Kinetic Facades

Chapter 1 : Introduction
1.1 Topic : Kinetic Facades , A Comfortable And Energy Efficient Solution For
Gurugram.
1.2 Introduction : For most of the history of architecture, interesting facades were
achieved through materiality or ornamentation. From the elaborately painted friezes of
the Parthenon to the glass exteriors of modern skyscrapers, architecture was primarily
static, only ‘changing’ as the environment would change and affect the material of the
facade in differing ways, be it rain, light, rust, etc.
As technology has progressed and facades have transformed literally. The role of
environment hasn’t diminished. Rather, cutting-edge technology has allowed designers
to develop architecture that responds to environmental stimuli in more interesting ways
than ever. Often, these designs take the form of kinetic facades: architectural facades
that change dynamically, transforming buildings from static monoliths to ever-moving
surfaces.
1.3 Need: The architecture from the last decade has changed to transformable, dynamic,
interactive objects to achieve numerous goals, including environmental considerations,
human considerations, social interaction, and sense of place. In case of Gurugram , the
area has witnessed vast expanse of transformation over the years . The area turned out
to be the most powerful commercial hub and houses major number of Multi National
Companies . Architecture there is reflective of the western culture since the companies
want the area to reflect their character. Dominance of glass is observed which is
aesthetically catchy but neglects the climatic zone in which the structure resides.
Kinetic Facade can help to achieve many goals, toward a high efficient building,
because the building will be more flexible to adapt to its envelop for the external
weather, which is mainly considered in sun glare and direct heat gain. The facade is the
most important protection structure from the harsh weather, in the outer environment,
thus the advancement of this system will help to change from the traditional role as a
filter to more active role, which includes in some cases the integration of photovoltaic
cells, to generate energy rather than just save energy.
1.4 Aim : Study of Kinetic Facades in context of better adaptability , achieving thermal
comfort and energy goals.
1.5 Objective :
• To study the emergence and evolution of Kinetic Facades.
• To compare Kinetic Facades and conventional facades.
• To study the need of achieving better thermal comfort and reduced energy
consumption by the means of Kinetic Facades in India.
• To suggest recommendations in accordance to the office buildings of Gurugram.
1.6 Research Question:

Can the use of kinetic facades bring about a revolution in the field of architecture where
thermal comfort and energy goals are the prime concern?
1.7 Hypothesis :
Kinetic facades bear the potential to bring about a change for better adaptability and
comfort specially in urban spaces where there are limitations to scope of work and
space. Reduced resource consumption due to low operational building cost is
achievable via Kinetic Facades.
1.8 Scope :
The scope of the study is to draw conclusions about the workability of kinetic facades
in todays’ operation of architecture planning and its future potentials. The study is to
focus on office buildings in the composite climate of Gurugram.
1.9 Limitations : Study is restricted to:

1.9.1 Since there are no office buildings with kinetic facades existing in India, the study
will be based on online case study data and a proposed project in Gurugram and cost
consideration would not be a concern.
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1.10 Methodology :
To study the evolution and To study the parameters of

emergence of kinetic facades. thermal comfort.
(Literature study) (Literature study)
To compare the performance

To analyse the role of kinetic
of kinetic facades to that of
facades in achieving thermal
conventional ones.
comfort.
(Literature , offline case
(Literature study)
studies)
To derive conclusions and

To compare the energy goals recommendations about the
that are achieved via kinetic compatibility of Kinetic
facades . facades in achieving thermal
(Online , offline case studies) comfort and energy goals.
(Analysis of case studies)
Inferences and
recommendations
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Chapter 2 : Background Study

2.1 Importance
A kinetic facade is one that changes dynamically rather than being static or fixed,
allowing movement to occur on a building’s surface. This helps to create what
the architect Buckminster Fuller called a ‘skin-like articulation’ effect, and is
an extension of the idea that a building's envelope is an active system rather than just a
container.
A kinetic facade can be used to manage light, air, energy, and even information. They
can act to reduce solar gain as well as allowing the passage of fresh air into the building,
helping to alter the interior environment. The moving elements of the facade can be
programmed to respond to climatic or other environmental factors, time, levels and type
of occupancy and so on to improve performance and efficiency.
With advances in sensors, materials and building management technology, designers

are increasingly able to consider kinetic components as design solutions.
The Al Bahr Towers in Abu Dhabi (figure 1) has a computer-controlled facade made
of umbrella-like panels. These panels open and close throughout the day in response to
the sun’s movement, giving optimal shading and allowing light to enter the building as
required.
Figure 1 : Al Bahr Towers , Umbrella like panels.
Source : http://www.conserveconsultants.com/sustainable-facades
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The Berlin-based design studio Whitevoid (Figure 1.1) developed by FLARE in 2008.
This is a kinetic ambient reflection membrane, meaning that a building could have a
‘living skin’, enabling the facade to breathe in response to the environment. Stainless
steel flakes tilted by pneumatic cylinders act to reflect natural light away from
the building, maintaining a comfortable interior environment during hot weather.
Figure 1.1 : Whitevoid Studio , Stainless steel skin effect.
Built for Expo 2012, the Theme Pavilion EXPO (figure 1.2) in South Korea, ‘breathes’
through the facade’s biomimicry. Synchronised actuators move 108 kinetic lamellas
which are powered by solar panels.
Figure 1.2 : Theme Pavilion Expo , Synchronised actuators facade.
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Kinetic facades can also be used for aesthetic purposes, to make a strong impression,
to generate interest, or as part of art exhibitions.
The 2014 refurbishment of the Oxford Street Debenhams store (figure 1.3) . Designed
by Archial Architects, included a cladding screen made up of
185,000 aluminium shingles which can move independently with the flow of wind to
create a fluid or ripple effect across the entire surface, as well as providing some
protection against rain.
Figure 1.3 : Oxford Street Debenhams Store , Aluminium shingles facade.

2.1.1 Derivation :
• Optimal shading and light flow according to suns’ movement is achievable via
kinetic facades.
• Comfortable interior environment is evident from the use of kinetic facades.
• Great energy savings are possible through the use of kinetic facades along with
solar panels.
• Protection against rain and management according to wind flow is also a
possibility achieved via kinetic facades.
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2.2 Detailed Chronology
1400’s
Draw Bridges
1900’s
To protect the Palaces
from enemies. Opening Bridges
Ashtabula Lift Bridge

To enable transport over
1930’s seas without hindering ship
movements
Revolving House
Villa Girasole
Main ideology behind this was

to maximize the health
properties of the sun by rotating
to follow it.
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1950’s
Mobile Architecture
Spatial Town Planning With Flexible

Structure
Developed with a view “why
should architects decide for the
people who live in their
buildings” and to change their
1960’s spaces as they need.
Conversion Theory
1970’s
The Generator Project
Fun Palace
Developed with a view “What if a
building or space be constantly
generated or regenerated.”
Micro Processor
Creation of a computer program
which can organize the layout of the
site with varying requirements. Also
proposed to insert a microprocessor in
building components which controlled
its own components in response to
use.
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1980’s 2011
Major Eg Of Kinetic Brisbane Airport
Architecture
21st Century
Moves along with wind ,
Institut Du Monde Arabe provides interior with
attractive patterns of sunlight.
It is among the first buildings to
employ sensor based automated
response to environmental 2017
conditions. 25000 photoelectric
cells similar to camera lens are Mercedes Benz
controlled via central computer to Stadium
moderate light levels on the south
facade.
Retractable roof opens and

closes according to the weather
conditions in order to stop the
hinderance that might happen
due to rains.
2019
South Korea Expo Pavillion
The new era of parametric

Architecture along with kinetic
facades.
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2.3 History
The concept of kinetic facades was unknown until much later due to technological lag
during ancient times. The first instances from which the idea emerged was the use of
draw bridges used in palaces for defence purposes.
Figure 2.1 : Draw Bridge Figure 2.2 : Bedouin Tent

