves a ventilated glazed 

spandrel variant. Key differences include glass pane 

configuration, space between glass and insulation 

(plenum area), additional intermediate panel, and 

vapor retarder. Glazing options range from single to 

triple glazed units, with possible additional coatings. 

Opaque or printed pattern glass should be carefully 

considered, as they might cause undesired visual 

effects and compromise the shadow box‘s intended 

visual depth. 

Air layer depth varies between 40mm and 110mm, 

and ventilation methods significantly impact the 

assembly‘s performance. The references suggest a 

variety of materials for the intermediate panel, with 

aluminum sheets being predominantly featured 

in case studies. Insulation materials are typically 

mineral wool, but other options like vacuum 

insulation panels or aerogel exist. The insulating 

material, secured along the framing system‘s edges, 

isolates the shadow box cavity from the building‘s 

interior. 

There were five ventilation strategies identified in 

the referenced papers: 

1. Exterior Ventilation: Commonly achieved via gaps 

in glazing gaskets and porous baffles. The vents are 

placed at shadow box top and bottom locations, 

allowing a convective flow of air, while preventing 

liquid water and insects from entering. 

2. Interior Ventilation: Achieved by leaving gaps 

between shadow box components and adjacent 

mullions. It will reduce the dust and debris inflow 

from outside. 

3. Ventilation through Mullion Cavities: Ventilation 

achieved through baffled holes in vertical mullions. 

It can serve as a weeping system. However, it applies 

only to well-sealed, unitized curtain wall systems due 

to difficulty in separation from the building interior in 

stick-built systems. 

4. Pressure Equalization: This is to cope with 

pressure caused by temperature changes, unlike 

window frames or rainscreen cavities adapting to 

wind pressure. Smaller exterior openings are used, 

and it can‘t be considered as ventilation as it doesn‘t 

allow convective air flow. 

Figure 7. Section detail of Opaque Glass Spandrel as part of 

unitized curtain wall system (Jackson J. 2022) 

5.Sealed Cavity: This strategy prevents any 

ventilation, sealing the shadow box cavity from 

both the interior and exterior, avoiding plenum 

contamination. 


37

The study identifies four main challenges faced by 

shadow box systems: overheating, condensation, 

contamination, and thermal bridging. 

Overheating is the most concerning issue, as it can 

lead to glass breakage, metal panel issues, and 

off-gassing. The causes of overheating include the 

selection of glazing similar to vision areas, resulting 

in heat accumulation in the cavity. The color of 

materials and the orientation of solar radiation also 

affect heat accumulation. To address overheating, 

tempered or heat-strengthened glass should be 

used, and the pressure from wind loads should be 

considered. Laminated glass and proper fastening 

can help with structural stability. Material selection 

should be based on performance simulations to 

balance heat resistivity, wind load resistance, and 

temperature protection. Ventilation strategies may 

not effectively reduce thermal stress in the shadow 

box cavity. 

Condensation in shadow boxes can result from 

moisture within the interior/exterior, or from the 

original assembly. It can affect aesthetic, structural, 

and thermal performance. Condensation forms 

when warm, humid air hits a cold surface, depositing 

water. It can occur within a shadow box when 

internal building air enters the assembly and the 

air cavity temperature is lower. This likelihood 

increases with a pressure difference, allowing 

exterior vapor to go beyond the thermal insulation. 

In humid climates, condensation forms due to 

cooled materials dropping below the dew point at 

night. As buildings become insulated, exterior glass 

surfaces become colder, leading to condensation. 

Single glazing carries a higher condensation risk due 

to lower thermal resistance. CWCT 2014 guidelines 

suggest optimizing temperatures and humidity 

levels to reduce condensation. Failure to maintain 

optimal conditions may lead to accumulated residue 

or stains on the glass. 

Condensation cannot be entirely prevented, but its 

effects can be minimized. The use of vapor retarder 

barriers can stop building moisture from leaking 

into the box. A low-E coating on the interior glass will 

minimize condensation. Further, novel architectural 

insulation module (AIM) solutions compared to 

conventional insulation can reduce condensation 

risk, especially in humid environments like Hong 

Kong and Shanghai. Introducing aerogel into the 

air cavity increases thermal performance and acts 

as a desiccant. Any design strategies involving box 

penetration should be avoided as they can increase 

external water penetration. 

Ventilating the shadow box is an effective strategy 

to eliminate condensation by evaporating moisture. 

However, in warmer climates, exterior air entering 

the cavity can result in long-term condensation and 

a surface film on the glass unit. Moreover, spandrel‘s 

cavity ventilation and inferior thermal insulation should 

be addressed to eliminate condensation. Instead, 

sealing the plenum area and incorporating a desiccant 

material will be the most effective for reducing the risk. 

Contamination within a shadow box assembly can 

negatively affect its visual quality, attributable to 

external contaminants, material off-gassing, and 

assembly craftmanship. 

Assembly ventilation design impacts the 

interior shadow box‘s vulnerability to external 

contamination. Internal contamination primarily 

originates from material off-gassing, a result of using 

sealants or adhesives within the shadow box under 

high temperatures, observed in sealed, vented, or 

pressure-equalized designs. Additionally, debris 

from glazing installation lubricants can tarnish the 

shadow box‘s aesthetic appeal. 

To counteract issues, it is advised to use solid metal 

sheets resistant to UV light and heat instead of 

composite panels. Sealants with solvent release 

properties, like butyl, acrylic, or acetoxy-cure 

silicones, should be avoided. Rather, silicone SCR, 

or EPDM glazing gaskets, are recommended. It‘s 

crucial to assess manufacturers‘ off-gassing tests 

and prepare for thermal expansion and contraction 

during the design phase. 

Figure 8. Open shadow box in an unitized 

curtain wall (INSTALTEK n.d.) 

The shadow box assembly‘s communication with 

external environments can allow contaminants to 

accumulate behind the glass. This is particularly 

true in sealed shadow boxes where contaminants 

can get trapped during fabrication. And while 

baffles for vent holes or mullion-utilizing ventilation 

may limit external contaminations, these methods 

don‘t completely eliminate them. Similarly, filters 

for vent holes, although an option, can get clogged 

and also have impractical cleaning costs. The most 

efficient measure against contamination seems to 

be sealing the cavity, following robust manufacturer 

quality control, and thoroughly removing any glazing 

lubricants used during installation. In fact, reviewing 

a full-size mockup early in the design process for 

vision and spandrel glass aesthetics is advisable. 

38 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Thermal bridging in the shadow box cavity within 

the curtain wall can result in increased building 

operation costs. Causes include thermal conductivity 

between the cavity and the mullions surrounding 

the shadow box due to either excessive heat or cold. 

An overly hot or cold shadow box cavity can create 

uncomfortable or even damaging conditions for the 

interior surfaces of adjacent mullions. 

Thermal modeling practices offer a practical 

approach for a more accurate assessment of the 

shadow box‘s thermal performance. Adopting this 

strategy allows one to make informed decisions to 

improve the thermal efficiency of the system. 

Several solutions have been proposed to address 

thermal bridging. PVC profiles, exhibiting low 

thermal conductivity, can significantly reduce heat 

flow between the shadow box interior, adjacent 

profiles, and the internal environment. Another 

suggestion is to insulate the interior profile surfaces 

using materials like aerogel and vacuum insulation 

panels, which together provide exceptional thermal 

performance. 

Figure 9. Prefabricated sealed shadow box 

unit (Weinryb S. 2016) 

However, designing the cavity as pressure-equalized 

or ventilated can imbalance the isothermal curve. To 

avoid such problems, a sealed cavity with perimetral 

insulation of the mullion profiles is the optimal 

ventilation strategy for stabilizing the transitional 

section‘s isocurve and for preventing harmful 

temperature shifts. 

Figure 10. Isometric sectional view of the proposed pressure-equalized shadow box concept 


39

Based on the analysis conducted in this study, the 

following shadow box designs have emerged as the 

most proficient constructions principles: 

1. The „Open“ Shadow Box: This design provides 

excellent visual aesthetics and can be used if the 

project allows for a single-glazed pane. However, it 

requires a desiccant material due to possible warm 

air accumulation from exposure to the interior 

environment. 

2. Prefabricated Sealed Unit: This versatile and 

reliable construction ensures high fabrications 

standards. It‘s a double-glazed unit with an 

intermediate pane separated by an insulating spacer. 

It enhances quality control and prolongs the shadow 

box‘s lifespan, as it‘s manufactured in a controlled 

factory environment. 

3.Pressure-Equalized using Mullion Cavities: A 

forward-thinking proposal that factors in potential 

future elevations in temperature due to global 

warming. It uses a pressure equalization system 

that equalizes the cavity‘s internal pressure with 

the exterior, reducing the risk of damage due to 

significant pressure differences. 

These principles should be used as general guides 

and require further performance testing and 

customization for optimal results. 

Limitations: This systematic review on the 

implementation of shadow box spandrel constructions 

in curtain wall assemblies has several limitations: 

• The search strategy focused only on Englishlanguage 

publications, potentially excluding relevant 

research in other languages. 

• The review concentrated mainly on technical 

aspects, such as thermal performance, ventilation, 

and material selection, with less emphasis on factors 

like cost and environmental impact. 

• Few studies address the elevation of shadow box 

spandrel constructions, a relevant factor in high-rise 

buildings where performance may be influenced 

by wind pressure, solar radiation, and temperature 

gradients. 

• The findings, largely based on individual case 

studies, may not apply universally to all construction 

projects. 

• Conducting a meta-analysis was challenging 

due to the numerous variables present, such as 

measurement methods, quality of case studies, and 

differing report designs. Thus, a narrative synthesis 

approach was used for a qualitative overview and 

analysis of the evidence. 

Therefore, the conclusions drawn from this analysis 

should be considered with these limitations and may 

not provide precise estimates or statistical significance. 

5. Conclusions 

The aim of the paper was to conduct a systematic 

analysis of the available literature on shadow box 

designs to determine the current state of the art. 

The findings reveal that there are no established 

standard rules within the facade industry that apply 

to the design of this type of assembly, and opinions 

on the best design practices are divided. While there 

are various opinions on the actual mechanics of how 

the shadow box needs to function with regards to 

non-aesthetic performance, the key driver to keep 

shadow boxes at the spandrel area is for aesthetics. 

This highlights the complexity of the assembly 

and the importance of striking a balance between 

aesthetics and performance. Additionally, there are 

limited technical case studies that offer in-depth 

reports on the effectiveness of shadow boxes in realworld 

scenarios, therefore it can be said that actual 

performance testing is necessary for each unique 

design due to the individual nature of custom design 

solutions. Overall, the design and construction of 

shadow boxes in curtain wall systems require a holistic 

approach that considers various factors to ensure 

optimal performance and minimize potential issues. 

Proposed practices imply that: 

1. Ventilating the air cavity in a shadow box should 

be avoided. 

2. Advanced insulating materials enhance thermal 

performance but entail significant costs. 

3. Insulating mullion and transom surfaces in the 

air cavity should be standard to improve energy 

efficiency. 

4. Aesthetics should be core to the design, driving 

solutions to resulting technical problems. 

Future research in this area can help identify new 

solutions and strategies to further enhance the 

performance of shadow boxes in curtain wall 

systems. 

6. References 

Arztmann D. 2016. „Shadow Boxes – Re-Engineered.“ 

Facade Tectonics Institute (Eds.), Facade Tectonics : 

World Congress Los Angeles 2016 Conference 

Proceedings. Los Angeles: Tectonic Press. 10. 

Boswell, Keith R. 2005. „“Shadow Boxes”- An Architect 

and Cladding Designers’ Search for Solutions.“ 

Brzezicki M. 2014. „Redundant transparency: The 

building‘s light-permeable disguise.“ Journal of 

Architectural and Planning Research. 

CWCT. 2014. „Technical Note No.94 - Shadow Boxes.“ 

Centre for Window and Cladding Technology. 

D.W. Bettenhausen, L.D. Carbary, C.K. Boswell, O.C. 

40 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Brouard, J.R. Casper, S. Yee, M.M. Fukutome. 2015. „A 

Comparison of the Thermal Transmittance of Curtain 

Wall Spandrel Areas Employing Mineral Wool and 

Vacuum Insulation Panels by Numerical Modeling 

and Explerimental Evaluation.“ 

Haldimann. 2008. European Window Film Association 

2012. Saint-Gobain 2013. 

n.d. INSTALTEK. https://instaltek.ro/one-cotroceni. 

html. 

Jackson J. 2022. „Glass Spandrels and Shadow 

Boxes.“ Facade Tectonics Institute. 14. 

Kaskel B.S., Ceja C.M. 2014. „Case study repair of 

shadow box spandrel condensation.“ ASTM Special 

Technical Publication. 

Kragh M., Hayez V., Zhou S. 2013. „Next-Generation 

Curtain Walls With Vacuum Insulation Panels - 

Sustainability and Design Freedom.“ Sustainable 

Building 2013 Hong Kong Regional Conference. 9. 

SPANDRELS TO REDUCE GLASS BREAKAGE AND 

CONTROL MOISTURE.“ 

Vicuna, Mercedes Gargallo Sanz de. 2021. A 

systematic approach for unitized curtain wall 

design based on project requirements and industry 

limitations. PhD Thesis, Madrid: Department of 

Construction and Technology in Architecture. 

Walsh M. 2018. „Shadow Box Design - To Vent or Not 

to Vent.“ Facade Tectonics Institute. 9. 

Weinryb S., McClealland N. 2016. European Patent 

Specification - Panelized Shadow Box. Europe Patent 

EP 3 175 071 B1. 

Zobec M., Colombari M., Peron F., Romagnoni P. 

2002. „HOT-BOX TESTS FOR BUILDING ENVELOPE 

CONDENSATION ASSESSMENT.“ Permasteelisa, R&E, 

Italy (Permasteelisa, R&E, Italy) 6. 

Kragh, Mikkel. 2014. „Performance of Shadow Boxes 

in Curtain Wall Assemblies.“ CTBUH 2014 Shanghai 

Conference Proceedings. 6. 

