Inside - Out : Investigating Energy Efficient Façades

Abstract

Placing the service systems alongside the facade is not uncommon in architecture. This “inside-out” concept can be easily seen in buildings such as the Pompidou Center in Paris or the Llyod's building in London. However, a more modern approach was taken in Düsseldorf, Germany in 2008, the Capricorn House Medienhafen Düsseldorf. This building contains a unique device in its facade- called the i-modul, which was designed by GATERMANN + SCHOSSIG. This decentralized service module, located behind the red glass panels, is equipped with technology to control the building's temperature and air-quality. It also features an integrated lighting system with sound absorption and room acoustic elements. This special feature eliminates the need for traditional technology and allows for more flexible space within the building. This paper examines the energy efficiency of the i-modul device and its relationship to preceding architectural facades, it also proposes four facades for a tower design in the New York city context. With the US being one of the greatest energy consumers on the planet, this study highlights possible design approaches that can be applied along building facades to help reduce the consumption of energy.