Design Strategies IMPULSE - Sustainable Facades Vol 2

DESIGN 

STRATEGIES 

SPECIAL ISSUE Impulses from teaching and research 

Winter Semester Report 

04.2024 

SUSTAINABLE FAÇADES 

volume 2 ISSN 2943-4467

EDITORIAL 

Welcome to the second edition of Sustainable Façades, a Special Issue of the 

Design Strategies Magazine produced by the Institute for Design Strategies (IDS) 

of TH OWL in Detmold, Germany. We are happy to be back, this time reporting 

the activities of the Winter Semester 2023-2024. We are grateful that over 1400 

people downloaded the previous issue between between November 2023 and 

April 2024. 

Sustainable Façades was originally intended as a digital-only resource. However, 

further actions were taken after the successful realization of the first issue as a 

proof of concept, and the encouraging feedback obtained at it‘s public release 

during the European Façade Network Conference in Detmold, on November 

2023. Sustainable Façades was developed into an indexed magazine, and in 

January 2024, 150 issues were printed and distributed at the IDS, providing a 

printed issue to every contributor and the rest offered free of charge at the front 

desk of the IDS until they run out. The release of digital and printed media will be 

repeated in this second edition or "volume 2". 

We hope this issue will resonate with our readers and we extend the invitation 

for contributions and feedback to expand our outreach, fine-tune our processes 

and grow our network for the next issues of Sustainable Façades. 

Alvaro Balderrama & Daniel Arztmann 

EDITORIAL VORWORT 

Design Strategies IMPULSE – Sustainable Façades 04.2024 

3

CONTENTS 

1. INTRODUCTION 

7 

4. MID DESIGN CONCEPTS 

62 – JTI Headquarters, Switzerland 

Meltem Durmus, Hiruy Tekeste, Abdelrahman Badr 

2. LATEST RESEARCH 

66– Montparnasse, France 

Ahmet Faruk Çakır, Murat Gül 

3. ARTICLES 

10 – Values-Based Governance and 

Intervention Framework for Mass 

Housing Neighbourhoods 

Anica Dragutinovic 

13 – A Guide to Biodegradable 

Materials in Envelope Design 

Shashi Karmaker 

29 – Energy Efficiency of a Timber 

Frame House in Detmold 

Mina Kherad 

5. EVENTS 

70 – 35XV, USA 

Priyanka Bamble, Najmeh Najafpour 

74 – Dockland Office Building, Germany 

Aysegül Gürleyen, Rodolph Naalabend 

78 – One World Trade Center, USA 

Ghazaleh Valipour, Lama Ibrahim 

82 – 20 Fenchurch Street, England 

Amrani Chemseddine, Harishankar Kallepalli 

87 – Past events 

37 – Preliminary Observation 

for the Structural Performance of 

Timber Façade Mullion and Transom 

Connection with Large Glass Dead 

Load 

Hiruy Gebremariam Tekeste 

6. IMPRINT 

91 – Upcoming events 

92 

40 – Façade Acoustics and 

Soundscape Assessment Workshops: 

Implementing Soundscape Criteria in 

Façade Education 

Alvaro Balderrama 

53 – Solar Façade: Energy 

Generation with 2.500 m2 of BIPV 

Melicia Planchart, Stefan Grünsteidl, Augustin Rohr 

4 CONTENTS CONTENTS 

Design Strategies IMPULSE – Sustainable Façades 04.2024 Design Strategies IMPULSE – Sustainable Façades 04.2024 

5

1. INTRODUCTION 

As the title Sustainable Façades declares, the focus 

of this report is on “façades”, which generally refer 

to the vertical surfaces of the building envelope, 

including the walls, doors, windows, balustrades, 

balconies, parapets and depending on the case, 

possibly parts of the roof (Knaack et al., 2007; Klein, 

2013), and how they impact the people inside and 

outside of buildings, as well as the environment 

and the economy. Sustainable practices can be 

integrated into multiple stages of projects, including 

the design, construction, use, maintenance, and 

end-of-life stage of buildings. However, determining 

the sustainability of a project is a complex task, 

given its wide-ranging implications. 

The cover of this magazine shows the façade of the 

Schüco One building in Bielefeld designed by 3XN 

Architects, the first building in the world to receive 

all three sustainability certifications from the LEED, 

BREEAM and DGNB labels. This sets a precedent 

in the construction industry but also highlights 

some conceptual differences between labels. For 

example, the BREAM category “pollution” differs 

from the LEED v.4.1. scorecard for Building Design 

and Construction, which is the most popular 

worldwide (Chomsky, 2023) since LEED doesn’t 

account for potential unintended by-products of 

the building, showing how BREAM is more flexible 

to unexpected circumstances. 

The controversial case of the 20 Fenchurch Street 

skyscraper – the “walkie talkie” in London can 

exemplify how the BREAM covers an aspect that 

could be neglected by other labels. As it became 

well known, the concave façade acted as a mirror 

reflecting sunbeams to the street, leading to 

material damage (Smith-Spark, 2013). The project 

was applying for BREAM certification, and it was 

put on hold until the developers solved the issue 

by installing a brise-soleil to diffuse the reflected 

sunlight and prevent further damage. Afterwards, 

the certification was restored and it has since then 

become an iconic project in the skyline of London. 

When focusing on the requirements for adequate 

façade performance it is clear that the criteria 

are probably not the same in every project, 

therefore façade performance is contextdependent. 

According to Bianchi et al. (2024) 

façade performance can be classified into 

three main performance categories: Functional, 

Environmental, and Financial. These categories 

correspond to the three pillars of the triple 

bottom line (Society, Environment, Economy). 

Therefore, raising the idea that for a façade to 

be sustainable, it should perform adequately in 

those three aspects. The functional performance 

category includes structural safety, human comfort 

(including air quality, thermal, acoustic and visual 

comfort), and durability as the main criteria. 

Environmental performance includes energy and 

material efficiency, considering not only energy 

demand, generation and storage, but also carbon 

footprint and biodiversity impacts. The financial 

performance category is focused on the initial, 

operational and end-of-life costs. This overview of 

performance criteria helps identify the potential 

performance of a specific project, however, 

this classification does not exclude overlapping 

between categories. 

Considering these issues, as explained in the 

first edition of Sustainable Façades, the goal of 

this report is to explore the possible meanings 

of sustainability within the built environment, 

examining façades as intrinsic elements of every 

building and every city. This introduction is followed 

by the next sections: 

Section 2 | Latest Research is a showcase of 

recent publications by members of the academic 

network of TH OWL. In this edition, we have 

a summary of the PhD thesis of Dr.-Ing. Anica 

Dragutinovic, focused on the deterioration and 

management challenges of post-war mass housing 

neighborhoods, exemplified by New Belgrade 

Blocks. It explores how ownership changes and 

community dynamics affect these areas. The study 

applied participatory methods to develop a valuesbased 

intervention framework for these spaces, 

promoting inclusive heritage management, and 

contributing to residents‘ sense of belonging. 

Section 3 | Articles presents original work 

developed recently that has not been published 

elsewhere. This section includes two Master 

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INTRODUCTION 


7

2. LATEST RESEARCH 

thesis summaries, providing the opportunity 

to communicate the theses more effectively, 

and perhaps serve as a stepping stone towards 

publication elsewhere (e.g. conference or journal). 

One thesis provides a catalog of biodegradable 

materials for façades, and the other thesis analyzed 

the thermal and energy performance of the façades 

of a “Fachwerkhaus” (timber frame house) built in 

Detmold more than 100 years ago. Then, a short 

article examines the impact of large glass dead 

loads on the structural performance of the timber 

mullion and transom façade of the Riegel building 

at the campus of TH OWL in Detmold. Finally, a 

research article regarding the implementation of 

soundscape criteria in façade design education is 

presented. 

Section 4 | MID Design Concepts provides a 

summary of six projects developed by the students 

of the class “Materials, Surfaces and Security”, 

where complex existing façade projects were 

analyzed, describing façade details. 

Section 5 | Events closes the report with a 

summary of recent activities, like the Detmold 

Conference Week 2023, which held the European 

Façade Network Conference, and a handson 

workshop at Schüco for MID FD students. 

Regarding the upcoming Summer Semester 2024, 

information about the Detmolder Räume and the 

Detmold Design Week, as well as an introductory 

course of ArcGIS, is presented. 

References: 

Bianchi, S., Andriotis, C., Klein, T., Overend, M. (2024). 

Multi-criteria design methods in façade engineering: 

State-of-the-art and future trends. https://doi. 

org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2024.111184 

Chomsky, R. (2023). Top Green Building Certifications. 

https://sustainablereview.com/top-green-buildingcertifications/ 

Klein, T. (2013) Integral Facade Construction. Towards 

a new product architecture for curtain walls. A+BE | 

Architecture and the Built Environment. ISBN 978- 

9461861610 

Knaack, U., Klein, T., Bilow, M., Auer, T. (2007), Façades: 

Principles of Construction. Birkhäuser Basel. https:// 

doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7643-8281-0 

Smith-Spark, L., CNN (2013). Reflected light from 

London skyscraper melts car. https://edition.cnn. 

com/2013/09/03/world/europe/uk-london-buildingmelts-car/index.html 

8 INTRODUCTION 


9

Latest Research 

Values-Based Governance and Intervention Framework for Mass 

Housing Neighbourhoods 

Summary of the PhD Dissertation of Anica Dragutinovic published by TU Delft: 

Dragutinovic, A. (2023). Mass Housing Neighbourhoods and Urban Commons: Values-based Governance 

and Intervention Framework for New Belgrade Blocks. TU Deflt. https://doi.org/10.7480/abe.2023.15 

Anica Dragutinovic 1,2 

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

2. Detmold School of Design, TH OWL, Emilienstrße 45, D-32756 Detmold, Germany 

from the theoretical and contextual frameworks 

and empirical studies, this research develops a 

values-based intervention framework for reuse 

and governance of the common spaces in the New 

Belgrade Blocks, aimed at improving devalued, 

conserving and reinforcing the sustained, and 

adding new values. Although based on contextspecific 

argumentation, selections and decisions, 

the developed framework is possibly adaptable 

to another set of issues. Its methodology, 

and the principles it enhances, such as selforganisation, 

participation, multi-scale networks, 

stakeholders’ engagement, collaboration, etc., 

contribute to the democratisation of the urban 

heritage governance processes. 

The doctoral research has established a specific 

methodology for studying contemporary issues 

of urban heritage, in particular related to mass 

housing neighbourhoods. This research has 

been conducted by (1) combining critical and 

correlational analysis in exploring deterioration 

of New Belgrade Blocks and their common 

spaces; (2) socio-spatial analysis including 

empirical, place-based and participatory 

methods in assessing their current condition; and 

(3) „design-polemical theory“ (abstract thought, 

speculation) in developing an intervention 

framework and a set of guidelines for valuesbased 

governance and reuse of the common 

spaces of New Belgrade Blocks. Throughout 

the three main parts, the doctoral research 

develops various findings and perspectives, 

and provides different levels of knowledge on 

approaches for integrated conservation, urban 

planning and governance of urban heritage, and 

in particular mass housing neighbourhoods. It 

shows co-dependence of those fields and offers 

an integrative and cross-disciplinary approach. 

The results represent a valuable contribution 

to architecture, urban planning and especially 

heritage studies, in particular for governance 

and heritage management of complex sites, as 

mass housing neighbourhoods are. Besides the 

scientific and academic impact, the research 

achieves a societal and cultural impact through 

an engaging research approach conducted 

with society. It emphasizes the importance of 

engagement of local communities, but also 

the importance of cross-sectoral and interinstitutional 

communication and collaboration 

in urban planning, including the civil sector. 

Summary 

The post-war mass housing neighbourhoods 

are one of the most widespread typologies of 

the modern architecture and urbanism, and 

represent one of the most significant legacies 

of the twentieth century. Nevertheless, their 

deterioration and devaluation are major 

challenges, both in the field of heritage 

conservation and management and in urban 

planning and design. The mass housing 

neighbourhoods encapsulate a greater 

complexity of issues compared to single, iconic 

buildings, which have been more extensively 

addressed in the heritage sector. The reasons for 

their deterioration are different and interlinked 

with the socio-cultural discourse, as well as the 

spatial characteristics of these neighbourhoods, 

or how they were planned, built, lived and 

governed. This doctoral research addresses the 

challenges of those neighbourhoods, focusing 

on the New Belgrade Blocks, which are part of 

this larger cultural phenomenon, yet strongly 

tied into a very specific contextual framework. 

New Belgrade is one of the largest modernist 

post-war mass housing areas in Europe. As 

the legacy of both modernism and socialism, 

it represents a symbol of collectiveness and 

participatory planning and governance, though 

with contradictions in practice. Following the 

gradual transformation of the urban landscape of 

modernity in parallel with different socio-spatial 

factors—such as transformed ownership and 

governance relations, suppressed importance 

of community, as well as the modernist planning, 

or rather performance of the plans, and later 

urban practices—this research investigates the 

correlation between deterioration and previously 

mentioned factors. It identifies common spaces 

of the blocks as the most neglected components 

of the blocks that are at the same time crucial to 

their quality, vitality and preservation of values. 

Moreover, the specific Yugoslav housing policy 

and collective self-management from the postwar 

period, although neglected over the time, 

represent a valuable intangible heritage that 

can contribute to the contemporary discussions 

on commons, linking historical forms of 

decentralized governance and contemporary 

discourses on urban commons. 

After understanding and clarifying the specific 

socio-spatial setting, the research explores 

and assesses the common spaces of the blocks 

through a multi-level socio-spatial analysis 

including different participatory methods for 

exploration, assessment and eventually codesign 

of the strategies for their improvement. 

The common spaces are crucial for the actual 

implementation or manifestation of the heritage 

management shift from the expert-led and 

authoritarian procedures towards more inclusive 

practices. They enable spatialisation of the right 

to the city, allowing for bottom-up initiatives, 

reactive actions and proactive practices. The 

common spaces have a potential to facilitate 

bottom-up governance and direct democracy 

in the city, enabling ’defence’ of the common 

interest in urban development. Collating findings 

Figure. Cover of the PhD Dissertation | Block 23, New Belgrade, 2020. Photograph taken by Ivona 

Despotovic for the student workshop “Reuse of Common Spaces of New Belgrade Blocks: Co-designing 

the Urban Commons”, Belgrade, September 2020. 

10 

LATEST RESEARCH 


LATEST RESEARCH 


11

3. ARTICLES 

Article 

A Guide to Biodegradable Materials in Envelope Design 

Summary of the Master Thesis presented for the Master of Integrated Design - 

Façade Design specialization (2023). 

Shashi Karmaker 1 

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

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

2. Schüco International KG, Karolinenstraße 1-15, 33609 Bielefeld, 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 

This research explores the potential of biodegradable materials in building envelopes, with an emphasis 

on design principles and performance characteristics. Physical qualities and performance in areas such 

as thermal resistance, acoustic properties, and weather resistance will be used to assess the materials. A 

database of product lists and design methods for each material will also be established to encourage and 

ease their usage in building construction. The main research question is- What design guidelines need to be 

considered for biodegradable materials used in building envelopes? Ultimately, this research aims to contribute 

to the advancement of eco-friendly construction and encourage the use of biodegradable materials in building 

envelopes 

1. Introduction 

In recent years, there has been increasing pressure 

on the construction sector to embrace sustainable 

practices and lessen their environmental effect. 

The use of biodegradable materials in building 

envelopes is one area of attention since it may 

assist in decreasing waste and enhance the overall 

sustainability of the building. Biodegradable 

materials decay naturally without affecting the 

environment, and they have various advantages 

over standard building materials like concrete, steel, 

and plastic. 

Some criteria for a material to be biodegradable 

include Chemical Composition, Decomposition time, 

Environmental Impact, Diversity of degradation, and 

Disposal method. According to the research of Eleni 

Sgouropoulou [1], there are seven categories of 

biodegradable materials, among them five categories 

of materials that have already been utilized as 

building materials and can be sourced from natural 

resources like earth, plants, animals‘ hair, and trees. 

The other two categories include materials that are 

either in the process of development or derived from 

emerging technologies that hold potential for the 

future use. The selection of materials for this research 

was influenced by the potential of the materials that 

may be employed as cladding or as construction 

components of the wall. Some products made from 

these materials may also fit infill areas which has also 

been discussed while creating the design manual. 

The chosen materials are Unfired earth products, 

Rammed-earth products, Straw products, Hemplime 

products, and Cork products. These materials 

can be split into three groups: (1) Earthen products 

- products derived from the earth (soil), (2) Plants 

fibrous products - products made from fibrous 

plants, and (3) By-or recycled derived products - 

products derived from recycled materials. 

2. Unfired Earth products 

Around 30% of the world’s population lives in earthmade 

construction [2]. There is very wide use of 

such products in New Mexico and Arizona (America), 

Africa, and Asia [3]. However, their use is also 

beginning to spread once again in Europe. 

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ARTICLES 


13

Figure 1. Criteria of a biodegradable material 

Production technique 

Raw earth, straw, and water are combined to form 

the adobe bricks that make up the structure of the 

adobe home. These bricks are then dried in the 

sun after being pressed into molds. The Adobe 

construction style is ideal for owner-builders since 

no expensive tools or equipment are required, and 

the skills needed can be quickly gained at a training 

session and through hands-on experiences. 

Design guidelines 

• Orientation and room arrangement: To make 

use of the thermal mass of earth walls, adequate 

direct sunshine should be allowed to penetrate 

an earth structure, especially in winter. 

Compressed earth bricks may or may not be 

stabilized. However, they are usually stabilized by 

cement or lime. As a result, they are now known as 

Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEB) 

Equipment 

Today, there are manual presses that are light or 

heavy, as well as motorized presses that provide 

compression energy via an engine. There are also 

mobile machines that combine a crusher and a 

mixer in the same equipment. The Impact 2001A 

CEB machine from the business AECT Earth block 

is seen in Figure 8. This automated machine makes 

300 CEBs every hour. 

Figure 3. Biodegradable material 

• Large eaves are required to protect from 

weather damage. 

Figure 2. List and category of 

discussed materials 

• In cold climates, at least the south walls are 

insulated. Wool insulation with cladding might 

be an excellent alternative since wool is a natural 

insulation material with low embodied energy 

and hygroscopic properties like earth [8]. 

Strength: 

• In earthquake-prone areas, the structural 

design may necessitate vertical and horizontal 

reinforcing of earth walls. 

• The drying of Unfired earth products requires 

less energy input in comparison to fired earth 

brick [4]. 

• Extremely low embodied energy (0.011-0.051 

MJ/kg) 

• Fire resistance is high (Euroclass fire testing rate 

A1-B2) 

• Products mixed with straw and other fibrous 

materials, usually have lots of thermal mass. 

• A CEB wall of 150mm thickness can be resistant 

to airborne sound [5]. 

• Capable to construct self-supporting walls if 

their compressive strength is more than 2 MPa. 

Weakness: 

• Should not be exposed to water for a long 

period. 

• CEBs may need extra exterior wall insulation for 

U-value, despite their high thermal mass in cold 

climates [6]. 

• Stabilizers can affect the final product’s 

biodegradability and recyclability, but they are 

needed for water resistance and compressive 

strength. 

• It is advisable to avoid using Adobe Brick for 

constructing houses with more than one story [7]. 

Available products of Unfired Earth are Adobe, CEB, 

and 3D-printed walls. 

