Introduction

Innovative facade concepts are today more relevant than ever. The demand for natural ventilation in commercial buildings is increasing due to growing environmental consciousness while at the same time energy consumption for buildings has to be reduced. An advanced facade should allow for a comfortable indoor climate, sound protection and good lighting, thus minimising the demand for auxiliary energy input. Double skin facades (DSF) have become a major architectural element in office buildings over the last 15 years.

The double skin facade can provide:
• a thermal buffer zone
• solar preheating of ventilation air
• energy saving – sound protection
• wind protection with open windows
• pollutant protection with open windows
• fire protection
• nocturnal cooling
• aesthetics – site for incorporating PV cells