Facade integration: Survey-based assessment of the main problems for the integration of building services in facade systems

Alejandro Prieto Hoces, Tillmann Klein, Ulrich Knaack

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

Abstract

The integration of decentralised building services into façade components presents advantages not only in functional terms, but also from a construction standpoint. However, this integrated approach seems to be too complex to allow for widespread implementation, having stand-alone examples instead of understanding it as a possible path to follow for the development of high-performance buildings. This paper seeks to define the main problems at design, construction and assembly stages to generate new knowledge based on practical experience; and to discuss the perceived barriers to overcome in order to promote widespread integration in façade systems. The method chosen to achieve the objectives was an exploratory survey addressed to professionals with practical experience in the development of façade systems for office buildings, situated at any stage of the design and construction process. Hence, architects, façade consultants, system suppliers and façade builders were considered. The survey was conducted from mid-September to mid-November, 2015 and was distributed both as an online form and in printed format among several professional and research networks related with façade design and construction. 133 questionnaires were recovered, consolidating a final number of 79 valid questionnaires. Preliminary results show that the main problems of the overall process are related with coordination issues among different disciplines and stakeholders, while other problems such as costs and lack of knowledge have more impact on particular stages within the design and construction process.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the ID@50 Integrated Design Conference 2016, 26 June – 1 July 2016, Bath, UK
EditorsS. Emmitt, K. Adeyeye
Place of PublicationBath, UK
PublisherUniversity of Bath
Pages435-446
ISBN (Print)978-0-86197-192-3
Publication statusPublished - 2016
EventIntegrated Design Conference ID@50: Building our Future - Bath, United Kingdom
Duration: 29 Jun 20161 Jul 2016

Conference

ConferenceIntegrated Design Conference ID@50
Abbreviated titleID@50
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityBath
Period29/06/161/07/16

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