2.1 Adobe bricks 

Figure 4. Unfired earth (CEB) 

Adobe brick building is an ancient technique 

common in the Americas and the Middle East. 

In nations with high demand, adobe bricks 

are manufactured mechanically at industrial 

brickyards, or they can be made on-site by 

renting a brick-making machine. According to the 

manufacturers, the usual size of an adobe brick 

can be 40*20*10 cm 

Soil selection 

The soil must include between 15% and 30% clay 

to provide a suitable binding to the dough. When 

using soil with more than 30% clay, adobe brick 

will shrink (during sun-drying) and crack, whereas 

soil with less than 15% clay will disintegrate. 

Furthermore, it is advised that the soil be used 

from a depth of 50 cm, eliminating the presence of 

organic components such as rotting leaves, plant, 

and animal remnants, or roots that may interfere 

with the quality of the brick. 

• Earth constructions require stable sites. The 

site should not flood and, preferably, should not 

be exposed to strong rains. 

2.2 Compressed Earth Block (CEB) 

CEBs began in 19th-century Europe with handmade 

blocks. The fi rst steel press in Colombia 

improved upon adobe by creating denser, stronger, 

and more water-resistant bricks. This technique 

has since spread to Africa, South America, India, 

and South Asia with the development of advanced 

machinery and soil expertise. 

Soil selection 

Not every soil is ideal for earth construction, 

particularly CEB. Topsoil and organic soils are not 

permitted. The soil condition and project needs 

will influence the choice of a stabilizer. Cement 

will be preferred for sandy soils and achieving a 

higher strength rapidly. Lime will be utilized for 

particularly clayey soil; however, it will take longer 

to solidify and provide sturdy blocks. 

Production technique 

The raw or stabilized soil for a compressed 

earth block is slightly moistened before being 

poured into a steel press and compacted with 

either a manual or automated press. CEB may 

be compacted into a variety of forms and sizes. 

Figure 5. Typical reinforced adobe wall construction 

Figure 6. Adobe Bricks 

Figure 7. CEB 

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15

Design guidelines 

CEB structures require a base that is at least 45 cm 

broad and 60 cm deep. Reinforced concrete, rubble 

masonry, or stone masonry should be used for the 

foundation. 

For CEB structures, the required wall thickness is 

300 mm for load-bearing walls and 200 mm for nonload-bearing 

walls. 

CEBs should be set in a stretcher bond with a mortar 

joint of 10 mm. 

When constructing a double-layer wall, the CEB layer 

must be put on the interior side when the room 

is primarily inhabited during the day and on the 

outside side when the room is primarily occupied at 

night [9]. 

CEB walls, unlike adobe, have great compressive 

strength and can withstand seismic stresses, 

making them appropriate for usage in earthquakeprone 

locations. 

2.3 3D-Printed clay wall 

3D printed earth walls are a newer building method 

that employs 3D printing processes to construct 

earth walls. The technique of 3D printing earth 

walls requires the use of a specialized printer that 

creates blocks out of a mixture of earth and water, 

which are then piled and cemented together to form 

a wall. The printer can generate blocks of various 

sizes and shapes and an entire wall. One benefit 

Figure 9.: CEB wall section 

Figure 10. Variety of CEB blocks 

the composition of the earth mixture adapts to 

local climatic circumstances, and the envelope 

filling is parametrically tuned to balance 

thermal mass, insulation, and ventilation based 

on climate demands. 

While 3D printing has given the possibility to 

create complex geometries, the intelligence 

of the design comes from the optimization 

strategies, and the creation of performative 

shapes becoming easier to achieve for 

example, the TerraPerforma project by IAAC. 

However, there are certain obstacles involved 

with 3D-printed earth walls, such as ensuring 

that the earth mixture used in the printing 

process is of uniform quality and addressing 

any moisture management and waterproofing 

issues. Furthermore, the technology is still in its 

early stages, and additional study is required to 

properly comprehend its long-term durability 

and sustainability. 

Recycle and reuse 

Unfired earth products like adobe, earth walls, 

and compressed earth blocks can be sustainably 

recycled and reused. They can be crushed into 

aggregate for construction projects, used as 

soil or soil additives, repurposed as decorative 

elements, or rebuilt in a new location. If none of 

these options work, they can be used as fill material 

in other construction projects. The provider 

says that it is feasible to recover about 90% of 

the waste material throughout the demolition 

process. As a result, the remaining 10% goes to 

waste (e.g., small broken components, demolition 

dust, etc.) that is left on the construction site. 

Since the product is primarily formed of dirt, 

returning it to the natural environment has no 

substantial impact. 

• It absorbs vibrations very well and reduces 

airborne sound by 40-50 decibels 

Weakness: 

• The performance of in-situ rammed-earth 

constructions is weather-dependent. 

• In cold climates, a wall thickness of more 

than 700 mm is required to be able to fulfill 

the thermal requirements of the Building 

Regulations. But this will increase cost and 

reduce usable area. 

• It is preferable to construct rammed earth 

walls with 200–350 mm thickness and to 

provide greater thermal insulation to the wall. 

There are two ways that rammed-earth walls may 

be built: on-site or as prefabricated heavyweight 

façade and wall components produced by specific 

construction companies. 

Figure 12. TECLA Construction 

3. Rammed-earth products 

Figure 13. Project TerraPerforma 

Figure 11. Types of Bonding Patterns 

of 3D-printed earth walls is that they can be 

built fast and efficiently because the printing 

process is automated and needs little physical 

effort. When compared to typical building 

processes, this can result in considerable cost 

reductions. Another advantage of 3D-printed 

earth walls is their strength and longevity. 

Rammed earth walls are a sustainable construction 

method where a mixture of soil, gravel, sand, and 

other materials is compressed into solid blocks 

or walls. This ancient technique, recently revived, 

involves wetting the soil mixture and compacting 

it manually or mechanically with wooden or metal 

forms. After compaction, the material cures and 

solidifi es before being used for construction. 

Rammed earth walls have been historically used 

in various climate zones, from the Himalayan 

Mountains to the deserts of North Africa. 

Figure 8. The Impact 2001A 

WASP, an Italian company, is an expert in 3D 

printing and green building. Their unique 3D 

printing method can be used to construct 

massive earth-based structures like dwellings. 

The first TECLA (Technology and Clay) 

construction was in Italy and was 3D printed 

using Crane WASP (the most recent WASP 3D 

printer), which used a blend of natural materials 

soil, and rice straw to make the walls, roof, and 

other structural components. Furthermore, 

Strength: 

• Because of their high thermal mass, these 

buildings require low energy for heating 

and cooling [10]. 

• According to CSIRO testing, Fire resistance is 

high, a 250 mm thick rammed earth wall had 

a fi re-resistance rating of 4 hours, whereas a 

150 mm thick wall had a rating of 3 hours and 

41 minutes 

Figure 14. : Rammed Earth wall 

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3.1 On-site rammed earth wall 

On-site rammed earth wall construction 

involves building walls directly at the intended 

location. The process starts with constructing 

formwork, temporary structures that shape 

and support the wall. Typically made of wood, 

the formwork helps achieve the desired size 

and shape. Soil, aggregates, and stabilizers 

are then compacted into the formwork using 

mechanical or hydraulic rammers until the 

desired wall height is reached. Once completed, 

the formwork is removed to reveal the finished 

rammed earth wall. 

This method offers benefits such as reduced 

transportation costs as materials are usually 

locally sourced and flexibility in wall design. 

However, it requires skilled labor and takes 

longer to complete. External surface protection, 

water resistance, shrinkage, and strength 

are addressed by adding stabilizers like lime, 

cement, or pozzolan. Stabilizers also allow for 

thinner walls, speeding up construction and 

requiring less surface preparation. 

Building process 

‚Rammed earth enterprises‘ outlines 

constructing rammed earth walls using steel 

formwork wrapped in plyboard for an ‚Off 

Form Finish‘. Water is added to an earth/ 

cement mix for ideal moisture. Hand-shoveled 

into formwork in 150mm increments, it‘s 

compressed with pneumatic tampers. T-Bar 

lintels support earth above openings, while 

metal rods create tie-downs for a wooden top 

plate. Electrical conduits are integrated for 

outlets and switches. After drying overnight, 

formwork is removed, and the wall detailed. 

Design consideration 

• Potential soils should be examined before 

usage. To establish whether stabilizers are 

required, and which ones are best for the kind 

of soil, collect samples of compact soil and 

contact trustworthy sources. 

• The better the formwork, the faster and more 

precisely the building will go. Forms must be 

able to withstand the strong forces used to 

push the dirt within a while. Reusable forms can 

help to reduce the cost. 

• It is crucial to carefully plan mechanical systems 

and wall openings for structures since changing 

the walls can be a time-consuming procedure. It 

is advised to build conduits within the walls for 

running services rather than opening them to 

allow for future upgrades or repairs. 

• The roof needs to have been sufficiently hung 

to allow water to flow to the ground without 

damaging the wall. 

• An appropriate coating of the wall is also required. 

existing structures/framing. Steel clips provided 

by the manufacturer secure the panels to the 

structural wall, preventing forward movement. 

• Hiding seam lines: Color-matched sanded 

grout is recommended to create a seamless 

appearance between panels and soften the 1/4“ 

seam lines. 

• Stacking panels: The maximum panel height is 

5 feet. For stacks taller than 20 feet, a carrier 

plate must be integrated into the structure to 

support the weight of additional panels. 

3.3 Insulated rammed earth panel 

SIREWALL, established in 1992, pioneered 

the method of integrating an insulative core 

into rammed earth walls to enhance thermal 

insulation, particularly in regions with extremely 

low temperatures. In 2008, they became the first 

company globally to consistently produce rammed 

earth with high compression strengths suitable 

for structural construction. Their innovative wall 

system allows for the construction of curved 

structures and imposing load-bearing walls up 

to 50 feet tall. Previously limited to residential 

buildings, SIREWALL‘s technology now enables 

tall, load-bearing commercial applications, 

exemplified by projects like Telenor’s head office 

in Pakistan. 

Installation process 

400mm to 450mm thickness, with options 

for a 50mm, 75mm, or 100mm Styrofoam 

core to achieve an R-value of up to 4.3. 

• Thickness of insulated rammed earth 

panels should consider desired R-value, 

structural strength, and wall opening size. 

• Minimum thickness and insulation - R 

ratings for rammed earth, structural, and 

non-structural walls are provided in a 

table, serving as baseline requirements 

that can be adjusted based on specific 

project needs and wall heights. 

Recycle and reuse 

When structures with rammed earth walls are 

demolished, the walls can be broken down and the 

soil mixture repurposed for other construction 

projects such as roads or new walls. Crushed 

walls can serve as soil amendments or fertilizers 

in agriculture, while crushed stone can be used 

for landscaping or pavement foundations. 

The walls themselves can be reused for new 

construction, serving as retaining or garden 

walls, or incorporated into projects for aesthetic 

appeal. Rammed earth panels can be carefully 

Figure 15.: On site Rammed Earth wall construction 

3.2 Prefabricated rammed earth panel 

In 1986, Nicolas Meunier introduced a prefabricated 

rammed earth method, refining traditional 

techniques to suit modern European economic and 

social conditions. This approach offers enhanced 

quality control, uniformity, and shorter construction 

times for panels. Prefabricated rammed earth panels 

can incorporate insulation and waterproofing for 

durability and energy efficiency. Additionally, they 

can be finished with various materials like paint or 

plaster to achieve desired aesthetics. 

Prefabricated rammed earth panel guide 

Provider Like ‘Rammed Earth Work’ shares insightful 

information regarding their panels, which are- 

• Panel sizes: Standard panels measure 12’ L x 5’ 

H and around 3” thick, but custom sizes up to 

13’ or smaller are available. 

• Panel weight: A standard panel weighs 

approximately 2200 lbs., inclusive of the steel 

frame mounted on the back. 

• Mounting method: Panels are floor-mounted, 

featuring a steel frame for attachment to 

Secured reusable forms are used as the 

foundation of the SIREWALL System, and they are 

filled with a moist earth mixture. When the soil 

mixture is compacted, it forms sturdy rammed 

earth walls that won‘t require any maintenance 

for many lifetimes. They have created a unique 

additive called SIREWALL Base Admixture 

(SBA). It is used all over the wall because of its 

hydrophobic qualities and ability to reduce 

efflorescence. Most frequently, but not always, 

polyiso foam serves as the concealed core of 

insulation in the wall‘s middle. 

Design guideline 

Rammed Earth Tasmania, a specialized in rammed 

earth wall construction, has compiled design 

considerations for building a rammed earth wall. 

These include: 

• Insulated Rammed Earth walls are 

recommended for areas with winter shadowing, 

with a suggested thickness of 450mm for harsh 

winter conditions. 

• North-facing walls exposed to sunlight in 

winter can use non-insulated 300mm thick 

walls, which absorb heat during the day 

and release it at night. 

• Insulated earth walls typically range from 

Figure 16. Prefabricated Rammed Earth panel 

Figure 17. : Insulated Rammed Earth panel 

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deconstructed and reused in new structures, 

crushed for landscaping or road building, or 

pulverized into a binder for manufacturing fresh 

stabilized rammed earth panels. 

4. Straw products 

Straw, a natural raw material harvested from 

crops like wheat, rice, and barley, serves various 

purposes in agriculture and construction. It is 

used for bedding and soil enrichment, while 

its fibers reinforce earth buildings like adobe 

constructions [11]. In modern buildings, straw 

finds applications as load-bearing wall elements, 

infill, partition walls, and as a component 

in rammed earth and adobe constructions. 

Notably, it offers energy efficiency and has a low 

environmental impact. 

Strength: 

• When local straw bales are used to build 

walls, straw has a low embodied energy. 

Because the heating and compression of 

the straw used in prefabricated compressed 

straw slabs uses a considerable amount of 

energy. 

• Straw plastered on both sides could 

withstand fire for two hours and fifteen 

minutes. In contrast Loose straw is highly 

flammable [12]. 

• Quick, easy, and cheap to build. 

Weakness: 

Figure 18.: Comparison of compressive strength of different rammed earth wall 

• It takes a lot of space to build a straw bale house 

since straw walls are usually 450 mm thick [3]. 

• Should not be exposed to internal/external 

sources of water when handling straw 

• Recommended to use breathable plaster to 

prevent moisture from getting trapped in 

the straw. 

• Very vulnerable to pest infestations, To prevent 

the attraction of insects or rodents, it‘s 

important for the straw used in construction to 

be dry and free of seeds [13]. 

Building products of straw include straw bales 

bounded with two or three strings, prefabricated 

compressed straw products like straw boards, 

and blocks, and structural insulating panels (SIP). 

4.1 Strawbale 

In straw bale wall construction, the size of straw 

bales used varies based on building design and 

construction style. Typically, three stringers 

measure 24′′ wide X 16′′ high X 48′′ long, while two 

stringers are around 18′′ wide X 14‘‘ high X 36′′ long. 

Two-stringers are preferred for smaller structures 

to maximize internal floor area, while three-stringers 

are better suited for larger constructions. Three 

stringers offer a higher R-value in cold climates 

but are heavier (up to 80 lbs.), while two stringers 

provide a lower R-value but are lighter (around 45 

lbs.), making transportation easier. 

There are four types of straw bale construction. 

Which are-1. Load-bearing construction type 2. Infill 

straw bale construction 3. Prefabricated cassettes 

4. Rehabilitation with straw bales 

i) Load-bearing construction 

In the load-bearing building method using straw 

bales, the bales are stacked like large stretcherbonded 

bricks and secured with sticks or lashing 

straps. This method, often termed „Nebraska style,“ 

involves crushing the bales from above with weight 

or straps. Wall thickness can reach up to 500mm 

depending on the number of bales used. Currently, 

there are no standardized models for calculating the 

structural characteristics of straw bales, and their 

usage as load bearers may be limited due to varying 

regulations requiring construction estimates for 

building permission. 


• Roof loads must be distributed uniformly across 

all walls. Roof loads on the bales should not be 

greater than 22kN/m2. 

• The wall height-to-wall thickness ratio should 

not exceed 6:1. However, if the wall is braced 

against buckling using horizontal bracing, the 

ratio can be surpassed. 

• Windows should have relatively small openings 

but be taller than broad. 

• The straw wall should begin at least 300mm 

above ground level. The plinth must be 

protected against moisture from the outside 

and rising moisture from the earth with a waterresistant 

covering. 

• Straw bales must be properly pressed before 

being utilized for construction. The bales are 

squeezed even further when put in the wooden 

wall compartments. Straw density in the built-in 

condition must be 100 kg/m3, with a margin of 

error of 15 kg/m3. 

ii) Infill straw bale construction 

Infill straw bale building utilizes a frame structure 

filled with straw bales for insulation. Two methods 

are used for achieving proper wall compression: 1) 

Placing bales in the frame and tightening the wall 

plate to compress them, and 2) Inserting bales and 

crushing the second-to-last layer to accommodate 

the final layer. This approach relies on the primary 

structure to support loads, allowing for larger spans 

and openings. 

iii) Prefabricated cassettes 

Prefabricated cassettes or panels, utilizing straw 

and wood properties, offer a quick assembly, wellinsulated, 

low-energy, and sustainable building 

solution. Manufactured off-site, they minimize 

material waste and ensure tight dimension tolerances. 

These panels can serve structurally, eliminating the 

need for lintels and foundation plates, potentially 

reducing overall costs. Transported and installed by 

manufacturers like ModCell, they come in various 

depths and types, including braced panels, lintels, 

sills, and inclined gable wall components, adaptable 

to different structural requirements. Made of double 

hardwood, they can support multiple floors and are 

suitable for ceilings, roofs, or facades. Designed to 

prevent thermal bridges, breakout access spaces 

allow for installation of various components within 

the panel, with the option of using other materials 

for insulation if needed. 

iv) Rehabilitation with straw bales 

Straw bales are commonly repurposed for 

construction renovations to enhance thermal 

insulation. In retrofitting projects, small bales 

are placed outside existing walls to improve 

insulation. Restorations prioritize healthy 

environments devoid of hazardous materials, 

utilizing wood frameworks and straw bales coated 

in earth mortars and lime for walls. Incorporating 

substantial overhangs is essential to shield new 

walls from rain damage. 

Finishing and Truth window 

Straw bale buildings can last 100+ years, but 

exposure to water affects durability. Moisture above 

20% can lead to straw cellulose breakdown by 

fungal enzymes. To prevent rot, create a waterproof, 

breathable wall with finishes like lime stucco. Clay 

Figure 19. PStrawbale 

Figure 20. Infill straw bale construction 

Figure 21. Prefabricated cassettes 

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its production, providing strong thermal qualities, 

while lime binder adds mechanical capabilities, 

making it fire, rot, and insect-resistant. Although 

it can possess favorable compressive strength, 

hempcrete is not suitable for load-bearing 

structures but is commonly used as infill in 

construction [3]. 

Strength: 

shifted upwards, leaving an overlap to prevent 

spillage. Hempcrete walls are framed with 2×4s at 

24-inch spacing, with potential wood use reduction 

under engineer‘s guidance. Once cured, lime plaster 

is applied internally and externally, with fiberglass 

mesh reinforcing the exterior. Additional rain 

protection may include a face brick splash guard on 

a zinc shelf at the bottom, topped with flashing for a 

seamless joint with plaster. 

