Stakeholders don’t just want token efforts to reduce the environmental impact of supply chains and construction, they also have legal obligations to reduce harm and (where possible) create a positive impact.
With increasing pressure to minimise their social and environmental impact, arch
As experts in Brise Soleil and other sustainable sun screening façades, we’ve put together the best commercial façade ideas that are as aesthetically pleasing as they are sustainable.
1) Aluminium Façades
Aluminium is one of the most versatile and sustainable materials when it comes to commercial façades. This lightweight material is highly durable and resistant to corrosion, making it an excellent (and extremely popular) choice for long-lasting façades. Its recyclability also plays a significant role in reducing environmental impact. In fact, aluminium can be recycled an infinite number of times, with the process using 95% less energy than producing aluminium from raw materials.
One of the fantastic benefits of aluminium is its ability to be shaped into various forms, allowing for innovative, beautiful designs that enhance the building’s overall aesthetic appeal.
From a sustainability perspective, its reflective properties improve energy efficiency by reflecting solar heat, which reduces the need for cooling systems. Its high solar reflectance and low thermal emissivity enhances the performance of this striking façade, significantly reducing heat gain and energy consumption.
2) Timber Façades and Louvers
If you’re looking for commercial façade ideas that incorporate wood, timber is the most sustainable wood you can source. Timber is increasingly becoming a go-to material in modern architectural design, particularly for brise soleil systems and façade solutions.
There are a number of different timber options you can choose from:
- Western red cedar: fantastic for its resistance to decay, insects and weather damage
- European oak: A beautiful, striking option that can be stained, polished or waxed for complete flexibility in your design vision
- Sweet chestnut: This can be a more affordable option for people wanting the stunning qualities of oak, without the premium investment
There are also a few other timber options, such as accoya and thermowood.
3) Ventilation Louvers
Ventilation louvres are an excellent way to improve the energy efficiency of a building, while also reducing its environmental impact. These structures allow for natural airflow through a building, reducing the need for artificial ventilation and air conditioning. This can significantly lower energy consumption, naturally reducing the carbon footprint of the building.
Incorporating ventilation louvres into a commercial façade also adds an intriguing element of sophistication and modern design. Available in a variety of materials such as metal, wood, or composite, louvres can be customised to suit the aesthetic needs of the building while also serving their functional purpose. In addition to improving air quality, they provide a level of sun shading, helping to regulate interior temperatures and reduce glare.
What makes ventilation louvres even more sustainable is their low maintenance and extended lifespan. By reducing reliance on mechanical systems, they lower operational costs over the building’s lifetime, contributing to a more sustainable overall structure.
4) Eco-Friendly Glass
Large glass panels are often an essential design addition to modern architecture. Glass allows sunlight to flow into commercial buildings, making them a bright, warm and inviting space for anyone inside. They’re traditionally not seen as the most eco-friendly option, but advances in technology have led to fantastic developments in sustainable glass.
Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is one of the most popular choices for sustainable building façades. It’s coated with a thin layer of metal oxide that reflects heat while allowing natural light to pass through. This helps to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems. Additionally, Low-E glass helps to reduce UV rays, which can cause fading of interiors and increase the heat load on a building.
5) Bespoke Options
From design to completion, Contrasol works closely with you to create a sustainable commercial building that’s beautiful, efficient, and tailored to both your vision and legal compliance.
Whether you have a clear vision, or you’re looking to work with us on architectural design, we can use these sustainable materials to create a stunning and eco-friendly bespoke commercial façade.
Shaping the future of architecture with Contrasol
It’s no secret that improving the energy efficiency of commercial buildings can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower energy bills to save money and boost profitability. According to the Energy Saving Trust, a 20% reduction in energy costs can provide the same bottom-line benefit as a 5% increase in sales.
At Contrasol, we deliver bespoke solar shading and façade solutions that combine cutting-edge design with exceptional energy efficiency. Our systems are engineered to reduce energy costs, protect against overheating and enhance the sustainability of your building projects.
To find out more about our solar shading solutions for your commercial project, please contact us today.