Source : https://www.arch2o.com/dynamic-facades-the-story/
The ability of adaption and moving was a significant matter for human being. In ancient
times, people used movable and kinetic shelters to protect their lives and provide
food. In Africa, the bedouin tent was used through history because it is adaptable to
the desert climate and it is a mobile shelter. The african tent is a tensile membrane
suspended from compression poles.
In recent ages, the interest in interactive, responsive, and Intelligent architecture
has started in the 1960s and 1970s. This interest is caused by the development of
computer Science field and building technology which converted Architecture from
a static form to a more kinetic and dynamic form. Evolution of kinetic designs has a
rich history. With the passage of time, initial kinetic design was made in 1908. Then,
transformable architecture as a kinetic design had appeared. Combining kinetic
concept with computer science took tens of years.
Initial Kinetic Designs
One of the early kinetic designs was a rotary building designed by Thomas Gaynor
in 1908 but it was never built.
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In 1935, Angelo Invernizzi invited and built another revolving house, which is
Villa Girasole, where Girasole means sunflower. The villa is two storied and l
shaped, which follows the sun by 44 meters circular base in diameter and a 42 meters
tall tower in the center. The motor pushes the house over three circular tracks with 15
trolleys in 9 hours and 20 minutes to rotate fully.
Figure 2.3 : Villa Girasole plan and section

1950’S
Yona Friedman introduced "mobile architecture manifesto” in 1958, asking an
important question: "why should architects decide for the people who live in their
buildings". He founded the "Groupe D'erudes D'architecture Mobile .Later in 1959,
he introduced 'spatial town planning' where Inhabitants would have flexible structures
to change their Spaces as they need. The GEAM proposed a town with movable
walls, floors and ceiling, with easily alterable infrastructure networks and large
mobile spatial units that can travel, fly or float as a three levels city .
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Figure 2.4 : Mobile Architecture module sketch
1960’S
Later in 1960's, Gordon Pask and other cyberneticians - scientists of
communications and automatic control systems in both machines and animals
including Norbert Weiner tried to identify the field of interactive architecture by
formulating their “conversion theory” and dveloping a model in which architects
understood spaces and users as complete feedback systems.
Then, Cedric Price asked another question: “what if a building or space could
be constantly generated or regenerated. Price tried to answer his question by
architecture when he designed the Fun Palace in 1961. The project contains theatres,
cinemas, restaurants, workshops and rally areas which can be assembled, moved, re-
arranged and scrapped continuously.
Figure 2.5 : Fun Palace sketch

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1970’S
In the 1970s, human life had been changed by computer and Telecommunication
technology. In 1976, "the generator project" was invented by cedric price in
collaboration with John And Julia Frazer. They created a computer program which
can organize the layout of the site in respond to varying requirements. In addition,
they proposed that a single-chip microprocessor that can be embedded in all building
components, to work as the Controlling processor. This project would help to produce
an intelligent building which controlled its own components in response to use.
“intelligent” building which controlled its own components.
Figure 2.6 : Micro Processor

1987
In 1987, Jean Nouvel' introduced a major example of a kinetic architecture: the
Institut Du Monde Arabe in Paris. The building south facade is a grid of 24 × 10 m
of square bays, which simulate the geometry of traditional arab screens. Each bay
contains a central circular shutter set within a grid of smaller shutters.
Figure 2.7 : Building Facade

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21ST Century
The twenty-one century is considered the real start point for kinetic architecture
because a lot of kinetic buildings are designed and built in current century. For
example, the kinetic wall of Brisbane Airport Parking Garage By The Artist Ned Kahn
In Australia. The building was built in 2011 with a look of a vertical body of water and
calm waves. The facade is consists of 250,000 aluminum panels which move with
the wind. Inside the building, the movement of the facade gives the interior surfaces
attractive patterns of sunlight .
Also, an innovative design of retractable roofs is presented in the design of
Mercedes-Benz New Stadium In Atlanta .the roof has a rose shape and it is consists of
eight panels that open in a diagonal slide like a camera aperture.
Figure 2.8 :Brisbone Airport Figure 2.9 : Mb Stadium

2.4 Thermal Comfort

The human thermal environment is not straight forward and cannot be expressed in
degrees. Nor can it be satisfactorily defined by acceptable temperature ranges. It is a
personal experience dependent on a great number of criteria and can be different from
one person to another within the same space.
2.5 Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort Of A Human Being
2.5.1 Air temperature
The temperature of the air that a person is in contact with, measured by the dry bulb
temperature (DBT).
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2.5.2 Air velocity
The velocity of the air that a person is in contact with (measured in m/s). The faster the
air is moving, the greater the exchange of heat between the person and the air (for
example, draughts generally make us feel colder).
2.5.3 Radiant temperature
The temperature of a persons surroundings (including surfaces, heat

generating equipment, the sun and the sky ). This is generally expressed as
mean radiant temperature (MRT), a weightage average of the temperature of
the surface surrounding a person , which can be approximated by globe
thermometer) and any strong mono- directional radiation such as radiation
from the sun.
2.5.4 Relative humidity (RH)
The ratio between the actual amount of water vapour in the air and the maximum
amount of water vapour that the air can hold at that air temperature, expressed as a
percentage. The higher the relative humidity, the more difficult it is to lose heat through
the evaporation of sweat.
2.5.5 Daylight Glare Probability (DGP)
It is an index to measure the probability of receiving glare on a surface during daytime.
The more the DGP value , the higher the discomfort.
2.5.6 Glazing Inside Surface Temperature ( Tsrf )

It is the glazing / solar heat received by a surface inside an enclosed space. It affects the
overall heat gain inside an enclosed space.
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Chapter 3 : Energy Efficiency And Potential Materials
3.1 Kinetic Facades And Energy Efficiency In Office Buildings.

A building envelope separate the outdoor from the sheltered environment, this
enclosure can exclude unwanted effects while admitting desirable ones, either passively
or actively.
The building envelope integrates about 80% of an environmental solution, creating an
efficient building that interacts with its surrounding environment; it plays a key role in
improving building energy efficiency and indoor comfort for the occupants.
The future lies in the use of innovative strategies, based on adaptive solutions for
optimizing energy performance, because in the realm of high-performance buildings,
the envelope has become the primary site of innovative research and development.
Office buildings commonly use fully glazed facades to reflect a luxurious appearance
and to maximize natural light at the expenses of high-energy consumption, due to
cooling/heating, they are considered high-energy consumers, as they consume about
25% of the building energy consumption ; the increasing preference to use glazed
facades in office and public buildings, regardless of the geographical location or
climatic region is a major contributor towards the influence of thermo-visual
comfort.
Automatically this situation leads to an increasing reliance on mechanical air
conditioning systems, and the consequential increase in electricity consumption and
CO2 emissions.
In hot climates, glazed facades are potential sources of undesired solar gain, which
cause discomfort and reduce the daylight performance of employees.
The total carbon emissions and energy consumption of the world have grown by 34%
and 31% respectively between 2000 and 2013 (A and Key world energy sta, 2015).
Furthermore, the global average temperature has increased by 0.85° during the period
of 1880–2013 (Climate change , 2014).
Globally, the building sector consumes about 40% of the total energy consumption and
is responsible for emitting 33% of the total greenhouse gases. (P and Sustainable buildi,
2012, Bastide et al., 2006, Ralegaonkar and Gupta, 2010)
The energy efficiency of buildings can be enhanced significantly by improving the
design of building facades (Radhi, 2008, Mirrahimi et al., 2016). In highly glazed
buildings, the design of facade becomes even more important in reducing energy
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consumption since the glass facade controls the amount of heat that enters or leaves the
interior space, and subsequently the amount of heating or cooling required in that space
(Jin and Overend, 2014).
To enhance the energy efficiency of the buildings, we focus on the design of adaptive
facades in this work. The adaptive facades are able to control heat loss and provide
access to daylight by continuously adapting to varying solar/climatic conditions
(Fortmeyer and Linn, 2014, Perino and Imbabi, 2008, Alotaibi, 2015).
The heating/cooling load analysis indicates that the building's existing energy load can
be decreased by 32% through retrofitting of the designed facade.
The lighting analysis indicates that 50% of the floor plan is still illuminated by natural
light level of 500–750 lux after installation of the designed facade.
3.2 Kinetic Facade Materials
3.2.1 Active Materials
Traditional materials such as ceramics, metals or glasses are industrially produced to

