View of different juxtaposed modules
‘Greensquare’ building
Architect : Archi+I, Atelier de Genval
> Partition Types

´Corridor´ type ventilated double facades partitioned per storey are characterised by a large cavity in which it is generally possible to walk. While the cavity is physically partitioned at the level of each storey (the cavities of each storey are independent of one another), it is not limited vertically, and generally extends across several offices (see figure below) or even an entire floor.

Corridor-type ventilated double facade partitioned per storey
> Partition Types

The objective of this partitioning concept is to encourage natural ventilation by adapting the partitioning of the facade so as to create an increased stack effect (compared to the naturally ventilated facades which are partitioned by storey). Thus it is logical that this type of facade and partitioning is applied only in naturally ventilated double facades.
This type of facade is in fact composed of an alternation of juxtaposed facade modules partitioned by storey and vertical ventilation ducts set up in the cavity which extends over several floors. Each facade module is connected to one of these vertical ducts, which encourages the stack effect, thus supplying air via the facade modules. This air is naturally drawn into the ventilation duct and evacuated via the outlet located several floors above.below)

> Partition Types

Multi-storey ventilated double facades are characterised by a cavity which is not partitioned either horizontally or vertically, the space between the two glazed facade layers therefore forming one large volume.
Generally, in this type of facade, the cavity is wide enough to permit access to individuals (cleaning service, etc.) and floors which can be walked on are installed at the level of each storey in order to make it possible to access the cavity, primarily for reasons of cleaning and maintenance.
In some cases, the cavity can run all around the building without any partitioning. Generally, the facades with this type of partitioning are naturally ventilated; however, there are also examples of facades of this type which are mechanically ventilated.
It should be noted that the facades of this type generally have excellent acoustical performances with regard to outdoor noise. This characteristic can be the reason for applying this particular type of facade.

Multi-storey ventilated double facade
> Partition Types

The multi-storey louver naturally ventilated double facade is very similar to a multi-storey ventilated double facade. Its cavity is not partitioned either horizontally or vertically and therefore forms one large volume. Metal floors are installed at the level of each storey in order to allow access to it, mainly for cleaning and maintenance.

The difference between this type of facade and the multi-storey facade is that the outdoor facade is composed exclusively of pivoting louvers rather than a traditional monolithic facade equipped (or not) with openings. This outside facade is not airtight, even when the louvers have all been put in closed position, which justifies its separate classification. However, the problems encountered with these facades are generally comparable to those encountered in the other ventilated double skin facades.

a. View of the louvers in horizontal position
b. View of the large cavity and the louvers in vertical position
Ventilated double facade with louvers
Berlaymont ‘building’
Architect : Berlaymont 2000 s.a., P. Lallemand, S. Beckers