Structural glass facades and enclosures have become a popular choice in modern architecture for their ability to seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces while allowing abundant natural light to flood the interiors. The use of large glass panels creates a sense of openness and transparency, making buildings appear more inviting and connected to their surroundings.
Advantages of Structural Glass Systems
- Durability and Strength: Structural glass systems are engineered to withstand various weather conditions and external forces, providing a durable and long-lasting solution for building exteriors. With advancements in technology, glass manufacturers can produce high-strength glass panels that meet stringent safety standards.
- Energy Efficiency: In addition to their aesthetic appeal, structural glass facades and enclosures can contribute to energy savings by reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. The use of energy-efficient glass coatings and insulation techniques helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while minimizing heat loss.
- Customization Options: Architects and designers have a wide range of customization options when it comes to structural glass systems. From different types of glass finishes to innovative structural configurations, the possibilities are endless for creating unique and visually striking building facades.
About the Book
This book is about the technology of an architectural form I call Structural Glass Facades (SGF). This book stems from my academic experience over the past several years at the University of Southern California School of Architecture. After completing my undergraduate degree, I left academia to gain real-world experience, with the intention of returning to graduate school.
Twenty-five years later, I did so. During that time I designed and built SGF with a team of some of the brightest and most intelligent people who have ever walked on a building site. In short, the pursuit of innovation, the manipulation of materials and processes, the collaborative realization of mere ideas, the novelty of each new project, the camaraderie, and, of course, the blood, sweat, and toil buried beneath every building.
This book is for the next tier of SGF adopters, those who marvel at the applications that have been built and wish to have the budget, the know-how, or the knowledge of what options are available and what problems exist in implementing an SGF project.
There will always be a cutting edge to this technology, and that is the source of inspiration for its evolution. However, as was the case with glass-fin walls, this technology will eventually spread to a broader market. If this book has the good fortune to promote its widespread adoption, it will be because of the stunning project work included in this book. Structural representation often takes the form of an attempt to dematerialize the structural system.