satisfy the demands of the building sector, so they are homogeneous and uniform in
composition, and isotropic, having identical or very similar properties in all directions
(Menges, 2012). Thus, conventional materials and manufacturing processes only
provide inert solutions, static results or complex high-tech equipment to achieve
kinematic systems. Usually, kinetic architecture is developed through mechanical and
electronic sensing, actuating and regulating devices, resulting in a non energy-efficient
architecture. It seems clear that it would be very difficult to achieve the purpose by
means of inert traditional materials.
On the other hand, a wide range of smart materials have emerged in recent years. Smart
materials have properties that react to changes in their environment namely shape
memory alloys (SMA)(Figure 3.1), shape memory polymers (SMP)(figure 3.2),
piezoelectric materials, magnetostrictive materials, electrostrictive materials and
electroactive polymers.
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Figure 3.1 , SMA Figure 3.2 , SMP
Source : https://www.comsol.com/blogs/the-elephants-of-materials-science-smas-never-forget-their-
shape/
Source : http://www-2.unipv.it/compmech/polymers.html
There are several ways to classify different types of smart materials. The one carried
out by Addington (Addington & Schodek, 2004) where two kinds of smart materials
are described: property change materials, that changes one of their properties (chemical,
mechanical, optical, electrical, magnetic or thermal) in response to a change in the
conditions of their environment, and do so without the need of external control and
energy exchange materials that transform energy from one form to another to effect a
desired final state. In addition, in some material centres, information related to smart
materials is organized directly according properties and features, such as
photoluminescence, electrochromism, shape memory, phase change or
magnetorheology among others.
Most common active materials are those relying on electrical stimulus to activate
movement, such as piezoelectric ceramics. However, this kind of smart materials is not
low-tech and low-energy adaptive material systems, rather, highly automated and
mechanical systems.
Materials that have structural and physical properties to generate movement or

kinetically adapt in real time to environmental changes; active materials, with kinematic
behaviours for a better performance that shrink, fold or expand responding to changes
and, at the same time, remain stable in their different configurations.
3.2.1.1 Humidity reactive materials
Hydrogel: smart gel based on an insoluble network of polymer chains that swell up
when water is added, making an expanded mass. Hydrogels are highly absorbent, they
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can store large amounts of water, they also possess a degree of flexibility very similar
to natural tissue, due to their significant water content.(figure 3.3)
Figure 3.3 , hydrogel Figure 3.4
Source : https://phys.org/news/2019-02-semi-flexible-model-based-analysis-cell-adhesion.html
Wood: wood is a traditional material, however we include it in this list due to its
properties of hygroscopicity and anisotropy ( figure 3.4 ), which convert wood into a
humidity reactive material. Wood is a cellular structure and always seeks to reach
equilibrium moisture, thus continuously responding to changes in the relative humidity
by adjusting the bound water content, resulting in constant dimensional movement
(Menges, 2012)
3.2.1.2 Temperature reactive materials
Thermo-Bimetal: sheets of differing metal alloys laminated together. When two

metals which, when heated, expand at different rates and they are joined together, the
structure that they form will bend as the metals fight each other into contortions and
these could provide a useful embedded structural response (Howes & Laughlin,
2012)(figure 3.5).
figure 3.5 , Thermo bimetal
Source :http://materiability.com/portfolio/thermobimetals/
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Shape memory alloys: smart metals capable of recalling their original shapes. Once
deformed, heating them above their transformation temperature will trigger them to
return to their original shape. There are a few different varieties, from metals that only
remember one shape to metals capable of remembering two shapes, triggered by
different temperatures (Howes & Laughlin, 2012)(figure 3.6).
Figure 3.6 , SMA Figure 3.7 , SMP
Source : https://www.comsol.com/blogs/the-elephants-of-materials-science-smas-never-forget-their-
shape/
Source : http://www-2.unipv.it/compmech/polymers.html
Shape memory polymers: smart polymers capable to return from a deformed state,
temporary shape, to their original, or permanent shape, induced by an external stimulus,
in this case a temperature change( figure 3.7).
Thermochromic polymers, inks or glasses: thermochromism is the property of

substances to change colour due to a change in temperature. These materials alter their
colour in reaction to temperature changes ( figure 3.8 ).
figure 3.8 figure 3.9 Heat sensitive plastic
Source : https://www.explainthatstuff.com/thermochromic-materials.html
Source : http://www.popgadget.net/2011/09/heat_sensitive_1.php
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Heat sensitive plastics: plastics capable to expand induced by thermal changes (figure
3.9 ). Combinations of two plastics of differing coefficients of thermal expansion
involve heat sensitive actuation. Other polymers can also be blended to enhance this
process such as Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), which
expands a lot under heating but is hard to process on its own. Microfluidic channels and
high surface area structures could also be added to enhance or decrease actuation effects
in a smart design.
3.2.1.3 Carbon dioxide reactive materials
CO 2 responsive polymers: responsive polymers use carbon dioxide as a green or eco-

trigger as well as to absorb CO2 directly from air. Two main types of materials are
distinguished: carbon dioxide responsive polymers and carbon dioxide polymers for
CO2 capture (Lin & Theato, 2013).
3.2.1.4 Light reactive materials
Photochromic dyes: photochromism is a reversible change of colour upon exposure to

UV light. Under the influence of UV light, a photochromic molecule will change shape,
opening up into a very effective absorber of visible light form. This colour change is a
reversible equilibrium, when the source of radiation is removed the molecule will revert
back to its inactivated or ‘resting’ state ( figure 3.10 ).
figure 3.10 polychromatic dye
Source : https://continuingeducation.bnpmedia.com/courses/multi-aia/innovations-in-color-and-texture/
Light responsive polymers: functional polymers that are able to undergo light-induced
shape changes. Polymer systems that convert photo-induced effects at the molecular
level to macroscopic movement of working pieces, such as contraction and bending of
azobenzene-containing liquid-crystal elastomers and volume changes in gels. Some
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advanced materials researches focus on light-induced shape-memory polymers that can
be deformed and temporarily fixed in a new shape (Jiang et al., 2006).
Comparitive Analysis Of Materials
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Chapter 4 : Case Specific Studies
4.1 Case Study 1 (Tricon Corporate Center , Pakistan)
Adopting a case study approach, a commercial building, namely Tricon Corporate

Center is selected in Pakistan. Tricon Corporate Center is a twenty story office building
located in Lahore, Pakistan. The following factors were taken into account while
selecting the building as a case study for this research and analysis:
1. Building has facade glazing more than 40%. 
2. Shading coefficient of exterior glass is more than 0.35.
3. Single panel glass is used in the building.  
4. Facade appearance seems monotonous.  
5. At least two of the existing facades are exposed to direct  sunlight/solar heat gain.  
4.1.1 Trends Prevailing In Pakistan
Architects and designers in Pakistan started proposing international style buildings
with excessive use of glass in the early 1950s. Although glass curtain walls are
aesthetically appealing to the clients, but are not very climate friendly with respect to
the hot and humid environment of Pakistan. Excessive use of glass results in heat gain,
which may be a good solution for the cold regions where heating is required, but
unfortunately this movement/style is not suitable for Pakistan
About half of the total energy consumed in Pakistan is used in buildings and/or heating,
ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC) and lighting appliances (Sohail and Qureshi,
2010e2011).
There are various approaches to address this issue: to minimize the use of glass in the
initial design phase; to incorporate interior or exterior shading devices in order to
minimize the heat gain; or to develop a dynamic facade system which can adapt itself
to the changing climatic conditions. The former two strategies where transparency is
minimized also block the entrance of natural light in the interior building space,
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whereas dynamic facades are able to control heat loss also providing access for
daylight.
Figure 4.1 Image showing the development of module from the intricate observation
of a leaf.
Source : Sheikh, W.T., Asghar, Q., Adaptive biomimetic facades: Enhancing energy efficiency of highly
glazed buildings, Frontiers of Architectural Research, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foar.2019.06.001
4.1.2 Working Of Kinetic Facades