Lang, Andy. 2010. „Design Considerations for 

Shadow Boxes in Curtain Wall Glazing.“ 

Lerum V. 2006. „Dynamic Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: 

Experimental evaluation of the opaque portion of 

a curtain wall system.“ International Solar Energy 

Conference. 6. 

Liberati, A., Altman, D., Tetzlaff, J., Mulrow, C., ... 

Moher, D. 2009. „The PRISMA statement for reporting 

systematic reviews and meta-analyses of studes 

that evaluate healthcare interventions: Explanation 

and elaboration.“ PLoS Medicine. 

Michno M., Cole.K. 2009. „Analysis and Design of 

Spandrel and Shadowbox Panels in Unitized Curtain 

Walls.“ 

Nelson P.E., Totten P.E. 2011. „Improving the 

condensation resistance of fenestration by 

considering total building enclosure and mechanical 

system interaction.“ Journal of Testing and Evaluation. 

Pilkington North America, Inc. 2012. „Technical 

Bulletin - Spandrel Panel Glazing ATS-124.“ 

Poláková M., Schäfer S., Elstner M. 2018. „Thermal 

glass stress analysis – Design considerations.“ 

Challenging Glass 6: Conference on Architectural 

and Structural Applications of Glass, CGC 2018 - 

Proceedings. 16. 

PPG Industries. 2011. „Spandrel Glass – Types and 

Recommendations.“ Glass Technical Document TD- 

145. 

Schwartz J., Roppel P., Hoffman S., Norris N. 2019. 

„QUANTIFYING THE BENEFIT OF VENTING GLAZED 


41

Article (Bachelor‘s Thesis Summary) 

Active Space 

Hannah M. Schäfer 1 

Supervisors 1: Prof. Sandra Bruns 1. ; Supervisor 2. Prof Rütt Schulz- 

Matthiesen 1 

1. Interior Architecture, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, 

Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Emilienstraße 45, 32756 Detmold, 

Germany 

Active Space is an idea to rethink and redesign future 

living. Can sustainable solutions and a form of living 

be found that strengthen communal cohesion in 

society? When considering our rapidly changing living 

conditions, the question of the role of space design 

for humans in transition comes up. 

In the search for spatial elements to promote 

community, a thematic vocabulary and a variety of 

typologies are compiled. The breakdown of spaces, 

including the materials used in the Hanok, provides 

insights into the traditional and new housing concepts 

described in literature in the Asian region. These 

patterns for living in different types of communities 

are further examined in an excursion to Berlin. 

Our current urgency to seek new forms of coexistence 

and housing is supported by the research on current 

housing situations and demographic changes in Asia 

and Europe. 

The compilation of patterns and typologies leads to a 

new conceptual idea on a 3x3 grid. The variety of floor 

plan options possible on the Nine-Grid field refocuses 

on the individual and their needs. 

Many architects and interior designers have already 

dealt with the topic of flexible floor plan design. In this 

work, I aim to highlight the contemporary relevance 

of this topic and my connection to it. My experiences 

during my stay in South Korea will be included, and, 

by my analog approach, I will give the design my 

personal touch. 

42 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Hanji 

Brick 

Wood 

Stone 

Used materials in 

traditional Hanok 

Clay 

Structure of Hanok rooms 

Typology of rethinking 

a „wall“ in variation 

of form, funktion and 

design 


43

Berlin - Communal Living 

Old buildings have been retaken from their new residents 

and are now representing different types and forms of living 

together. 

Circulation - 

connected to different live-style models and lifetime periods 

Elastic floor plan - 

growing and moving like human live. therfore use of space and 

the connection to human 

Polyvalenz - 

In architecture, it is characterized by equally sized rooms without 

predetermined uses. The planned indeterminacy aims to enable 

the residents to determine and adapt the space themselves. 

Nine Garid 

visual 

44 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Active Space neither is a finished floor plan nor an exact 

step-by-step guide. The design concept of Active Space 

focuses on the connection between human everyday 

needs and how the possibility to adapt space more easily 

to changing life circumstances. This is tested by various 

approaches in designing a floor plan. 

Another aspect that the Nine-Grid Experiment takes on 

in the context of the Active Space project is human needs 

communication. 

today 

4 years later 

Research has confirmed a clear transformation of humans 

and their environment. The changes brought about by 

demographic shifts and social influences such as the housing 

generation effect explane the contemporary relevance and 

the relevance to all of us. It also shows plainly how the 

patterns in communities correlate to the characteristics 

of Korean society and how they are incorporated into 

its architecture - in proximity to nature, the selection of 

sustainable materials, and atmospheric spaces and gaps. 

The challenge for young Koreans and for young people here 

is to connect today‘s lifestyles with a suitable form of housing. 

The current concept of privacy in a digital and mobile world 

is constantly changing. The difficulties that arise from there 

have been brought to light, especially after Corona, but 

they have existed long time before. The contemporary 

housing culture, where living and working have largely been 

separated, has brought disadvantages such as commuting 

between home and workplace or temporarily vacant homes 

or workspaces that could be used more actively. What we 

need for living always remains to be considered individually. 

In my thesis, I argue that humans develop their housing 

needs and the vocabulary to express them through practice 

and in the individual cycle of living. 

The polyvalence in the floor plan should enable the residents 

to freely design the use of the spaces and be inspired to be 

more creative through a planned indeterminacy. Only when 

humans can influence significantly that process from the 

beginning they can appropriate the space and thus express 

their identity. 

5 years later 

The goal of the design is to create an adaptable floor plan 

that should include at least one additional function, such as 

living+working or living+social. If the floor plan of a realized 

building offers the possibility of easily reconfiguring it, it can 

accommodate different phases of the life cycle and different 

forms of living. It will actively evolve and enable a longer 

period of use. In addition to the technical lifespan, this can 

also extend the economic benefits of a structure. The value 

given to the components and the existing structure also has 

a resource-saving and environmentally friendly effect. The 

key to realization is an inside-out planning approach with 

the human and his needs as the central matter. Following 

the floor plan design, the outer shell represents a reflection 

of the internal structure. The resulting architecture can be 

described as sustainable and socially appropriate. The Nine- 

Grid Model experiment aims to demonstrate a concrete 

connection between humans and their needs by having the 

individual position themselves as a resident figure within 

the grid and start thinking about and communicating their 

needs during the space planning process. 

11 years later 


45

Review 

Psychological Effects of Color in Architectural Building Design 

Zahra Mohebbi 1 

1 

zahra.mohebbi@stud.th-owl.de , Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe 

1. MID Computaional Design, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Emilienstraße 45, 32756 Detmold, 

Germany 

Abstract 

Color is an essential and versatile means of affecting the quality of a space. It is far more than a decoration. 

Although the color is a ubiquitous property of every architectural surface, evidence-based research on 

chromatic preference in architecture and the psychological effects of color as a function of the architectural 

design of a space is still sparse. 

This research aims to study and discuss what effects have colors on the human mind and how they can be 

applied in building design. 

Based on the literature review the results show that; different colors in buildings can create positive and 

negative effects on the human mind and psychological properties. 

This paper discusses how colors or colored environments have influenced working performances; causing 

certain behavior; creating negative or positive perceptions of surroundings and tasks given; and influencing 

moods and emotions. Finally, this paper highlights the potential scientific approach to finding color effects on 

human behavior. 

Keywords: color, psychology, behavior, building, human mind 

1.Introduction 

In the field of psychology, color is considered as 

another environmental factor that has a great 

impact on human perception and behavior (Nattha 

Savavibool, 2018). Colors can create different moods 

in a single architectural space. It leads to increase 

a person’s arousal (Akshara Jain, 2017). They have 

a subversive consequence on how people feel 

psychologically. 

Individual color preference is associated with the 

emotional response to the environment as well as 

behavior in that environment (Marco Costa, 2018). 

Therefore, understanding how color can affect 

human perceptions and behavior is essential for 

creating an efficient work environment. 

Thereby, this paper attempts to justify theoretically 

the effects of color on the human psyche. From 

this, the future research direction will be to study 

the relationship between environmental colours 

and human minds those affecting people’s sense of 

enjoyment or workplace. 

2.Methods 

The method used in this research includes a review 

of some case studies on the effect of colors in 

architectural buildings on human minds. 

Generally, around 10 articles have been found. After 

screening them, just 7 of them were related to this 

topic. The rest of them includes other factors such 

as light and natural color and their effect on the 

human mind. 

In terms of eligibility, some studies does not focus 

fully on the psychological effect of colors, they 

included other topics as well. 

Finally, two articles were considered. one study is 

about 443 university students living in a Residence 

Hall and they were distributed into six buildings 

with different specific interior colors. The sense of 

enjoyment on the students was observed. 

Another study is about the effect of colors in interior 

design on worker‘s moods. 

46 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 1. Examples of five corridors (Costa, 2018) 

Figure 2. Interior color preference for the six buildings in male and female participants. (Savavibool, 

2018) 


47

3.Results 

3.1.University Residence Hall 

In the research of Marco Costa (2018), the 

participants were 443 university students living in 

a university residence hall. The sample included 

230 males and 213 females. They were distributed 

between six buildings with different specific interior 

colors: orange, blue, yellow, red, green, and violet. 

Participants were accommodated in single (31.8%) 

and double (68.2%) rooms. The effect of colors 

on their psyche and its result on their sex and the 

sense of enjoyment was observed. Participants 

were accommodated in single (31.8%) and double 

(68.2%) rooms. The proportion of students in single 

and double rooms was homogeneous for the six 

buildings. Eight participants were excluded because 

they declared a deficiency in color vision. 

3.2. workplace 

According to a systematic literature review 

conducted by Nattha Savavibool (2018), the use of 

workplace color influences work-related outcomes. 

The cross-cultural studies were mostly conducted 

across Europe and Asia. Three aspects of color 

were studied: hue, saturation, and brightness. The 

majority of the studies focused on studying warm 

versus cool colors. Warm colors were usually red, 

orange, and yellow, and cool colors were most 

often blue and green. The evidence from 40 studies 

identified that the color of the work environment has 

significant effects on the human in three categories: 

mood and emotion, physiology and well-being, and 

work-related outcomes. 

• General Chromatic Preference 

Participants had to select the preferred color 

between the 240 samples included in Figure 3. 

The preference was general and not referred to a 

specific object or context. Grouping the 24 hues into 

six main categories, color preference in descending 

order was: blue (39.2%), green (18.8%), red (18.6%), 

violet (9.3%), orange (8.4%), and yellow (5.7%). 

In total 16 studies were included that examined color 

preferences. Most of the studies were cross-cultural 

study. Blue and green are consistently found to be 

the most favorite colors However, color preference 

is not universal and is influenced by differences 

in age, gender, cultural aspect, background, and 

experience. In the workplace, the preference for 

colors can influence on worker’s mood, well-being, 

and performance. White is the favorite neutral color 

and workers prefer to work in a white environment. 

3.3. Mood and emotion 

Figure3. Color wheel for the assessment 

of chromatic preference. The wheel 

included 24 sectors varying in hue. 

Each sector included 10 levels along the 

radial dimension varying in lightness. 

(Costa, 2018) 

• Interior Color Preference 

Blue was the preferred interior color (34.7%), 

followed by green (23.1%), violet (14.1%), orange 

(11.9%), yellow (8.7%), and red (7.5%). 

Interior color preference as a function of the 

participant’s sex is shown in Figure 2. Separate 

Chi-square analysis with Bonferroni correction was 

performed to test the effect of sex and enjoyment 

on each interior color preference. The difference 

was significant for blue ($2 = 6.03, p = 0.01), and 

violet ($2 = 18.13, p < 0.001), as shown in Figure 2. 

In total 21 studies focused on mood and emotion. 

Most of the studies used a subjective measure of 

mood such as The Multiple Affect Adjective Check 

List (MAACL); The PAD (Pleasure, Arousal, and 

Dominance). The emotional responses to color are 

related to the meaning of colors. Green evokes the 

most positive emotional responses and is associated 

with relaxation, and happiness. A cross-cultural 

study found positive emotional status when working 

in a colorful environment. A good color scheme will 

enhance the overall mood of the worker. Blue is 

perceived as more positive than red in the openplan 

environment but other studies suggest it can 

also be perceived as depressive (Stone & English, 

1998), and less attractive (Yildirim et al., 2015). The 

red environment can be perceived as stimulating as 

well as distracting. White walls tend to be perceived 

as boring and uninteresting. 

4. Discussion 

Whereas color on external façades influences the 

perception of the overall urban design and has 

mainly an aesthetic role color in interior design 

48 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

could significantly affect residential satisfaction and 

psychological and social functioning in addition to 

having an aesthetic value. Color in interior design 

can be more easily personalized, strongly interacts 

with the color of other decorating objects, and its 

pleasantness could affect home attachment. 

According to a systematic literature review 

conducted by Nattha Savavibool (2018), the building 

with blue interior color was the most preferred, 

followed by the green, violet, orange, yellow, and red 

buildings. 

Blue was also the preferred color when performing 

general chromatic preferences. Considering all six 

buildings, cool colors (blue, violet, and green) were 

preferred to warm colors (yellow, orange, and red). 

This pattern of preferences could be linked to the 

ecological valence theory (Palmer, 2010) that posit a 

causal link between the preference for a color and 

the preference for objects that are characterized by 

that specific color. In this perspective, the preference 

for blues and cyans could emerge as a consequence 

of the preference for clear sky and clean water, or 

for the association of blue with serenity and calm, 

qualities that probably are sought by students for 

their residential space. 

Although blue was the preferred interior color 

for both males and females, the polarization for 

blue was less pronounced in female participants 

than in males. Females, for example, expressed a 

discrete preference for the violet color that most 

males rejected. Gender differences emerged 

also in the general chromatic preferences, with a 

lower polarization for the blue color, and a higher 

preference for red, pink, and violet in females. 