Figure 22. Rehabilitation with straw bales 

• High rot, and insect resistance 

• Hemp-lime buildings may collect roughly 

165 kg of CO2 per m3. (manufacturers ‘Lime 

Technology Ltd and Technichanvre) 

• There are no solid wastes generated during 

construction. 

• Structural element, good thermal and 

acoustic insulation, can be cast into any 

shape. 

5.3 Prefab hempcrete panel 

Using prefabricated hemp panels for construction 

offers a more efficient and faster alternative to 

traditional on-site builds, reducing construction 

time and eliminating the 45-day curing period 

required for cast hempcrete buildings. These 

panels, filled with hempcrete mixture, utilize 3-ft by 

Weakness: 

plaster is ideal for interior finishes, regulating indoor 

moisture. Builders often include a „Truth Window“ to 

showcase straw bale construction, revealing a piece 

of straw within the wall. 

Recycle and Reuse 

Straw bale walls and panels offer environmentally 

friendly building materials that can be recycled 

and reused in various ways. Recycling begins 

with careful deconstruction, separating 

straw from extraneous components like 

plaster or wood framework. The straw can be 

repurposed for animal bedding, mulch, or soil 

amendment, while the plaster and wood can 

also be recycled. If in good condition, straw 

bales may be reused for earth-building like 

Adobe construction. 

5. Hemp-lime products 

Figure 23. Truth window 

Hemp-lime, also known as „hempcrete,“ is a 

bio-composite material made from lime-based 

binders and hemp shiv. It offers strength, thermal 

efficiency, and versatility, suitable for monolithic 

walls or insulating bricks and blocks. Originating 

in France, about 15% of hemp shives are used in 

• The material must be well sheltered from 

frost and severe rain during construction, 

and the outside temperature must not drop 

below 5°C. 

• Protective clothing, gloves, and other gear 

are necessary when handling hemp-lime due 

to its skin and eye irritant properties, as well 

as the potential to cause burns when damp. 

• To maintain proper plaster coating and wall 

finishes, maintenance is frequently required. 

Hemp-lime products come in blocks, precast 

elements, and in situ cast forms. In-situ 

application involves molding or spraying it 

around the building‘s structural frame. Blocks 

are available in structural and thermal varieties, 

while precast panels are filled with hemp-lime 

and hung on steel, timber, or concrete frames, 

providing insulation and an airtight enclosure for 

buildings. 

5.1 The hempcrete block 

‚Isohemp‘ provides hemp blocks, a non-loadbearing 

glued masonry product suitable for 

various construction purposes such as residential 

houses, wall doubling, industrial partitioning, and 

apartments. They offer two types: solid blocks and 

machined blocks. Solid hemp blocks are 60cm by 

Figure 24. Hempcrete blocks 

30cm, and available in thicknesses from 6 to 36cm. 

Machined blocks include holed and U-shaped 

blocks with thicknesses of 30 and 36cm. 

Hempro System 

The Hempro System by ‚Isohemp‘ utilizes two types 

of 30cm thick hemp blocks: solid and machined. 

Machined blocks serve as insulating lost formwork 

within the building envelope for pouring reinforced 

concrete structural frames. Holed blocks form 

column formwork, while U-blocks facilitate beam 

pouring to support floors and roofs. Additional 

hemp block layers of varying thicknesses can be 

added for enhanced thermal performance. 

5.2 The hempcrete formwork 

On-site hempcrete walls are constructed by 

blending hemp hurd (the woody core of the hemp 

plant), a binder (such as lime or cement), and water. 

This mixture produces a durable and lightweight 

material suitable for both load-bearing and nonload-bearing 

walls in construction. 

Construction Process 

Figure 25. : Hempro system 

‘Hempstone,‘ a professional hempcrete installer, 

outlined the construction process for Hempcrete 

Formwork. To prevent moisture absorption from the 

ground, plastic membrane strips are placed directly 

on the slab with spray foam insulation sealing any 

cracks. Small PVC conduits on 2” x 4” studs create 

an interior barrier, acting as spacers for plywood 

formwork. T1-11 siding serves as the outer barrier, 

secured with 5-inch 

screws into studs, forming a 6.5-inch cavity for 

hempcrete. After filling the mold with 

hempcrete mix, the formwork is unscrewed and 

Figure 26. Hempcrete formwork 

Figure 27. Prefab hempcrete panel 

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8-ft wood frames and come in thicknesses of 9 and 

12 inches. After curing for 30 days, they are shipped 

to the building site and can be easily installed, 

offering various finishing options. Designed by 

‚Dunagro Prefab Hemp Construction,‘ these panels 

can adapt to any desired home design, suitable for 

low-rise and high-rise structures, from tiny huts to 

major commercial complexes. While suitable for up 

to six-story buildings, design experts should assess 

hempcrete‘s suitability for larger projects covered 

by relevant code provisions. 

Finishing 

To achieve resilient hemp-lime walls, it is imperative 

to select low-permeability finishes and utilize a 

two-coat plaster system such as BioLime over 

hemp-based substrates. Additionally, treating wood 

surfaces to prevent cracking during plastering is 

essential. Moreover, plaster should only be applied 

in temperatures above 5°C and below 32°C. Lastly, 

it is crucial to use exclusively breathable external 

paints to ensure durability and longevity. 


Hempcrete‘s ecological soundness spans its entire 

life cycle, starting from its creation using natural 

waste products to its eventual reuse or recycling in 

case of demolition. At the Tuorla Agricultural School, 

hemp structures were crushed and found to be 

degradable, improving soil structure and allowing 

for hemp cultivation to resume. According to Mike 

Lawrence of the University of Bath, UK, at the end 

of a building‘s life, hemp lime can be repurposed 

as mulch, preventing weed growth, conserving 

water, and promoting plant growth. Over time, it 

decomposes into plant fertilizer. 

6. Cork products 

Cork, sourced from the spongy bark of Cork Oaks, 

is a renewable material harvested every 9 to 11 

years. The trees are left undisturbed for 25 years 

before harvesting. During hot summers, the cork 

dries out and cracks, facilitating manual removal 

of the bark. Cork for building products is sourced 

sustainably or repurposed from wine bottlestoppers. 

Recent studies indicate that debarked 

cork oaks store three to fi ve times more CO2 than 

those left unharvested [14]. 

Strength: 

• Very light material, weights only 0.16gm/cm3 

[15]. 

• Cork contains a natural substance called 

Suberin, which is a mixture of organic acids that 

coats the walls and prevents water and gases 

from passing through. 

• The material is fire retardant and does not emit 

any toxic gases during a fire. 

• Has very good sound insulation quality [14]. 

• Naturally unaffected by mice or termites and 

maintenance-free [15]. 

Weakness: 

• Its products have an intense smell during the 

first few months of use. 

• Cork is expensive and can only be harvested in 

a limited amount each time. 

Available products from cork are Cork tile and Cork 

board. 

6.1 Cork tile 

Wall-cladding cork tiles are crafted by bonding thin 

layers of cork to a backing material or adhesive, 

retaining cork‘s natural texture, warmth, and 

sound-absorbing qualities. These tiles offer ease of 

installation and come in diverse sizes, shapes, and 

patterns for creative design options. They can be 

affixed to prepared walls using screws, adhesive, 

or peel-and-stick backing. Installation may require 

cutting tiles to fit precise dimensions and arranging 

them for aesthetic appeal. 

Cladding Process 

Cork has garnered global attention as a versatile 

cladding material due to its high insulation values 

and exceptional acoustic performance, making it 

favored by designers worldwide. 

Before installation, it is imperative to ensure the 

surface is clean and sturdy, free from any dust, 

grease, or other substances that could compromise 

adhesion. Precise measurements and markings 

are essential to accurately position the first tile. 

Adhesive application, whether using a water-based 

or latex-based primer for absorbent surfaces, 

should adhere strictly to manufacturer instructions, 

ensuring optimal settings and drying times. Liquid 

adhesive is then evenly applied to both the wall and 

the back of the cork tile, utilizing a new, high-quality 

microfiber roller with a short pile. The initial tile is 

carefully placed as marked, with subsequent tiles 

following suit, ensuring close alignment of edges for 

a seamless finish. 

For MD Façade Cork Board, a glue fixation method is 

recommended to maximize energy efficiency, owing to 

its low thermal conductivity of 0.043 W/m.K, contributing 

to both environmental and economic savings. 

Additionally, mechanical fixation of MD Façade 

boards can be achieved through hidden mechanical 

fastening directly to metal or other supports using a 

shiplap system. 


• Selection of high-quality cork tailored for 

outdoor use is pivotal for durability and weather 

resistance. 

• Regular maintenance routines, including 

cleaning and resealing, are vital to uphold the 

facade‘s appearance and structural integrity. 

• Cork‘s warmth, diverse finishes, colors, and 

textures offer versatility for captivating facade 

designs. 

• Whether as the primary cladding material 

or in combination with other architectural 

elements, cork allows for visually striking exterior 

expressions. 

• Prioritizing sustainably sourced cork and ecofriendly 

manufacturing practices aligns with 

environmental responsibility and ensures longterm 

viability. 

• Adherence to prescribed installation procedures, 

with expert guidance as needed, is crucial for 

establishing enduring and reliable cork facades. 

• Attention to detail during installation, particularly 

in joints, connections, and sealing, is imperative for 

structural integrity and effective water resistance. 


Figure 28 : Cork facade 

Figure 29. Cork tile 

Figure 30. Glued fixation of MD corkboard 

Companies like ReCork and Cork Forest Conservation 

Alliance specialize in recycling corks to create new 

products. However, due to the high cost, recycling 

small quantities of cork may not be practical. ReCork 

offers a solution for disposing of large quantities by 

shredding and repurposing cork as filler in other 

materials. Cork tiles or boards in good condition can 

be salvaged and reused for interior wall cladding 

or creative projects like furniture or artwork. 

Improperly dismantled cork can biodegrade in 

landfills over time, as it is a natural material. 

7. Comparative analysis of the biodegradable 

materials 

The selected 5 biodegradable materials which 

were described already are now compared with 

each other with charts, tables, and graphs. The 

comparisons will be made based on parameters 

like density, thermal conductivity, mechanical 

and acoustic properties, embodied energy, and 

CO2 emission which have been collected from 

different manufacturer’s websites, research 

papers, and design manuals. These results will 

finally help users to understand the difference 

Figure 31. Mechanical fixation of MD corkboard 

and identify suitable material for a project. 

Thermal conductivity measures a material‘s 

heat conductivity, with lower values indicating 

better insulation. Fig 33 displays two categories 

of materials, with straw and cork showing 

the lowest thermal conductivity. Earthen 

products vary widely due to density and 

composition, ranging from 0.5-1.5 W/m*K (Fig 

32). Generally, higher density correlates with 

higher conductivity, implying denser materials 

are poorer insulators. 

Heat capacity, or thermal capacity, measures 

the amount of heat energy needed to change 

an object‘s temperature. Specific heat capacity 

(J/kg K) is heating capacity per unit mass. 

Fig 34 shows cork, straw, and hemp-lime 

products with the highest heat capacity, while 

earth-based products have the lowest. These 

materials‘ significant mass contributes to their 

thermal mass, allowing them to accumulate, 

store, and re-emit heat, influencing indoor 

temperatures. 

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Figure 32. Density 

Figure 36. Summary of comparative analysis 

Figure 33. Thermal Conductivity 

Figure 34. Heat Capacity 

Figure 35. Compressive strength 

Figure 35. Sound reduction (dB) 

The U-value, expressed in W/m²K, represents 

the overall heat transfer coefficient of a building 

element or product. It‘s calculated using the 

equation U-value = thermal conductivity (λ) / 

thickness (d). This value indicates the rate at which 

heat is transferred through one square meter 

of the structure, divided by the temperature 

difference across the structure. 

Compressive strength is the strength of a 

material loaded in compression. For load-bearing 

structures (1-2 stories) a compressive strength 

of 0.1-0.2MPa is sufficient, but for safety reasons 

and after the safety factors are applied, the 

compressive strength should be ca. 2-2.5 MPa [2]. 

As Fig 35 shows unfi red earthen products, 

rammed earth and cork present the highest values 

of compressive strength, while hemp lime product 

presents a slightly lower value of compressive 

strength but still a sufficient compressive strength 

of more than 2 MPa. On the other hand, straw 

products have very low values, less than 1 MPa 

which means they are not suitable as load-bearing 

materials. 

Fig 36 represents the sound reduction capability 

of the materials. From this graph, it is noticed that 

Rammed earth and Hemp lime products present 

the highest sound reduction. In a project where 

acoustic performance has a high priority, these 

materials can be a better choice. 

Different comparative analyses result that 

different materials may belong to multiple 

categories depending on their applications 

(Fig 37), each offering unique benefi ts and 

considerations. While biodegradable materials 

require careful design to avoid moisture issues, 

cork stands out for its water resistance, alongside 

stabilized earthen structures. Conversely, straw 

products necessitate robust water protection due 

to susceptibility to rot. Despite this, straw remains 

cost-effective and widely available, boasting 

favorable thermal and mechanical properties, 

ideal for eco-friendly construction projects. 

8. Conclusion 

This study provides valuable insights into the 

practical implementation of biodegradable 

materials in envelope design, equipping 

architects, engineers, and builders with informed 

decision-making tools. Biodegradable materials 

offer numerous benefits, including renewability, 

reduced environmental impact, and compatibility 

with circular economy principles, 

while also enhancing structural integrity and 

indoor environmental quality. „Building for the 

Future: A Guide to Biodegradable Materials 

in Envelope Design“ aims to inspire industry 

professionals and researchers to embrace 

these materials for a more sustainable future, 

leveraging advancing technology to further 

enhance their performance and unlock their full 

potential in sustainable construction endeavors. 

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9. References: 

1- Sgouropoulou, E. (2013). Possibilities of applying 

biodegradable materials in solid building envelopes 

in the Netherlands. MSc thesis. TU Delft, Faculty of 

Architecture, page: 43 

2- Houben H. and Guillaud H. (1994). Earth 

construction; a comprehensive guide. France: 

practical action publishing, page: 152-153 

3- Halliday S, 2008 Halliday, S. (2008) Sustainable 

Construction. Butterworth-Heinemann, page.148 

4- Lyons A., 2010 Lyons, A. (2010) Materials for 

architects and builders. (4th edition) Elsevier, 

page:17 

5- Keefe L., 2005 Keefe, L. (2005) Earth building 

methods and materials, repair and conservation. 

USA and Canada: Taylor & Francis, page: 96 

6- Roaf, S. et al (2013) Ecohouse; a design guide (4th 

edition), Routledge: page: 286 

7- Paul G. McHenry, Jr. McHenry and Co. Albuquerque, 

NM. Appropriate building codes and specifications 

for Adobe construction, page: 429 

8- Solid Earth Adobe Buildings, https://www. 

solidearth.co.nz/earthbuilding-information/earthbuilding-design/ 

9- Césaire Hema (2020) Impact of the Design of Walls 

Made of Compressed Earth Blocks on the Thermal 

Comfort of Housing in Hot Climate, DOI:10.3390/ 

buildings 10090157 

10- Roaf, S. et al (2013) Ecohouse; a design guide (4th 

edition), Routledge: page: 127 

11- Elizabeth, L. and Adams, C. (edited) (2005) 

Alternative construction; contemporary natural 

building methods. Canada: Jon Willey & sons, 

page:210 

12- Woolley, T. and Kimmins, S. (2000) Green Building 

Handbook; volume 2. Great Britain: E and FN Spon, 

page: 161 

Article 

Energy Efficiency of a Timber Frame House in Detmold 

Summary of the Master Thesis presented for the Master of Integrated Design - 

Façade Design specialization (2024). 

Mina Kherad 1 

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





Abstract 

These days, sustainability is one of the most critical topics, including reducing energy loss. In Germany, 

most houses were built before 1978, meaning that around 64% of today‘s buildings were constructed 

without obligation to meet energy efficiency standards. Therefore, the need for renovation to reduce 

energy waste in residential houses increases; moreover, 13% of energy waste in buildings is related to their 

facade. Investigating ways to improve the thermal performance of historic buildings in Germany, focusing 

on addressing their energy inefficiency issues, many of which stem from their pre-1920 construction. It 

begins with a global overview of current building stocks, then zeroes in on the challenges historic German 

buildings face, such as high thermal transmittance materials and the lack of strict building standards at the 

time of their construction. The research proposes strategies for energy-efficient refurbishments adaptable 

to homeowners‘ financial situations and interests while navigating the complexities of current building 

regulations to show how these can be integrated into refurbishment plans effectively. 

A crucial part of the study involves a detailed case study of a heritage house in NRW, Detmold, using digital 

analysis tools like Ubakus to compare original and proposed refurbishment plans. The ultimate goal is to 

establish a comprehensive framework for retrofitting heritage houses to meet GEG and KfW guidelines, 

contributing to the discourse on energy efficiency and conservation in historic building preservation and 

emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices to maintain their cultural and architectural integrity. 

Key topics include building envelope, refurbishment, energy efficiency, space heating, U-value, Ubakus, 

and internal insulation. 

13- Kwok, A., 2011 Kwok A. et al. (2011) The Green 

studio Handbook Environmental strategies for 

Schematic Design. (2nd edition). USA: Elsevier Inc. 

page:49 

14- Cork factory Van Avermaet, https://www.kurk. 

be/nl/kurk/belang-kurk/ 

15- APCOR- https://www.apcor.pt 


Sustainability has emerged as a crucial concept, 

particularly regarding the environmental impact 

of human activities and the necessity to balance 

economic, social, and ecological concerns to secure a 

viable future for coming generations. In construction 

and building design, sustainability has added 

significance given that urban areas, though occupying 

only 3% of the Earth‘s land, account for 60-80% of 

energy consumption and 75% of carbon emissions. 

The building and construction sector presents critical 

opportunities for reducing environmental impacts 

and achieving sustainable development goals. 

Historical building practices prioritized functionality 

and control over internal environments, evolving with 

more durable materials like stone, clay, and metals, 

which enhanced building longevity and resilience. 

Modern energy efficiency in buildings is influenced 

by factors such as building stock age, ownership, 

and tenant structures, with a significant portion of 

today‘s buildings lacking energy efficiency standards 

due to their age. Consequently, energy-saving 

renovations, particularly in communal assets like the 

building envelope, require broad owner agreement, 

highlighting the sector‘s role in energy consumption 

reduction and performance enhancement through 

informed material use and structural analysis. 

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1.1. Objectives 

The research scope of this project is to find various 

insulattions for different structures. This research‘s 

main objective is solutions for a specific project‘s 

facade renovation that incorporates principles of 

circularity and materiality. 

The study will aim to answer the following issues: 

• Improve Heating performance 

• Facade Renovation 

• The situation of getting the best support from 

the government for House Renovation 

The research will involve a literature review of 

existing studies, case studies, and best practices 

related to Facade Renovation. The study will focus on 

a project‘s renovation, insulation, and cost-benefit. 

• To assess the impact of internal insulation on 

historic buildings‘ thermal performance and 

moisture regulation and how it aligns with 

contemporary energy efficiency standards. 

• To evaluate the balance between preserving 

architectural heritage and implementing 

modern energy conservation solutions in 

renovating historic buildings 

• To examine the regulatory compliance of 

sustainable refurbishment practices with 

GEG and KfW standards in German heritage 

buildings. 

• To explore the technical challenges and solutions 

in integrating vapor barriers with traditional 

construction materials to enhance the energy 

efficiency of half-timbered constructions 

without compromising their historical value. 