The primary unit in proposed facade is a shading module. Each shading module is made
up of four shading panels. The modules are moved on x and y axis, on a steel frame
structure (attached to the existing building), through a complex system of hinges, guide
rails and electric motors. The whole system is controlled through a sensor feedback
system (electronic control system).
Sensor feedback system comprises of sensors, controller and energy source. Sensors
are located on each module. These sensors track sun path and relay a message to the
controller device which runs an algorithm. The algorithm decides a folding position of
the shading module, based on the data provided by sensor, and sends an instruction to
the energy source (electric motor). As a result, the shading device folds into a vertical
or horizontal position. The whole system can be controlled by an active control system
and can also be overridden by human controls.
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Figure 4.2 Primary unit of proposed facade
Figure 4.3 Module of proposed façade in various shading positions
Figure 4.4 kinematics of proposed shading device
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Figure 4.6 Tricon Corporate Center .
4.1.3 Building Description
The building is slightly inclined from the North-South axis at an angle of 23_ from the
North and 67_ from the East The orientation indicates that the North-East facade is not
exposed to direct sunlight, whereas the other three facades are receiving direct solar
gain during daytime. ( figure 4.7)
The floor plans of building from level one to sixteen are typical Each floor plan (figure
4.8 ) is rectangular in shape with semi-circular edges. Four large offices are located on
each corner of the rectangle, with a rectangular shaped service core in the middle. The
core consists of AHU, restrooms, passage ways, staircase, elevator lobby and a small
kitchenette which is attached to each office. The typical floor to floor height is 13 feet,
whereas the clear height in each floor is 9 feet and 1 inch. All the offices are exposed
to sunlight, whether direct or diffused, due to their position on each floor plan.
Figure 4.7 Orientation of the case study

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Figure 4.8 Typical floor plan (16 floors)
4.1.4 Numerical Results

Numerical results of the evaluation of case study before and after retrofitting of the
designed facade (Figure 3.9 and figure 3.10) . Sunshade calculation, followed by the
solar analysis, heating/cooling load analysis and daylight analysis is also done.
The baseline model is analyzed in terms of its building orientation, sun angles, solar
irradiance levels, indoor lighting levels, thermal performance of materials used and
cooling/heating loads on the HVAC system. Moreover, sunshade calculations are
carried out in order to determine the size of each module applied to the retrofitted facade
Daylight and heating/cooling load analysis is done using two extreme positions (i.e.,
horizontal and vertical) of the facade. These positions are selected as maximum
daylight/heating is intercepted in those.
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Figure 4.9 Folding of the proposed module into horizontal shading position
Figure 4.10 Folding of proposed module into verticle shading position
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Figure 4.11 Simulated model of case study in Revit
4.1.4 Solar Analysis
Solar analysis is done on the baseline model to determine which facades of the building
should be treated. Since summer and winter solar angles are different, analysis are
conducted separately. For the purpose of this study, summertime is taken from March
to October and wintertime from November to February. Since it is an office building
case study, the operational time is considered to be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This time-
frame is further divided into three intervals for each season: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.; 11 a.m.
to 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Observations during summertime:
1. From 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., the solar radiation is concentrated on the rooftop and the
South-East facade.
2. From 11 to 2 p.m., maximum solar irradiance is detected on the rooftop.
3. From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., direct solar radiation can be detected on the rooftop and the
South-West facade.
Observations during wintertime:
1. From 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., the solar radiation is concentrated on the rooftop, South-East
and South-West facade.
2. From 11 to 2 p.m., maximum solar irradiance is detected on the rooftop and South-
West facade.
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3. From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., direct solar radiation can be detected on the rooftop.
In essence, observations concluded that from the solar study of winter and summer
season that two facades, South-East and South-West, are receiving maximum solar gain
and should be treated to avoid maximum exposure to sun.
Figure 4.12 Solar analysis of the case study
4.1.5 Heating And Cooling Load Analysis
For analyzing the heating and cooling load of the baseline model, the building has been
divided into four separate zones ( Figure 3.13) The calculation for each zone has been
carried out separately in Revit. Zone D has been eliminated from the energy analysis as
it is in the shaded portion of the site. The cooling/heating load results before and after
retrofitting of the facade are mentioned below for different zones.
Zone A: This zone is consuming approximately 1,407,779 kWh of electricity per year.
Out of this total, 60%, which is 846,433 kWh, is consumed by the HVAC system in
order to provide thermal comfort for the occupants. After retrofitting, the HVAC
consumption reduces by 27% to approximately 625,277 kWh.
Zone B: This zone is consuming approximately 1,471,818 kWh of electricity per year.
Out of this total, 62% is consumed by the HVAC system in order to provide thermal
comfort for the occupants. After retrofitting, the HVAC consumption reduces by 32%
to approximately 620,175 kWh.
30
Zone C: This zone is consuming approximately 1,454,209 kWh of electricity per year.
Out of this total, 59% is consumed by the HVAC system in order to provide thermal
comfort for the occupants. After retrofitting, the HVAC consumption reduces by 29%
to approximately 620,175 kWh.
In essence, there is a decrease of 30% in energy consumption by retrofitting of the

proposed facade to the building (figure 4.14).
Figure 4.13 Zone division of existing floor plan
Figure 4.14 Comparisons of energy consumption of zones A, B, C before and after

retrofitting.
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4.1.6 Daylight Analysis
According to CIBSE code for interior lighting (CIBSE, 2006), recommended lighting
levels for a normal office ranges from 500 to 750 lux. Since most of the floor plans in
the building are typical, fourth floor has been taken as a sample.
The lighting analysis indicates that 55% of the floor plan is illuminated by natural light
with the level ranging from 500 to 750 lux (figure 3.15). The lighting analysis after
retrofitting of the dynamic facade indicates that 50% of the floor plan is illuminated by
natural light with the level ranging from 500 to 750 lux (figure 3.16) From the results,
that daylight factor reduces marginally after the application of the proposed dynamic
facade.
Figure 4.15 Daylight analysis of case study.
Figure 4.16 Daylight analysis of case study after retrofitting.
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4.2 Case Study 2 ( Headquarters Of Satin Cedit Care ,Gurugram )
Figure : 4.17 : Building Facade

Source :https://www.udemy.com/course/kinetic-facades/learn/lecture/7695466?start=600#overview
With an area of 54000sq ft this project ( office building ) is under construction in
Gurugram , India by SHIFT ( studio for habitat features ). Energy efficient and zero
energy office building in the urban context of NCR. Extreme energy and water
conserving using highly energy efficient HVAC systems, water recycling, daylight
harnessing and low energy task lighting.
Figure 4.18 : Plan placement on site .

Source :https://www.udemy.com/course/kinetic-facades/learn/lecture/7695466?start=600#overview
Its building is oriented north west is susceptible to direct sun during later part of the
day that is past noon on the west facade.To effectively shade the same, static shading
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façade was formulated in vertical fins at an angle to provide maximum shading.This
would mean cutting down the diffused daylight during the first half of the day which
is a good quality daylight. It will also block exterior views which a glazed building
provides which is not a healthy situation . This option was very limiting to the project
and hence a Kinetic vertical shading system was proposed as a solution that can block
intense solar heat gain in the west while providing a glare free environment.
Figure 4.19 : Facade formulation according to sun angles.

