One BKC - Day view & Side view (right)
which is chosen based on the function of the building. For example, for a commercial building, natural lighting and indoor-outdoor connect is essential. At the same time, it should balance with environmental parameters of the particular site. If the project is located in Middle East, it should have ample shading. I think the challenge is to understand how to choose from readily available local materials and put them together in a formula that gives the best effect for any site of architecture. The key factors include selection of materials, and understanding the functional aspects of the building, which also revolves around the geography of the building site. It is also important to look at the factors like long time maintenance and life cycle of the faรงade. The faรงade should remain strong as the building ages and should not cause troubles. If the building is a tall one, the study of effect of wind on the building is important. The shape and faรงade details of the building certainly will affect the safety of the building. If the location has strong eddy currents and turbulence, the shape and orientation of the building should be such as to have minimum impact and to provide maximum safety.
l 44 WFM MAR - APR 2017 l
Acoustic treatment of buildings, if located near railways, airports, or other noisy places, should be good enough to shield the noise from right direction with insulated glass facades of greater thickness. WFM: Could you please tell us about some of the innovative technologies or materials used in your own projects? JL: Talking about the iPad project in Dubai, the faรงade of the building has a very simple and organic design.