2. Literature review 

2.1. Essential Energy-Efficient Upgrades and 

Eco-Friendly Materials 

Buildings are a significant source of energy use and 

CO2 emissions, with the sector responsible for 14% 

of Germany‘s emissions as of 2018. Many of these 

emissions come from older residential buildings, with 

over half of the country‘s nearly 22 million buildings 

constructed before energy-efficient thermal 

insulation regulations were introduced in 1977. 

These older structures represent a significant energy 

conservation and climate protection opportunity 

through retrofitting. Currently, most buildings use 

heating systems powered by gas and oil, accounting 

for about 60% of a building‘s energy consumption, 

but there is a growing shift towards renewable 

energy systems. Upgrading buildings for better 

energy efficiency and adopting renewable heating 

solutions are crucial to climate change mitigation. 

Additionally, using sustainable building materials, 

which require energy for production and recycling, 

offers further potential to reduce emissions from the 

industrial sector. (Bundesförderung für effiziente 

Gebäude - BEG) 

2.2. Energy Efficiency and Residential Building 

Targets through Façade Renovation 

In the face of mounting global concerns over climate 

change and the need for resource optimization, 

facade renovations stand out as a crucial strategy 

for sustainable and energy-efficient building 

performance enhancement. These renovations, 

significant in the context of Germany‘s commitment 

to a 20% reduction in heating requirements by 

2020 and an 80% decrease in primary energy use 

by 2050, go beyond energy savings and carbon 

footprint reduction. They also improve indoor 

comfort and contribute to the aesthetic appeal 

of buildings. Tailored to the building‘s context and 

respecting architectural heritage, such interventions 

are aligned with circular economy principles that 

prioritize reducing resource use and waste. This 

involves implementing durable, maintainable, and 

recyclable design strategies. These efforts are 

central to Germany‘s vision of achieving nearly 

climate-neutral building stock by 2050, primarily 

reliant on renewable energies. (Deutsche Energie- 

Agentur (dena)) 

2.3. GEG Regulations 

The GEG is a unified German building code that 

enhances energy efficiency by consolidating 

previous regulations and aligning with EU directives 

for nearly zero-energy buildings from 2021. While 

it emphasizes thermal efficiency, criticism arises 

from its oversight of ecological impact and total 

greenhouse gas emissions. The German Sustainable 

Building Council has proposed incorporating 

CO2 limits and taxes into the GEG framework. For 

refurbishments, GEG requires adherence to specific 

U-value standards and encourages evaluations of 

energy performance against new buildings, with the 

Energy Saving Ordinance mandating upgradesfor 

significant refurbishments. (Zusammenfassung zum 

Entwruf des Gebäudeenergiegesetzes (GEG)). 

2.4. KFW Energy House Denkmal 

In Germany, the KfW development bank has initiated 

a financial program to improve buildings‘ energy 

efficiency, offering subsidies and low-interest loans 

for constructing and renovating structures that 

exceed the energy efficiency standards set by the 

current GEG (Building Energy Act). This program plays 

a significant role in the country‘s efforts to enhance 

energy efficiency, supporting a third of all renovations 

and half of all new construction projects. Specifically 

for historic monuments, KfW has established 

tailored guidelines within its funding programs to 

ensure renovations meet energy efficiency goals 

while adhering to preservation criteria. For instance, 

a KfW Efficiency House Monument is allowed to 

have energy requirements approximately 60% 

lower than those of new buildings, with adjusted 

criteria to accommodate the preservation of the 

building‘s structure. The program provides more 

lenient funding requirements for listed buildings, 

considering the challenges of meeting energysaving 

targets without compromising the building‘s 

historical integrity. Key measures include thermal 

insulation of external walls and window renewal, with 

allowances for alternative approaches like internal 

wall insulation to protect the building‘s aesthetic 

and structural significance. Eligibility extends to 

buildings recognized as architectural monuments, 

part of a monument ensemble, or considered 

particularly worth preserving by local authorities. 

(Baudenkmal KfW Zuschuss) 

3. Methodology 

Following a clear explanation of how a heritage house 

can achieve energy efficiency and adhere to GEG and 

KfW building regulations, one heritage house in a 

specific district has been selected for a case study in 

this project. 

This project involves one pre-1946 building at Am 

Heidenbachstraße in Detmold, which was initially used 

as farm storage before being converted into residences 

between 1975 and 1985. Collaborating closely with 

the property owner, essential historical and technical 

information was collected, allowing for a precise 

refurbishment strategy. 

Digital analyses were conducted, focusing on wall details, 

to identify the best materials for the refurbishment, 

aligning with GEG and KfW regulations. The case 

study buildings, Fachwerkhaus by type, constructed 

before 1920, feature half-timber construction with an 

external stone wall layer, c omprising five ground floor 

apartments, four on the first floor, and 2 in the attic, all 

utilizing natural gas for heating and hot water. 

The table compares traditional and non-traditional 

construction techniques, focusing on different aspects 

of building design, including structural elements, types 

Figure 1. Building pictures 

of fenestrations, and roofing styles. The timber frame 

construction of this building suggests it was erected 

before 1920, classifying it as a heritage property. 

Internal insulation is required to comply with German 

regulations to enhance its energy efficiency 

3.1. Project Description 

Observation: 

• Timber framing 

• Stone wall Construction 

• There is a newer addition to the house, visible 

on the right side, which shows a different 

window style and exterior, possibly indicating 

a modern extension to the original structure 

• The main facade of the house is covered with 

stucco, a typical exterior finish that provides a 

smooth surface 

• The placement and sizes of the windows are 

asymmetrical, which could suggest that the 

house has been modified over time 

• Interior Wall 30 cm 

• Outside Wall 25 cm 

• Single glazing 

• Half-Timbered Wall: This is the most prominent 

feature, where the structural timber frame is 

exposed, and the spaces between the timbers 

are filled with a non-wood material, often 

wattle and daub, brick, or plaster 

• Sloped Ceiling: The ceiling is sloped, 

characteristic of attic or loft spaces in many 

residential buildings 

3.2.Insulation 

Insulating heritage buildings is essential for several 

reasons, but it must be approached carefully to 

preserve the structure‘s historical integrity. 

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Figure 2. Ground floor plan Figure 3. First floor plan Figure 4. Attic plan 

Figure 5. Northeast elevation 

Figure 6. Northwest elevation 

• Heat loss during the heating season 23 kWh/m² and 

the amount of non-renewable energy (from sources 

like fossil fuels and nuclear energy) is 76 kWh/m². 

• Greenhouse gas emissions associated with 

producing the materials Limestone contributes are 

18 kg, and Profilholz (Fichte/Tanne) contributes -84 

kilograms. 

• Under certain environmental conditions 

(specifically, an inside temperature of 20°C with 50% 

humidity and an outside temperature of -5°C with 

80% humidity), the wall is expected to accumulate 

0.46 kilograms of water (as condensation) per 

square meter of its surface. As a result, the wall‘s 

performance in terms of moisture protection is 

considered inadequate or rated poorly. 

Second Alternative: 

In the second one we have a cavity in between. 

usually, this air gap is between 20-50 or 50-100mm, 

and I decided it‘s 50mm because of the thickness 

of the wall. 

• The overall thermal transmittance of the wall 

is given as U=0.28 W/(m²K), which measures 

how well the wall can contain heat. standard 

(GEG 2020 Bestand) is U=0.24 W/(m²K) and the 

current configuration is slightly worse than the 

standard and it rated in insufficient range. 

4. Renovation Proposal 

In this thesis, I mainly focus on Wall insulation. 

Adding internal insulation is recommended for 

the internal walls with zero insulation to minimize 

heat loss and prevent moisture accumulation. 

Upgrading to double-glazed doors is proposed 

for better thermal insulation, energy cost 

reduction, and improved soundproofing. 

Single-glazed, wooden frame windows will be 

replaced with double-glazed to decrease heat 

and thermal transmission and enhance sound 

insulation. 

After investigating internal insulation, I 

chose two materials and compared them. 

GutexThermoroom and Calcium Silikat board. I 

chose Gutexthermoroom because it was more 

accessible to install and has slightly higher thermal 

conductivity. 

Revised Detail: 

First Alternative: 

Here, you can see the revised details of the wall 

and installation method. In front of the wall, 

insulating plaster was used, followed by lime 

cement plaster behind Gutexthermoroom and 

a thin layer of lime cement plaster and bitumen 

coating. 

Figure 7. Southwest elevation 

Insulation is necessary for heritage buildings 

for Energy efficiency, Preservation, Comfort, 

Sustainability, Adaptation to Modern Use, 

Moisture Control, Noise Reduction, Regulatory 

Compliance, Value Preservation, and Responsible 

Stewardship. Benefits of Internal Insulation are 

Keeping Heritage Aesthetics, Easier Planning 

Permission, Individual Room Treatment, Reduced 

Thermal Bridging, Protection from External 

Elements, Cost efficiency, Acoustical, Reduced Risk 

of External Weather Exposure and also drawbacks 

are Space Reduction, Complex Installation, Risk 

of Moisture Trapping, Thermal Mass Reduction, 

Potential for Cold Bridging, Moisture Management 

Challenges. 

3.3. Details 

Drawings are based on typical drawings of this 

type of construction because there isn‘t any 

documentation of the specific building. I need to 

make an assumption about the situation of the 

building; therefore, we have two alternatives. 

First Alternative: 

Figure 8. Southeast elevation 

in the first one, we don‘t have any airgap in between 

these two constructions. 

• The overall thermal transmittance of the wall is 

given as U=0.30 W/(m²K), which measures how 

well the wall can contain heat. standard (GEG 

2020 Bestand) is U=0.24 W/(m²K) and the current 

configuration is slightly worse than the standard 

and it rated in insufficient range. 

• The wall dries in 99 days. And condensate is 458 g/ 

m² and it rated in insufficient range. 

• The temperature amplitude damping of 22 means 

that the wall can significantly reduce the changes 

in temperature from the outside to the inside and 

the phase shift of 12.2 hours means that there is 

a delay of about half a day between the hottest or 

coldest time outside and when that temperature is 

felt on the inside of the wall therefore it rated into 

excellent range. 

• The wall dries in 100 days. And condensate is 

458 g/m² and it rated in insufficient range. 

• The temperature amplitude damping of 23 

means that the wall can significantly reduce 

the changes in temperature from the outside 

to the inside and the phase shift of 12.2 hours 

means that there is a delay of about half a day 

between the hottest or coldest time outside 

and when that temperature is felt on the inside 

of the wall therefore it rated into excellent 

range. 

• Heat loss during the heating season 22 kWh/m² 

and the amount of non-renewable energy (from 

sources like fossil fuels and nuclear energy) is 

77 kWh/m² 

• Greenhouse gas emissions associated with 

producing the materials Limestone contributes 

are 18 kg, and Profilholz (Fichte/Tanne) 

contributes -84 kilograms. 

• 

• Under certain environmental conditions 

(specifically, an inside temperature of 20°C with 

50% humidity and an outside temperature of 

-5°C with 80% humidity), the wall is expected 

to accumulate 0.46 kilograms of water (as 

condensation) per square meter of its surface. 

As a result, the wall‘s performance in terms of 

moisture protection is considered inadequate 

or rated poorly. 

Calculations 




(GEG 2020 Bestand) is U=0.24 W/(m²K) and 

the current configuration is better than the 

standard and it rated in excellent range. 

• The wall dries in 93 days. It‘s also noted that 

there is no condensate, meaning the wall is not 

expected to accumulate moisture internally. 

This section is rated as „excellent,“ showing it 

has good moisture management. 

• The temperature amplitude damping of 22 

means that the wall can significantly reduce 

the changes in temperature from the outside 

to the inside and in this context, „non-relevant“ 

suggests that due to the wall‘s high level of 

insulation, the phase shift is not a significant 

factor in its performance. Essentially, the 

insulation is so effective that the time it takes 

for the outside temperature to affect the inside 

is not a concern, as the temperature fluctuation 

is greatly dampened and it is in excellent range. 

• Heat loss during the heating season 15 kWh/ 

m² and the amount of non-renewable energy, 

over 145 kWh/m², used in the production of the 

material. It includes energy from fossil fuels and 

nuclear energy. 

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Figure 9. Revised details - First alternative 

• A measure of the potential greenhouse gas 

emissions associated with the material expressed 

as -64 kg CO2 equivalent per square meter. 

• The wall is noted to accumulate 0.00 kg/m² of 

condensation, which implies excellent moisture 

management as no internal condensation is 

expected and the temperature of the inside 

surface is given as 18.8°C, which leads to a 

relative humidity on the surface of 54%. It‘s 

stated that mold formation is not expected 

under these conditions, indicating a healthy 

moisture level within the wall. 

Second Alternative: 

For second alternative I decided to use cellulose 

as an insulation and method is that they push the 

cellulose with high pressure inside of the cavity and 

also use bitumen coating for internal face of the wall 

due to moisturizing reasons. 

Calculations 




(GEG 2020 Bestand) is U=0.24 W/(m²K) and 

the current configuration is better than the 

standard and it rated in excellent range. 

• The wall dries in 93 days. It‘s also noted that 

there is no condensate, meaning the wall is not 

expected to accumulate moisture internally. 

This section is rated as „excellent,“ showing it 

has good moisture management. 

• A damping of 35 means that the wall can 

significantly smooth out the highs and lows of 

the external temperature. So, if the temperature 

outside fluctuates greatly, inside the building, 

those fluctuations will be much less noticeable, 

helping to keep the indoor environment more 

stable and in this context, „non-relevant“ 

suggests that due to the wall‘s high level of 

insulation, the phase shift is not a significant 

factor in its performance. Essentially, the 

insulation is so effective that the time it takes 

for the outside temperature to affect the inside 

is not a concern, as the temperature fluctuation 

is greatly dampened and it is in excellent rang 

and a phase shift of 13.2 hours means that if 

the temperature outside peaks at noon, that 

extreme temperature won‘t be felt on the inside 

until approximately 13.2 hours later. 

• Heat loss during the heating season 17 kWh/m² 

and the amount of non-renewable energy, over 117 

kWh/m², used in the production of the material. It 

includes energy from fossil fuels and nuclear energy. 

• A measure of the potential greenhouse gas 

emissions associated with the material expressed 

as -67 kg CO2 equivalent per square meter. 

• The wall does not accumulate condensate, and 

it also provides the drying reserve capacity and 

the minimum required protection, concluding 

that the moisture protection of this component 

is rated poorly and The absence of condensate 

across the materials suggests good moisture 

management within the wall structure the 

temperature of the inside surface of the wall and 

the relative humidity, which indicates that mold 

is not expected to form under these conditions. 

5. Conclusion 

In conclusion, this thesis has shown that wood fiber 

insulation enhances historic buildings‘ thermal 

performance and energy efficiency, notably in 

half-timber constructions. Its application not only 

maintains the structural integrity of these buildings 

but also significantly reduces U-values, underscoring 

its high efficiency. Furthermore, incorporating a 

vapor barrier with wood fiber insulation plays a 

pivotal role in controlling moisture transfer from 

the inside to the outside. This combination balances 

moisture control and insulation needs, ensuring the 

building‘s persistence and structural health. The 

total internal insulation thickness system ranges 

from 95 to 155 millimeters, accommodating various 

U-Value requirements. The insulation‘s U-value 

improves progressively with increased thickness, 

transitioning from 0.24 at 20 mm to 0.16 at 100 

mm. A 60 mm thickness was selected for its optimal 

balance of thermal performance, making a U-value 

that aligns with the standards set forth by the GEG 

and KfW and represents a common choice for 

diverse structural types. Additionally, the findings 

of this research confirm that this insulation method, 

including the vapor barrier, complies with current 

GEG and KFW regulations, reinforcing its applicability 

and relevance in contemporary sustainable building 

practice. This marks a significant contribution 

to sustainable renovation and conservation of 

historical architecture, offering a balanced approach 

to modern insulation techniques while respecting 

the heritage value of historic structures. 

7. References 

1. Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy 

(BMWi). (2018). Energy solutions made in Germany. 

Berlin, Germany. 

2. Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy 

(BMWi). (2020). Energy efficiency strategy for buildings. 

Berlin, Germany. 

3. Federal Republic of Germany. (2010). National heritage 

policy of Germany. Munich, Germany. 

4.Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy 

(BMWi). (2018). Climate action plan 2050. Berlin, 

Germany. 

5. Stefan Hulsbosch, Edwin J. van Dijk, Elisa C. Boelman, 

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35

Christoph M. Ravesloot. Flexible buildings and cellulose 

insulation. TU Delft, Netherland. https://www.irbnet.de/ 

daten/iconda/CIB4701.pdf 

6. M. Jarosz. High Performance and Optimum Design of 

Structures and Materials. Insulating timber-framed walls 

of historical buildings using modern technologies and 

materials. https://www.witpress.com/Secure/elibrary/ 

papers/HPSM14/HPSM14045FU1.pdf 

7. K Hutkai, D Katunský, M Zozulák. Internal insulation 

systems and their assessment for historic buildings by 

hygrothermal simulation. Slovakia. 2022. 

8. Hartwell, R., Macmillan, S., & Overend, M. (2021). 

Circular economy of façades: Real-world challenges and 

opportunities. Resources, Conservation & Recycling. 

Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/ 

resources-conservation-and-recycling 

9. Salavessa, E., Jalali, S., Sousa, L. M. O., Fernandes, L., & 

Duarte, A. M. (2013). Historical plasterwork techniques 

inspire new formulations. Construction and Building 

Materials, 858-867. 

10. Eßmann, F. (2022). Peculiarities of installing 

internal insulation in half-timbered walls; Detailed 

solutions; Some examples. [Journal Name Needed], 

2(4), 219-246. 

11. Latif, E., Ciupala, M. A., Tucker, S., Wijeyesekera, D. C., 

& Newport, D. J. (2015). Hygrothermal performance of 

wood-hemp insulation in timber frame wall panels with 

and without a vapour barrier. Building and Environment, 

122-134. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/ 

article/abs/pii/S0360132315001912?via%3Dihub 

concise_2018_building_report.pdf 

20. Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH (DENA). (2018). 

Dena study integrated energy transition. Retrieved from 

https://www.dena.de/en/themen-projekte/projekte/ 

projektarchiv/dena-study-integrated-energy-transition 

21. Robust Internal Thermal Insulation of Historic 

Buildings (RIBuild). (2019). Report on historical building 

types and combinations of structural solutions. 

22. Konstantinou, T. (2014). Façade refurbishment 

toolbox: Supporting the design of residential energy 

upgrades (b/W version). [A+BE | Architecture and the 

Built Environment]. 

23. Das Baudenkmal. (n.d.). Zuschuss für Ihre Sanierung. 

Retrieved from https://www.das-baudenkmal.de/ 

wissenswertes/foerderung/kfw 

24. Bundesförderung für effiziente Gebäude - 

BEG. (2022, September 22). Building and housing. 

Retrieved from https://www.bundesregierung.de/ 

breg-en/issues/climate-action/building-and-housing- 

1795860#:~:text=Around%2014%20percent%20of%20 

all,saving%20thermal%20insulation%20in%20buildings. 