Source : https://shift.org.in/projects.php
Motorized fins were designed to block direct solar radiation , Solar Azimuth has been
used as stimuli for fins response.
Figure 4.20 : Solar azimuth

Source : https://www.pveducation.org/pvcdrom/properties-of-sunlight/azimuth-angle
The proposed dynamic system would provide free access to diffused radiation in the
morning hours and would operate carefully upon direct sunlight post noon hours.
The vertical fins would rotate as per the sun movement throughout the day to achieve
the requirement.
Mathematical function was modulated for per hour movement of the vertical fins that
is :
if (x>y, if ( x<360 , x-200,0),0) ;
34
where x = Hourly Solar Azimuth and y = Hourly facade orientation
This function states that whenever the solar azimuth angle is greater than the facade
orientation , the fins should rotate by an angle which is 200 degrees less than the solar
azimuth to cut the direct sunlight incident on the façade.
The number 200 was added after several alterations for optimising the performance of
the vertical fins , for all the other times the fins are supposed to be perpendicular to the
facade which is also the position of static fins.
4.2.1 Movement Of Kinetic Fins With Time With Respect To The Sun Movement
35
36
This change in facade fin is according to the mathematical function which relates the
movement of solar azimuth to that of the vertical fins .
Every hour the fins move to protect the interiors from direct solar heat gain , they act
as a second skin when the sun is almost perpendicular to the facade.
The Kinetic Facade responds to the moving sun changing to certain degrees thus
protecting the occupants from solar glare.
4.2.2 Simulation Process

Daylight Potential ( static vs kinetic )
Illuminance Levels achieved at various time stamps.
200-400 lux has been considered as desired range of illuminance optimum for visual
comfort , beyond 1000 lux a person tends to feel visual discomfort.
Fins movement according to the corresponding change in the sun movement thereby
affecting illuminance received inside a surface is observed in the below images.
37
38
Static fins are here not capable to control the penetration of light entering the inside
space and with hourly progression more and more area receives more than 1000 lux of
daylight which can cause immense discomfort staging in that area through glare.
Kinetic fins keep the distribution of daylight homogeneous and blocks the entry of
direct sunlight in the space.
When the solar azimuth is almost perpendicular, hence more than half of the floor area
receives more than 1000 lux of daylight causing immense glare due to direct sunlight
whereas in the case of Kinetic Facade there is equal distribution of daylight in the entire
office area which provides better opportunities for comfortable working. Better control
of the area is witnessed.
Glare Analysis ( static vs kinetic )
Analysis is done with the help of computing Daylight Glare Probability ( DGP ) ,
Incident Radiation on façade ( I rad KWh/m2 ) , Outdoor Dry bulb temperature ( DB ),
Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT) and Glazing inside surface Temperature ( Tsrf )
These parameters change every hour and help us analyse the impact of direct sunlight
when entering through static and Kinetic Facade.
39
40
Facade incident radiation (Irad) is increasing every hour in case of static facade whereas
it is reducing in case of the kinetic one.
The DGP value also goes on increasing in case of static facade where as it is decreasing
on case of kinetic facade.
Zone MRT is almost a degree lower in case of movable facade fins which can be
attributed to the lower inside glazing surface temperature.
Through the simulation , it can be recalled that Kinetic fins can dramatically lower the
possibility of glare ,lower values of MRT which is consistently lower than the static
façade in kinetic ones also enhances the perception of thermal comfort , reduces cooling
energy use.
Facade Incident Radiation ( static vs dynamic )
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Glazing Inside Surface Temperature ( static vs dynamic )
Space Mean Radiant Temperature ( static vs dynamic )
In the above mentioned graphs, it is evident that much lower values of Irad , Tsrf and
MRT are achieved in Kinetic Facade whereas the values are much higher in case of
static facade and affects thermal comfort of a being residing in that area.
4.3 Case Study 3 ( Moving Landscapes , Ahemdabad )

Architects  Matharoo Associates
Location  Ahmedabad, India
Category  Houses
Architect in Charge  Gurjit Singh Matharoo
Area  1900.0 sqm
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Project Year  2012
Photographs  Edmund Sumner, Matharoo Associates
Manufacturers  Artemide, EDRA, MDF Italia, Casina, Flow
Figure 4.21 : Movable facade fins

Source : https://www.archdaily.com/791361/moving-landscapes-matharoo-associates
The idea for moving landscape germinated from stumbling upon a stone, Bidasar
Forest, that possesses an impression, as if, of tropical arid landscape fossilized within
itself. Its polished surfaces against the native verdure of the Ahemdabad region made
for the perfect setting, blurring the lines between reality and illusion.
Figure 4.22 : Horizonal movable panels

The plan of the house is interpreted as a linear pavilion, ensuring that every space in
the house is lined with glass on the facing sides – the first enclosure. The rest of the
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structure is in 200mm thin walls in concrete, eliminating the need for any beams and
columns and making for cleanest interior volumes.
Additionally, this saves constructed dead space by about 3% and for the 18,000 total
covered area, this equals to 540 sq.ft or the size of an average sized room.
Figure 4.23 : Movable facade fins

This pavilion is oriented around the margin of the site as three wings. The flanks holds
the house’s private spaces with suites for each of the sons’ families, while the central
one hosts the living space for all communal activities.
The residual corner voids by the turning of the blocks, are snugly protected by tall
circular walls to form smaller sheltered spaces – while one cradles the houses’ utility
space, the other acts as a court distant from the joint families gaze. These also carry the
staircases and lift, rendering outer spaces clear of all encumbrances for the Bidasar
drama to unfold. The composition as a whole footprint defines a large multi family
courtyard at the heart of the site.
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Figure 4.24 : Interior view Figure 4.25 : Movable Fins
The second enclosure is a layer of massive 15’ high, 9’ wide and 1’6”mm thick Bidaser
stone walls along the entire perimeter – an impregnable shell. Akin to the amethysts
hard exterior cracking open to reveal its crystalline heart, at the push of a button, this
imposingly heavy stone wall cracks open, as it becomes an array of panels spinning
gently about their centres or sliding away to reveal a transparent cocooned interior. Can
be employed at will whenever desired and dissolved when not.
Figure 4.26 : Conceptual Sketch plan

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The layer of stone panels help create a buffer between the inside and the outside,
protecting the inner layer shell of concrete and glass from intense sun light and 45o
heat, thereby reducing the total heat gain on the air-conditioning. Moreover, this space
doubles up as passages, verandahs, entrance vestibule and circulation space, and also
as protection from rain, eliminating the need for air-conditioning in 8000sq.ft out of a
total of 18000 habitable space. This saving is substituted with enhanced living and
direct contact with nature in what we term as value architecture.
Figure 4.27 : Ground floor Plan

Figure 4.28 : first floor plan

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Figure 4.29 : Sectional elevation
Savings from the air-conditioning and sealing the house, is then channelled into making
in house custom designed motorized pivots and giant sliding systems. Architecturally
and structurally both, this entire layer is kept completely detached from the inside
structure, almost as a heat buffer, and is only supported on hidden structures within in
the sliding and pivoting systems, making for the awe in having thick concrete slabs
floating on moving stones.
Lights are machined out of alabaster stone providing for the most natural ambience.
Figure 4.30 : Exterior view Figure 4.31 : Interior Depth

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Most furniture is bought out from various design houses in Italy and a sole bar table is
one custom designed by the Architects. It is a 3 dimensional mobius strip in stainless
steel, locally fabricated.
Lights and water under the moving walls light the water to make the heavy stones
appear floating on water.
Toilets too open on opposite ends and the water closet, the shower and the basin, all
three are positioned on 3 side of the duct, the fourth side left for easy service access and
ventilation to the duct from outside.
Figure 4.32 : Interior View Figure 4.33 : Exterior View