Interior color is a ubiquitous component of every 

architectural design that strongly characterizes 

residential, work, educational, and commercial 

environments, and has a significant impact on 

the psychological functioning and satisfaction 

of the people living in these environments. The 

development of applied research in this field 

could contribute to establishing evidence-based 

knowledge that can be used by designers and 

architects to guide color choice in their projects. 

influence humans is essential. The connection 

between colors and emotions is significant. 

Nevertheless, some generalities have been used 

to determine which age groups prefer which colors 

and which colors generate perceived emotions in 

groups. Blues and greens are still highly preferred 

by the adult population and this may be one reason 

why because it provides calm. Although yellows and 

reds are used in many places, it was found to have a 

negative association with adolescents so in fact does 

not provide the ideal emotions for the employees. 

Psychological properties of different colors help in 

interior and exterior facade design. 

References 

1. Marco Costa, Sergio Frumento, Mattia Nese, and 

Iacopo Predieri, Interior Color and Psychological 

Functioning in University Residence Hall, August 

2018 

2. Akshara Jain, Psychology of Colours in Building 

Design, April 2017 

3. N. Kwallek, H. Woodson, C. M. Lewis,C. Sales, 

Impact of Three Interior Color Schemes on Worker 

Mood and Performance Relative to Individual 

Environmental Sensitivity, August 1996 

4. Palmer and Schloss, 2010 

5. Nattha Savavibool, Birgitta Gatersleben, 

Chumporn Moorapun, The Effects of Colour in Work 

Environment: A systematic review, Sep/ Oct 2018 

6. Stone & English, 1998 

7. Juan Serra, Banu Manav, Yacine Gouaich, Assessing 

architectural color preference after Le Corbusier’s 

1931 Salubra, March 2021 

8. Yildirim et al., 2015 

5. Conclusion 

In the specificity of the studies, one study exploited 

a unique architectural setting composed of six 

buildings that differed only for the interior color, 

investigating pleasantness for each specific color; 

how this pleasantness related to general chromatic 

preference, the effects of the interior color on 

lightness level and lightness satisfaction, and the 

effect of the color on the residents’ functioning and 

mood. The other study focuses on the use of color 

in the workplace can enhance a positive mood, 

contribute to a sense of well-being and lead to a 

positive outcome. Understanding the maximum 

dimension of how different workplace colors 


49

Digital Workflow 

Digital Workflow for Soundscape Assessment: Case Study of an Adaptive 

Façade in Detmold, Germany 

Alvaro Balderrama 1,2 & Hussam Al Basha 1,3 

1. Institute for Design Strategies, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Ostwestfalen-Lippe 

(TH OWL), Detmold, Germany. 

2. Architectural Façades and Products Research Group, Faculty of Architecture and Built Environment, TU Delft, Delft, The Netherlands. 

3. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, 

Lebanon. 

Abstract 

Analyzing how buildings can influence the soundscape can be useful to improve the quality of urban 

environments and prevent negative effects on health and well-being. This study aimed to explore the opensource 

Python library Soundscapy to explore its capabilities and limitations through a case study. The input data 

was collected via on-site acoustic measurements and recordings, as well as via laboratory experiment using a 

VR headset and headphones to survey participants (n=6) about their perception of sound. The outputs of the 

digital workflow adjusted for the case study include: (i) analysis of four selected acoustic and psychoacoustic 

values to characterize the acoustic environment: continuous sound pressure level (LAeq), Loudness, Sharpness 

and Roughness, and (ii) analysis of the perceptual data consisting of scatter plots and radar plots, used to 

characterize the soundscape. 

Keywords: soundscape assessment; acoustics; psychoacoustics; perception; laboratory experiments; virtual 

reality; Python; Soundscapy; façade; building automation 


Soundscape can be understood as people’s 

perception of sound in an environment, in context 

(International Organization for Standardization, 

2014). Its conception as an interdisciplinary research 

field originated in the late 1960’s and developed 

through the 1970’s (Southworth, 1969; Schafer, 

1969; Schafer, 1977), providing a new perspective of 

how to manage sound in our environment. Instead 

of the traditional approach of focusing solely 

on its negative aspects such as noise pollution, 

soundscape research proposes to treat sound as a 

resource rather than a problem, and use it to create 

pleasant environments that improve conditions for 

people, as well as to preserve wildlife (Kang et al., 

2016; Aletta, 2022). 

There are several methods for collecting 

soundscape data (Aletta et al., 2016), such as 

soundwalks, laboratory experiments, behavioral 

observation, and narrative interviews. ISO 12913- 

2 (International Organization for Standardization, 

2018) and ISO 12913-3 (International Organization 

for Standardization, 2019) provided guidelines for 

collecting and analyzing data, including a method 

where participants can use eight attributes known 

as “perceived affective quality” or “PAQ” (pleasant, 

vibrant, eventful, chaotic, annoying, monotonous, 

uneventful, and calm) to describe the sound of a 

place, and then researchers can use those inputs 

to find coordinates on a two-dimensional diagram 

to characterize the soundscape of any location 

(Axelsson et al., 2010). 

This study had the aim of developing a methodology 

in Python for soundscape assessment based on 

the Python library Soundscapy (Mitchell et al., 2022) 

exploring its capabilities and limitations through 

a case study that investigates the influence of an 

adaptive façade on the soundscape. An automated 

shading system in the façade of the selected building 

produces a series of sounds when it moves, which is 

not the case in most buildings. However, it is likely 

that more and more buildings in the future will 

count with automated shading systems. The effects 

of building automation and adaptive façades on 

the acoustic environment and on the soundscape 

have not been thoroughly covered in the literature 

(Balderrama et al., 2022), therefore the relevance of 

understanding their potential implications. 

50 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 1. Inputs, processes, and outputs of the Python workflow for soundscape assessment 

Figure 2. Data collection in front of the façade – tripod with 360 video camera, ambisonics microphone and 

sound level meter 


The digital workflow presented here was built in 

the programming language Python v.3.11.4 and is 

based on a series of existing libraries developed 

for several applications within the broad field of 

Acoustics. Access to the open code of this workflow 

is addressed in Supplementary Material below. 

Regarding the user interface, the source code editor 

software Visual Studio Code (VSCode) was used, 

however, it is not a restriction. 

The methodology in this study was based on 

Soundscapy (Mitchell et al., 2022), a Python 

library for analyzing and visualizing soundscape 

assessments. Soundscapy relies on three other 

packages: the Python Acoustics library; scikitmaad 

which is a modular toolbox for quantitative 

analysis in ecological soundscape research and 

bioacoustics, and MoSQITo, which is a framework 

for psychoacoustic metrics. Additionally, beyond 

the scope of soundscapy, the Python package for 

audio and music signal processing librosa (McFee et 

al., 2015) was used for plotting spectrograms of the 

binaural recordings. 

2.1. Data Collection for Case Study 

In order to test the workflow, the façade of a 

building at the campus of TH OWL in Detmold was 

analyzed. The “Riegel” building was chosen for 


51

due to its particular shading system which moves 

autonomously through sensors of light and wind 

(with some possibilities of user control). Audio and 

video recordings, as well as sound pressure level 

measurements were taken around the building 

between June and July 2023. 

Acoustic data was collected with a first-order 

ambisonics microphone Zoom H3-VR to obtain 

binaural recordings. The respective continuous 

sound pressure level measurements were captured 

with a calibrated sound level meter (SLM) PeakTech 

8005 class 2. 

Perceptual data was collected via a laboratory 

experiment where voluntary participants were 

asked to wear VR headset Oculus Quest with overear 

headphones. The VR scenes were built with the 

audio from the ambisonics microphone and videos 

recorded with a 360-degree camera Garmin VIRB. 

Participants were asked to rate attributes of the 

acoustic environment. 

3. Results 

3.1.Acoustic and Psychoacoustic Data Analysis 

Among the most representative single values 

for soundscape research are the continuous 

A-Weighted Sound Pressure Level as well as five 

psychoacoustic indicators: Loudness, Sharpness, 

Roughness, Fluctuation strength and Tonality (Engel 

et al., 2021). Soundscapy is equipped to derive 

Loudness, Sharpness and Roughness; Fluctuation 

strength and Tonality are currently not supported 

and there isn’t an existing library in Python to 

extract them. However, according to the developers 

of MoSQITo (Green Forge Coop., 2021), Tonality is 

under development and Fluctuation strength is next. 

Furthermore, part 3 of the ISO standard provides an 

example of a representation of “relative change of 

acoustic parameters over distance” including the 

following four metrics which are therefore selected 

for this study: 

• LAeq: the equivalent continuous A-weighted sound 

pressure level, representing the total energy of 

sound over a specific period of time and is specified 

in ISO 1996-1 (2003). Unit: dBA 

• Loudness: Psychoacoustic indicator that quantifies 

how intense or loud a sound is perceived by the 

human ear. There are different loudness models and 

the soundscape standard recommends following 

Zwicker method, as described by ISO 532-1 (2017). 

Unit: sones (N). 

• Sharpness: Psychoacoustic indicator that 

represents the subjective impression of a sound‘s 

high-frequency content, described in DIN 45692. 

Unit: acum (S). 

• Roughness: Psychoacoustic indicator associated 

with the perception of fast modulations between 20 

and 300 Hz. Described in ECMA-418-2 (Becker & Rol, 

2022). Unit: asper (R). 

Table 1. Selected acoustic and psychoacoustic values 

52 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Figure 3. Plots of the binaural wave recorded at different distances from the façade: a) 1m; b) 2m; c) 3m; d) 5m; 

e) 10m; f) 15m 

a) b) c) 

d) e) f) 

Figure 4. Mel-Frequency spectrograms of recordings at different distances from 

the façade: a) 1m; b) 2m; c) 3m; d) 5m; e) 10m; f) 15m 

Table 1 presents the four values selected for six 

different recordings related to the distance between 

the recording equipment to the façade (1m, 2m, 3m, 

5m, 10m, 15m) for the left and right channel. 

The binaural waves (amplitude against time) 

recorded at different distances from the façade are 

shown in figure 3, plotted from 45-second binaural 

recordings. In figure 3 (a) is possible to appreciate 

two segments: the left one shows the shading 

system moving upwards followed by a full stop and 

then moving downwards. It can also be seen that the 

upward movement is consistent and the downward 

movement is more distorted. In (f) the effect of the 

shading system at a distance of 15m on the overall 

sound level is severely reduced. 

The binaural waves (amplitude against time) 

recorded at different distances from the façade are 

shown in figure 3, plotted from 45-second binaural 

recordings. In figure 3 (a) is possible to appreciate 

two segments: the left one shows the shading 

system moving upwards followed by a full stop and 

then moving downwards. It can also be seen that the 


53

Table 2. Mean values of PAQs and coordinates for each location 

upward movement is consistent and the downward 

movement is more distorted. In (f) the effect of the 

shading system at a distance of 15m on the overall 

sound level is severely reduced. 

Figure 4 illustrates Mel-frequency spectrograms 

plotted from 45-second binaural recordings at 

various distances from the façade. In the second 

half of the six spectrograms a visible pattern 

represents a squeaking sound of the metal curtain 

when moving downwards. Also, as seen in (f) the gap 

between both sections representing the moment 

when the shading system doesn’t move is reduced 

substantially at 15m. 

3.2. Perceptual Data Analysis 

Perceived affective quality refers to eight attributes 

used that participants typically rate using Likert 

scales from 1 to 5 (if following Method A of the 

ISO standard) and were included in this laboratory 

experiment. ISO 12913-3 presents the formulas and 

a) b) 

c) 

d) 

Figure 5. Plots of the perceptual data collected in laboratory experiment for one 

location and three different façade states: a) radar plot; b) scatter plot (soundscape 

characterization); c) distribution (density) plot; d) Jointplot 

54 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Table 3. Summary statistics of the laboratory experiment for the scene with the façade system moving 

procedures to convert the Likert scale data into 

coordinates to plot on a two-dimensional diagram. 

The so called “soundscape circumplex model” was 

originally proposed by Axelsson et al. (2010) and has 

been the predominant method for characterizing 

soundscape assessments. The widespread use of 

the circumplex model has allowed a comprehensive 

and easy-to-interpret visualization for any 

soundscape, therefore it allows researchers to 

compare different situations (Moshona et al., 2023). 

The main two dimensions of this model are typically 

represented as “Pleasantness” (or ISOPleasant) on 

the x axis and “Eventfulness” (or ISOEventful) on the 

y axis (Axelsson et al., 2010). 

For this demonstration, the PAQs (PAQ 1: pleasant, 

PAQ 2: vibrant, PAQ 3: eventful, PAQ 4: chaotic, PAQ 

5: annoying, PAQ 6: monotonous, PAQ 7: uneventful, 

and PAQ 8: calm) were collected through a preliminary 

laboratory experiment where participants (n=6) 

used a VR headset and headphones and were 

exposed to three randomized scenes: R1o (where 

the facade is fully open), R1m (where the shading 

system is moving), and R1c (where the shading 

system is fully closed). 

Figure 5 shows four visualizations obtained from 

the laboratory experiment. In (a) the 1 to 5 values 

for each of the eight PAQs are represented in a 

radar plot as reported by one participant. In (b) 

the coordinate values for each location are plotted 

on the circumplex model, with ISOPleasant and 

ISOEventful on the x and y axis respectively. Similarly, 

(c) represents a density plot, and (d) represents an 

alternative of the distribution adding cross sections 

on the right and upper sides of the plot. 

Table 2 presents the summary statistics obtained 

from the laboratory experiment, specifically for the 

scene where the façade is in motion. The “count” 

represents the total number of entries: 6 participants, 

1 scene each. The „mean“ value represents the 

average value of the measured parameter, providing 

insight into the central tendency of the data. The 

„std“ (standard deviation) shows the dispersion or 

spread of the data points from the mean, indicating 

the variability or consistency of the results. The „Min“ 

and „Max“ values represent the smallest and largest 

observed values, respectively, giving an idea of the 

range within which the data falls. The percentiles 

„25%“, „50%“ (median), and „75%“ divide the data 

into quartiles, showing the values below which, the 

specified percentage of data points falls. 