25. Federal Minister of Justice. (n.d.). Baugesetzbuch. 

(November 27, 2017). https://www.gesetze-im-internet. 

de/bbaug/BauGB.pdf 

26. Federal Minister of Justice. (n.d.). Gesetz zur 

Einsparung von Energie und zur Nutzung erneuerbarer 

Energien zur Wärme- und Kälteerzeugung in Gebäuden 

(Gebäudeenergiegesetz - GEG). (August 28, 2023). 

https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/bbaug/BauGB.pdf 

Article 

Preliminary Observation for the Structural Performance of Timber Façade 

Mullion and Transom Connection with Large Glass Dead Load 

Hiruy Gebremariam Tekeste 1 


Abstract 

Contemporary architectural trends increasingly feature timber curtain walls for their sustainability and 

aesthetic appeal. This observational report highlights potential structural issues of timber-frame facades. 

Despite no apparent performance issues, concerns arise regarding the outward rotation of the bottom 

transom, possibly due to eccentric glass loading or connector inadequacy. Visual observations reveal clear 

indications of transom rotation, alongside isolated instances of timber rot. Hypotheses suggest connector 

failure or excessive mullion rotation as potential causes, but further analysis is recommended. This paper 

highlights the importance of addressing structural concerns in timber curtain walls for ensuring long-term 

facade integrity and performance. Future work involves collaborative efforts to conduct detailed analyses. A 

structural model is under development to continue the research. 

12. Lenz, W. (2005). Fachwerkhäuser. Fraunhofer IRB 

Verlag. 

13. Hauser, G., & Stiegel, H. (1992). Wärmebrücken Atlas 

für den Holzbau. Bauverlag. 

14. Hähnel, E. (2007). Fachwerk Instandsetzung. 

Fraunhofer IRB Verlag. 

15. Weiss, W. (2019). Fachwerk Bautraditionen in 

Mitteleuropa. Fraunhofer IRB Verlag. 

16. Stelzer, C. (2005). Beispielhafte umweltgerechte 

Sanierung der historischen des Detmolder 

Sommertheaters. Fraunhofer IRB Verlag. 

17. Institut für Bauforschung e.V. (2008). Atlas Bauen im 

Bestand. Rudolf Müller. 

18. Buildings Performance Institute Europe (BPIE). 

(2015). Renovating Germany’s building stock. Brussels, 

Belgium. 

19. Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH (DENA). 

(2018). Energy efficiency in building stock – Statistics 

and analyses. Retrieved from https://www.dena. 

de/fileadmin/dena/Dokumente/Pdf/9268_dena_ 

27. Rosenkranz, A. (2023, September 10). EnEV – Wichtige 

Anforderungen im Überblick. Heizung.de. https://www. 

heizung.de/ratgeber/diverses/enev-wissenswertefakten-zu-energieausweis-co.html 

28. Geg: Was Steht Im Neuen Gebäudeenergiegesetz?” 

Verbraucherzentrale.de. (October 31, 2023). https:// 

www.verbraucherzentrale.de/wissen/energie/ 

energetische-sanierung/geg-was-steht-im-neuengebaeudeenergiegesetz-13886 

29. ”Gutex Thermoroom “. Ecological Building system. 

https://www.ecologicalbuildingsystems.com/product/ 

thermoroom 


In contemporary architectural design, glazed timber 

curtain walls are increasingly favored for their 

sustainable and visually appealing looks. This trend 

involves utilizing timber as the primary structural 

support for facades, supplemented by aluminum 

add-on systems. 

A critical observation has been made regarding 

the timber facade of Building 2 situated at the 

TH OWL Detmold campus. Despite no significant 

visible performance issues noted by the observer, 

a specific concern has been identified that requires 

immediate attention and thorough investigation. 

The ground floor of the building features wide 

glazed areas, enhancing the facade‘s aesthetics but 

presenting a challenge with the bottom transom 

exhibiting outward rotation, possibly due to the 

eccentric loading of glass on the transom and/or 

insufficient connector. 

Eccentric loading of large glass panels on timber 

transoms, leading to torsional effects, is a recognized 

concern among facade designers and constructors. 

Contractors typically address this issue by employing 

specialized T-connectors between mullions and 

transoms for supporting glass loads. 

This observational report tries to show the 

existing issue and advocates for a comprehensive 

investigation into the extent of the problem, its 

underlying causes, and potential solutions within a 

short timeframe. 

Figure 1. Timber façade at TH OWL campus with 

large glazing marked red (picture by Ferndorf) 

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37

2. Visual Observation 

Visual inspection of the ground floor timber facade 

reveals clear indications of rotation caused by the 

eccentric loading of large glass panels. These effects 

manifest as an upward gap between the lifted 

transom and the adjacent skirting finish seen from 

the interior, along with visible downward shifting of 

the aluminum pressure plates on the outside. 

Figure 2. Upward lifted transom from inside 

Source (picture by the author) 

Figure 4. timber transom with a sign of rot 

(picture by the author) 

Additionally, isolated instances of slight timber rot 

are observed (Figure 4), although it is premature to 

ascertain its role in causing or exacerbating torsional 

deformation. The top spacer of the big IGU glasses 

is exposed a little more than expected which might 

be caused by the downward translation due to the 

outward rotation of the supporting bottom transom 

(Figure 5). 

3. Hypothesis 

To understand the possible cause of the transom 

rotation more complete data on the design, material, 

construction, and previous maintenance record (if 

any) is required. However, the following causes can 

be hypothesized as some of the many potential 

causes for failure that demand further investigation: 

1. Connector failure: there are many wellperforming 

connectors for timber curtain walls 

(Figure 6). However, due to lack of proper design 

or workmanship, there might be a possibility of 

inadequacy on the connector which in turn might 

lead to excessive transom rotation. 

force on the connector. This shall be checked with 

structural analysis including the effect of longterm 

cyclic wind loading. 

4. Future work 

To comprehensively understand the underlying 

causes and extent of the problem, detailed visual 

and analytical analysis of a representative sample 

location on the ground floor is imperative. This 

endeavor necessitates collaborative efforts among 

the stakeholders. Although the issue may not pose 

an immediate threat to the facade functionality, 

preemptive action is advisable to avert potential 

major failures. 

Currently, the structural model is being developed 

using Dlubal RFEM 6 based on the available data. 

Once complete and accurate data is available the 

results will be published in the next publications. 

5. References 

1. Ferndorf, Campus Emilie in Detmold, accessed 

on March 13, 2024. https://www.baunetzwissen. 

de/akustik/objekte/bildung/campus-emilie-indetmold-730725/gallery-1/1 

2. Raico, Timber curtain wall mullion and transom 

connector, accessed on March 13, 2024. https:// 

www.raico.de/en/products/t-connectors/tconnectors-h-i.html 

Figure 6. Timber façade connector 

(images by Raico) 

3. DelftX: Façade design and engineering: 

complexity made simple – Dr. Knaack and Dr. Bilow, 

accessed on March 13, 2024. https://www.edx.org/ 

learn/engineering/delft-university-of-technologyfacade-design-and-engineering-complexitymade-simple 

Figure 7. Single-bolted dead load support 

used on the project (picture by DelftX) 

Figure 3. downward shifted Transom Aluminum 

cover mark (pictures by the author) 

Figure 5. possible downward slippage of glass 

(pictures by the author) 

2.Excessive mullion rotation: The mullion is 

connected to the supporting bracket using a single 

bolt instead of multiple bolts (Figure 7). This might 

lead to an excessive mullion rotation. On the other 

hand, the bigger span transom is carrying a larger 

glass load which might hinder it from rotating 

together with the mullion causing excess reaction 

38 RESEARCH ARTICLES ARTICLE 

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Article 

Façade Acoustics and Soundscape Assessment Workshops: 

Implementing Soundscape Criteria in Façade Education 

Alvaro Balderrama 1,2,3 





Abstract 

Having a holistic understanding of the impact that a façade design can have in an urban environment is crucial for 

sustainable development. Façade acoustics traditionally considers sound reduction for indoor environments, 

and although its acoustic effects outdoors are acknowledged, the discipline has no formal requirements to 

analyze their impact. Furthermore, beyond physical acoustics, increasing research indicates that façades can 

also affect people’s perception and experience of sound due to contextual factors, but these are also neglected 

by policy and practice. A conceptual framework to analyze the influence of façades on the urban soundscape 

has been developed in previous studies by the author, and this paper provides the results of a workshop 

focused on integrating these concepts into an academic workshop. A group of fourteen (n = 14) students of 

the MID Façade Design program participated in the workshop with the aim to analyze the effects of individual 

façades on the urban soundscape in different streets of Detmold. First, a soundwalk was conducted to collect 

acoustic and perceptual data in five locations. Then, five groups of students chose façades in those locations 

to examine them. The outcomes reveal that students were capable of applying the conceptual framework of 

façades and urban soundscape successfully to analyze essential aspects. A feedback survey was distributed 

after the activity and the results indicate that the participants found the activity relevant and useful in order 

to improve their façade design skills. Finally, an evaluation of the requirements to apply the framework is 

presented, followed by a discussion with recommendations and limitations of the methodology. 

Keywords: ISO 12913, architecture, sustainability 


Understanding how buildings affect people’s 

health and comfort is essential to tackling some 

of the many issues of urban densification and 

the rising global population. As we approach the 

culmination of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable 

Development (United Nations, 2015), there is an 

increasing need for further efforts and innovation 

since the progress has not been as optimistic as it 

was predicted (United Nations, 2023), in part, due 

to the unfortunate global events of this ongoing 

decade. Particularly, the design of façades plays 

a key role in the impact of architectural projects 

as they are the boundary between indoor and 

outdoor environments, mediating the transfer of 

sound, heat, air and light from one side through 

the other, therefore, are partly responsible energy 

consumption, carbon emissions, and overall 

people’s comfort (Knaack et al., 2007; Klein, 2013; 

Bianchi et al., 2024). 

Regarding the subfield of façade acoustics, the 

traditional approach of building physics considers 

how façades affect sound propagation using 

decibel-based metrics. However, increasing efforts 

in the interdisciplinary research field known as 

“soundscape” have shifted the focus from reducing 

sound levels without accounting for the quality 

of sounds, towards a human-centered approach 

focused on people’s perception and experience of 

sound in context. The International Organization 

for Standardization released a series of standards 

for soundscape research (ISO 12913-1:2014; ISO 

12913-2:2018; ISO/TS 12913-3:2019) that have been 

broadly adopted as an updated approach to sound 

management. 

Façade education is a key parameter in the 

development of the discipline (Knaack, 2023), 

but despite the critical role of sound in people’s 

experience of the built environment, architectural 

practice and policy often neglects acoustics and 

soundscape awareness, leaving professionals 

unequipped to effectively incorporate sound 

considerations due to limited resources and 

strategies (Taralo et al., 2024; Krimm, 2018). A 

systematic literature review focused on façades 

and urban soundscape (Balderrama et al., 2022) 

revealed that the methodologies presented in 

ISO 12913 for soundscape research have not 

yet been explicitly implemented in the façade 

design processes, and bridging the gap between 

soundscape theory and practice is one of the 

main challenges in the field (Aletta and Xiao, 

2018). Addressing this issue, a novel conceptual 

framework of façades and urban soundscape was 

developed (Balderrama et al., 2024) as a tool for 

designers to analyze the potential effects of façades 

on the acoustic environment (physical sound 

propagation) and on the soundscape (people’s 

subjective interpretation of sound) by describing 

four elements: the façade, the context, the acoustic 

environment, and people. Previous iterations of the 

framework of façades and soundscape were tested 

in two prior workshops in Detmold: the first one, in 

October 2022 with three (n = 3) participants, and 

a second edition with fifteen (n = 15) participants 

in January 2023. This article explores the 

implementation of soundscape criteria in façade 

acoustics education through the third iteration of 

the workshop “Façade Acoustics and Soundscape 

Assessment”, offered to the students of the Master 

of Integrated Design in the specialization of façade 

design (MID FD) between October 2023 and January 

2024. An assessment of the workshop results and 

insights into the integration of soundscape criteria 

in façade design education are provided below. 


2.1. Soundwalk for data collection 

On October 25th, 2023, a soundwalk was organized 

in Detmold with the participation of seven (n = 7) 

students from the class Climate and Comfort of the 

MID FD program. A soundwalk is a method used 

to collect data regarding people’s perception of 

sound and experience of the environment (Aletta 

et al., 2016; ISO 12913-2:2018). The procedure was 

based on the guidelines of ISO 12913 but adapted 

as an academic exercise where participants filled 

in a questionnaire in five predefined locations. 

Additionally, a sound level meter class 2 was used 

by the researcher to obtain the continuous sound 

pressure level for those locations at that time. 

The data collected from the questionnaires and 

sound measurements was processed by the 

researcher and visualized in a poster (Figure 1). The 

visualizations were done using Python. A Jupyther 

notebook was created to plot every point of the 

questionnaire used in the soundwalk of October 

25th, 2023. The code was shared in the following 

GitHub repository (Balderrama, 2024). The poster 

was provided to the student groups along with 

an Excel file with the data as the starting point for 

their main task in the workshop: to analyze the 

relationship between façades and the soundscape 

by applying the four-element framework (façade, 

context, acoustic environment, people). 

2.2. Group work: analysis of façade effects 

on the soundscape 

During about two and a half months after the 

soundwalk, the students were able to go back to 

the site and collect further data on the façade 

such as the construction technology, dimensions, 

materials, aesthetics and other features. The 

context was also surveyed, like the time and place 

of the different visits, the presence of people in 

the area, the atmospheric conditions, and the 

physical boundaries in the area, such as the 

roads, sidewalks, vegetation, urban furniture, 

and more. Visiting the site at different times 

of the day and night, as well as different days 

of the week was also encouraged, to be able to 

compare between more situations. In order to 

assess the soundscape again, they could repeat 

the questionnaire, however, the accuracy of the 

results would only rely on one or a few people, 

instead of on seven people that attended the 

soundwalk. 

The questionnaire allowed gathering information 

on sound perception, including identification of 

sound sources, perceived affective quality (PAQ), 

appropriateness, perceived loudness, and overall 

sound quality, plus, one additional question: 

overall visual quality. In particular, soundscape 

scatter plots representing PAQ are among the 

most efficient methods to characterize the 

soundscape (Aletta et al., 2016) by plotting two 

coordinates: Pleasantness and Eventfulness, 

which are derived from eight perceptual 

attributes: “pleasant”, “calm”, “uneventful”, 

“monotonous”, “annoying”, “chaotic”, “eventful”, 

and “vibrant” collected through the questionnaire 

(e.g. from 1 to 5, how pleasant is the acoustic 

environment?). The students were provided with 

an Excel spreadsheet with the formulas of ISO 

12913, in order to easily obtain the coordinates 

of P and E to plot new soundscape assessments 

and compare them to the original soundwalk. The 

Python code described before was also offered in 

case they wanted to explore the tool developed 

for visualizing the questionnaire data. 

The deliverable of the workshop was a poster 

analyzing the four elements of the framework. 

Although the format of the poster was free, a 

suggestion of its content was made (Table 1) to 

orient participants towards the most essential 

factors involved in the effects of façades on the 

acoustic environment and on the soundscape. 

Finally, five groups analyzed the relationship 

between façades and the soundscape of those 

areas. The posters presented on January 17th, 

2024 are shown in the Annex at the end of this 

article. 

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Table 1. Suggested content for analysis of façade influence on the soundscape. 

 

 

 

 

FAÇADE 

• Height: Highest points of the façade. 

• Geometrical complexity: flat; moderate 

protrusions and inclinations; irregular 

• Façade Materials: Description of materials 

used including sound absorption 

coefficients. Vegetation growing along 

the façade is here considered a façade 

material. 

CONTEXT 

• Visits: The date and time of site visits. 

• Atmospheric conditions: Temperature, precipitation, 

wind, sky condition. 

• Street geometry: width to height ratio. 

• Crowd: Presence of people in the area. 

• Traffic: Density and patterns of road, rail and air traffic. 

• Biodiversity: Presence of vegetation and animals in the 

area. 

 

 

 

 

 

“Façades 

Soundscape” 

people’s 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ACOUSTIC ENVIRONMENT 

• Sound Pressure Level: Measurements of the 

sound pressure level in decibels. 

• Frequencies: Analysis of a frequency content 

on a spectrogram 

• Sound source identification: Presence of 

technological, human and natural sounds. 

• Façade exposure diagram: a 2D plot created 

for on-site surveying by having a listener giving 

its back to the façade at a close distance, 

looking outwards in order to analyze the 

direction, distance and movement of the 

sounds that the façade is exposed to. 

PEOPLE 

• Soundscape radar plot: Visualization of the eight 

perceptual attributes of different soundscape 

assessments. 

• Soundscape scatter plot: : Visualization of perceived 

affective quality of different soundscape assessments. 

It is recommended to read the scatter plot and the 

radar plot together to avoid loss of relevant data. 

• Sociodemographic factors: Information of soundscape 

assessment participants (age, gender, country, 

education, occupation). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 1. Poster with results of the soundwalk of October 25, 2023. 

3. Results 

3.1. Qualitative results of workshop outcomes 

The workshop results provided insights into the 

practical application of the framework of façades 

and urban soundscape. In this case, by groups of 

students who had never been exposed to that kind of 

analysis and generally, without previous knowledge 

of acoustics. Regardless of that, participants showed 

good engagement and were able to effectively apply 

the framework in their façade analyses. Overall, the 

level of the poster presentation indicates that the 

learning objectives of the workshop were successfully 

reached with some considerations such as occasional 

confusion over specific terminology used. This could 

suggest that more in-depth introductory sessions 

are needed to provide participants the opportunity 

to familiarize themselves with the key concepts. 

Each of the five locations of the soundwalk was 

assigned to a group of students. The students then 

chose a building at that location and visited the site 

several times on different dates to identify patterns 

in the area as well as the possible effects being 

produced by the façade. 

Three groups visited the site three times after the 

soundwalk, and two groups visited the site again four 

times. Then, each group prepared a poster to present 

their study and explained how the selected façade 

affects the acoustic environment and the soundscape 

of that location. All groups said they used the Excel 

file to obtain the coordinates of Pleasantness and 

Eventfulness to create soundscape scatter plots. 

None of them used the Python code. 

In order to analyze the potential effects of façades 

on the acoustic environment the following 

questions were suggested: (i) how are façade 

geometry and materials reflecting sound from 

sources in this urban context?; (ii) how are façade 

materials absorbing sound in this urban context?; 

(iii) is there any noise being emitted by the façade? 

To analyze the effects of façades on the context it was 

suggested to ask the following questions: (iv) is the 

façade design appropriate for this urban context? 

(v) is the façade making the space more or less 

enclosed?; (vi) is the façade affecting biodiversity in 

the area?; (vii) is there visible mechanical equipment 

installed on the façade? 

Group 1 analyzed the “Riegel” building at the campus 

of TH OWL. They described that all the materials 

are reflective so sound is likely being reflected 

around the façade and no absorption. However, 

they argued that the visible wood of mullions and 

transoms on the inner side, improved the quality 

of the space. The noise generated by the façade’s 

movable shading system was described as annoying 

and monotonous for the location. The sounds of 

children playing at the neighboring kindergarten 

were considered annoying and chaotic. 

Group 2 analyzed the façade of the Sparkasse 

bank located at the intersection of Paulinenstraße 

and Bielefelder Straße. They characterized the 

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area as being very active during office hours and 

mostly empty the rest of the time. It was argued that 

the façade is mostly composed of fully reflective 

materials, except from the climbing plants. The green 

façade seemed to improve perception of loudness 

during the soundwalk since the sound level was 

higher than in the two previous areas but perceived 

loudness was lower. 