To carry on with the material & weight amazement further the thick concrete basin
counter is cantilevered from the floor to ceiling mirror. In line with the same philosophy
of the easy maintenance and serviceblity AC units have been kept on the roof with just
holes cut in slab for blower. This approach of integrating the services and interiors in
construction itself doesn’t only make it easy to service; it also saved a lot of time off
construction.
The entire building was ready in 18 months time from start to furnish.
Resonating with the harshest aspects of nature, in motion, these walls intermingle with
the glass inside and the wild landscape outside, the third enclosure, to sometimes allow
a glimse of the outdoors, sometimes reflect it and sometimes reflecting themselves. It
is in this layering of space and screen, the houses’ entire envelope becomes an interface
to mediate between the artifice of the inside and verdant site outside.
48
Figure 4.34 : Interior views
The house environs look deep inside their interior, as the house merges into an illusion
of landscape constantly moving that we sometimes catch ourselves reflecting amongst,
reflecting on the nature both within us and outside of us. The epitome of their
experience is to be found at the entrance passage of the house, where all of these
reflections find the surface of water to make the landscape a truly moving one.
4.4 Case Study 4 (Al Bahr Towers ,Abu Dhabi )
Abu Dhabi Investment Council is the investment arm of the Government of Abu Dhabi
that is responsible for investing part of the government’s surplus financial resources. In
2008, the Abu Dhabi Investment Council launched an international competition for its
new headquarters.
The new headquarters is located on the North Shore of Abu Dhabi Island, overlooking
the Eastern Mangroves and toward Sadiyaat island and the Persian Gulf beyond.
Therefore, the project was named Al Bahr, which means “the sea” in Arabic.
Abu Dhabi experiences hot and humid climate and extremely sunny days with
temperature and humidity reaching 498C and 100%, respectively during summer.
Aiming to design two iconic towers, the design brief called for two 25 story towers to
create an outstanding landmark reflecting the regions’ architectural heritage together
with the corporate status of the clients’ organization.
49
The primary business functions of the towers include financial transactions, brokering,
and dealing including Al Hilal Bank. At the same time, the project brief requested a
contemporary sustainable building using modern technology without setting any
performance or certification requirement.
4.4.1 Concept
The project concept is inspired by the traditional Islamic object the “Mashrabiya” and
motifs to stand out with two circular towers covered by a honeycomb-inspired structure
and its automated dynamic solar screen.
The “Mashrabiya” is a wooden lattice screen found in traditional Islamic architecture
and used as a device for achieving privacy and environmental control including natural
ventilation, solar control, and glare reduction. The project area is 56,000 square meters
primarily for office use (Bank).
The design submitted by architect Abulmajid Karanouh (Aedas) offers two 150-
meterhigh circular towers clad with curtain wall covered with a kinetic shading system
(Figure 1a). The tower floor is open plan office spaces with service core.
In some floors, the space is divided into cellular offices and meeting rooms. Each tower
has a two-level basement with 24-story office space that includes catering, auditoria,
prayer rooms, gymnasium, and plant rooms. There is a basement for car parking and
secure vaults for banking services.
Following an international design competition, the client chose the striking concept
submitted by a UK-based multidisciplinary design team (Aedas/Arup). There is an
entrance podium for both towers covered with a 100-m curved roof.
The buildings are fully air-conditioned with various back areas associated with storage
and catering. Finally, the project won the 2012 Council on Tall Buildings and Urban
Habitat (CTBUH) Innovation Award5. The project concept was placed second at the
Emporis Skyscraper Award – the world’s premier event for high-rise architecture – for
projects completed in 2012.
The project has been featured on the Chicago-based Council on Tall Buildings and
Urban Habitat’s “Innovative 20” list of buildings that challenge the typology of tall
buildings in the 21st century.
50
Figure 1. (a) Northern facade and (b) south facade of Al Bahr Towers, with some
opened and closed shading devices – coordinates: 248 27’ 23” N, 548 24’ 4” E; alt: 3m
Source : https://www.glassonweb.com/article/evaluation-adaptive-facades-case-study-al-bahr-towers-
uae
4.4.2 The envelope

The two circular towers are clad with weather-tight glass curtain wall. The curtain wall
is comprised of unitized panels with a floor-to-floor height of 4200 mm and a variable
width of 900– 120 mm. From floor to ceiling, the vision area of the curtain wall spans
3100 mm.
The curtain wall is separated from the kinetic shading system through a substructure by
means of movement joints. The fixation of the substructure movement joints (cantilever
struts) is at the first basement, ground floor, and podium levels, thereby allowing them
to respond independently from the substructure.
The dynamic shading system is a screen comprised of triangulate units such as origami
umbrellas. The triangular units act as individual shading devices that unfold to various
angles in response to the sun’s movement in order to obstruct the direct solar radiation.
Each mashrabiya was conceived as a unitized system, cantilevering 2.8 m from the
primary structure. The shading device system contains stainless steel supporting
frames, aluminum dynamic frames, and fiberglass mesh infill. The folding system
transforms the shading screen from a seamless veil into a lattice-like pattern to provide
shade or light.
51
Each shading device comprises a series of stretched polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
panels. When the shading device is closed, occupants can still see through from inside
to the outside (Figure 2). In total, each tower has 1049 mashrabiya shading devices,
each weighing about 1.5 tonnes.
The shape of the building in plan and elevation led to 22 different variations in the
mashrabiya geometries, which in itself created a challenge for managing their
manufacture and assembly.
Figure 2. (a) Three fully opened shading devices allowing an open view during non-
solar periods and (b) a group of fully opened shading devices .
uae
4.4.3. Automation and adaptations

The shading screen is computer-controlled to respond to optimal solar and light
conditions. The mashrabiya shading devices are grouped into sectors and are operated
through sun tracking software that controls the opening and closing sequence according
to the sun’s angle.
Each shading device comprises a series of stretched PTFE panels and is driven by a
linear actuator. The actuator is responsible for opening and closing once per day based
on a pre-programmed sequence to prevent direct solar radiation.
Under overcast conditions or high wind conditions, a series of sensors integrated on the
building envelope will send its logged signals to the control unit to open all units.
Figure 3 shows a detailed 3D model of an individual shading device with the actuator,
sleeves, arms, and fabric mesh. The 1049 mashrabiyas are controlled through a central
Building Management System (BMS) that can control each unit individually or in
groups.
The system is run with Siemens technology in a preset automated control following the
sun’s path through the year. The system is updated every 15 minutes using a light meter
52
and an anemometer on the roof. In case of weather events, the automated program gets
overridden.
Power and data transmission is enabled through the strut sleeves, as shown in Figure
4a. The mashrabiya has a service life of 20 years including the PTFE-coated fiberglass
fabric and the actuators have a service life of 15 years.
Figure 3. Detailed 3D model of an individual shading device

uae
Figure 4. (a) A close view of the mashrabiya and curtain wall where the strut sleeves
penetrate the curtain wall and connect to the main structure and (b) a view out when the
mashrabiya is open.
uae
53
To ensure proper coordination between the various building components, a digital
model was used to guarantee the coordination and integration between the concrete
core, the structural steel frame, and the mashrabiya.
Figure 7. (a) A full-scale prototype of the mashrabiya undergoing mechanical testing at

Yuanda’s facilities in Shenyang (Aeadas Architects Ltd) and (b) the onsite benchmark
for six mashrabiyas.
uae
4.4.4. Results
Several interviews have been conducted to identify exactly the roles of the project’s
main stakeholders in different stages. This included the architect, energy consultant,
building’s users, adaptive glass facade sub-contractor, shading system manufactures,
commissioning agent, and the facility manager. The key steps of the adaptive facades’
delivery process are identified as follows: decisions, checklists, and teams engaged in
each stage respectively.
One of the most significant findings related to this project was that the client required
a “sustainable office building” similar to Northern or Western type of concrete and steel
structures with a panoramic glass facade similar to mainstream offices that you find in
the Gulf Countries.
Surprisingly, the project did not get certified by any LEED rating system and Arup
modified its reporting by stating that the project is designed in accordance with the US
Green Building Council’s LEED rating system instead of stating that the project failed
to get certified.
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4.5 Case Study 5 (Kiefer technic showroom, Austria )
Figure 4.35 : Kiefer technic showroom various arrangement of kinetic façade

