Dynamic façade
A dynamic façade, also known as a responsive façade, is a building exterior that can change in response to its surrounding environment to maximise its performance. This can help control the interior environment within the building, and so minimise the energy consumption of building services systems. In this way, the 'skin' of the building is not static, but dynamic and can transform according to requirements.
The responsiveness of the façade can be at the macro scale, which involves changes in its configuration using moving parts, or at the micro scale which involves changes affecting a material’s structure.
Macro responsiveness might include adjustable ventilation or moveable solar shading, used to optimise the amount of solar heat gain and visible light that is admitted into a building, or daylight lighting systems which can help to maximise natural daylight.
Micro responsiveness might include smart glazing or phase change materials.
Some dynamic facades also include methods for generating energy, such as solar photovoltaic panels.
Dynamic systems can reduce a building’s reliance on heating, cooling and ventilation systems as well as artificial lighting and energy requirements.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
A briefing on fall protection systems for designers
A legal requirement and an ethical must.
CIOB Ireland launches manifesto for 2024 General Election
A vision for a sustainable, high-quality built environment that benefits all members of society.
Local leaders gain new powers to support local high streets
High Street Rental Auctions to be introduced from December.
Infrastructure sector posts second gain for October
With a boost for housebuilder and commercial developer contract awards.
Sustainable construction design teams survey
Shaping the Future of Sustainable Design: Your Voice Matters.
COP29; impacts of construction and updates
Amid criticism, open letters and calls for reform.
The properties of conservation rooflights
Things to consider when choosing the right product.
Adapting to meet changing needs.
London Build: A festival of construction
Co-located with the London Build Fire & Security Expo.
Tasked with locating groups of 10,000 homes with opportunity.
Delivering radical reform in the UK energy market
What are the benefits, barriers and underlying principles.
Information Management Initiative IMI
Building sector-transforming capabilities in emerging technologies.
Recent study of UK households reveals chilling home truths
Poor insulation, EPC knowledge and lack of understanding as to what retrofit might offer.
Embodied Carbon in the Built Environment
Overview, regulations, detail calculations and much more.
Why the construction sector must embrace workplace mental health support
Let’s talk; more importantly now, than ever.
Ensuring the trustworthiness of AI systems
A key growth area, including impacts for construction.