Group 3 analyzed the side façade of the 

Sparkasse over Paulinenstraße, which is on a 

narrow street canyon with a high amount of 

traffic during office hours. They argued the 

place was likely louder due to the reflective 

façade materials such as glass, steel and 

concrete. Additionally, it was suggested that the 

soundscape in that location is also negatively 

affected by the feeling of enclosedness and 

lack of direct view of the sky, as well as higher 

perceived reverberation. 

Group 4 analyzed a façade in the Freiligrathstraße, 

adjacent to the main road. They observed the 

calmness and lack of activities, but also the 

absence of natural sounds. The façade is likely 

reflecting sound but the area is not too loud 

anyway. The group pointed out how the façade‘s 

dark appearance and front lawn with roses and 

ivy improved the overall quality of the street. 

Group 5 analyzed the façade in the corner of 

Bandelstraße and Palaisstraße which is mostly 

covered by climbing plants. They discussed that 

even in a calm environment, a green façade like 

that can improve the quality of the environment 

further. Firstly, sound absorption is likely higher 

than any surrounding buildings, but also the 

vegetation enhances the presence of natural 

sounds like birds and wind. 

3.2. Participant’s feedback 

At the end of the semester, an anonymous survey 

including seven Likert scale questions and three 

open-ended questions was distributed to the 

participants. Nine (n = 9) participants provided 

the following feedback: 

• Likert scale questions (Table 2) 

Table 2. Participant’s feedback (n = 9) about their experience at the workshop of façade acoustics and 

soundscape assessment. 

# From 1 (strongly disagree) to 

5 (strongly agree): 

Q1. It is easy to apply this framework to analyze an 

existing façade. 

Q2. The framework can be applied in real-world 

façade design projects. 

Q3. Learning this framework improved my skills for 

façade design. 

Q4. Incorporating this framework in the façade 

design curriculum would have a positive longterm 

impact on overall sustainability. 

Q5. The framework aligns well with the educational 

goals of our façade design program. 

Q6. The workshop made me more aware of the 

importance of acoustics and people’s perception. 

Q7. How would you rate your previous knowledge 

and understanding of acoustics? (before the 

workshop). 

Response 

• Open-ended questions 

Q8. What is your academic background? 

77.8% of the participants said to have a background 

in architecture, 11.1% in engineering, and 11.1% in 

multidisciplinary design. 

Q9. Please describe your overall experience 

analyzing the relationship of a façade and the 

soundscape in the workshop. 

In order to provide an overview of the open-ended 

question, three samples are presented: 

• “Analyzing the relationship between a facade 

and the soundscape in the workshop involved 

examining how the design and materials of the 

building exterior interact with the surrounding 

sounds. It was about understanding how 

sound is transmitted, reflected, or absorbed 

by the facade, and how that affects the overall 

environment. By studying this relationship, I 

can optimize building designs to minimize noise 

pollution or enhance the auditory experience 

within the space.” 

• “It was a good experience. In Bachelors we were 

taught about acoustics but this task was exciting 

and unique. It helped us understand sound 

and its principles in a very simple manner even 

though it is a sophisticated system.” 

• “It was really a good experience to immerse 

myself in the sounds and sensations of the 

environment surrounding the building.” 

Q10. Please provide any additional comments or 

feedback. 

No further feedback was provided beyond a few 

positive comments. 

3.3. Implementation requirements 

The feasibility of applying the framework of façades 

and soundscape in an educational context to 

introduce soundscape criteria in façade education 

was evaluated in a qualitative manner, considering 

the requirements for its implementation in terms 

of (i) technical knowledge of users; (ii) economic 

requirements; (iii) potential risks involved; and (iv) 

industry acceptance. 

i. Technical knowledge to use the framework: After 

the soundwalk and an introductory lecture of two 

hours on the topic, participants were able to explore 

acoustics and soundscape concepts as they do 

with other aspects of building physics within their 

studies (e.g. structural analysis, ventilation, daylight, 

temperature, energy, CO2 and so on), suggesting 

that the framework aligns well with current practices 

in façade design. The survey indicates that most of 

the participants have a background in architecture 

(77.8%) and one person had a background in 

multidisciplinary design. This shows that the 

framework is accessible to several design disciplines 

and not exclusively to people with a background in 

acoustics. 

Regarding the knowledge to use measurement 

and recording equipment, in this case only the 

researcher managed the equipment and later 

delivered the processed data to the participants. 

However, in the case of someone wanting to use 

the framework independently, previous training 

on sound measurements and technical equipment 

would be useful. 

ii. Economic requirements to use the framework: 

While using the framework itself does not involve 

any financial investment, the use of technical 

equipment to improve the fidelity of the results 

leads to additional costs. For example, in the case of 

the soundwalk presented above, the data collection 

was only conducted with questionnaires and a 

sound level meter class 2 with an approximate 

cost of 250 Euros. However, a previous study 

(Balderrama and Al Basha, 2023) applied the 

framework in a virtual reality environment instead 

of a soundwalk, and the costs for the data collection 

equipment including a 360-degree video camera, 

a first-order ambisonics microphone, the same 

sound level meter, and a virtual reality headset 

resulted in significantly higher costs, around about 

1500 Euros, but allowing a more detailed analysis 

like psychoacoustic indi=cators derived from 

ambisonics recordings, and collecting people’s data 

in a controlled environment can also provide some 

benefits. Furthermore, much more sophisticated 

surveying equipment (e.g. sound level meter class 

1 with spectrum visualization, artificial heads for 

binaural recordings, higher-order ambisonics, 

acoustic cameras, among others) could be used to 

increase the level of accuracy, but could also raise 

the budget by a couple of thousands. Therefore, 

applying the framework can always be economically 

viable, but the methodology has to adapt and 

the quality of the results might be compromised. 

For educational workshops, student projects or 

early design stages, a low-cost approach might 

be suitable, and for more detailed studies (e.g. 

research projects, environmental impact report) a 

higher budget might be more suitable. 

iii. Risk Assessment: When planning a data 

collection campaign, considering the risks of 

each specific circumstance is needed. A few risks 

were identified before the workshop, namely, the 

integrity and safety of the students conducting the 

field survey in public spaces, and privacy of external 

people during the site surveys. To mitigate the 

risks, the locations of the soundwalk tried to leave 

enough room for other pedestrians, not blocking 

the way. Additionally, during the soundwalks, a few 

pictures were taken at every stop, however, always 

avoiding to include external people and blur faces 

if necessary. The students were encouraged to 

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take similar measures when surveying the site alone. 

Overall, applying the framework successfully did not 

imply risks beyond general daily life activities with 

some minor considerations. 

iv. Industry Acceptance: The industry and market 

relevance of the framework is promising, particularly 

in sectors related to sustainability where façade 

performance is highly valued. The industry‘s 

growing focus on human-centered design and 

comfortable urban environments enhances the 

framework‘s appeal. However, the lack of regulations 

in acoustics, especially outdoors, neglects the 

possibility of buildings having a negative impact 

on the environment (Krimm, 2018). Additionally, 

The lack of tools and standardized methods to 

assess the relationship between buildings and 

soundscape contributes to the negligence of 

façade influence. Overall, the framework has the 

potential to fill this gap in design practices and 

policy within the construction industry. However, 

further demonstrations of the framework‘s benefits 

in real-world projects will be needed to strengthen 

its acceptance, as well as ongoing updates to keep 

it aligned with evolving industry standards and 

international regulations regarding and building 

physics, acoustics, soundscape, and sustainability. 

4. Discussion 

4.1. Main outcomes 

This paper presented the results of an academic 

workshop where fourteen (n = 14) Master’s students 

of the MID Façade Design program participated, 

applying concepts of building physics along with 

soundscape research for analyzing existing building 

façades. The framework of façades and urban 

soundscape (Balderrama et al., 2024) is composed 

of four elements (façade, context, acoustic 

environment, people), so students collected the 

most essential information to analyze the potential 

effects on the soundscape through the acoustic 

environment or through the context. 

The results show how students understood the 

task aside from some minor limitations, and were 

able to analyze the potential effects on the acoustic 

environment (reflection; absorption; emission) and 

possible effects on the soundscape (e.g. perceived 

loudness, preference of sound sources, effects 

of vegetation). Then, students provided feedback 

regarding the compatibility of the workshop with the 

educational content of the program. 

The main conclusion of the study is that it is feasible to 

integrate soundscape criteria into façade education 

by using the framework of façades and urban 

soundscape. Student workshops, as an academic 

exercise, can provide participants of multiple 

disciplines with the essential information they need 

to develop an understanding of the potential effects 

of façades on urban acoustic comfort. This knowhow 

could be useful from the early design stages 

to detail design, as well as for analyzing existing 

buildings. 

4.2. Recommendations 

This iteration of the workshop followed the plan 

of starting with a group soundwalk followed by 

an introductory lecture and announcing the 

assignment. Then, student groups conducted 

the analysis over two months. This strategy led 

to reaching the learning objectives successfully. 

However, dedicating more time to the theoretical 

concepts beyond the introductory lecture only could 

improve the quality of the outcomes. 

4.3. Limitations 

This research was intended to carry out an academic 

exercise with a small group of students who were 

also participants of the soundwalk. It is assumed 

that the accuracy of the soundscape assessment 

is not highly reliable due to the low number of 

participants (ISO 12913 recommends a minimum 

of 20 people). Nevertheless, the results with a low 

number of participants are still useful to gather data 

to kickstart the academic activity. 

4.4. Ethics approval 

This research is part of the author‘s ongoing 

doctoral thesis „Façades and Urban Soundscape“ 

and has been reviewed and approved by the Human 

Research Ethics Committee of TU Delft. 

5.Acknowledgements 

The author would like to thank the Master‘s students 

of the MID Façade Design program who took part in 

the soundwalk and the workshop. 

6. References 

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 

Aletta, F.; Xiao, J. What are the Current Priorities 

and Challenges for (Urban) Soundscape Research? 

Challenges 2018, 9, 16. https://doi.org/10.3390/ 

challe9010016 

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 

Balderrama, A., Al Basha, H. (2023). Digital workflow 

for soundscape assessment: case study of an 

adaptive façade in Detmold, Germany. Design 

Strategies - Special Issue impulses from teaching 

and research. 

Balderrama, A., Luna Navarro, A., Kang, J. (2024). 

The role of façades in the composition of urban 

soundscapes. International Building Physics 

Conference 2024 – In press 

Balderrama, A. (2024) Digital toolbox for façade 

acoustics and soundscape assessment – Github. 

https://github.com/alvarobalderrama/Digital- 

Toolbox-for-Facade-Acoustics-and-Soundscape- 

Assessment.git 

Bianchi, S., Andriotis, C., Klein, T., Overend, M. (2024). 

Multi-criteria design methods in façade engineering: 

State-of-the-art and future trends. https://doi. 

org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2024.111184 

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— 

Part 3: Data Analysis; International Organization for 

Standardization: Geneva, Switzerland, 2019. 

Klein, T. (2013) Integral Facade Construction. Towards 

a new product architecture for curtain walls. A+BE | 

Architecture and the Built Environment. ISBN 978- 

9461861610 

Knaack, U., Klein, T., Bilow, M., Auer, T. (2007). 

Façades: Principles of Construction. Birkhäuser 

Basel. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7643-8281-0 

Knaack, U. (2023). “History and Future of the EFN”, 

presentation at the European Façade Network 

Conference 2023 in Detmold, https://dcw.idsresearch.de/dcw-2023/ 

Krimm, J. Acoustically Effective Façade. Archit. Built 

Environ. 2018, 16, 1–212. 

Taralo, C., Leclerc, F., Brochu, J., Gustavino, C. (2024) 

Current Approaches to Planning (with) Sound - 

Preprint 

United Nations (2015) Transforming our world: 

the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. A/ 

RES/70/1 

United Nations. The Sustainable Development 

Goals Report, Special Edition. 2023. 

ANNEX – Posters presented by five groups of 

students of the MID Façade Design program. 

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Façade Description 

MID S4 - WS 2023-2024 Façade Acoustics 

and Sustainable Soundscapes Workshop 

Students : Hamad Samara 

Md Mejbah Sakib 

Tahera Rezaie 

Fady Aziz 

Paulinenstraße 34 , Detmold, Germany. 

Commercial Building 

- Orientation: North - East Facade. 

- Height : 3 floors with height 20.80m. 

- Distance from Street : 5 meters. 

- Façade Material : Lime Stone with Curtain walls and Windows. 

The building contain 3 floors, first line on the street, traffic and 

pedestrians contribute significantly to the observed sounds, as 

assessed through the facade analysis. The proposed solution 

seeks to reduce the Sound Transmission Class (STC) while 

enhancing sound absorption, diffusion, and reflection 

characteristics. 

Façade Detail 

-Cover the metallic 

spandral panel woth 

absorpation material with 

diffusing pattern. 

Façade Solutions 

Façade 

Façade Exposure Diagram Sound Pressure Level ( dBA ) Perceived Loudness 

Absorpation Coefficient 

Soundscape Radar Plot 

Soundscape Scatter Plot 

Sound Source Identification 

Street Context Urban Context 

Date and Time of Visit 

Context Description 

Based on the data that we collected by our group mates from our four 

visits, correlated with different conditions, such as temperature, wind, 

weather, distance to collection point, each of which plays a role in 

every results. The building is situated close to the city center along a 

major thoroughfare, exposing it to the primary source of noise 

pollution, including mechanical sounds and crowded areas. 

Sociodemographic data: 

People Description 

Country and Nationalities 

According to the data collected in the 

questionnaire, all respondents are 

individuals holding a bachelor's degree or 

an equivalent qualification. The average 

age of the participants is 27 years, and 

the majority of them are female. The 

predominant countries of origin for the 

participants are Iran and India, while the 

remaining respondents come from 

Germany, Sri Lanka, and Turkey. 

Iran : 28.57% 

Germany : 14.29% 

Sri Lanka : 14.29% 

India : 28.57% Turkey : 14.29% 

Gender Distrbution 

Average Age : 27 University - Bachelor’s 

Degree or Similar 

Education Distribution Ocupation Distribution 

28.57% 71.43% 100% 

Student Employed 

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Article 

x Ubx 

p 

The exterior design of the facade, which dates back a couple of decades, 

showcases a cement plaster finish, giving it a classic and enduring 

appearance. The main entrance is situated on the north side of the 

building, providing easy access for visitors and inhabitants. Additionally, a 

balcony adorns the south facade, offering a space for relaxation and 

enjoyment of the surrounding views. 

 

pW2023-202 

Students: Bahareh Hemmatikhanshir, Yasaman Mostafa 

Vasefjani, Saba Tahan 

One of the most striking features of the building is the lush greenery that 

surrounds it, creating a harmonious and tranquil atmosphere. The 

greenery acts as a natural shield, providing insulation and contributing to 

the building's energy efficiency. Moreover, it adds a unique and visually 

appealing quality to the overall structure, enhancing its aesthetic value. 

2,32756,Gy 

NEPU BRANDSCHUTZ 

ggy Commercial 

TypLime cement plaster on masonry wall 

covered with ivy with doors and windows 

V ph 

 

bp 

x p 

This comprehensive document amalgamates data from six distinct visits, meticulously conducted by our group across various times 

and dates. The richness of the information is intricately interwoven with diverse circumstances, considering factors like temperature, 

wind, sky condition, and distance from the collection point, each contributing to the nuanced out comes.As for the building, gracefully 

nestled in the southern section of the city, it shares proximity with the city center, creating an intersection of urban convenience and 

tranquility. The residential surroundings, a vibrant tapestry of diverse lifestyles, magnetically draw individuals from various walks of 

lifestyles from energetic students to the serene presence of the elderly, each contributing to the dynamic ambiance of the locale. 

 

Expg 

gph 

Eb Opb 

G b 

pRP 

pP 

PLv() 

Average Age: 27 University - Bachelor's 

degree or similar 

Pp p 

yNy 

Evp 

PvL 

Based on the data provided in the 

questionnaire, all participants are 

students with a bachelor's degree or 

equivalent. The average age of the 

participants is 27 years old, and the 

majority are female. Most of the 

participants are from Iran and India, 

with the rest coming from Germany, 

Sri Lanka, and Turkey 

Turkey 

Iran India Germany Sri 

Lanka 

The building is located in a tranquil residential area, providing a peaceful escape 

from the bustling city center. As a result, the main sources of noise pollution are 

limited to sporadic passing cars and mechanical sounds. 

During afternoons, the atmosphere is filled with the gentle hum of conversations 

and the rhythmic sound of activities such as running. However, this serene 

environment can sometimes create a sense of monotony and lack of excitement. 

28.57% 1.29% 1.29% 1.29% 

28.57% 

Solar Façade: Energy Generation with 2.500 m 2 of BIPV 

Melicia Planchart 1 , Stefan Grünsteidl 1 , Augustin Rohr 1 

1. Avancis GmbH, Solarstraße 3, 04860 Torgau, Germany 

Abstract 

Today’s growing BIPV market has marked a general need of BIPV façade solutions. There are yet not 

enough ready-made design tools on the BIPV market, that allows a hybrid between form finding, 

shape optimizations, simulations and fabrication optimization. To achieve a seamless process from 

design to detail planning, a set of computational tools was developed to find customized and 

optimized façade solutions. With this digital approach, the computational design workflow allows 

aesthetic design optimization, to create a shape that relates client’s wishes within the design 

constraints of BIPV, optimizing energetic yields in a free form façade arrangement. Parametric 

design, combined with optimization search algorithms and energy simulation analysis, conforms 

a design workflow toward informed façade design. Active façades using solar energy are also 

optimized to find the best façade disposition within an aesthetics range and client’s expectations. 

The design process uses advanced computational design tools and compares design options using 

solar values over rationalized ratios to enable stakeholders and designers to decide for the best 

optimized and informed design. 

Keywords: Building Integrated Photovoltaics, (BIPV), Solar Façade Design, Form-Finding, Optimization, 

Search Algorithms, Radiation Analysis. 


BIPV façade solutions integrate aesthetic 

and chromatic design, with energetic yield 

and economic values to façade architecture 

projects, towards meeting the current era 

need to becoming a climate neutral continent 

by 2050 [1]. There are many evaluation tools 

for environmental conditions, analysis and 

yield simulations [2], yet free-form BIPV façade 

applications represent a challenge to bring 

PV into facades [3 4]. This requires specific 

attention to provide customized solutions, 

that consider aesthetic design criteria, along 

with economic feasibility and also bring the 

facades PV energetic performance to its 

maximum. From design to planning phases, 

AVANCIS [5] has developed a digital workflow 

integrating design tools and software to plan 

and optimize the disposition of solar panels in 

active façades. 

This paper summarizes part of the technical 

consultancy AVANCIS provided to Leipziger 

Stadtbau for a BIPV façade project for a parking 

house in Leipzig, designed by the architecture 

office Architektur Von Domaros. The preliminary 

architecture façade design from the Architects 

had to be rationalized and reshaped in a way 

that maintained the most of its design essence, 

keeping the aesthetics of a free curvature surface. 

This was possible using a combination of formfinding 

and shape optimization processes, with 

energetic yield analysis techniques that ensured 

highly efficient BIPV facades made of SKALA solar 

panels [6]. 

The BIPV façade project implements computational 

and automation tools in a highly efficient design 

and planning process [47]. These tools help 

designers think in an integrated framework with 

simulation, visualization and the spatialization 

of outcomes. This paper presents an overview 

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53

into the design optimization process and shape 

rationalization to achieve an optimal custom 

shape, active façade composed of solar panels. 