4. Discussion and Conclusion 

This study presented an overview of the Python 

library Soundscapy for soundscape assessment 

in a case study that focused on the influence of 

an adaptive façade on the acoustic environment 

and on the soundscape. Field recordings as well 

as measurements of sound pressure levels were 

conducted to collect acoustic data. A preliminary 

laboratory experiment with volunteers (n=6) was 

conducted to collect perceptual data. The outputs 

include an acoustic and psychoacoustic analysis 

providing meaningful metrics (LAeq, N5, S_avg, R_ 

avg), as well as a perceptual data analysis providing 

a characterization of the soundscape around a 

building with a façade shading system that produces 

a series of sounds when moving. 

Some preliminary conclusions regarding the 

influence of the façade shading system on the 

acoustic environment show that the shading system 

produces about 62 dBA at one meter and decreases 

about 20 dBA at a distance of 15 meters, where 

its acoustic effect is mostly reduced (also in the 

frequency domain). The four values represented in 

table 1 follow the example of meaningful metrics 

described in ISO 12913-3. The preliminary perceptual 

analysis indicates that the soundscape around the 

building at the specific moments of the recordings 

is considered pleasant and calm when the façade 

is steady and rather annoying when the shading 

system in motion. Further steps for this research 

include using this digital workflow in an up-scaled 

study that includes a larger number of participants 

and more locations around the building. 

Limitations: This research was conducted as a pilot 

study of an ongoing project by the first author. 

The methodology was based on the Python library 

Soundscapy which is still under development. 


55

Supplementary material: A GitHub repository 

containing a version of the digital workflow presented 

in this paper can be accessed through this link. 

However, as stated above, this is a work in progress. 

To access the original Soundscapy repository visit: 

https://github.com/MitchellAcoustics/Soundscapy 

Acknowledgements: 

The authors would like to thank the colleagues 

at the IDS for supporting this study by providing 

some of the equipment, acting as participants in 

the preliminary laboratory experiment, and giving 

feedback for further steps of this research. 

5. References 

Aletta, F. (2022). Listening to cities—From noisy 

environments to positive soundscapes. https://doi. 

org/10.13140/RG.2.2.21767.06566 

Aletta, F., Kang, J., & Axelsson, Ö. (2016). Soundscape 

descriptors and a conceptual framework for 

developing predictive soundscape models. 

Landscape and Urban Planning, 149, 65–74. https:// 

doi.org/10.1016/j.landurbplan.2016.02.001 

Axelsson, Ö., Nilsson, M. E., & Berglund, B. (2010). 

A principal components model of soundscape 

perception. The Journal of the Acoustical Society 

of America, 128(5), 2836–2846. https://doi. 

org/10.1121/1.3493436 

Balderrama, A., Kang, J., Prieto, A., Luna-Navarro, A., 

Arztmann, D., & Knaack, U. (2022). Effects of Façades 

on Urban Acoustic Environment and Soundscape: 

A Systematic Review. Sustainability, 14(15), 9670. 

https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159670 

Becker, J., & Rol, S. com. (2022). ECMA-418-2, 2nd 

edition, December 2022. 

DIN 45692:2009-08, Messtechnische Simulation der 

Hörempfindung Schärfe 

Part 3: Data Analysis. International Organization for 

Standardization: Geneva, Switzerland, 2019.(Aletta 

et al., 2016) 

ISO 1996-1:2003, Acoustics — Description, 

measurement and assessment of environmental 

noise — Part 1: Basic quantities and assessment 

procedures 

ISO 532-1:2017, Acoustics — Methods for calculating 

loudness — Part 1: Zwicker method 

Kang, J., Aletta, F., Gjestland, T. T., Brown, L. A., 

Botteldooren, D., Schulte-Fortkamp, B., Lercher, P., 

Van Kamp, I., Genuit, K., Fiebig, A., Bento Coelho, 

J. L., Maffei, L., & Lavia, L. (2016). Ten questions on 

the soundscapes of the built environment. Building 

and Environment, 108, 284–294. https://doi. 

org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2016.08.011 

McFee, B., Raffel, C., Liang, D., Ellis, D., McVicar, M., 

Battenberg, E., & Nieto, O. (2015). librosa: Audio and 

Music Signal Analysis in Python. 18–24. https://doi. 

org/10.25080/Majora-7b98e3ed-003 

Mitchell, A., Aletta, F., & Kang, J. (2022). How to 

analyse and represent quantitative soundscape 

data. JASA Express Letters, 2(3), 037201. https://doi. 

org/10.1121/10.0009794 

Moshona, C. C., Lepa, S., & Fiebig, A. (2023). 

Optimization strategies for the German version of 

the soundscape affective quality instrument. Applied 

Acoustics, 207, 109338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. 

apacoust.2023.109338 

Schafer, R. M. (1969). The New Soundscape, 

Associated Music, New York, NY, pp. 1–65. 

Schafer, R. M. (1977). The Soundscape: Our Sonic 

Environment and the Tuning of the World; Knopf: 

New York, NY, USA, 1977. 

Southworth, M. The sonic environment of cities. 

Environ. Behav. 1969, 1, 49–70. 

Engel, M. S., Fiebig, A., Pfaffenbach, C., & Fels, J. (2021). 

A Review of the Use of Psychoacoustic Indicators 

on Soundscape Studies. Current Pollution Reports, 

7(3), 359–378. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40726-021- 

00197-1 

Green Forge Coop. MOSQITO Computer software 

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5284054 

ISO 12913-1:2014; Acoustics–Soundscape–Part 1: 

Definition and Conceptual Framework. International 

Organization for Standardization: Geneva, 

Switzerland, 2014. 

ISO 12913-2:2018; Acoustics—Soundscape—Part 

2: Data Collection and Reporting Requirements. 

International Organization for Standardization: 

Geneva, Switzerland, 2018. 

ISO/TS 12913-3:2019; Acoustics—Soundscape— 

56 

RESEARCH ARTICLES

3. RESEARCH IMPACT 

DOKUMENTATION - KM EXKURSION 

57

Research Impact 

Green Walls and Health: An Umbrella Review 

Summary of article published in the journal Nature-Based Solutions, Volume 3, May 2023 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nbsj.2023.100070 

Marcel Cardinali1,2, Alvaro Balderrama 1,2 , Daniel Arztmann 2 & Uta Pottgiesser 1,2 

1. Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, TU Delft, P.O.Box 5043, 2600GA, Delft, the Netherlands 

2. Institute for Design Strategies, OWL University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 32756, Detmold, Germany 

Summary: 

In response to pressing societal challenges like 

climate change and environmental pollution, there‘s 

a growing consensus that our cities must become 

greener and our lifestyles more sustainable. These 

environmental burdens have the potential to impact 

the incidence of non-communicable diseases, a 

significant global health concern. Horizontal green 

spaces have already demonstrated positive effects 

on human health, but the influence of green walls, 

a promising nature-based solution for densely 

populated urban areas, remains less understood. 

Existing research on green walls has yet to be 

synthesized across various potential pathways: 

mitigation, restoration, and instoration. An umbrella 

review (or, a review of literature reviews) studying 

30 journal publications was conducted, following 

established methodologies like PRISMA (Preferred 

Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- 

Analyses) and AMSTAR for quality assessment. 

The findings reveal consistent evidence that green 

walls contribute to the mitigation of urban heat 

island effects, air pollution, and noise pollution. 

These benefits translate into reduced surface 

temperatures and air temperatures, reduction of 

noise levels and reverberation, and reductions of air 

pollutants. Some evidence also suggests disaster 

risk reduction and restoration effects. 

indirect health outcomes is needed. Implementing 

green walls on a larger scale is recommended as a 

prerequisite for conducting cross-sectional studies, 

impact evaluations, and long-term follow-ups when 

feasible. This approach can help progress the 

research field and provide the evidence needed for 

decision-makers to justify the widespread adoption 

of urban nature-based solutions, ultimately 

promoting healthier and more sustainable cities. 

Keywords: 

Nature-based solutions; Green facades; Living walls; 

Health; Environmental risk factors; Well-being; 

Environmental comfort; Behavior 

More field studies across all pathways to establish a 

clearer understanding of the relationship between 

green walls and health is needed. 

Nature-based solutions (NBS) like green walls have 

great potential for improving public health in urban 

environments. The findings of this paper suggest 

consistent positive associations between green walls 

and health, despite the limited body of evidence. To 

reinforce the body of evidence and advance our 

understanding, further research on both direct and 

58 RESEARCH IMPACT

Figure 1. Left: Green facade in Palaisstraße, Detmold, Germany; Right: Living wall at 

Museu Coleção Berardo, Lisbon, Portugal. 

Figure 2. Flow diagram of the selection process of review articles. 


59


Estimation of Natural Ventilation Rates in an Office Room with 

145mm-Diameter Circular Openings Using the Occupant-Generated 

Tracer-Gas Method 

Summary of journal article published by the MDPI journal Sustainability in June 2023 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su15139892 

Hyeonji Seol 1 , Daniel Arztmann 1 , Naree Kim 2,3 & Alvaro Balderrama 1,4 

1. Institute for Design Strategies, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Emilienstraße 


2. UBLO Inc., Seoul 03056, Republic of Korea; n.kim@ublo-window.com 

3. VS-A KOREA Ltd., Seoul 03056, Republic of Korea 

4. Architectural Façades and Products Research Group, Department of Architectural Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Architecture and the Built 

Environment, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 134, 2628 BL Delft, The Netherlands 

Summary: 

Natural ventilation in a building is an effective way to 

achieve healthy indoor air quality. Ventilation dilutes 

contaminants such as bioeffluents generated by 

occupants and substances emitted from building 

materials. In a building that requires heating and 

cooling, adequate ventilation is crucial to minimize 

energy consumption and prevent condensation on 

the building while maintaining acceptable indoor air 

quality. However, measuring the actual magnitude 

of the natural ventilation rate, including infiltration 

through the building envelope and airflow through 

the building openings, is not always feasible. Although 

international and national standards suggested the 

required ventilation rates to maintain acceptable 

indoor air quality in buildings, there is no specified 

action plans to achieve those recommendations 

in buildings. In this study, the occupant-generated 

carbon dioxide (CO2) tracer gas decay method was 

applied to estimate the ventilation rates in an office 

room in Seoul, South Korea, from summer to winter. 

Using the method, real-time ventilation rates can 

be calculated by monitoring indoor and outdoor 

CO2 concentrations without injecting a tracer gas. 

For natural ventilation in the test room, 145 mmdiameter 

circular openings on the fixed glass were 

used. As a result, first, we could evaluate how much 

the indoor air quality deteriorated when all the 

windows were closed in an occupied office room by 

using the indoor CO2 concentrations as an indicator 

of indoor air quality. Moreover, we found out that 

the estimated ventilation rates varied depending on 

various environmental conditions, even under the 

same ventilation conditions. Considering the indoor 

and outdoor temperature differences and outdoor 

wind speeds as the main factors influencing the 

ventilation rates, we analyzed how they affected 

the ventilation rates in the different seasons of 

South Korea. When the wind speeds were calm, 

less than 2 m/s, the temperature difference played 

as a factor that influenced the estimated ventilation 

rates. On the other hand, when the temperature 

differences were low, less than 3 degree C, the wind 

speed was the primary factor. This study raises 

awareness about the risk of poor indoor air quality 

in office rooms that could lead to health problems 

or unpleasant working environments. This study 

presents an example of estimating the ventilation 

rates in an existing building. By using the tracer gas 

decay method in this study, the ventilation rate in an 

existing building can be simply estimated while using 

the building as usual, and appropriate ventilation 

strategies for the building can be determined to 

maintain the desired indoor air quality. 

Keywords: natural ventilation; occupant-generated 

CO2 tracer gas method; ventilation rates; infiltration 

rates 

Figure 1. 145 mm-diameter circular opening on the 

fixed glass. 

60 

RESEARCH IMPACT

Figure 2. Indoor air quality and outdoor weather conditions during an occupied 

period in the test room on 11 August 2022. 

Figure 3. Daily mean of estimated infiltration and ventilation rates in different seasons. 


61


Investigating Heat Development in Shadow Box Façade Systems: A 

Mockup Test Approach 

Summary of conference paper for the Interznational Scientific Conference on Contemporary Glass Façades, at Zagreb, Croatia 

Link: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371167600_Investigating_Heat_Development_in_Shadow_Box_Facade_Systems_A_Mockup_Test_ 

Approach 

Godo Zabur Singh 1 , Daniel Arztmann 1,2 , & Alvaro Balderrama 1,3 

1. Institute for Design Strategies, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, Technische Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe, Emilienstraße 



3. Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, TU Delft, P.O.Box 5043, 2600GA, Delft, the Netherlands 

Summary: 

In modern architectural design, fully glazed facades, 

known for their sleek transparency, have become a 

staple in office buildings globally. The shadow box 

system, featuring two layers of glazing separated by 

an air cavity, has driven this trend, offering designers 

both flexibility and structural soundness. However, 

this system faces challenges, with overheating 

being a primary concern. To gain a comprehensive 

understanding of this overheating issue, a detailed 

mockup test was initiated in Bielefeld, Germany. 

The objective was to study the heat development 

patterns in different shadow box configurations 

and derive actionable insights. For this experiment, 

four of the most commonly used shadow box types 

were selected. These were subjected to a year-long 

observation, with heat sensors meticulously placed 

at strategic locations to capture accurate data. 

The data collected from February 2021 to January 

2022 provided some intriguing insights. All four 

shadow box types exhibited high temperatures, 

with February emerging as an especially hot month. 

Delving deeper into the data, Type 3, which is the 

most prevalent setup in contemporary facade 

design, was subjected to a more granular analysis. 

The findings were somewhat counterintuitive. 

Despite the summer months typically having 

higher external temperatures, the internal heat 

accumulation within the shadow box was noticeably 

lower compared to the winter months. This anomaly 

was traced back to the Solar Altitude Angle, which 

refers to the sun‘s inclination. During winter, the 

sun‘s rays strike the facade at a lower angle, leading 

to a more direct and intense solar radiation effect 

within the shadow box. This results in pronounced 

heat development. In contrast, the summer months, 

characterized by a higher solar altitude, witness 

reduced direct radiation due to potential shading, 

leading to lesser heat accumulation. 

