Designing and constructing a façade or fenestration for a very high-rise building is a complex balance of design intelligence, engineering precision, and environmental performance.
Sanjay Gupta, Co-Founder, Parallel Doors & Windows
The design of a high-rise façade must respond to the building’s orientation, form, and function. It should allow ample daylight while minimizing heat gain and glare. Shading devices, vertical fins, and double-skin systems are often integrated to control solar exposure and improve comfort. The goal is to create a balance between transparency and protection so that the interiors remain bright, comfortable, and energy efficient.
Material selection is equally critical. In tropical or mixed climates, high-performance glazing with low-emissivity coatings helps in reducing heat transfer while maintaining natural light. Framing systems made of thermally broken aluminium or other durable materials are preferred for their ability to resist expansion, corrosion, and wind-induced movement. The choice of material also depends on orientation; for instance, west-facing façades may use reflective glass, while north-facing sides can employ clearer glazing for better daylight.
Hardware and components form the hidden strength of any façade. Anchors, gaskets, and sealants ensure air and water tightness, while high-quality hinges and restrictors provide safety and smooth operation. Together, they maintain performance and stability under extreme conditions.
A well-designed façade improves energy efficiency, sound insulation, ventilation, and indoor air quality. It also plays a key role in fire safety, with fire-stopping barriers and non-combustible materials preventing vertical flame spread.
A high-rise project featuring double-glazed units and thermally broken profiles showcases how intelligent façade design can achieve strength, safety, and sustainability while enhancing the urban skyline.