Source:http://heraclitus.uth.gr/main/sites/default/files/phd_public_uploads/7_lfi_2011_dynamic_buildi
ng_envelope_case_studies_konstantoglou_scanned.pdf
Ernst Giselbrecht + Partner present the Kiefer Technic Showroom, an office building
and exhibition space with a dynamic facade that changes to outdoor conditions,
optimizing internal climate, while allowing users to personalize their own spaces with
user controls.
Figure 4.36 : basic concept behind the formulation of façade

Source : https://prezi.com/qkgtbqedhmnp/case-studies-51-studio/
55
The shell construction of the facade consists of solid brick walls, reinforced concrete
ceilings and floors, and steel encased concrete columns. The facade consist of
aluminums posts and transoms with protruding bridges for maintenance, with an EIFS-
facade in white plaster. The sun screen operates on electronic shutters of performated
aluminum panels.
Figure 4.37 : Plan of kiefer Technic Showroom

Source : https://prezi.com/qkgtbqedhmnp/case-studies-51-studio/
The building presents a new facade as the day progresses, defining it as a dynamic
sculpture that regulates the internal environment of the building.
Figure 4.38 : Section , kiefer Technic Figure 4.39 : 3d section explaining the role
of showroom the façade.
Source:http://moremorexless.blogspot.com/2017/01/kiefer-technic-showroom-dynamic-facade.html
In a whole glance it seems that the major percent of kinetic facades are repetitive
modules installed as a second cladding like curtain systems. Most of them are designed
56
to control the light entrance in to spaces and perform as mechanical curtains and shades.
However, they all provide a degree of dynamism for a building. The mode of action
follow four categories, aperture shaped, fold ability, retracting mode and suspended
modules shaking in place.
4.6 Case Study 6 (ThyssenKrupp AG ,Germany)
Figure 4.40 : Building front Figure 4.41 : Facade close up

Source: https://www.archdaily.com/326747/q1-thyssenkrupp-quarter-essen-jswd-architekten-chaix-
morel-et-associes/510bd64ab3fc4bb8ac0000bb-q1-thyssenkrupp-quarter-essen-jswd-architekten-chaix-
morel-et-associes-model?next_project=no
Figure 4.42 : facade movement according Figure 4.43 : facade fins movement
to sun
57
ThyssenKrupp AG, clearly turns its attention to the region where the technology giant
has its roots. The company continues to write its history on the grounds of the former
Fried. Krupp cast iron factory from 1811.
Typologically, the new quarter follows the idea of campus architecture, an ensemble of
various individual buildings on a “green carpet” with trees, connecting paths and small
squares. Expectations were focused on a structure that would flexibly react to changes
within the company. The Q1 building is the readily noticeable accent at the centre of
the structure-providing main water axis.
Figure 4.44 : Facade detail section

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Figure 4.45 : Site planning
The new campus symbolizes openness, coming together and communication, both
within the quarter and looking outward, toward the bordering city neighbourhoods. The
overriding design motif applied to all the new buildings on the campus is the “shell –
core” principle. All buildings in the quarter are composed of L- shaped elements
enclosing a shared central space. This gives a clear alignment not only to the
headquarters (Q1) but also the forum building (Q2) and the neighboring office buildings
Q5 and Q7.
59
Figure 4.46 : Building plans according to façade protection requirement
There are two types of facade: One faces the central space, the other faces the exterior
and is therefore responsible for the impact the buildings create in the surrounding area.
It is not the height, but the unique, expressive form of the Q1 building that bestows its
special status on the campus. The use of geometrical nestling of its volumes around a
common centre creates not only an exciting exterior appearance, but also fascinating
interior spatial progressions.
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Figure 4.47 : Building sections
The glass- roofed atrium is at the building’s centre. It rises over 10 storeys in height
and is segmented by countless mezzanines and footbridges. Two monumental
landscape windows act as delimiters on the north and south sides. The new, highly
efficient sun protection system has a key role in the overall appearance of Q1. The circa
400,000 stainless steel lamellas are oriented in response to the location of the sun and
enable light redirection without blocking the view.
The Q1 building has been awarded a gold certificate by the German Society for
Sustainable Building (DGNB). The building has also received the BDA Essen award,
the “2012 German Steel Construction Award” and one of the “LEAF Awards”, in
addition to others.
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Chapter 6 : Recommendations and Conclusions
62
6.1 Inferences
6.1.1 Scale of the project and thermal comfort
It is quite clear from the research, case studies , simulation and the analysis table
formulated that Kinetic facades do have the potential to significantly improve user
comfort , better adaptability in places where it is put to use.
Illuminance levels achieved in a building equipped with a Kinetic Facade is within the
value appropriate for human thermal comfort ( 400-600 lux) , which negates the
possibility of glare and discomfort.
However its use remains limited to the areas where the building is multilevel or is on
quite large scale. Using Kinetic Facades in small projects can improve costs in some
cases.
6.1.2 Energy savings
Kinetic Facades have proven to provide better room temperatures , surface temperatures
as well as protection from glare due to equivalent and equal distribution of light
throughout the office space.
Its use is also dependent upon the material choice made for installation.
Amalgamation of Kinetic Facades with energy saving parameters such as solar panels
can help to reduce the use of energy sources as well as generate them as well.
HVAC load has been proven to reduce by atleast 30 percent (case study).
6.1.3 Materials
Traditional materials such as ceramics and metals can be expensive and can be easily
replaced by Shape memory alloys , shape memory polymers etc .
Most of these materials are comparatively cheap and are readily available since they
are formulated out of plastics ( most ) which can also reduce the building dead load .
Maintenance cost will also be affected after the use of new materials which require
much lesser installation as well as maintenance/operational cost .
Its use has been very limited throughout the years of operation of architecture and in
the hunt for sustainable methods to rectify the related problems.
In a space like Gurugram , where office buildings are dominant , these can bring forth
a revolution in the overall user experience of a person in a building .
6.2 Limitations
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Although Kinetic Facades propose quite the benefits , some of its limitations cannot be
neglected namely :
1. Higher hassle of maintenance if high maintenance materials and low technology
is put to use.
2. Since it requires a whole array of materials and automation , it cannot be used
for small scale projects.
3. Chances of increased costs if it is put to use for only aesthetic purposes (Al Bahr
Towers) .
6.3 Recommendations
Gurugram is a hub for MNC’s and multilevel office buildings wherein the companies
want to bring in their own culture into the area which is dominant of glass and neglects
the climatic zone it resides in.
In the current scenario , wherein there are restrictions to land and reduce green spaces
specially in Gurugram , planning and orientation are confined , Facade becomes the
primary source of environmental control.
Even after providing setbacks the verticality of the building calls for a solution
dominantly in office areas where an individual has to work during the daytime.
The primary character of office buildings in Gurugram (MNC’s) includes the
application of glass that occupies a minimum of 40 percent of the total facade and abets
heat gain and promotes daylight glare probability.
Kinetic Facades bear the potential to improve the comfort level of a being in a space
where he / she has to spend a minimum of 8 hours (office) to a considerable level ,
however these have to be put to use after some considerations in order to avoid failure
or unnecessary expenditure .
1. Multilevel office buildings require a facade that does not tend to increase the
dead load of the building , so material choice should be such that it is lightweight
and long lasting.
2. Automation is used for the operation of kinetic facades . However , manual
operation should also be kept as an option in case of technical issues / errors.
3. Overall costs can be reduced if proper analysis is done before installation of
Kinetic Facades i.e. on which side of the building it is required the most or
which direction receives the maximum heat gain.
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4. Efficient technology should be put to use in the working of Kinetic Facade so
as to avoid load on the facade itself. Some of the choices could be as follows as
per user need.
5. Use of conventional materials require complex high tech equipment to achieve