Another significant observation pertained to the 

role of ventilation in these shadow box systems. 

Theoretically, ventilation is believed to play a pivotal 

role in dissipating accumulated heat, thereby 

reducing the risk of overheating. However, the 

data from the mockup test painted a different 

picture. The ventilation‘s impact on heat reduction 

was minimal, suggesting that the current design 

of ventilation openings might be inadequate. This 

revelation underscores the need for a reevaluation 

of ventilation designs in shadow box systems. 

In conclusion, the shadow box system, while 

offering numerous design advantages, presents 

specific challenges that need addressing. The sun‘s 

inclination, or the Solar Altitude Angle, plays a more 

significant role in heat development than previously 

assumed. Furthermore, the design of ventilation 

openings requires a thorough reexamination to 

effectively combat overheating. As the architectural 

community continues to embrace the shadow 

box system, these findings provide a roadmap for 

future research and development. The goal is clear: 

to optimize the design of shadow box systems, 

ensuring they are both aesthetically pleasing and 

functionally robust. 

Keywords: shadow box; façade; heat development; 

thermal performance; mockup test 

62 

RESEARCH IMPACT

Figure 1. Mockup setup in Bielefeld 

Figure 2. Shadow box types used for mockup test 


63


Soundscape Assessment at a University Campus in Detmold, 

Germany 

Summary of conference paper for the Healthy Buildings Europe Conference 2023 in Aachen, Germany 

Link: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372477080_Soundscape_Assessment_at_a_University_Campus_in_Detmold_Germany 

Alvaro Balderrama 1,2 , Aylin Erol 3 , Johanna Götz 4 , Alessandra Luna-Navarro 1 , Jian Kang 5 , Daniel Arztmann 2 , Ulrich Knaack 1 

1. Architectural Façades and Products Research Group, Faculty of Architecture and Built Environment, TU Delft, Delft, The Netherlands 

2. Institute for Design Strategies, Detmold School of Architecture and Interior Architecture, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Ostwestfalen- 

Lippe (TH OWL), Detmold, Germany. 

3. Faculty of Architecture and Design, Ozyegin University, Istanbul, Turkey. 

4. Faculty of Music Pedagogy, Theory and Composition (FB3), Detmold University of Music (HfM), Detmold, Germany. 

5. Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, The Bartlett, University College London, London, UK. 

Summary: 

With a growing global population concentrated 

in cities, the importance of understanding how 

people perceive and find comfort in urban 

environments continues to rise. The soundscape 

approach, standardized in 2014 by the International 

Organization for Standardization with the ISO 

12913 series, provides a framework that integrates 

people’s sound perception with the traditional 

decibel metrics. This research aimed to study how 

people perceive sound at a university campus by 

following the definitions and conceptual framework 

of ISO 12913-1:2014, procedures for data collection 

of ISO 12913-2:2018, and data analysis of ISO 12913- 

3:2019. 

A soundwalk (guided walking tour focused on 

listening) was organized in September of 2022 

across the main courtyard of the campus of TH 

OWL in Detmold. 30 volunteers were divided into 

four groups to walk across two predetermined 

paths and fill out questionnaires about their 

perception of sound in every area. At the same 

time, sound measurements were being taken. 

The results suggest that people’s perception of 

sound at the campus was generally pleasant and 

calm, but susceptible to the ongoing activities and 

emerging sound sources such as sounds from a 

construction site, music, children playing, and other 

groups of people. For example, Area 2 close to the 

Kindergarten was perceived as annoying by the first 

group, and the next group shifted towards positive 

and vibrant when there was construction noise in 

the background. Also, music seemed to increase 

vibrancy and reduce perceived loudness, however, 

the sound levels were high. The results provide 

insights about the soundscape of the university 

campus and can help stakeholders to be aware of 

people’s comfort and overall environmental quality. 

Keywords: Soundscape; soundwalk; acoustic 

environment; context; perception; ISO 12913 

Figure 1. Two paths and the 16 areas 

chosen for the soundwalk. 

64 

RESEARCH IMPACT

Figure 2. Measurements of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound 

level (LAeq) in dBA for all groups in every area. 

Figure 3. Left: Radar plots representing perceived affective quality 

for all groups in every area, Right: scatter plots (circumplex model of 

soundscape perception) of both paths. 


65

4. DESIGN CONCEPTS 


MID S5 – CLIMATE & COMFORT 

The semester task of MID S5: Culture and Climate 

is a yearly tradition of the MID-FD program that 

started in 2016. Students are organized in groups 

to develop façade designs for buildings of similar 

dimensions (four stories) located in different cities 

with various climatic and cultural conditions. 

This year, the “client” required that all buildings 

are environmentally sustainable, culturally and 

socially appropriate for their communities, and 

eligible for a green building certification. 

Students of the second semester attended 

a series of lectures that focused on detailed 

design of unitized façade systems as well as their 

construction and installation. They were also 

exposed to several sustainability certification 

systems in a series of workshops throughout 

the semester. A critical analysis of the LEED 

v4.1 BD+C Project Checklist was carried out and 

they delivered a report regarding each category 

(Location and Transportation, Sustainable 

Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, 

Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental 

Quality, Innovation, and Regional Priority), 

explaining which credits are relevant for façade 

designers and providing recommendations. 

Finally, they delivered 16 design concepts for 

different cities around the world, explaining their 

criteria and the benefits of their projects to the 

local communities. 

DESIGN CONCEPTS 

67

Cities studied during Summer Semmester 2023 

Cities studied before Summer Semmester 2023 

68 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

DESIGN CONCEPT 

69

Design Concept 

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN 

The First Result of Last Approaches 

Tahera Rezaie, Vivian James 

Different forms and shapes are created in architecture nowadays. They can be made according to a series 

of conditions or without considering special conditions and only because of interesting forms or even mere 

imitation. But today, due to the problems and deficiencies we are facing in the conservation and optimal use 

of energy and the need to optimize architectural spaces and changing functional needs, architecture moves 

towards sustainability. Sustainable architecture is a combination of multiple values including: aesthetics, 

environment, community, harmony with the environment, suitable materials, etc., which makes all the principles 

of sustainable architecture in a complete process that leads to the construction of an appropriate building. 

Therefore, it can be said that in each region or country, the type of sustainable architecture has different 

characteristics. 

Considering the lifestyle and culture of Afghan people and the increasing limitations in energy sources as two 

main factors, the following indicators can be generally named as the principles of sustainable architecture in 

Kabul/Afghanistan: 

Correct use of material: 

The importance of local materials and construction methods cannot be underestimated in the field of durability 

and visual quality of the building, as well as from an environmental point of view. In the design of this building, 

local materials such as stone and brick have been used in the foundation and external walls. Because the usage 

of these two materials in vernacular architecture has been well examined. 

Influence of culture and environmental/climatic conditions: 

Design of a building in a traditional society, as well as climatic conditions, requires some significant cultural 

considerations. The building should not be strange to the people and the principles of Afghan aesthetics might 

be observed in it. These factors are beyond the understanding of the environment in sustainable architecture. 

Saving energy consumption: One of the most important indicators of sustainable architecture is the prevention 

of energy loss, energy renewal and the use of green spaces in buildings. 

In the design of this building, these points are considered as a solution to save energy and design according 

to the climate. 

- Use of appropriate materials 

- Orientation toward the sunlight 

- Multifunctional space organization (a filter space as a balcony/greenhouse in different seasons) 

- The use of green space in the exterior 

Keywords: MID S5; sustainable façade design; culture and climate; Afghanistan; Kabul; Sustainable Architecture; 

Architecture; Culture and tradition; new approaches. 

70 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

71


ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT 

Embracing Modernity and Sustainability in Alexandria 

Aysegül Gürleyen, Ghazaleh Valipour Naraghi, Meltem Durmus 

Our building in Alexandria, Egypt is intelligently designed to actively respond to the climate and cultural 

context of the region, showcasing a dynamic and forward-thinking approach. Alexandria, Egypt, experiences a 

Mediterranean climate. It is characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The city enjoys moderate 

temperatures throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 18-31°C (64-88°F) in winter and 28-34°C 

(82-93°F) in summer. 

Influenced by the traditional „mashrabiya“ design, we have incorporated balconies covered with greenery 

and terracotta bricks. These elements serve as an active shading system that adapts to intense sunlight and 

heat during the hot summer months. The greenery not only provides a natural shield, casting shade and 

reducing solar heat gain but also enhances the visual appeal of the building, connecting it with the surrounding 

environment. By actively managing solar exposure, we create a more comfortable and energy-efficient living 

space. 

In order to operate the design functionally, appropriate facade element selections were made. In this context, 

while non-insulated door profiles were preferred for sliding doors, perforated terracotta brick was preferred 

for brickwork. 

Considering the life cycle of materials is an integral part of our sustainable design approach. We have carefully 

selected materials that have a low environmental impact and a long lifespan. By choosing brick and other 

durable local materials, we minimize the need for frequent maintenance or replacement, reducing waste 

and resource consumption over time. Our commitment to sustainable practices extends beyond the initial 

construction phase, promoting a sustainable environment for Alexandria. 

To optimize indoor comfort and air quality, we combined traditional wind towers and ventilation shafts. To 

provide air circularity we placed incorporated an active ventilation system on the roof. By strategically 

placing vents throughout the building, we facilitate the natural flow of fresh air, promoting cross-ventilation 

and reducing the reliance on mechanical ventilation. This approach not only enhances occupant well-being 

but also minimizes energy consumption, contributing to a more sustainable and resource-efficient building. 

Integrating a traditional wind catcher with solar panels on the roof of the building and combining solar energy, 

enables increased renewable energy generation. This integration helps adapt to Alexandria‘s hot summers and 

preserves the local cultural heritage. It creates an aesthetically pleasing rooftop design and showcases the 

fusion of traditional elements with modern sustainability. 

By creatively integrating traditional design elements, local materials, and active sustainability strategies, our 

building in Alexandria stands as a testament to a progressive architectural vision. Our design approach actively 

responds to the climate and cultural context, creating a harmonious and vibrant living environment that 

embraces innovation and sustainable practices. 

Keywords: Alexandria; Egypt, Modernity; Sustainability; Mashrabiya; Solar energy; Solar panel; Brick design; 

Aesthetic principles; Local materials; Construction techniques; Sustainable development; Cultural heritage 

72 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

73


REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND 

Functionalism in Icelandic Architecture Embracing the Landscape 

and Tradition 

Priyanka Bamble, Lama Ibrahim, Harishankar Kalepalli 

Centuries of volcanic activity and beautiful glaciers have naturally earned Iceland the nickname „The Land of 

Fire and Ice“ coming towards Icelandic architecture is characterized by low-rise buildings such as tower blocks, 

two or three-story buildings with pitched roofs, and wooden-framed houses and smaller municipal buildings. 

These structures are often covered with wooden planks or corrugated metal and painted in bright colors. 

The architecture is influenced by the Scandinavian design principles, which are customized to suit Iceland‘s 

unique landscapes and traditions. The sparse geography of Iceland is utilized in designing grass-covered 

houses, which blend perfectly with the surroundings. The architectural style is known for its functionalism, 

which prioritizes practicality and functionality design. Iceland enjoys a cool, temperate maritime climate with 

refreshing summers and mild winters. Summers are pleasant, with average temperatures between 10-13 °C 

(50-55 °F) and daylight that extends far into the night. Winters are mild with an average temperature around 

0 °C (32 °F). 

Our project aimed to create a design proposal that is not only suitable for the environmental conditions but 

also culturally and socially appropriate for the communities. Additionally, sustainability and aesthetics were 

also considered as important factors in the proposal‘s development. 

We conducted research on sustainability, culture, society, and the environmental conditions. Moreover, by 

analysing the climate, sun path, wind rose, and conducting a SWOT analysis, we were able to formulate design 

strategies for our proposal. Through this process, we also identified the engineering necessary requirements 

in percentage for the building. 

Upon being inspired by the vernacular architecture in Iceland, we began gathering information on the facade 

system and the characteristics of materials that could be incorporated into our design. Additionally, we 

assessed whether our facade requirements met the criteria for green building certification. 

We evaluated our building using the LEED scorecard, carefully examining all the criteria, and as a result, the 

building received a score of 65 credits, qualifying for a gold certificate. 

The system incorporates several materials, including metal cladding, triple glazed glazing with Low E coating, 

turf greenery (Green facade), and aluminium. Metal cladding is recyclable, enhances building ventilation, and 

reduces heating and cooling costs sustainably. The triple glazed glazing with Low E coating reduces solar heat 

gain/loss, increases insulation, energy efficiency, durability, and security. Turf greenery provides stormwater 

management, energy conservation, and reduces the urban heat island effect. It also increases the longevity 

of roofing membranes and provides insulation. Additionally, it reduces stormwater runoff and heat flux from 

the roof to the building and lasts for over 40 years. Aluminum, on the other hand, is highly durable, 100% 

recyclable, environmentally friendly, and has high strength. 

Keywords: Sustainability, green certification, vernacular architec. ture, green facade 

74 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

75


KERALA, INDIA 

Kerala‘s Architecture: Hindu Tradition Devotes Simplicity, Elegance, 

and Serenity 


Kerala‘s architecture is a distinctive style of Hindu traditional construction that originated in the southwestern 

region of India, and it differs somewhat from the Dravidian architecture found in other southern Indian areas. 

In addition, Kerala‘s traditional large houses were referred to as nalukettu, and they were constructed in 

accordance with the scientific principles of Thachu Sasthra, which is the traditional science of architecture. 

