Facade Dynamic Shading Systems: Innovations in Building Design

In the ever-evolving world of architecture, fa?ades define a building’s aesthetics, energy efficiency, and overall performance. Dynamic shading systems are a fascinating area of innovation that combines technology, design, and sustainability. Adaptive Walls result in more Resilient Architecture.

These systems can adapt their physical characteristics (such as orientation and material properties) in real time based on changing environmental conditions (both visual and thermal) and user preferences.

Advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning further enhance these responsive systems, optimizing parameters like illuminance levels, lighting energy, solar glare reduction, solar heat gain, thermal resistance, and natural ventilation simultaneously.

The ability to simultaneously maximize energy generation while maintaining visual comfort makes this approach unique.

In the scorching heat of Abu Dhabi, architects faced a formidable challenge: how to create a comfortable indoor environment while combating intense sunlight and glare. The answer lay in an ingenious facade system inspired by tradition and powered by technology.

Al Bahar Towers: A Fusion of Culture and Innovation

Al Bahar Towers draw cultural cues from the “Masharabiya”, a traditional Islamic lattice shading device.

Completed in June 2012, these 145-meter twin towers feature a “Masharabiya” shading system developed and designed by Aedas and the computational design team. Using parametric descriptions, the facade panels respond dynamically to sun exposure and changing angles throughout the year.

Each triangular panel, coated with fiberglass, adjusts to reduce solar gain and glare. In the evening, all screens close. The responsive screen reduces solar gain by over 50%, minimizing the need for energy-draining air conditioning. The shading system allows the use of more naturally tinted glass, enhancing views and reducing artificial lighting needs.

Al Bahar Towers received the 2012 Tall Building Innovation Award for sustainable engineering and cultural sensitivity. Those 2 Ionic Towers exemplify how ancient techniques can be reimagined for modern sustainability, making it a beacon of innovation.

Adaptive shading systems represent a promising avenue for sustainable architecture, where facades dynamically respond to their surroundings, benefiting both occupants and the environment for a better future.