Exterior Architecture Services
These services collectively ensure the building’s structural integrity, environmental performance, and readiness for interior fit-outs, offering a robust foundation for any type of project. The methods of controlling the environment considered here are only the practical aspects of planning. They are treated by the architect within the context of the expressive aspects. The placement and form of buildings in relation to their sites, the distribution of spaces within buildings, and other planning devices discussed below are fundamental aspects in the creation of a holistic architecture. The work is defined in a series of work stages going from concept design, schematic design, planning, detail design, construction drawings to site supervision and post occupancy services.
Planning the environment
To make buildings habitable and comfortable, we aim to modify the effects of the natural environment like heat, cold, light, air, moisture, and dryness and foresee destructive potentialities such as fire, earthquake, flood, and disease. The methods deployed for modulating and adpating the architecture to the natural environment is a criticalpractical aspects of good planning that we strive for. The placement, orientation and form of buildings in relation to their natural environment, context and site as well as the distribution of spaces within buildings, is a fundamental aspect of conceptualizing a good architecture. The arrangement of the axes of buildings and their parts is a device for controlling the effects of sun, wind, and rainfall. The sun is regular in its course; it favours the southern and neglects the northern exposures of buildings in the Northern Hemisphere, so that it may be captured for heat or evaded for coolness by turning the axis of a plan toward or away from it. Within buildings, the axis and placement of each space determines the amount of sun it receives. Orientation may control air for circulation and reduce the disadvantages of wind, rain, and snow, since in most climates the prevailing currents can be foreseen. The characteristics of the immediate environment also influence orientation: trees, land formations, and other buildings create shade and reduce or intensify wind, while bodies of water produce moisture and reflect the sun.
Design Phase
The natural environment is at once a hindrance and a help, and the architect seeks both to invite its aid and to repel its attacks. To make buildings habitable and comfortable, he must control the effects of heat, cold, light, air, moisture, and dryness and foresee destructive potentialities such as fire, earthquake, flood, and disease.
Concept, Schematic & Detail Design
Development of the building’s exterior form, style, and material palette. Consideration of site-specific factors, such as climate, topography, and zoning regulations. The building orientation also shapes the building’s relationship with surrounding views, weather patterns, and cultural or context, playing a key role in creating architecture that is both functional and harmonious with its site.
Façade Design
Detailed design of the building’s façade, including glazing, cladding, and structural elements. Optimization for aesthetics, energy efficiency, and natural light.
Site Integration
Planning the building’s orientation, massing, and relationship to surrounding structures and landscapes. Addressing access, circulation, and environmental impact. The orientation of a building is a critical factor in architectural design as it profoundly influences the building’s interaction with its environment. Proper orientation ensures optimal natural lighting, effective ventilation, and energy efficiency, contributing to the overall comfort and sustainability of the structure.
Environmental Planning
Incorporation of green design strategies, such as passive solar design, green roofs, or rainwater harvesting systems. Selection of sustainable, durable materials for the exterior. To make buildings habitable and comfortable, he must control the effects of heat, cold, light, air, moisture, and dryness and foresee destructive potentialities such as fire, earthquake, flood, and disease.
Construction Documentation
Structural Engineering Coordination
Integration of structural systems into the exterior design, including foundations, frames, and load-bearing elements.
Building Envelope Specifications
Preparation of detailed documentation for walls, roofs, windows, and other envelope components to ensure performance against weather, insulation, and durability standards.
Code Compliance
Ensuring the design meets all building codes and regulations related to fire safety, accessibility, and environmental standards.
Detailing
Specifications for finishes, joints, weatherproofing, and thermal insulation systems.
Construction Phase
Shell Construction
Oversight of structural work, including the foundation, framing, and load-bearing systems. Erection of external walls, roofing systems, and other envelope components.
Core Installation
Construction of key building infrastructure, such as elevators, stairwells, mechanical shafts, and utility cores (plumbing, electrical, HVAC).
Façade Installation
Application of cladding systems, glazing, shading devices, and other external finishes.
Weatherproofing and Insulation
Sealing the building envelope to ensure protection from elements and enhance energy efficiency.