Nalukettu house was designed to provide ample ventilation, natural light, and protection from the hot and 

humid climate of Kerala. Houses are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, using locally available 

materials and incorporating trees and other vegetation into the design. Kerala features a wet maritime climate 

and experiences heavy rains during the summer monsoon season (June to August), while in the east a drier 

tropical climate prevails. 





analyzing the climate, sun path, wind rose, and conducting a SWOT analysis, we were able to formulate design 



Upon being inspired by the vernacular architecture in India Kerala, we began gathering information on the 

facade system and the characteristics of materials that could be incorporated into our design. Additionally, we 




The system incorporates several materials, including terracotta clay bricks offer durability, insulation, lowmaintenance, 

and natural cooling, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly choice for facade design. 

Similarly, mud and clay are versatile materials that provide insulation, are easily available, and promote 

sustainability, making them a popular choice for eco-friendly construction projects. Double glazed windows 

are also an attractive option for sustainable construction as they can reduce costs, minimize solar heat gain, 

provide natural cooling, and reduce noise. Additionally, aluminum is a sustainable and eco-friendly material 

that offers high strength, durability, and recyclability, making it an excellent option for construction projects 

that prioritize reducing the carbon footprint of the building industry. 

Keywords: Sustainability, green certification, vernacular archit .ecture, green facade 

76 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

77


YAZD, IRAN 

Harmonizing Climate, Comfort and Cultural Identity: A Facade Design in Yazd, 

Iran 

Najmeh Najafpour, Hiruy Tekeste 

The proposed facade design for the building in Yazd, Iran, is a testament to its integration with the city‘s hot 

desert climate and cultural identity. To mitigate the harsh sun, the main facade cleverly incorporates recessed 

areas that provide much-needed shade, utilizing slabs for this purpose. Inspired by the architecture of 

traditional houses in the region, the front glazing is divided into three parts, with the middle door taking center 

stage as a significant focal point. This door stands out due to its heightened stature and functioning sliding 

mechanism that leads to a balcony, adding elegance to the overall design. 

Mud brick is the primary material used for the facade, carefully selected for its exceptional thermal properties 

and to honor Yazd‘s reputation as a mudbrick city. Lattice-patterned brick panels, thoughtfully placed in a 

random arrangement, adorn the outer face of the facade. These patterns draw inspiration from historical 

brickwork found throughout Yazd, paying homage to the city‘s architectural heritage while creating a funnel 

effect that promotes natural cooling for the building. To further enhance its cooling efficiency, the design 

incorporates a wind catcher, harmonizing with other cooling measures. 

The geometric design of the brick panels introduces an element of creativity, with some bricks extruded 

outward to add volume and depth to the facade. These extrusions gradually increase in size by 2 cm in three 

stages, resulting in a visually captivating effect. To infuse vibrancy and a nod to the local aesthetics, sapphirecolored 

tiles adorn these protruding bricks, resonating with the prevalent use of this color in Yazd, particularly 

in entrances, Ivan, and arches. This color choice complements the city‘s natural earth tones and adds a touch 

of visual appeal. 

The balconies also benefit from sapphire-colored tiles, creating serene and inviting spaces for residents to 

relax and enjoy their leisure time during afternoons and evenings. To respect cultural norms that emphasize 

privacy, the railings are made of matte, non-transparent glazing, with a semi-white appearance. This modern 

interpretation of a traditional design element harmoniously blends with the overall color scheme of the city 

while ensuring a sense of seclusion for the residents. 

Honoring the past, the front door incorporates sitting steps, reminiscent of older times when houses featured 

built-in benches for socializing. This design element fosters a sense of community and connection within the 

building, providing residents with a designated space to sit and engage in conversations with their neighbors. 

Keywords: MID S5; sustainable façade design; culture and climate; Facade design; climate comfort; 

sustainability; Yazd; Iran; hot desert climate; shading; mud brick; brick pattern; wind catcher; cultural identity; 

sapphire tile; traditional architecture 

78 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

79


KYOTO, JAPAN 

Fusion of Tradition and Innovation: Contemporary Architecture in 

Kyoto‘s Climate 


Our project is located in Kyoto, Japan. The climate in Japan can vary significantly throughout the year, with hot 

and humid summers and cold winters. The main strategies that we had to consider was dehumidification and 

passive cooling.Another important consideration in Japan, due to its location in a seismically active region, is 

earthquake resistance. To ensure the safety of the building, we have utilized lightweight materials that offer 

flexibility and durability during seismic events. 

Our concept was to create an in-between space in our façade influenced by engawa in Japanese traditional 

buildings. The engawa is designed to create a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors, 

blurring the boundary between the two spaces. It acts as a buffer zone, providing a smooth transition between 

the privacy of the interior and the openness of the surrounding environment. One of the main purposes of the 

engawa is to facilitate natural ventilation and control sunlight. By opening the sliding doors that separate the 

engawa from the interior rooms, fresh air can flow through the space, providing natural cooling and ventilation. 

Additionally, the engawa acts as a shading element, protecting the interior from direct sunlight during hot 

summers. The roof overhang of the engawa provides shade, reducing solar heat gain and maintaining a more 

comfortable indoor temperature. 

Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese byobu, we have incorporated folding shading elements for the 

exterior facade and sliding doors for the first layer of the facade. This design approach allows for flexibility in 

controlling natural light, ventilation, and privacy. 

To enhance natural lighting and ventilation, we have implemented a light well, strategically placed to bring 

natural light into private rooms. This feature not only reduces the reliance on artificial lighting but also promotes 

cross ventilation, allowing fresh air to circulate throughout the building. By optimizing natural lighting and 

ventilation, we create a sustainable and healthy indoor environment for the occupants. 

In line with our commitment to sustainability and promoting local resources, we have utilized local materials 

and construction techniques. By doing so, we not only support the local economy but also ensure that our 

design aligns with the principles of sustainable development. This integration of local materials, Japanese 

design principles, and traditional architecture allows us to create something new while maintaining a strong 

connection to the cultural and environmental context of Japan. 

Overall, our project embraces the climate and culture of Japan, incorporating strategies that optimize comfort, 

safety, and sustainability. By carefully considering the unique climate conditions, utilizing traditional design 

elements, and incorporating local resources, we have created a harmonious and contemporary architectural 

solution that respects and celebrates the rich heritage of Japan. 

Keywords: Kyoto; Japan, Modernity; Sustainability; Entrance design; Tranquility; Harmony; Aesthetic principles; 

Local materials; Construction techniques; Sustainable development; Cultural heritage 

80 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

81


AMMAN, JORDAN 

Amman‘s Architecture: A Fusion of Cultural, Religious, and Historical 

Influences, Showcasing the Region‘s Rich Heritage and Identity 


Amman, Jordan has a distinctive building style that integrates recognizable symbolic forms, elements, and 

features of the region‘s culture, people, and context. This style is commonly observed in religious buildings like 

mosques and Madrasah and is characterized by design and stylistic features that reflect Islamic architecture. 

Islamic architecture is a unique style that is highly expressed in religious structures and includes features such 

as domes, arches, vaults, and colored stones that are intentionally used to symbolize religious beliefs and 

create an atmosphere of awe and grandeur. In Amman, this style of building is utilized not only for functionality 

but also to convey meaning and beauty. The incorporation of symbolic forms and design elements reinforces 

the area‘s cultural and religious identity, fostering a sense of attachment and belonging among the local 

population. Jordan is located in a desert climatic zone in the subtropical region. The climate in Jordan is a 

Mediterranean type; a hot dry summer and cold winter with two short transitional periods in between. 





analyzing the climate, sun path, wind rose, and conducting a SWOT analysis, we were able to formulate design 



Upon being inspired by the vernacular architecture in Amman Jorden, we began gathering information on the 

facade system and the characteristics of materials that could be incorporated into our design. Additionally, we 




The system incorporates several materials, including terracotta clay bricks offer durability, insulation, lowmaintenance, 

and natural cooling, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly choice for facade design. 

Similarly, mud and clay are versatile materials that provide insulation, are easily available, and promote 

sustainability, making them a popular choice for eco-friendly construction projects. Double glazed windows 

are also an attractive option for sustainable construction as they can reduce costs, minimize solar heat gain, 

provide natural cooling, and reduce noise. Additionally, aluminum is a sustainable and eco-friendly material 

that offers high strength, durability, and recyclability, making it an excellent option for construction projects 

that prioritize reducing the carbon footprint of the building industry 

Keywords: Sustainability, green certification, vernacular archit .ecture, green facade 

82 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

83


MALE‘, MALDIVES 

Innovative façade for Climate-responsive Buildings in Male 

Najmeh Najafpour, Hiruy Tekeste 

The architectural considerations for buildings in Male, the capital city of Maldives, take into account the unique 

tropical monsoon climate and the city‘s historical significance as a trade hub. Given the limited space available, 

traditional vernacular buildings are rare, making way for modern constructions that integrate innovative design 

elements. 

To combat the challenging climate conditions, the building design in Male incorporates various features. The 

main façade utilizes recessed inward balconies with sliding windows, which allow for natural ventilation and light 

while maintaining privacy. Bamboo sunshades are positioned as an outer layer, providing shade and reducing 

heat penetration. Behind these sunshades, glass guardrails ensure the safety of the balconies. 

A critical component of the design is the strategically located dehumidification chamber. This chamber extends 

across two floors by eliminating balconies on the middle floor, optimizing the dehumidification process. The 

chamber houses a fog collector and dew catcher set at specific angles, allowing for efficient water collection. 

This harvested water is later utilized in the radiant active cooling system, enhancing the building‘s sustainability 

and minimizing its environmental impact. 

Facilitating airflow is essential in such a climate, and to achieve this, a louver window is positioned behind the 

fog collector. This enables cross ventilation of the dehumidified air into the rooms, maintaining a comfortable 

and refreshing indoor environment. The choice of materials is also significant. The front façade is clad with a 

2mm coral stone, an abundant material in the region, blending harmoniously with the bamboo sunshade and 

dew catcher, resulting in a distinctive and visually appealing building aesthetic. 

The main entrance features a folding Aluminum door, adding a touch of modernity to the design while 

maintaining functionality and ease of use. Lastly, the roof incorporates greenery, providing a unique and rare 

space for relaxation amidst the hustle and bustle of the small island city. 

In summary, this building design in Male exemplifies innovative and sustainable approaches to tackle the 

specific climatic challenges of the Maldives. By optimizing comfort and energy efficiency within the constraints 

of limited space and historical context, this architecture sets an example for future developments in the region. 

Key words: MID S5; sustainable façade design; culture and climate; Maldives; Male, dew catcher; fog collector; 

textile façade, bamboo sunshades; sustainable design; innovative architecture; tropical climate; limited space 

84 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

85


MARRAKECH, MOROCCO 

Sustainable Identity: Marrakech‘s Ecological Facade Design 

Chemseddine Amrani, Faruk A. Cakir, Murat Gül 

The concept behind the design of the building facade for this project is rooted in the principles of environmental 

sustainability, cultural appropriateness, and social integration. The overarching goal is to create a structure 

that not only meets the client‘s requirements for a green building certification but also resonates with the local 

community in Marrakech, Morocco. 

The first and foremost objective of the design is to ensure that the building is eligible for a green building 

certification. This entails incorporating sustainable practices and materials throughout the facade design. To 

achieve this, careful consideration is given to every aspect of the construction, from the choice of materials to 

the implementation of energy-efficient systems. 

Local materials play a significant role in the design as they are not only sustainable but also reflect the cultural 

heritage of Marrakech. Terracotta bricks, Tadelakt plastering, and locally produced glass are utilized to 

create a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements. This approach not only reduces the 

environmental impact associated with transportation but also supports the local economy. 

The design also emphasizes the importance of cultural and social appropriateness. By preserving the identity 

of the local inhabitants, the building becomes an integral part of the community. Privacy is a key aspect that is 

seamlessly integrated into the design. The positioning of the building‘s entrances and openings behind the first 

layer of the buffer zone ensures privacy while allowing natural light and ventilation to penetrate the interior 

spaces. 

Furthermore, the facade design incorporates elements that respond to the unique climate of Marrakech. The 

semi-arid hot climate necessitates effective sun protection and natural cooling ventilation. The Mashrabiya wall 

acts as a shield, blocking direct sunrays while still allowing sufficient daylight to permeate the building. This not 

only reduces the need for artificial lighting but also helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. 

To address the cooling requirements, a buffer zone is created between the Mashrabiya wall and the interior 

wall. This buffer zone serves as a natural cooling mechanism, facilitating the passage of hot, dry air through the 

perforations of the Mashrabiya wall. As the air interacts with the water fountain located on the ground floor, 

it gets cooled and humidified. This cooled air then enters the building, providing a refreshing and comfortable 

environment for the occupants. 

In conclusion, the design concept for the building facade of this project revolves around the principles of 

environmental sustainability, cultural appropriateness, and social integration. By incorporating sustainable 

practices, utilizing local materials, and responding to the unique climate of Marrakech, the design achieves 

the client‘s goal of obtaining a green building certification. Simultaneously, it fosters a strong connection with 

the local community, preserving their cultural identity and creating a building that truly belongs to them. 

The resulting structure is not only visually appealing but also environmentally responsible, reflecting a deep 

understanding of the context and the needs of the inhabitants. 

Keywords: MID S5; sustainable façade design; culture and climate; Morocco; Marrakech; Semi-arid climate; 

Tadelakt, Mashrabiya, Terracotta, Cultural identity, Privacy 

86 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

87


BERGEN, NORWAY 

Coastal Harmony: A Sustainable Building in Bergen 


Bergen is a picturesque city located on the southwest coast of Norway. Bergen experiences a unique maritime 

climate influenced by the Gulf Stream. The climate of the city is characterized by cold and harsh winters and 

cool and wet summers with abundant precipitation throughout the year. Given Bergen‘s need for heating due 

to its cold climate, passive heating strategies play a vital role in building design. While designing the building, it 

is aimed to make a design that is compatible with culture and climate by considering sustainability and the life 

cycle of materials. 

First of all, in order to reduce energy consumption, a special labyrinth of brick walls was designed to heat 

the cold air coming from outside in the basement. It is aimed to use this heated air to heat the building with 

a mechanical system. In the design of the building, it was aimed to minimize the carbon footprint and the 

structure of the building was designed as wood. The façade design was inspired by Stave construction in 

Norwegian architecture. Stave construction consists of two layered walls that are architecturally intertwined. 