kinematic systems resulting in non-energy efficient building therefore material
choice should be an important consideration. The material choice and the
combination could derive creative character as well as low maintenance of the
facades – Steel, aluminium, zinc, tile, stone, extruded resin, ETFE etc .
6. Installation of the Kinetic Facade should be in accordance with the site i.e. the
orientation according to the sun path and the corresponding blocks so that their
need is reduced to the minimum for e.g. the need is maximum if the buildings’
facade rests on the west side and there are no corresponding blocks or buildings
to provide shade.
7. Designing of a Kinetic Facade should be function centric and not entirely on
aesthetics which can compromise its purpose to a great extend i.e. not being in
accordance with the movement of the sun or unnecessary facade variations even
when not required .
65
6.4 Conclusion
Kinetic Facades have the potential to bring about a drastic change in the overall comfort
of a being in an enclosed space and reduces the chances of potential glare and
discomfort that can hamper overall productivity in an area specially that of Gurugram.
Through the research it is evident that energy consumption can be reduced by a

minimum of 30 percent after application of kinetic facades. Daylight glare probability
has been proven to be nullified on application of such facade for comfortable working
conditions.
Mean radiant temperature is observed to be a degree lower and incident radiation and
heat received on surface (Tsrf) is also not hampering internal conditions required for
comfort of an individual.
However Kinetic Facades should be put to use having all the aspects studied and
analysed properly otherwise it can become cumbersome and expensive to maintain such
a facade. Smart use of technology and choice of materials can ease the overall
workability of the facade and can be used to improve the thermal comfort in a multilevel
office building where an individual is expected to work for atleast 8 hours especially in
an area like Gurugram which receives immense solar radiation for most part of the year.
66
References:
1. Book ‘ INTELLIGENT SKINS ‘ by Micheal Wigginton and Jude Harris.
2. Innovative Facade systems for Low- Energy Commercial Buildings by
University of California.
3. Intelligent Building Envelopes by Annemie Wyckmans.
4. Sheikh, W.T., Asghar, Q., Adaptive biomimetic facades: Enhancing energy
efficiency of highly glazed buildings, Frontiers of Architectural Research,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foar.2019.06.001
5. International journal of science and research
6. https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Thermal_comfort_in_buildings
7. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/310883656_Effect_of_kinetic_facad
es_on_energy_efficiency_in_office_buildings_-_hot_dry_climates
8. https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/527f/8da3dd898dc40dcff847ebdaa87a141be8
a6.pdf
9. http://www.conserveconsultants.com/sustainable-facades
10. https://www.archdaily.com/791361/moving-landscapes-matharoo-associates
11. https://www.arch2o.com/dynamic-facades-the-story/
12. https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/the-role-of-kinetic-envelopes-to-
improve-energy-performance-inbuildings-2168--9717-
1000149.php?aid=59139
13. https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Kinetic_facade
14. https://www.glassonweb.com/article/evaluation-adaptive-facades-case-study-
al-bahr-towers-uae
15. https://www.archdaily.com/89270/kiefer-technic-showroom-ernst-giselbrecht-
partner/
16. http://heraclitus.uth.gr/main/sites/default/files/phd_public_uploads/7_lfi_2011
_dynamic_building_envelope_case_studies_konstantoglou_scanned.pdf
17. https://prezi.com/qkgtbqedhmnp/case-studies-51-studio/
18. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327622224_Nature_Inspired_Movab
le_Building_Facade_Module
19. http://moremorexless.blogspot.com/2017/01/kiefer-technic-showroom-
dynamic-facade.html
20. https://www.archdaily.com/326747/q1-thyssenkrupp-quarter-essen-jswd-
architekten-chaix-morel-et-associes/510bd64ab3fc4bb8ac0000bb-q1-
67
thyssenkrupp-quarter-essen-jswd-architekten-chaix-morel-et-associes-
model?next_project=no
21. https://shift.org.in/satin.php
22. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=4&ve
d=2ahUKEwjPlZrt1Y_mAhVOfH0KHQdXCggQFjADegQIBxAC&url=https
%3A%2F%2Fpeer.asee.org%2Fcomparative-analysis-of-technologies-used-
in-responsive-building-
facades.pdf&usg=AOvVaw3VbSZSLhyZmCXbaMKx0CsS
68

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Chapter 1 : Introduction

1.6 Research Question:

1.9 Limitations : Study is restricted to:

To study the evolution and To study the parameters of

To compare the performance

To derive conclusions and

With advances in sensors, materials and building management technology, designers

Figure 1 : Al Bahr Towers , Umbrella like panels.

Figure 1.1 : Whitevoid Studio , Stainless steel skin effect.

Figure 1.2 : Theme Pavilion Expo , Synchronised actuators facade.

Figure 1.3 : Oxford Street Debenhams Store , Aluminium shingles facade.

Ashtabula Lift Bridge

Main ideology behind this was

Spatial Town Planning With Flexible

Retractable roof opens and

The new era of parametric

Figure 2.1 : Draw Bridge Figure 2.2 : Bedouin Tent

Figure 2.3 : Villa Girasole plan and section

Figure 2.5 : Fun Palace sketch

Figure 2.6 : Micro Processor

Figure 2.7 : Building Facade

Figure 2.8 :Brisbone Airport Figure 2.9 : Mb Stadium

2.4 Thermal Comfort

2.5 Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort Of A Human Being

2.5.1 Air temperature

2.5.3 Radiant temperature

The temperature of a persons surroundings (including surfaces, heat

2.5.4 Relative humidity (RH)

2.5.5 Daylight Glare Probability (DGP)

It is an index to measure the probability of receiving glare on a surface during daytime.

The more the DGP value , the higher the discomfort.

2.5.6 Glazing Inside Surface Temperature ( Tsrf )

3.1 Kinetic Facades And Energy Efficiency In Office Buildings.

Traditional materials such as ceramics, metals or glasses are industrially produced to

Materials that have structural and physical properties to generate movement or

Figure 3.3 , hydrogel Figure 3.4

Thermo-Bimetal: sheets of differing metal alloys laminated together. When two

figure 3.5 , Thermo bimetal

Figure 3.6 , SMA Figure 3.7 , SMP

Thermochromic polymers, inks or glasses: thermochromism is the property of

figure 3.8 figure 3.9 Heat sensitive plastic

CO 2 responsive polymers: responsive polymers use carbon dioxide as a green or eco-

Photochromic dyes: photochromism is a reversible change of colour upon exposure to

figure 3.10 polychromatic dye

Comparitive Analysis Of Materials

4.1 Case Study 1 (Tricon Corporate Center , Pakistan)

Adopting a case study approach, a commercial building, namely Tricon Corporate

1. Building has facade glazing more than 40%.

2. Shading coefficient of exterior glass is more than 0.35.

3. Single panel glass is used in the building.

4. Facade appearance seems monotonous.

4.1.1 Trends Prevailing In Pakistan

4.1.2 Working Of Kinetic Facades

Figure 4.3 Module of proposed façade in various shading positions

Figure 4.4 kinematics of proposed shading device

4.1.3 Building Description

Figure 4.7 Orientation of the case study

4.1.4 Numerical Results

Figure 4.10 Folding of proposed module into verticle shading position

4.1.4 Solar Analysis

Observations during summertime:

2. From 11 to 2 p.m., maximum solar irradiance is detected on the rooftop.

1. Building has facade glazing more than 40%. 

3. Single panel glass is used in the building.  

4. Facade appearance seems monotonous.  