Arup provides independent design, procurement and construction advice on all aspects of façades and building exteriors across the world.
Fundamental to creating the architectural expression of a building, façades are increasingly important as an environmental moderator. They influence the embodied energy and operational energy consumption of buildings. They present the opportunity to incorporate energy-generating technologies. They also affect the comfort and productivity of building occupants.
Arup works with building owners, architects, and main and specialist contractors. The firm's materials expertise also enables its specialists to work closely with cladding manufacturers to develop innovative products for façades.
As well as new-build projects, Arup undertakes diagnostic and rectification work. The firm also helps to retrofit and re-clad existing buildings to extend their life or enhance their performance.
Developers and building owners
Typically accounting for around 15% of a building's construction cost – the same as the structure – a façade is an important consideration for any project. Arup provides impartial advice to owners and managers to help them to manage the technical, commercial and programme risks associated with façade and roof elements.
Arup's façade specialists identify and evaluate cost-effective proposals at an early stage, seeing them through the design, procurement and construction processes. They also assess the environmental performance, energy consumption and durability of existing property portfolios.
Architects
Arup works from the earliest conceptual stages through to the documentation, testing and construction of performance-based or fully prescriptive designs. The scope of the firm's work ranges from the design of total building enclosures to skylights, canopies and lightweight structures.
Arup's detailed knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes enables architects to realise their visions. The firm's 3D modelling and design capabilities help to ensure that the building form can be optimised for performance and materials. Involving façade specialists at an early stage also helps architects to create designs that are integrated with the building structure and mechanical systems.
Main contractors
Arup works with contractors to assess the viability risk profile, construction methodology and interface management of façade designs. Including specialists with industry experience, the firm's façade team has extensive knowledge of both traditional and innovative construction practices.
Through factory inspections and off-site mock-up testing, Arup helps to ensure that products meet the required performance criteria and standards. The firm’s specialists thereby ensure that the build quality and performance of the completed façade are consistent.
Specialist contractors
Arup provides independent design and engineering services to create elegant, practical and cost-effective façades that meet contractual requirements. To ensure that the façade is constructed as efficiently as possible, the firm's specialists review and advise on factory and fabrication processes, as well as materials and systems tests.
Expert witnesses
Should disputes arise about the cladding of a building, Arup assists building owners and their legal advisors to define and implement a strategy to address failures and shortcomings in performance, rent review appraisals and insurance issues.
Façades are the key to the success of building projects. Arup's design, technical and commercial expertise helps to achieve them elegantly and effectively – down to the smallest detail.