With this structure, the cold air outside is heated between the two walls, without being let in, and reaches 

the interior, thus increasing thermal comfort. This buffer zone idea by Stave construction type has been 

reinterpreted in the design of the façade.As the design idea for the front facade of the building facing the sea 

and oriented to the south, it was aimed to passively obtain the energy to be spent for heat on the facade by 

creating a buffer zone on the facade, and this facade was designed as a double-skinned facade. On the outside, 

10+10 mm laminated glasses are combined with the ventilation system and profiles specially designed for the 

double skin facade. With this design, it is aimed to increase thermal comfort and insulation. In addition, for 

Norway, which is famous for its wood, the facades of the building are designed with spruce siding cladding in 

harmony with the environment. Considering the fire risk, the wooden walls of the building are double-sided 

with a double-layer fire-proof board. In the glass facade, a fire protective coating on wood is proposed. Schüco 

AWS 75 SI+ insulated window system and triple double glazing, which have a low U value in accordance with the 

climate, were preferred for the interior and ground floor windows. The Schüco CTB sunshade system was also 

used on the façade to control the sunlight. 

Building and façade design come to the fore with strategies to increase indoor comfort and reduce energy 

consumption. Our design approach for this building in Bergen integrates elements that respond to the unique 

challenges presented by the city‘s climate, taking into account the climate and cultural context. 

Keywords: MID S5; sustainable façade design; culture and climate; Norway, bergen; AWS 75.SI+; CTB sun 

shading system; double-skin facade; daylight optimization, panoramic views; passive solar gain; thermal 

comfort; insulation, proper insulation; glare control; shading devices 

88 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

89


TRONDHEIM, NORWAY 

Culturally and Environmentally Sustainable Design: A Facade 

Concept for Trondheim‘s Green Building 


The design concept for the building facade in Trondheim, Norway, aims to transcend traditional sustainability 

by integrating cultural and social appropriateness for the community. It seeks to align with the client‘s vision 

of a green building while honoring the rich heritage and values of the local community. By incorporating 

environmental sustainability, cultural sensitivity, and social relevance, this design aspires to become a symbol 

of responsible architecture and community integration. 

To meet green building certification requirements, the facade incorporates various environmentally friendly 

features. Locally sourced materials, such as Timber, Wooden Shingles, and logs from local trees, are used to 

minimize carbon emissions from transportation and support the regional economy. The facade‘s construction 

includes rockwool insulation, providing excellent thermal performance and reducing energy consumption 

for heating and cooling. Additionally, triple-layered glass in transparent areas optimizes natural light while 

minimizing heat loss, enhancing energy efficiency. 

Drawing inspiration from the region‘s historical architectural elements, particularly Scandinavian churches, 

the design reinterprets traditional motifs and design elements in a contemporary context. Elements such as 

shingles pay homage to Trondheim‘s cultural heritage, creating a sense of belonging and pride within the local 

community. 

The facade is well-suited to Trondheim‘s Subarctic climate, providing protection from harsh cold through high 

insulation thickness that blocks heat transmission. The rockwool insulation offers a U-Value of 0.166 W/m²K at 

the wall and 0.088 W/m²K at the roof, ensuring effective heat conservation. The integration of a trombe wall 

enables solar heat gain, and the cavity allows for heat extraction during the daytime through air convection. At 

night, the latches can be closed to prevent cold air from entering. Additionally, louvers are attached to provide 

sun protection and glare control during the summer months. 

The design concept for the building facade in Trondheim goes beyond conventional green building requirements. 

By incorporating environmental sustainability, cultural appropriateness, and social relevance, it seeks to create 

a harmonious and responsible architectural masterpiece. The facade utilizes locally sourced materials, energyefficient 

elements, and draws design inspiration from the region‘s historical architecture. Through these 

measures, the design aims to represent a sustainable future while celebrating cultural heritage and fostering a 

sense of community among Trondheim‘s residents. 

Keywords: MID S5; sustainable façade design; culture and climate; Norway; Trondheim; Subarctic climate; 

Scandinavian, Timber, Shingle. 

90 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

91


RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA 

Reviving the National identity in the modern era 

Mohamed Abdelwahab, Rodolph Naalabend & Abdelrahman Badr 

Riyadh city Located in the heart of Saudi Arabia, The city stands as a thriving metropolis that seamlessly 

blends the country‘s rich cultural heritage with modern advancements. As the capital and largest city of Saudi 

Arabia, Riyadh is a vibrant hub of commerce, culture, and historical significance. Its dynamic energy and rapid 

development have made it a significant player on the global stage, attracting visitors from around the world. 

Riyadh city experiences a desert climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The city is in 

the central region of the Arabian Peninsula where Summer is extremely hot, with high temperatures often 

exceeding 40 degrees Celsius Heatwaves and can even reach up to 50 degrees on certain occasions. People in 

Saudi Arabia are friendly, welcoming, and very steeped in their culture. People in Saudi Arabia respect privacy 

as it is one of the most important values that reject those who violate it. They care about the luxury and comfort 

of their guests and always offer them food and Arabic coffee while having an interesting conversation. A Typical 

majlis is common in Saudi’s homes which is sitting on the ground aiming for comfort during long periods of 

conversation between people. 

Our building is located in Al-Turaif which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds significant cultural and 

historical importance for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our Design strategy is to build a sustainable façade with 

local materials to revive the national identity and highlight the Islamic influence. In addition to achieving the 

level of privacy, Luxury and comfort they are seeking for. We chose the Mud Bricks to build the outer layer of 

the façade with 350mm in thickness and a low density of 640 kg/m3 to leave space for air gaps inside the bricks 

which allows the wall to breathe and be light weight. 

The wall is designed to be exposed to the outside in a curvy layout to accommodate the typical Majlis seating 

in SaudiArabia. Wooden substructure added inside the Mudbrick wall system to support against the impact 

load from inside and the wind load from the outside. Moreover, a Narrow Islamic pattern also integrated in 

the MudBrick wall to reflect the culture and add more privacy to the indoor spaces. This Islamic screen blocks 

the sun and at the same time allows the air to come in. Vertical narrow windows also added in the middle 

between the MudBricks system which are protected from the sun rays throughout the day and consequently 

minimizing the glazing heat gain. Normally, Mudbricks have high thermal mass which takes a lot of time to 

transfer the heat to the indoor space during the day. Therefore, weeping holes were added in the MudBricks 

system between floors to drive the hot air outside the envelope according to the stack effect during the night. 

Moreover, Wooden sliding-folding system is used inside to provide more control over the indoor temperature 

and works as a dust barrier. 

Through a careful balance of tradition and innovation, our sustainable facade design in Riyadh represents 

the cultural values and aspirations of the city. It showcases a commitment to preserving the national identity, 

respecting privacy, and providing luxury and comfort to the residents and their guests. 

Keywords: Saudi Arabia; Riyadh; Islamic identity; Sustainability; Mudbricks; Breathable wall; Thermal comfort; 

Privacy, cultural heritage, desert climate, hot summers, privacy, luxury, comfort, hospitality, majlis, gaps, thermal 

mass, Islamic pattern, privacy, sun-blocking, weeping holes, stack effect. 

92 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

LOW QUALITY 

LOW QUALITY 

93


SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE 

Fusion of Tradition and Innovation: Contemporary Architecture in 

Kyoto‘s Climate 


Our project is located in Kyoto, Japan. The climate in Japan can vary significantly throughout the year, with hot 

and humid summers and cold winters. The main strategies that we had to consider was dehumidification and 

passive cooling.Another important consideration in Japan, due to its location in a seismically active region, is 

earthquake resistance. To ensure the safety of the building, we have utilized lightweight materials that offer 

flexibility and durability during seismic events. 

Our concept was to create an in-between space in our façade influenced by engawa in Japanese traditional 

buildings. The engawa is designed to create a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors, 

blurring the boundary between the two spaces. It acts as a buffer zone, providing a smooth transition between 

the privacy of the interior and the openness of the surrounding environment. One of the main purposes of the 

engawa is to facilitate natural ventilation and control sunlight. By opening the sliding doors that separate the 

engawa from the interior rooms, fresh air can flow through the space, providing natural cooling and ventilation. 

Additionally, the engawa acts as a shading element, protecting the interior from direct sunlight during hot 

summers. The roof overhang of the engawa provides shade, reducing solar heat gain and maintaining a more 

comfortable indoor temperature. 

Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese byobu, we have incorporated folding shading elements for the 

exterior facade and sliding doors for the first layer of the facade. This design approach allows for flexibility in 

controlling natural light, ventilation, and privacy. 

To enhance natural lighting and ventilation, we have implemented a light well, strategically placed to bring natural 

light into private rooms. This feature not only reduces the reliance on artificial lighting but also promotes cross 

ventilation, allowing fresh air to circulate throughout the building. By optimizing natural lighting and ventilation, 

we create a sustainable and healthy indoor environment for the occupants. 

In line with our commitment to sustainability and promoting local resources, we have utilized local materials 

and construction techniques. By doing so, we not only support the local economy but also ensure that our 

design aligns with the principles of sustainable development. This integration of local materials, Japanese 

design principles, and traditional architecture allows us to create something new while maintaining a strong 

connection to the cultural and environmental context of Japan. 

Overall, our project embraces the climate and culture of Japan, incorporating strategies that optimize comfort, 

safety, and sustainability. By carefully considering the unique climate conditions, utilizing traditional design 

elements, and incorporating local resources, we have created a harmonious and contemporary architectural 

solution that respects and celebrates the rich heritage of Japan. 

Keywords: Kyoto, Japan, Modernity, Sustainability, Entrance design, Tranquility, Harmony, Aesthetic principles, 

Local materials, Construction techniques, Sustainable development, Cultural heritage 

94 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

95


CORDOBA, SPAIN 

Cordoba: Where Traditional Architecture Tells a Story 


Cordoba, located in the heart of Spain, stands as a captivating city that harmoniously combines the country‘s 

rich cultural heritage with modern advancements. As a historical city and the capital of the Cordoba Province, 

Cordoba exudes an enchanting charm and offers a unique blend of history, culture, and contemporary living. 

Its vibrant energy and ongoing progress have positioned it as a prominent destination, drawing visitors from 

all corners of the globe. 

Cordoba boasts a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The people of Cordoba are 

known for their warm hospitality and strong family values. Privacy is highly respected, while comfort and luxury 

are prioritized when hosting guests. Cordoba‘s residents strike a balance between preserving their cultural 

heritage and embracing modern comforts, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all. 

Our building is located in Ciudad Jardín is a residential neighborhood located in the western part of Córdoba, 

Spain. It is known for its green spaces and garden city design. The neighborhood features a mix of architectural 

styles. In Cordoba, traditional buildings showcase a unique blend of Mediterranean influences, Islamic and 

Moorish architecture. Whitewashed walls and red-tiled roofs dominate the cityscape, reflecting the region‘s 

climate and providing a cooling effect. The facades of Cordoba‘s buildings boast intricate geometric patterns 

and vibrant tile works, displaying the rich heritage of Islamic and Moorish design. These captivating designs can 

be admired throughout the city, with the iconic Mezquita serving as a prime example. Cordoba‘s architecture 

tells a captivating story, where history and culture converge in a visually stunning display. 

We designed our facade to show this Contrast according to Passive Architectural Strategies that can be 

implemented in the Mediterranean Climate which lies in using good thermal insulation,ventilation,small 

openings,Thermal inertia. A Rear Ventilated Terracotta Facade Bricks act as a mediator, achieving our Passive 

Architectural Strategies. Having a self shading brick that enhances the back wall cooling mass. The air gap 

created by a rear ventilated facade promotes natural airflow. As air circulates through the cavity, it helps remove 

heat build-up and allows for the exchange of air between the exterior and interior. Moreover, openings were 

recessed to the inside to avoid thermal heat gain. Finally, adding colors to the Bricks using surrounding colors, 

where the environment blends within our Facade reflecting the Vibrant life of Cordoba . 

Cordoba, Spain, seamlessly merges its rich cultural heritage with modern advancements. Our building in Ciudad 

Jardín features Rear Ventilated Terracotta Facade Bricks, employing passive architectural strategies for thermal 

insulation, ventilation, and shading. where The facade seamlessly integrates with the vibrant surroundings, 

capturing the essence of Cordoba‘s vibrant life and alluring charm. 

Keywords: MID S5; Cordoba, cultural heritage, modern advancements, architectural wonders, Mediterranean 

influences, Ciudad Jardín, garden city, passive architectural strategies, ventilation, shading, Terracotta Brick 

Ventilated Facade, vibrant surroundings. 

96 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

97


TUNIS, TUNISIA 

Brick Façade 

Tahera Rezaie, Vivian James 

In our project for a building in the city of Tunis, in Tunisia, a very warm North African country, it was important 

for us to consider both sustainable and cultural aspects. We investigated cooling strategies, building cultural 

features, and sustainable materials. High mass and other time-honored construction methods are becoming 

increasingly unpopular, and more and more buildings are being glazed, but many techniques have their raison 

d‘être, such as the wind tower, the Mashrabiya, the Ivan, etc. bricks, made mainly of clay and other natural 

materials, are also increasingly out of fashion, although they are not only sustainable, but also cheap and 

durable, and contribute to cooling. 

Passive cooling is probably one of the most promising developments in the construction industry! But what 

criteria need to be considered in order to build in a truly sustainable way? 

