top of page
Postgraduate Studies
BAS Honours
Advanced Building Tech: Facade Analysis
University of Cape Town. 2018.
Overview
The following is an extract from a research case study, presented as part of the Advanced Building Technology electives. The requirements were to explore a building that offers a facade system, technology or construction technique that we are interested in and to explore this through a detailed analysis.
Two areas of focus in line with my interests were established initially, namely sustainable design systems and living green walls as a facade. These areas limited my scope, towards ideas of a variety of buildings towards a case study. The Venlo City Hall stood out for me due to its outstanding living wall and it’s elements, as well as the overall use of a variety of sustainable systems. Situated in the Netherlands, it was commissioned by the Municipality of Venlo and designed by Kraaijvanger Architects in 2016.
Green Facade
The most prominent feature is, of course, the ‘green’ northern façade, covering 2000m2 - making it the largest and most functional ‘living façade’ in comparison to similar others. The facade is composed of 100% recyclable ABS plastic modules, which overlap with another, making the entire living wall seamless and completely waterproof. What also makes the living wall successful is the automatic irrigation system, controlled slow-release fertilizers, ease of maintenance and adequate drainage systems.
The building offered as an excellent precedent towards understanding the realm of sustainable facade systems, as well as furthering my knowledge in the field of sustainable living walls and how to design and a detail a successful one.
Building Overview
Exploded Green Facade Components
ModuloGreen Facade Details
_jp.jpg)
_jp.jpg)
Typical Plan Layout
_jp.jpg)
Green Facade Axonometric
For more information on the Venlo City Hall, click on one of the links below:
bottom of page