Growing focus on energy efficiency is driving innovative façade technology.

- Supriya Ambavane, Vice President - Head Design, Tata Realty and Infrastructure Limited

“Going forward, data gathering, analysis and interpretation of the data to constantly improve the performance of spaces and facades is a major trend that is already gaining momentum,” says Supriya Ambavane, Vice President - Head Design, Tata Realty and Infrastructure Limited.

What do you think the factors that have brought a shift more towards performance-centric facades systems?

One of the biggest factors contributing to the growing popularity of performance-centric facades is their ability toreduce energy consumption drastically. The right strategy of material selection along with proper execution (with reference to sun angles, structure and architecture) helps in creating a comfortable temperature -inside the building as well as in the deflection of heat outside. Façade materials and systems generally used in commercial buildings are now being widely accepted in the market due to their energy efficiencies, low maintenance and high performance. By increasing natural light within living spaces, these new systems contribute to wellness and health of both the building as well as the inhabitants. The modern day customer wants buildings to impact the environment positively and offset global warming. This translates into a strong demand for high performance glass with greater thermal efficiency and cooling within the building. Customers also desire for streamlined aesthetics that lend itself to a smart and tech friendly vocabulary. To summarize, growing focus on energy efficiency and an increased understanding of impact on the environment are some of the key factors driving the change within the industry today.

Could you give an example of any of your projects where latest facade system is used and its techno-commercial advantages?

Precast technology has enormously brought down construction timelines and costs, reduced waste and helped in standardisation of design as well as execution quality. EIFS [Exterior Insulation Finishing System], a façade system used in our Intellion Edge project in Gurugram, has increased thermal efficiency in the project whilst using green materials. The EIFS provides thermal insulation wrap around the building mitigates heat gain and cuts down the cooling loads within, thus resulting in significant energy and cost savings as well as reduced turnaround times. Increasing consciousness amongst the educated populace is pushing the real estate sector to work towards Net Zero projects, both in terms of water and energy.

How does the advent of disruptive technologies have impacted this segment, especially the design and execution part of it?

In the recent past, there has been a major impetus for driving the change towards greener buildings. Additional benefit is the reduction in operational costs for the customer. Some of these disruptions include new technologies in facades like EIFS, dynamic & high efficiency glazing, touchless solutions, customer aspirations for energy efficient buildings, compliances for green buildings and the wellness aspect. Facades are now valued for their performance, not just their aesthetic and this has driven innovation and adaptation of façade technology to innovative tech such as BIPV, thermal shading etc. that are being experimented with across the world.

What are the trends in computational designs and using digital elements and light? 

BIM 5D, BIM Docs and Revit have been the pioneers in computational design. They are used extensively by designers and builders alike to efficiently use materials' timelines and resources for an integrated approach to all the facets of a building. Energy efficient lighting systems designed to minimise night time glare and reduce light pollution in cities have brought about reduction in energy consumption and costs as well. Automated control systems help us decide the level of illumination as per seasons and daylight timings. Solar power from PV panels or grids are being increasingly used to power our projects and buildings. Home automation is another trend that is catching on, with modern buildings integrating more tech within the design. These trends are moving us to adopt greener sources of energy and conservation of fossil fuels, thereby reducing our carbon footprint as well. Going forward, data gathering, analysis and interpretation of the data to constantly improve the performance of spaces and facades is a major trend that is already gaining momentum.

What are the major parameters in the selection the type of materials?

The selection and adaptation of suitable materials in design is largely determined by factors such as energy efficiency and sustainability, cost optimisation, safety and climatic synergy with local conditions. The best of technologies, inputs from industry experts and innovations are integrated within our designs. Customers are ensured that there is a verified structural support system in place, inclusive of maintenance and warranties, with safety guidelines to ensure its efficacy and longevity.

Maintenance is one major area which has, so far, been not given the due focus. What is your take on this? And how do you address these issues?

Maintenance is the lifeline of the system and should ideally be given key importance it deserves. As a conscientious real estate company, we ensure BMUs and other maintenance facilities are integrated within the design of facades for effective working conditions during operations.

How do you foresee the future trends, especially in the post Covid era?

Throughout the industry and beyond, various experts have been sharing their unique approaches for designing facades in the new normal. They have been setting new trends to accommodate healthier, wellness oriented and holistically built spaces. Flexibility and adaptability are the keywords of this era, with people coming up with new solutions that might also change with the changing dynamics of the pandemic. The definition of work, worker and workplace continues to change due to the pandemic, forcing us to evaluate spaces through the lens of 'work-from-home' and social distancing norms. Workplaces and homes will have to be redefined, in terms of the experiences they offer and the convenience they bring to our daily routines. Inclusive design is being re-interpreted to accommodate the changing needs progressively and incrementally- including the flexibility in leasing models, amenities on offer that will help differentiate one commercial space from the other; or flexible study in the apartment, home automation, customisable business centres in apartment complexes etc.

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