Forone of the most best-known sustainability certifications, LEED, which is based on a 100-point scale, 

sustainability of the site, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and raw materials, interior quality, 

innovative design, and regional priorities are important. Once again, to generally define our view of sustainable 

building, here is a brief summary. For us, sustainable building means a conscious use of available resources, 

minimizing energy consumption and protecting the environment. Regarding the building in Tunis, we have used 

not only material resources but also cultural resources with clay bricks, 2 different passive cooling strategies, 

the solar chimney and the „Mashrabiya“. These two cooling strategies use cross ventilation, the chimney effect 

and air spaces, e. g. buffer zones between inside and outside to save electricity and water. In addition, greening 

was important to us and we anchored greenery on every balcony on every floor. Additionally, we want to closely 

adhere to design for disassembly and use disassemble materials as much as possible. For example, the bricks 

are threaded onto several metal rods to be attached to the facade, so they can be easily reused afterwards. We 

have mainly used materials that can be adapted to future changes in the building, reused within the building 

or are biodegradable. This is true for the clay bricks, the wooden floor and the plants. For the holes in the 

bricks there is a reason related to sustainability as well. Because the bricks are lighter and there is a permeable 

pattern with window openings in the second skin of the façade, A) less material is used, B) less energy is used 

for transport and assembly, and C) fewer massive structures are needed to fix the bricks. The deconstruction 

of the system is very important to us, and so is what happens to the building at the end of its life. Now back to 

the LEED certification. As far as water efficiency is concerned, only a small part of the water is used, that is, the 

water that runs through the covers of the rectangular openings in the brick wall into the permanent integrated 

flower boxes. Our greening also helps the atmosphere in terms of biodiversity, as well as the human psyche. 

Keywords: MID S5; sustainable façade design; culture and climate; Tunisia; Tunis 

98 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

99


HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM 

Sustainable Identity: Ho Chi Minh City‘s Ecological Facade Design 


The design concept for the building facade in this project is rooted in the principles of environmental 

sustainability, cultural appropriateness, and social integration. The goal is to create a facade that not only 

provides comfort but also resonates with the local community in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This design 

approach recognizes the connection between the built environment and its inhabitants, fostering a sense of 

identity and belonging. 

The primary focus of the design concept is environmental sustainability. The building is envisioned as a model 

of eco-consciousness, meeting the stringent requirements for green building certifications. To achieve this, 

sustainable practices and materials are utilized throughout the facade design. Local materials such as brick and 

organic plaster are chosen to minimize transportation emissions and support the local economy. Additionally, 

locally produced glass is used for energy efficiency and to reduce the carbon footprint. 

Preserving the cultural heritage is also a key consideration in the design. Inspiration is drawn from the 

local architectural traditions of Vietnam, reflecting the community‘s unique identity and building principles. 

Traditional construction techniques such as brick and woodwork are employed, emphasizing the connection 

to the local heritage. 

The social aspect is another important consideration in the design. The facade incorporates spaces for social 

interaction, such as balconies and semi-private areas, encouraging residents to engage with their surroundings 

and build connections with one another. The aesthetic appeal of the facade is enhanced by incorporating 

dynamic elements, such as perforated bricks with varying angles. These elements add visual interest while 

respecting the cultural value of privacy by blocking direct views into the building. Furthermore, the design 

integrates natural ventilation systems, utilizing the perforated brick units and dynamic form to facilitate passive 

ventilation, cooling, and airflow. 

In conclusion, the conceptual design for the building facade not only meets the client‘s green building 

certification requirements but also integrates cultural and social aspects. By embracing sustainability, 

preserving cultural identity, and encouraging community interaction, the design creates a built environment 

that is both environmentally conscious and socially appropriate. This comprehensive approach ensures that 

the building facade becomes a meaningful and lasting addition to the urban landscape of Ho Chi Minh City, 

Vietnam. 

Keywords: MID S5; sustainable façade design; culture and climate; Ho Chi Minh City; Vietnam; Tropical Hot 

climate; Prefabrication; Perforated Brick; Cultural identity; Privacy. 

100 

DESIGN CONCEPTS

101

5. EVENTS 

102 DOKUMENTATION - KM EXKURSION

PAST EVENTS 

BAU - world‘s leading trade fair for architecture, materials, systems – Munich, March 2023 

The BAU exhibition was held in Munich in April 

2023 for lovers of building technology, providing 

an excellent opportunity to learn about innovation 

in construction and in the façade industry, paying 

particular attention to sustainability. Companies 

from Germany, Europe and beyond introduced their 

new products and provided innovative solutions to 

reduce environmental impact. Software companies 

showed new tools to calculate and reduce the 

possibilities of environmental damage. In addition, 

many start-up companies had the opportunity to 

participate in the exhibition, having a chance to gain 

more experience and expand their network. 

Participants from all over the world joined the 

BAU, as is the case every time. Students from the 

first semester and third semester of the MID-FD 

program of TH OWL also participated and were 

invited to visit the stand of Schüco International KG, 

which is a key exhibitor and known to attract the 

attention of thousands of people, showcasing their 

new products focused on controlling the carbon 

footprint of buildings façade. 

Photo: Najmeh Najafpour 


Photo: Mina Kherad 

Photo: Mina Kherad 


EVENTS 

103

20th Docomomo Conference - Frankfurt/ 

Main, April 2023 

The annual conference of Docomomo Germany e.V. 

2023 took place in Frankfurt am Main in cooperation 

with the Ernst-May-Society, the German Architecture 

Museum (DAM) and the City of Frankfurt. The 

conference theme was Politics-Society-Housing 

and was focused on dealing with the differentiated 

architectural heritage of the post-war period in 

terms of urgently needed housing, and in what way 

is housing in the 21st century subject to change. In 

addition, the conference supplemented by student 

works related to digitization and documentation. 

Tahera Rezaie, architect from Afghanistan and 

student of the MID-FD program at TH OWL, was 

invited to as a speaker in a session of young 

professionals. She presented an introduction of 

Endangered Modernism in Afghanistan and the 

importance of preservation and documentation 

of Modern Heritage in that country. Before the 

political turmoil in Afghanistan in 2021, she enabled 

the establishment of Docomomo Afghanistan in 

2020 to connect the flow of modern architecture 

of the country to the modern movement of the 

world. Despite the challenges faced during the 

Kabul upheaval, Tahera continues her efforts to 

contribute to architectural education and research 

in her homeland in the near future. 

The Future Envelope: Façade & Products 

Forum – Delft, June 2023 

This past June, façade enthusiasts gathered for a oneday 

event at TU Delft, hosted by the Architectural 

Façades and Products Research Group, led by the 

Chair of „Design of Construction“ of Professor Ulrich 

Knaack. They keynote speakers invited were Jan 

Wurm, Associate Professor at KU Leuven and Leader 

Research & Innovation Europe at Arup Germany, as 

well as Jürgen Heinzel, Associate Design Director at 

UNStudio. The forum showcased the latest trends in 

façade research and development. 

Alvaro Balderrama, PhD Candidate at TU Delft and 

researcher at the IDS of TH OWL, presented in the 

session dedicated to Human-Centered Façades. His 

doctoral research about façades and their influence 

on people’s perception of sound in cities highlighted 

the importance of this undeveloped subject and 

the need of a conceptual framework to study the 

complex relationships between façades and urban 

soundscape. 

Photo: Pedro de la Barra 

Photo: Tahera Rezaie (2) 

Photo: Alvaro Balderrama 

104 EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS 

Resilience in Building Envelope Design and 

Technologies Conference – Istanbul, October 

2023 

Celebrating the 15th anniversary of Ozyegin 

University in Istanbul, the B-Tech Lab is organizing 

a one-day international conference dedicated to 

the design of façades and the need for resilient 

buildings. Divided in four session, the following 

general topics will be discussed: resiliency in 

buildings, environmental performance of building 

envelopes, digitalization in building envelopes, and 

research and education. The latter session, in charge 

of Prof. Uta Pottgiesser and Prof. Ulrich Knaack will 

emphasize the importance of scientific research 

in the façade industry, as well as the importance 

of collaboration and networking in the European 

façade market and beyond. Registration options 

and the full program are available on their website: 

https://labs.ozyegin.edu.tr/btech/resilience-inbuilding-envelope-design-and-technologiesconference/ 

Detmold Conference Week (DCW) – Detmold, 

November 2023 

Since 2020, the Institute for Design Strategies- IDS 

(formerly subdivided into the constructionLab, 

urbanLab and perceptionLab) of the Detmold School 

of Design (former Detmold School of Architecture 

and Interior Architecture) of TH OWL has dedicated 

a yearly conference to the human habitat across 

all scales. The Detmold Conference Week acts 

as an interdisciplinary platform by addresses a 

variety of issues related to urban societies from the 

perspective of different fields of knowledge. This 

year’s conference topics: 

EFN Conference – Detmold, November 2023 

This year, in the context of the Detmold Conference 

Week 2023, the EFN conference returns to Detmold 

with the theme „History and Future of Façades“. 

The event promises an exploration of the evolution 

of façade design and construction over the past 

decades, as well as to present a glimpse into the 

future of this rapidly evolving field. Attendees can look 

forward to engaging discussions and presentations 

that dive into cutting-edge technologies and design 

approaches that are shaping the industry’s future. 

The conference will serve as a meeting point for 

students and professionals seeking to broaden their 

knowledge and network with like-minded façade 

enthusiasts while celebrating the role of façades in 

contemporary architecture and building sciences. 

The European Façade Network (EFN) is a dynamic 

and collaborative platform that unites experts and 

professionals in the field of façade engineering and 

design across Europe. As a non-profit organization, 

EFN is dedicated to advancing the knowledge and 

practices associated with building façades. Its 

mission revolves around fostering excellence in 

façade design, construction, and maintenance 

through knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary 

collaboration, and the promotion of innovative 

technologies and materials. EFN plays a key role in 

bringing together architects, engineers, scientists, 

manufacturers, and other stakeholders to share 

their insights and expertise, making it a vital 

resource for academia and industry. 

- Tuesday, November 14th, 2023 – Change or 

just crisis? 

- Wednesday, November 15, 2023 – Residential 

Medicine Symposium 

- Thursday, November 16, 2023 – Façade Symposium: 

EFN Conference 

Location: Creative Campus Detmold, Building 3, 

R. 3.103 / hybrid 

https://dcw.ids-research.de/ 

EVENTS 

105

6. OUTLOOK 


Sustainable Façades: Progress and 

Further Steps 

This report explored the complexity of 

sustainable façades, and we can conclude 

that this field finds itself in an intersection 

of multiple disciplines that will continue 

defining the quality of the built environment. 

Looking forward, several key takeaways and 

considerations emerge. 

A message that resonates throughout 

this report is the value of interdisciplinary 

collaboration. The diverse range of topics 

covered, from the environmental impact of 

façades to their effects on people’s health and 

comfort, expose the importance of architects, 

engineers, designers, urban planners, and 

social scientists among others working 

together. In this synergy lies the potential to 

craft façades that not only meet sustainability 

benchmarks but enhance cultural identity, and 

overall quality of life. 

It is well agreed that façades have a significant 

influence on our society, the environment, 

and the economy. As we move forward, the 

potential of façades to affect the daily lives 

of people inside and outside of buildingssho 

uldn’t be underestimated. The challenges 

and opportunities will continue to evolve as 

technology advances, climate patterns shift, 

and societal expectations change. As architects, 

researchers, and innovators, a commitment 

to continuous learning, adaptability, and a 

forward-thinking mindset remains vital. 

The research on green walls and their impact on 

health presented evidence-based conclusions 

that nature-based solutions can transform 

urban environments into healthier places. As 

we move into the future, the call to integrate 

more nature-based solutions into our cities 

is clear, not just as aesthetic elements but as 

integral components of a healthier urban fabric. 

Cities continue to expand and density, so the 

urgency of addressing the unique cultural, 

economic, and climatic needs of diverse 

regions should be addressed by the façades 

designed for those environments. The design 

exercise presented as design concepts 

exemplifies how individual projects tailored 

to fir different cultural and climatic contexts 

could have a positive impact on the urban 

level. Architects and planners must embrace 

a global perspective while respecting local 

traditions and environments to create façades 

that harmonize with their surroundings and 

contribute to communities worldwide. 

The next steps are to continue reporting the 

progress on facade research each academic 

term, with the Winter term next. The Design 

Concepts section of the Winter Reports will show 

content from High-Rise constructions while the 

Summer Reports cover the low-rise façade 

projects. Having established a foundation with 

the first edition, the subsequent ones will build 

upon and contribute to the development of the 

report. 

On a different tone, we could not report about 

façade-related matters during this summer 

without expressing our deepest condolences 

on the passing of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Tillmann Klein in 

Rotterdam in June 2023. Our thoughts are with his 

family, friends, colleagues, and students. Born in 

Wesel, Germany in 1967, he was an outstanding 

figure in the field of architecture. He had a close 

relationship with TH OWL during the design of 

building #2 (the Riegel) at the campus in Detmold. 

The adaptive façade of that building, seen on the 

cover of this report, showcases how technology 

can be applied to improve energy efficiency and 

comfort inside the building. He joined TU Delft in 

2005 and was appointed full professor in 2018. 

With initiatives together with his colleague Prof. 

Dr.-Ing. Ulrich Knaack, including the conference 

series “The Future Envelope“ and his work as 

editor-in-chief of the Journal of Façade Design and 

Engineering - JFDE -, Tillmann played a crucial role 

in shaping the façade engineering community as 

we know it today. 

OUTLOOK 

107

IMPRINT 

Publisher 

IDS Institute for Design Strategies 

OWL University of Applied Sciences 

and Arts 

Editors 

Alvaro Balderrama 

Prof. Daniel Arztmann 

Creative Director 

Johanna Dorf, M.A. 

TRInnovationOWL, 

Transfer Manager ‚Raum & Kultur‘ 

Contributions and illustations 

The authors contributing to this 

report are indicated in each individual 

work. For this first issue, authors 

were invited by the Editorial Team 

directly. The contributions published 

in this report are the responsibility of 

the authors. 

Unless otherwise indicated, the 

illustrations are the property of the 

respective authors. 

Editing, layout and graphics 


Najmeh Najafpour 

Cover 


Teaching Department: 

Facade Construction 

Prof. Daniel Arztmann 

Contact: 

IDS Institute for Design Strategies 

OWL University of Applied Sciences 

and Arts 

Emilienstraße 45, D-32756 Detmold 

E-Mail: ids@th-owl.de 

Web: www.th-owl.de/ids 

Government-funded: 

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