In order to rationalize and optimize the facades 

shape, the boundary conditions that constraint the 

design are set as follow: 

a. Form Rationalization to maintain Parking Haus 

design criteria. 

The preliminary design is a freeform façade element 

composed of several bands in a freeform curve. 

Along with a separation between vertical bands to 

ensure proper air circulation inside the buildings. 

b. Substructure frames optimization 

The second stage of the form finding process led to 

the realization that this customized façade had to 

minimize the number of customized substructure 

elements, to ensure a feasible substructure 

planning. This too had to be rationalized and 

optimized to bring the special substructure elements 

to a minimum and standardize as much as possible. 

c. Panel optimization 

algorithms produce a generative optimized design 

and deliver informed solutions for designers to 

elaborate upon [78]. This methodology allows us 

to understand the qualitative and quantitative 

results of a design process in a holistic approach 

to integrate aesthetics with energetic and 

structural optimizations. 

This was possible using a combination of 

parametric form-finding and shape optimization 

processes using genetic search algorithms, 

with energetic yield analysis techniques using 

parametric software Rhino and Grasshopper 

plugins combined. Grasshopper is a visual 

coding environment that interacts with the Rhino 

modelling space. GA genetic algorithm is a solver 

that creates a population of solutions based on 

genomes – the variables subjected to change - 

that approximate to a fitness value – the desired 

parameters to maximize or minimize [9]. 

A genetic algorithm is solver that uses 

“evolutionary techniques.” This is done by 

generating a population of solutions based on 

genomes (variable subject to change) reacting 

to a fitness (desired parameter to be minimized 

Figure 2. Substructure elements - trusses 

profile abstraction. Kinks produced by 

form-finding process. 

Figure 4. Form Finding - Shape Optimization. 

Possible panel distribution in a random 

disposition of profiles for a free form façade. 


Search algorithm intermediate output to fit profiles 

to freeform curves from the original shape. 

To minimize costs and maximize energy outputs, 

it is a condition the use of maximum possible of 

Skala solar panels in standard sizes, and minimum 

possible passive elements. 


Random disposition of profiles to obtain a 

free-form facade. 

d. Energy yield simulation. 

To ensure the high performance of the PV 

panels, certain criteria had to be met. To start 

the disposition of panels in south, east and west 

facades. And tilt of the panels could achieve a 

better performance in relation to the free form. 

The Skala PV product used in the planning can 

be applied without need of special construction 

permits in surfaces up to 10 degrees facing 

downwards in a façade. This also allows the 

panels to be less exposed to shading and 

assures better yield outputs. The shape from 

finding had to incorporate this condition in it 

design constraints to meet the substructure 

requirement to minimize special custom 

substructure elements. It is constituted a 

series of structural frames in different angles 

that host the Skala panels. The substructure is 

adapted to every panel placement, allocating 

the substructure to the general structure. 

2.1. Form Rationalization 

Rationalization and shape optimization use 

several algorithms that simplify while optimizes 

the design, with a combination of design 

constraint and design goals. Parametric design 

combined with genetic search optimization 

Figure 1. Shape rationalization, 

I. Approximation to original shape. 

II. Optimized shape. 

III. Flat façade solution 

or maximized). An effective solution is found, 

keeping “fit” genomes in a generation and 

breeding them with other favorable genomes in 

the following generation, as well as eliminating 

non-favorable solutions. 

Three approaches to the design shape were carried out. 

I. First a rationalization of the desired shape, a 

parametric model that approximates to the client‘s 

wishes and the architect’s proposal. 

II. Second, an optimized shape, using the formfinding 

search algorithm to meet the highest 

energetic values without sacrificing PV panels to a 

shade and minimizing use of passive elements. This 

design accommodates the panels under 10 degrees 

of inclination and takes advantage of radiation a flat 

façade and the original freeform approximation. 

III. Third a flat standard solution to serve as a reference 

for the optimized and the complex solution. 

2.2. Substructure frames Optimization 

Being the optimization tool a genetic search 

algorithm GA, the solver modifies the parametric 


Search algorithm near to final output to fit profiles 

to freeform curves from original shape 

Figure 7. Form Finding - Shape Optimization. Search 

algorithm final output to fit profiles to freeform 

curves from original shape 

54 

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55

model, created from the shape rationalization. 

After the fitness function evaluation, the solver 

modifies the disposition of the elements to 

find the best approximation to the given free 

form curve. Because it is an evolutionary solver 

it creates a population of solutions and finds 

the numerical best fit. It is known to designers 

this might not be the best aesthetical fit but 

approximates already very much an optimized 

solution [9]. 

The designed and implemented optimization 

search algorithm uses an abstraction of the 

profile for the trusses for the substructure 

elements. The search is set to find the optimal 

angles for the kinks in the substructure without 

overpassing 10-degree angle for the downward 

facing panels. And iterate through the possible 

combinations of a given number of trusses, ten 

(10) was the parameter of different truss to shape 

as substructure elements. 

Table 1: Truss substructure element types and 

amounts found in main building design 

Figure 8. Form Finding - Shape Optimizations. 

Curves are described by optimized shape that 

approximate initial free-form curves. 

Figure 9. Original shape rationalization, with 

description of freeform curves. 

Combined with a search for optimal angles 

in the trusses profile kinks to fit the desired 

curve. The fitness for the optimization uses a 

combination of signalling visualization in red for 

the underperforming solutions and in blue when 

the fitness values where reached. Therefore, blue 

lines describe truss abstract profiles that are 

within fitness function results. Hhaving Galapagos 

modify a parametric model which had initial 

randomly generated variables for the genomes. 

After structural analysis, Galapagos was tasked 

with changing the form in order to minimize the 

overall displacement of the structure. Being 

an evolutionary solver, Galapagos creates a 

“population” of solutions and eliminates noneffective 

offspring to continue breeding effective 

offspring through multiple generations. This 

means that solutions found through Galapagos 

were best fit to the program, but were not 

necessarily an absolute perfect solution, as that 

could take hundreds of generations to find. This 

also means solutions vary based on the beginning 

placement of genomes before populations are 

created. However, after comparing Galapagos 

to what was intuited and what are known 

structural solutions, there is a strong case 

to be made that Grasshopper, Karamba, and 

Galapagos can be used effectively in engineering 

practice to create both beautiful and efficient 

structures. 

Figure 13. panels distribution optimization. 

Blue colored panels represent minimized 

passive elements 

Figure 14. Final Optimized shape 

Figure 10 Form Finding - Shape Optimization. 

Profile curve disposition creates a pattern and 

a curve, aligned with top curve to approximate 

initial free-form. 

Figure 15. Solar radiation simulations on the 

rationalized façade solution I. 

Figure 16. Solar radiation simulations on the 

optimized shape façade solution II 

Figure 11. Kinks produced by form-finding 

process. 

Figure 12. Optimized façade section 

overview. Letters show substructure 

elements positions 

Figure 17. Comparison of Solar radiation simulations of the different façade solutions 

56 

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57

Table 2. Energy analysis output, comparison between three façade shape solutions 

Envelopes to Actively Provide Renewable Energy - a 

Review and Outlook 

The resulting curve described by the profile 

lines is outlined to compare with the original 

shape and asses aesthetically the shape. The 

optimized output describes yet a straight curve, 

and a need to include freedom to the curve is 

done by shifting the profiles in the vertical axis. 

The solution was found through adaptation 

to a top curve and the repetition and rotation 

of standardized substructure elements that 

describe the curves with the kinks. The final 

optimization rationalized the substructure 

elements in such a way that they describe a 

pattern, a combination of initial 1o frames 

that then rotate and mirror to achieve the 

final rationalized vertical frames. This way the 

number of repeated elements is maximized and 

the number of special elements is minimized 

and taken into consideration to achieve a special 

character to the curves according to design 

criteria and requirements. The special frames 

and the corners allow to evoque uniqueness to 

the emergence of the surface’s special traits. 

To reduce the amount of customized 

substructure frames or trusses the design used 

a maximum of 10 elements and placed them 

sequentially in a pattern that describes a curve. 

Nevertheless, to achieve the likeliness to the 

preliminary shape, this could not be done by 

hand without losing optimal design conditions. 

2.3. Panel Optimization 

The amount of standard sizes was maximized, 

and minimum possible passive elements. At 

the same time, creating sets of special sizes 

and avoiding single modules. Additionally, the 

design uses the smallest dimensional Skala 

panel that can be produced and operates freely 

with the dimensions to achieve a free form with 

restricted sizes, using scalable panels from 

standard sizes to customs and uses the minimal 

possible of dummies with sizes in ranges of the 

30 cm panel size (Figure. 13). 

The structural and shape optimizations 

produced 10 types of substructure frames and 

fewer special size (Table 1). 

The elements are repeated and adjusted to 

the guide curve to provide the free-form effect 

desired. (Figure. 10) 

2.4. Energy simulation 

Consequently, panels with lower inclination 

also receive more irradiance, a comparison 

between the original shape and the optimized 

shape proposal for Solar irradiation shows the 

improvement in the performance of the panels 

with the optimized freeform solution. (See 

Figures 15-17) 

3. Results 

Energy calculations where performed to 

compare the 3 different scenarios. The analysis 

considers the original shape rationalization, the 

optimized shape and a standard solution flat 

surface with Skala color grey Anthracite G001. 

The original shape is the first approximation 

to the freeform shape that the rationalization 

produced, the optimized shape and a flat façade 

to serve as a comparison point as a standard 

solution. Consequently, the performance ratio 

of the optimized solution exceeds 5.4% over the 

flat solution, and 8.7% over the original shape. 

4. Conclusions 

This project combined state-of-the-art PV panels 

with advanced computational methods in the 

design and planning phases for the BIPV market. 

Computational tools were used to support 

an informed design that adapts to individual 

requirements of a climate-friendly façade 

solution with a desired free-form shape. This 

project shows the use of computational tools 

to produce a design that adapts to a free-form 

shape incorporating the boundary limitations of 

Skala solar modules and structural limitations. 

This digital workflow allows s and stakeholders 

to make informed decisions in relation to design 

costs and yield expectations, optimizing the use 

of solar energy in building envelopes. 

5. References 

1. European Commission (2022). The 2030 targets. 

https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/renewableenergy/renewable-energy-directive-targets-andrules/renewable-energy-targets_en 

[accessed 06 

-08-2022] 

2. Cremers, Jan. (2017). The Potential of Building 

3. Wijeratne, W.P.U., Yang, R.J., Too, E. and Wakefield, 

R., (2019). Design and development of distributed 

solar PV systems: Do the current tools work?. 

Sustainable cities and society. vol. 45, pp. 553-578 

4. Lastra, Alberto. (2021). Architectural Form-Finding 

Through Parametric Geometry. Nexus Network 

Journal. 24. 10.1007/s00004-021-00579-4. 

5. AVANCIS Gmbh, https://www.avancis.de/en/ 

magazine/interview-history https://www.avancis.de 

[accessed 06 -08-2022] 

6. AVANCIS Gmbh, SKALA solar panels datasheet, 

https://www.avancis.de/_Resources/Persistent/0/ 

f/0/d/0f0d7768d235409c2ee9f7446b8de54c 

2d931107/SKALA_Datenblatt_DE_220725.pdf 

[accessed 06 -08-2022] 

7. Pugnale, Alberto. (2014). Form-finding. SN - 978- 

8895315300 

8. Karadağ, Derya & Bolca, Pelin. (2018). Computational 

Design Tools in Architectural Education. 

9. Goldenberg, Michael & Coburn, Nick. (2019). 

Topology and Form Finding via Genetic Algorithms. 

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4. MID DESIGN CONCEPTS 

MATERIALS SURFACES AND SECURITY 

Prof. Daniel Arztmann 

Assignment: Advanced Façade Construction 

The module MID S6 in the winter term 

2023/2024 aimed to provide specific knowledge 

in the design and detailing of advanced façade 

constructions. The assignment is separated into 

the following tasks: 

Task 1 

Look for an existing project with an advanced 

façade construction. This can be a façade that is 

outstanding in technical or geometrical terms, 

such as: building height, wind loads, seismic forces, 

local exposition, security aspects (bomb blast, 

bullet resistance, fire protection), materiality, 

special structure (cable structure, truss structure), 

special/complex geometry. 

Analyze the façade and prepare a presentation 

with the most important features that make this 

façade in your perspective “outstanding and 

advanced”. 

Final Deliverables: 

• Presentation (15 minutes) 

• Written description of the chosen project and 

façade analysis (300 – 350 words) 

• Design approach for the updated façade 

construction 

• Set of architectural drawings for the updated 

façade design (horizontal and vertical section, 

partial elevation) 

• Detail drawings of the relevant façade sections 

on a scale 1:1 

• Physical mockup of 1 general façade detail 

Task 2 

Design and detail an up-to-date version of 

this façade while maintaining the original 

appearance. Further details will be discussed in 

the course of the semester. 

60 IDS REPORT ON SUSTAINABLE FAÇADES 

MID DESIGN CONCEPTS 


61

MID Design Concepts 

JTI Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland 

Meltem Durmus, Hiruy Tekeste, Abdelrahman Badr 

The design of the Closed Cavity Façade (CCF) 

at the JTI headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland 

represents a pinnacle in double skin façade 

innovation. Comprising a double or triple glazing 

unit on the inner layer and single glazing on the 

outer layer, this system creates a sealed nonventilated 

cavity, augmented by an automated 

shading device nestled within. 

To ensure optimal performance, a meticulous 

environmental analysis was undertaken using 

Ladybug tools in Grasshopper. This analysis 

scrutinized the yearly incident radiation on both 

the west and east facades. Furthermore, the 

unique triangular and sloped glass panels of the 

outer glazing were studied for various orientations 

and slopes to ascertain the most advantageous 

configuration for the project. 

the roller blinds due to elevated cavity temperatures. 

As a preventive measure, mechanically fixed roller 

blinds were proposed. 

The culmination of this process involved the 

development of a Grasshopper script to model 

the entire building and façade panels, facilitating 

preliminary renderings and ensuring the realization 

of a cutting-edge architectural vision. 

Following the environmental assessment, the 

façade underwent meticulous dimensioning. 

Beginning with a foundational boxed aluminum 

profile, the system was meticulously divided to 

meet both thermal and construction prerequisites. 

The exterior glass surface, bolstered by gaskets, 

served as the weather barrier, while triple glazing 

and thermal breaks were integrated into the profile 

design to act as thermal barriers. The interior panel 

surface fulfilled the role of the air barrier. Preliminary 

structural and thermal analyses were conducted on 

the mullion and transom aluminum extruded profile 

frames and glass elements, including connections, 

using advanced software such as THERM. 

System design commenced with detailed 

consideration of aluminum profile sections, 

accounting for extrusion dimensions, gasket grooves, 

glass slopes, corner connections, reinforcement, 

vertical insert profiles, and internal glass replacement 

options. High-performance materials, including low-e 

coated triple glazing for the internal skin and laminated 

glass for the outer skin, were selected. Automated 

shading featuring white textile was incorporated, with 

special attention paid to preventing detachment of 

62 





63

Partial Elevation 

Hard insulation 

Aluminium Sheet 

503 

603 161 

4200 

Insulation soft 

158.8 mm 

4000 


159 

Silicon 

Roller Blind 

287 

988 

477 

411 

89.8° 

80 

269 

cap Extenstion Profile Triple Glazing 

Single Glazing 

320 89 

44 

Glass Rebate 

Silicon Joint 

Seal 

6.42 mm 

47 

Aluminium Profile 

67 

91 

177 

16 

84 

10 

29 

113 

Gasket 

Soft Material 

34 


320 89 44 

10 

29 

90 

253 

cap 

Extenstion Profile 

343 

Triple Glazing 

Single Glazing 

Silicon Joint 

Glass Rebate 

Aluminium Profile 

Gasket 

67 

48 

Roller Blinder 

Fixing Bracket 

158 

154 

572 

198 

Screed 

Spanderal Area 

285 

1000 

73 

Air supply 

Roller blind motor 


104.33 mm 

257 


163.21 mm 

Membrane 

2/2351 mm 

Window Profile 

3000 3000 3000 

1:10 

274 

1267 

Spanderal Area 

64 





65


Montparnasse: Paris, France 

Ahmet Faruk Çakır, Murat Gül 

Montparnasse is a skyscraper in Paris, built in 1973. 

Its architects are Jean Saubot, Eugène Beaudouin, 

Urbain Cassan and Louis de Hoÿm de Marien. The 

building is 210 meters high. It has 40,000 m² of 

façade and 7200 windows. The building was criticized 

by Parisians for many years. It can be said that the 

building is a singular element in its neighborhood. 

The municipality of Paris opened a competion for 

the restoration of the building and the winners‘ 

design was planned to be realized. However, the 

project was suspended for financial reasons. 

The existing façade of Montparnasse is constructed 

with I-section vertical bar elements. These 

I-sections protrude outwards and have a more 

planar appearance from the inside. The façade 

shows effects such as aging, surface deterioration 

and scratching on the glass. Our goal was to create 

new areas of exploration for ourselves as engineers 

as well as a design expectation. For this reason, 

we planned to design a double facade system. We 

envisioned that the absence of any solar barrier 

around the building would allow the effective use 

of the double facade system. As a result of deep 

exercises on the double façade system, we found it 

appropriate to use the compartmentalized corridor 

type double façade. 

We reached this conclusion by considering parameters 

such as fire, sound and performance output. We 

encountered a lot of problems that needed to be 

solved and examined the project examples in the 

sector in depth. In order to ensure that the secondary 

facade is carried in the panel facade system, we 

designed a galvanized box carrier connected to the 

anchorage. In this way, we supported the secondary 

facade from the sides and bottom and transferred 

the load to the main structure. 

wings. External shading is one of the most important 

issues. To solve this problem, we placed the shade 

right in the middle of the ventilation units. In this 

way, we prevented the air heated in front of the 

shade from escaping and the heat coming from the 

shade to the interior glass. 

Although there is an angular paneling in the plan, flat 

panels are preferred since the angle does not exceed 

1 and 1.5 degrees. At the corners, we solved three 

different corners: outward facing opaque, inward 

facing opaque and outward facing transparent. 

Staggered Duct Installation 

Air Exchange Mechanism 

Unitized Double Skin — how exactly our design is working? 

Another situation we need to solve is to close the 

ventilation of the secondary façade during storms 

or cold conditions. Although we have developed 

different solutions for this, we decided to develop 

a movable and gasketed insulation for the outer 

66 





67

Manufacturing Process of Second Skin 

Dynamic Behaviour of Flaps 

68 




69


35XV: New York, USA 

Sky exposure plane 

Priyanka Bamble, Najmeh Najafpour 




The focus of the project was on enhancing details 

or updating the details of an existing building, 

with a particular emphasis on encountering 

challenges that would foster a learning experience. 

Consequently, the choice led us to a notable 

building in Manhattan. 

Our focus initially centered on crafting an inclined 

unit, considering profile connections and optimizing 

unit-to-slab connections for easier installation 

through bracket modifications. Subsequently, we 

tackled the challenge of seamlessly integrating 

inclined and straight facade segments. 

Diagram of the reason behind inclination 

35XV, a residential tower in Manhattan designed 

by FXCollaborative, boasts a sleek facade and 

innovative architecture that seamlessly integrates 

with the urban surroundings, offering residents 

panoramic views of the city. Its modern design 

incorporates sustainable features, demonstrating 

a commitment to both style and environmental 

responsibility. This architectural masterpiece stands 

as a testament to contemporary design excellence 

in the heart of New York City. 

