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endeavour. It is always advisable to engage with manufacturers’ design teams early on in the process, where expertise often extends beyond product specification. They can assist architects and designers in making well-informed design-decisions that have a positive environmental influence. Three key themes have emerged over time: materials – choosing those that reverse climate change, like ‘future- proofing’ building design; lifecycle – examining a building’s entire lifespan with ‘environmental product design’; and key processes – minimising the environmental impact of construction, e.g. transportation and packaging. To help make the options clear, we have created a checklist to help architects develop a holistic approach to a sustainable future. Each point in the checklist offers insights and tools for making informed, eco-conscious decisions that align with our global sustainability goals.
The architects’ call to action: building for the future
Choosing sustainable materials, like aluminium, is just one of many ways architects can use rainscreen to develop eco-friendly designs
aluminium were produced to create the captivating ‘tree’ designs which cover the entire building.
Aluminium: the sustainable material of choice Aluminium, which was used in both case studies above, is a popular choice for architects and is only growing in popularity due to its unrivalled durability, versatility and recyclability. It also requires minimal maintenance and has proven lifetime performance. Anodising, as used in both projects in very different ways, enhances the natural qualities of aluminium and allows for a strong contemporary finish with incomparable corrosion and abrasion resistance.
Choosing sustainable materials like aluminium is just one of many ways architects can use rainscreen to develop eco- friendly designs. Materials like this can also prolong the building’s life cycle and reduce maintenance and repair work.
Futureproofing: the architect’s role It’s clear that architects are the curators of materials, systems and even finishes that make a difference in the sustainability of a building. But they’re not alone in their
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Looking at the whole building life cycle and taking such a cradle to grave approach, architects and designers are able to dramatically reduce emission and help meet government targets as an industry. This does not land squarely at the feet of architects. This is an industry wide challenge, and one that manufacturers and engineers must rise to meet, collectively. Together, we shape a greener footprint by embracing low-carbon technology, environmentally friendly infrastructures, and by specifying more sustainable systems, materials and finishes in our work.
Your partner in a greener tomorrow Today’s choices echo through future generations. Manufacturers are not confined to discussing materials alone and in many cases can offer safe, sustainable, facade solutions that can change the carbon footprint of a building and help architects realise their vision – while making sustainable choices. From ‘hook on’ rainscreen solutions to bespoke extrusion, experts are available to offer the critical advice on systems, materials, finishes, fire safety, design, and production to ensure the right facade solution for your project.
Simran Thiara is regional specification manager for Sotech
ADF OCTOBER 2023
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