Throughout the process, all profiles underwent 

thorough calculations to optimize design, aiding in 

subsequent modifications by reducing profile sizes 

to a certain extent. Finally, adjustments were made 

to refine the details, though it‘s worth noting that 

like any design project, further investigation and 

refinement of details would benefit this endeavor. 

Our agenda centered on selecting a building with 

unique architectural aspects, particularly those 

that present challenges in facade detailing. In this 

case, the building confronts a 20-degree incline on 

opposing sides, presenting an intriguing challenge 

for our project. Given its height and inward 

inclination, it posed a significant undertaking. 

Unitized facade detailing became the focal point of 

our project, specifically addressing the complexities 

posed by such a steep incline. 

In the first phase, environmental factors were 

carefully assessed, and natural forces such as 

wind load and dead load were calculated. These 

calculations guided the selection of the most 

appropriate profile for the primary stages of the 

modifications. 

Distance of bracket to bracket= 3.3 m 

35XV - Manhattan 

Inclined unitized facade Connection to the slabs 

Distance of bracket to bracket= 3.5 m 

The initial hurdle was to grasp and apply the concept 

and principles of the unitized facade to its modified 

rendition. Understanding the connection between 

horizontal and vertical profiles at corners was crucial, 

followed by deliberation on installation methods. 

Had the inclination been outward, the challenge 

might have been lessened, but inward inclination 

heightened concerns about water penetration. 

Design calculation for wind Load 

70 





71

SLAB LINE 

SLAB LINE 

TRANSOM LINE 

TRANSOM LINE 

SLAB LINE 

SLAB LINE 

1 449.8134 

1 449.8134 

SLAB LINE 

SLAB LINE 

2 00.0000 

2 53.5330 

2 00.0000 

2 53.5330 

2 00.0000 

TRANSOM LINE 

2 00.0000 

TRANSOM LINE 

SLAB LINE 

SLAB LINE 

TRANSOM LINE 

TRANSOM LINE 

SLAB LINE 

SLAB LINE 

SLAB LINE 

SLAB LINE 

TRANSOM LINE 

TRANSOM LINE 

SLAB LINE 

SLAB LINE 

50 

49 

50 

49 

171 

50 

2 

171 

49 

50 

2 

49 

179 

250 

179 

248 

250 

248 

50 

49 

50 

49 

50 

49 

50 

49 

171 

103 

2 

171 

103 

2 

179 

250 

179 

248 

250 

248 

SECTION SECTION 

1000.00 

FINISHED FLOOR LEVEL 

24 MM TGU GLASS 

171 

1000.00 

EPDM GLASS GASKET 

COVER PLATE 

PRESSURE PLATE 

EPDM GASKET 

SCHÜCO AF UDC 80 FEMALE TRANSOM 

MODIFIED VERSION (INCLINED) 


SMOKE BARRIER 

50 

49 

1600.00 

FIRE STOP 

179 

248 

1600.00 

HOOK BRACKET 

PEDESTAL 

250 

ANCHOR BOLT M12 HSA GALVANISED 

STEEL BASEPLATE 

700.00 

130 MM SOFT 

INSULLATION 

SUSPENDED CEILING STAND 

700.00 

2 MM METAL SHEET 

SDUSPENDED CEILING 

1450.00 

1450.00 

1450.00 

24 MM TGU LAMINATED GLASS 

Detail3- Inclined facade - section 

1450.00 

1450.00 

1450.00 

FINISHED FLOOR LEVEL 


plan- section _ elevation of the inclined units 


COVER PLATE 


EPDM GASKET 


MODIFIED VERSION (INTERSECTION) 


HOOK BRACKET 

39 

50 

171 

95 

2 

EPDM GASKET 

STEEL L-BRACKET 

179 

EPDM GASKET 


MODIFIED VERSION (INCLINED) 

RCC FLOOR 

PEDESTAL 

STEEL BASEPLATE 

ANCHOR BOLT M12 HSA GALVANISED 

250 

231 

47 

2 

103 

EPDM GASKET 

SUSPENDED CEILING STAND 

47 

CURTAIN WALL 

130 MM SOFT INSULLATION 

6 

4 

4 

4 

6 

EPDM GASKET 

170 

EPDM GLAZING GASKET 


ALUMINIUM TGU GLASS SPACER 

TRIPLE GLAZING 


MULLION COVER CAP 

Detail1- Inclined horzontal profile- section and 3D 

2 MM METAL SHEET 

SDUSPENDED CEILING 


Detail 4- Juction of the inline and straight profile - section 

EPDM GASKET 

EPDM GASKET 

SCHÜCO AF UDC 80 FEMALE TRANSOM MODIFIED VERSION 

(INTERSECTION) 

49 

2 

95 

EPDM GASKET 

39 

4 4 4 

6 

6 

170 

EPDM GASKET 



ALUMINIUM TGU GLASS SPACER 


MULLION COVER CAP 

TRIPLE GLAZING 

Detail 2- Juction of the inline and straight profile - section and 3D 

Detail 3 

Detail 4 

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Dockland Office Building: Hamburg, Germany 

Aysegül Gürleyen, Rodolph Naalabend 

The seven-story Dockland office building stands 

proudly atop 3,000 square meters of recently 

reclaimed land along the Elbe. Drawing inspiration 

from maritime themes, the architects at Bothe 

Richter Teherani envisioned a design reminiscent 

of shipbuilding. Completed in 2005, the form of 

the parallelogram-shaped building reflects the 

majestic bow of a ship floating on the river. With 

its fully glazed façade, it makes this association by 

using a 66-degree slope 47 metres above the river. 

To counteract horizontal forces along the „long“ 

axis, steel compression and tension members are 

prominently displayed on the north and south 

double-skin facades. 

In the project, the facade of the building extending 

to the Elbe at an angle of 66 degrees was taken into 

consideration. The existing facade is approximately 

18 meters wide and extends at an angle for 45 

meters. This façade is divided into 11 sections 

horizontally and 3 sections vertically on each floor. 

There are spandrel glasses in front of the slabs. 

to window profiles from inside the building. As 

a window system, Jansen Arte 66 system was 

preferred because it will be compatible with the 

VISS system and has a narrow face. 

Although the facade is not exposed to direct 

sunlight due to its angle, it causes glare from time 

to time due to the angle made by the sun during 

the day. Schüco Integral Master sunshading system 

was preferred because it has a narrow face and also 

works integrated with the window. 

Due to the angle of the facade, special angled 

anchors were designed in order to connect the 

facade panels to the slabs and the connections 

welded into the facade steel profiles were mounted 

to these anchors. Fire resistant aluminum 

composite panels were used on the upper and 

lower ends of the facade. 

In the reinterpreted façade, it was aimed to reduce 

the horizontal divisions to 9, and the vertical 

divisions between the slabs were divided into 3. 

Insulated panels were preferred in front of the 

slabs in terms of lightness considering the angle 

of the facade. It was decided to make the facade 

with a steel stick system due to the weight of the 

glass and facade profiles in terms of load bearing. 

Considering the relationship of the building with 

the Elbe River, all steel profiles and anchors to be 

used on the facade were decided to be used as 

hot dip galvanized steel for corrosion protection. 

As a profile system, Jansen VISS Basic system was 

preferred as it is compatible with standard steel 

profiles. 

The assembly phase plays an important role 

in the facade design. In order to facilitate 

the assembly, the facade was designed to be 

prefabricated and assembled in sections and 

then the glasses were designed to be assembled 

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One World Trade Center: New York, USA 

Ghazaleh Valipour, Lama Ibrahim 

One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom 

Tower, is an iconic skyscraper located in Lower 

Manhattan, New York City. One World Trade Center 

is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, 

soaring to a height of 541 meters including its 

antenna. It comprises 104 floors above ground, 

with a striking design that blends cutting-edge 

architecture with nods to the original Twin Towers. 

Completed in 2013, it serves as a hub for business, 

commerce, and tourism, featuring office spaces, an 

observation deck, restaurants, and more. 

The unitized facade system of One World Trade 

Center is a modern construction technique that 

involves prefabricating curtain wall panels offsite 

into modular units. These units are then 

transported to the construction site and installed 

onto the building‘s steel frame structure. 

The facade panels of One World Trade Center are 

not purely vertical but are angled slightly inward 

as they ascend. This subtle tapering effect helps to 

visually unify the building‘s form while also improving 

aerodynamic performance and wind resistance. 

integration between typical façade components 

such as insulated external glazing, an internal screen, 

and the building’s mechanical ventilation system. 

Offering a dynamic solution, the ACT Facade enables 

precise control over both heat gains and exterior 

views. Its performance significantly surpasses that 

of traditional interior glare protection screens. 

Remarkably, its streamlined design requires fewer 

materials during production, thus minimizing 

environmental impact. 

Moreover, for the design of a high-rise building in 

New York City which is subject to hurricanes and 

high wind pressure, some considerations should 

be taken into account. One of them is the drainage 

issue for the façade as it is inclined upwards. For 

that, the transom should be customized which 

creates a challenge for the corner connection of the 

unitized façade. A new connection method also was 

introduced to tackle this issue. 

The facade of One World Trade Center mainly 

consists of glass panels, offering reflective surfaces 

that mirror the surrounding skyline. While this 

reflective feature enhances the building‘s visual 

appeal, it has also posed challenges for its 

surroundings. Particularly, at different times of 

the day and under varying lighting conditions, 

the reflective surfaces have caused issues for 

nearby buildings and pedestrians due to glare and 

excessive brightness. 

To mitigate the sun glare issue caused by the 

reflective surfaces of One World Trade Center, an 

ACT (Active Cavity Transition) system was proposed. 

the Active Cavity Transition (ACT) Facade has 

been introduced as a further development of the 

conventional double skin façade. ACT Facade is 

an adaptive façade system that is comprised of an 

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20 Fenchurch Street: London, England 

Amrani Chemseddine, Harishankar Kallepalli 

In London‘s dynamic cityscape, the 20 Fenchurch 

Street skyscraper, affectionately known as 

the „Walkie Talkie,“ epitomizes the challenges 

and innovations of urban development and 

architectural design. This distinctive building, with 

its unique facade and geometry, has become the 

focus of a student project exploring the intricate 

challenges of designing building facades in today‘s 

urban environments and proposing solutions to 

these issues. 

The „Walkie Talkie“ features a full-glazed facade 

utilizing a unitized curtain wall system, accentuated 

by vertical fins on its east and west facades. Its 

design includes concave facades facing north and 

south, and convex facades to the east and west, 

contributing to the building‘s visual identity and 

sparking discussions on the impact of innovative 

architecture in densely populated areas. 

Despite its acclaim, the building faced criticism 

for unintended consequences of its design. The 

south-facing parabolic facade concentrated 

sunlight onto the streets below at certain times, 

raising temperatures and causing damage. This 

„Walkie-Scorchie“ phenomenon underscored the 

unexpected challenges of avant-garde designs. 

demonstrating the detailed problem-solving 

modern architecture demands. 

The installation of horizontal louvers, while 

addressing the sunlight reflection issue, introduced 

thermal bridging challenges, highlighting the 

delicate balance between solving one problem 

and potentially creating another. This aspect 

of the project emphasized the importance of 

careful consideration and innovative thinking in 

architectural design. 

This exploration of the „Walkie Talkie“ and its design 

challenges contributes to a broader conversation 

about integrating bold architectural designs into 

urban landscapes. It showcases the need for 

foresight, innovation, and adaptability in developing 

buildings that not only make a statement but 

also harmonize with their surroundings and the 

communities within them. Through this project, the 

complexities of modern urban facade design are 

brought to light, offering insights and solutions for 

future architectural endeavors. 

Diego Delso (CC BY) 

The project explored solutions to mitigate 

these negative impacts while preserving the 

building‘s architectural vision. Options like 

anti-reflective coatings and tinted glass were 

considered, but horizontal louvers were chosen 

for their effectiveness and minimal aesthetic 

disruption. This solution exemplified the need 

for balancing functionality with architectural 

significance. 

Addressing the curtain wall‘s design challenges, 

especially due to the building‘s unique shape, 

required custom solutions like specially 

designed gaskets and corner units. These 

adaptations ensured water tightness and 

integrated the complex facade geometries, 

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5. EVENTS PAST EVENTS 

Detmold Conference Week 2023 

Detmold, November 14th-16th, 2023 https://dcw.ids-research.de/ 

• DCW 2023 - Day 1: Wandel oder nur Krise? 

/ Transformation or just crisis? 

The first conference day opened with words by 

Prof. Dr. Uta Pottgiesser and Prof. Oliver Hall, 

centered on the theme of change in the face of 

crises. Prof. Dr. Klaus Schafmeister explored 

the conditions necessary for effective change, 

highlighting the gap between knowledge and 

action. Prof. Dr. Jörg Felmeden discussed 

transforming water management systems, and 

learning from water crises. The session then 

shifted to circularity and heritage. Christine Kousa 

focused on post-war preservation in Aleppo, 

and Dr. Anica Dragutinovic discussed the role of 

spatial images and collective memory in urban 

planning. The day concluded with a panel debate 

and an evening lecture on residential medicine by 

Prof. Dr. Manfred Pilgramm 

• DCW 2023 Day 2: Wohnmedizinisches 

Symposium - „Lärm“ / Residential 

Medicine Symposium - „Noise“ 

The second conference day was a deep dive 

into environmental noise management, with the 

contributions of with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christoph 

Nolte and Dipl.-Ing. Jürgen Lange discussing the 

evolution of standards in sound insulation against 

external noise, including practical applications 

in external wall constructions. Prof. Dr. Malte 

Kob of Erich-Thienhaus-Institut of the HfM - 

Detmold University of Music explored the impact 

of room acoustics on sound quality, referencing 

key standards and offering solutions to acoustic 

challenges. 

The focus shifted in the afternoon to sustainability, 

with discussions on the use of moors and cattails as 

sustainable building materials, featuring insights 

from Prof. Dr. Heinrich Wigger, Friedel Heuwinkel 

and Maximilian Rentz. The day concluded with 

Ulrich Burmeister addressing the role of moors 

in climate protection, emphasizing the need 

for education and sustainable management 

strategies. 

• DCW 2023 Day 3: European Facade Network 

Conference: History and Future of Façades 

https://www.europeanfacadenetwork.eu/event/save-thedate-european-facade-network-conference-in-detmold/ 

Celebrating 15 years of the Façade Design Master 

program, the EFN Conference was held once again 

in Detmold, opening with words of Prof. Dr. Uta 

Pottgiesser, followed by the keynote speakers. Prof. 

Dr. Ulrich Knaack who was involved in the creation 

of the Master of Façade, as well as the creation of 

the former ConstructionLab (later merged into 

the Institute for Design Strategies) provided an 

overview of the history of the EFN and its progress 

throughout the past decade. Next, Oliver Hans 

talked about current industry trends with a focus on 

the reduction of embodied carbon. 

The second session entitled Innovation in the 

Façade Industry included presentations by Prof. 

Dr. Linda Hildebrand, Susanna Noureddine, and 

Dima Othman, focusing on glass, timber, and other 

sustainable façade elements. 

The afternoon session focused on sustainable 

development with insights on the conservation of 

non-iconic modern buildings by Prof. Dr. Andreas 

Putz, followed by Dr. Holger Strauss discussing the 

implementation of the Sustainable Development 

Goals in the façade industry. Then, the importance 

of integrating historical and environmental 

considerations in façade design was discussed by 

Prof. in Dr. Aslıhan Ünlü and İdil Erdemir Kocagil. 

The last session included a talk about future 

façade technologies by Paul Denz, followed by 

Alvaro Balderrama presenting the first edition of 

„Sustainable Façades“, a new Special Issue of the 

Design Strategies magazine of TH OWL. Then, Prof. 

Daniel Arztmann discussed the Vitruvian Honors and 

Awards from the Façade Tectonics Institute. Finally, 

the event concluded and the conference speakers 

were invited to Strate’s Brauhaus, a traditional local 

restaurant in the historical city center of Detmold. 

86 DOKUMENTATION - KM EXKURSION EVENTS 


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Aslıhan Ünlü & İdil Erdemir Kocagil (Ozyegin University) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photos: Florian Zander 

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UPCOMING EVENTS 

Façade Fabrication Workshop at Schüco 

The Future Envelope 15: Circularity Now! 

Bielefeld, December 7th, 2023 

Students of the third semester of the MID 

Façade program participated in a theoretical 

and hands-on workshop at Schüco in 

Bielefeld, offering valuable insights into façade 

innovations. 

The day started with a lecture focusing on Addon 

Construction (AOC) system, the Grid to Shell 

(G2S) system for free-form architecture, and 

the FACID (Flexible Façade) system. 

Following the lecture, they participated in 

hands-on activities in the workshop area of 

Schüco, building mock-up physical models of 

AOC, and learning assembly techniques such 

as cutting gaskets and applying adhesives. 

Additionally, nodes and connections for G2S 

profiles were examined. 

Finally, students visited the Welcome Forum; 

Schüco’s showroom which showcases the 

latest technology and systems available in the 

market. 

Conference on Building Envelopes 

Delft, May 28th, 2024 

Info: FutureEnvelope-BK@TUDelft.nl 

https://www.tudelft.nl/bk/over-faculteit/ 

afdelingen/architectural-engineering-andtechnology/organisatie/leerstoelen/design-ofconstruction/conferences/future-envelope-15 

The Faculty of Architecture and the Built 

Environment at TU Delft will host The Future 

Envelop 15: Circularity Now! conference focused 

on sustainable and circular building envelopes. 

FE15 will focus on the status quo of research 

related to circular building products but also on 

ways of accelerating and scaling up the transition. 

Building products are the basic components of 

the built environment and thus central to the 

circular transition. 

Detmolder Räume 2024 

Photos: Najmeh Najafpour 

Detmold, 3-7th June, 2024 

Info: https://www.detmolddesigntransfer.online/ 

detmolder-raeume 

Workshop: Façade Re-Form 

Following this year‘s theme of the Detmolder 

Räume: „Re-Form“, a workshop will be offered 

to explore the complexity of façade adaptability 

to environmental stressors and social needs in 

different climatic conditions. This hybrid workshop 

will be organized in collaboration with our academic 

partners from Ozyegin University in Istanbul, 

Turkey, and the online participation of Architecture 

faculty and students from Universidad Católica 

Boliviana in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. The students will 

be organized in groups and receive technical data 

from existing buildings. Their task is to analyze the 

performance of the building envelope and, propose 

new solutions for adapting it to new conditions 

and raising challenges. Finally, detailed 1:10 scale 

models will be produced, accompanied by a poster 

to illustrate the results. The aim is that participants 

deepen their understanding of façade design, 

particularly in terms materials and how they affect 

thermal, acoustic, visual and air quality comfort, 

as well as fire protection, moisture control, energy 

efficiency and carbon footprint. 

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IMPRINT 

Publisher 

OWL University of Applied Sciences 

and Arts 

IDS Institute for Design Strategies 

Emilienstrße 45, D-32756 Detmold, 

Germany 

Editors 



Editing, layout and graphics 


Najmeh Najafpour 

Cover 


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. 

Teaching department: 

Façade Construction 


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 

Sustainable Façades 

volume 2 ISSN 2943-4467 

IMPRINT 

Design Strategies IMPULSE – Sustainable Façades 04.2024

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