Advances in kinetic architecture have allowed buildings to evolve well beyond their traditional monolithic presence. Previously, the main improvements that were made tended to be in terms of repairs or renovations. Enter the kinetic façade, a multidimensional design that responds to its environment in a bold, innovative fashion. Kinetic panels actually transform a structure from a static presence to one in which motion is an integral aspect of its appearance, and award-winning Danpalon kinetic panels have been a trailblazer in the development of this exciting architectural innovation.
The environment, which previously affected buildings specifically in the form of deterioration when rust, rain and glare diminished the structure’s appearance and functionality, is still a factor in modern-day kinetic façade systems. But environmental elements are not integrated into kinetic architecture designs. The mobility of the kinetic façade can be programmed so that the panels respond to environmental stimulation, as well as time and the manner of the occupancy in order to bolster performance. Rather than having an adversarial relationship with its external setting, the kinetic panels of a contemporary structure prefer to partner with the environment through the management of air and light.
The Role Of Kinetic Façades In Promoting Energy Efficiency
Kinetic façade materials can adapt to the ongoing changes in climate while embracing sustainability. Climates where heat is particularly intense rely upon air conditioning, but air conditioning needs electricity, which depends upon fossil fuels to a great extent. A kinetic façade system can provide a buffer against the unforgiving heat, enabling a kinetic façade to be proactive in energy efficiency. In some instances, the advancing technology employed by kinetic façade architecture, when integrated with photovoltaic cells, can not only conserve energy but actually generate it!
In those climates where sunshine and heat can be overwhelming, the solar heat gain that a building’s interior experiences can be reduced by a kinetic façade that incorporates a kinetic shading system. The movements of the sun, matched with kinetic architecture, are revolutionizing the way buildings adapt to their environment.
Buildings That Exemplify The Marvel Of Kinetic Architecture
When he set about refurbishing the Studio Legal Terrero & Mejia, architect Oscar architect Oscar Torrejón envisioned a dynamic new appearance for an existing structure. He called upon Danpal to make the vision become a reality. The characteristics of Danpalon kinetic panels enabled him to expand the impression of light and space in the creation of a flexible interior workspace. Through the realization of his design, the Studio Legal Terrero & Mejia built upon the heritage of the original structure and took it to the next level, modernizing the image of this Dominican Republic architectural landmark.
A kinetic façade in India was showcased at the Expo 2020 Dubai to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Indian independence. The Indian Pavilion’s façade told the saga of the country as it was, as it is, and as it will be by using 600 separate blocks that, throughout the day, acted as moving storytellers. A kinetic façade building of this nature demonstrates how creative a building can be when technology joins forces with its subject. The result is a breathtaking journey through the subcontinent of India via kinetic panels that travel through time and space while never leaving their location.
Danpal Honored For Developing Danpalon Kinetic Panels
Danpal has dedicated its research and development resources to designing and manufacturing building materials that reflect its Global Vision, Local Focus philosophy. Danpal’s R&D engineers were able to capitalize on cutting-edge Danpalon excellence to create a kinetic panel with a unique esthetic appeal. That dedication paid off at the October 2019 Trade Fair for Plastics and Rubber during the EPSE Awards Competition, when the Danpalon kinetic panel was honored in the innovation category.
How Buildings—And Their Occupants—Benefit From Kinetic Architecture
Comfort: With a manual override to the kinetic façade, building occupants have the ultimate control over the orientation of the shades, which adds to increased comfort and a choice in the view.
Sustainability: When solar heat gain is reduced by shading design, operating costs are also reduced.
Business opportunities: Ever since COVID-19 changed the way we work and live, the hospitality industry has been seeking ways to adapt its sites to suit what’s known as the “workation”, so that people working remotely can perform their jobs in attractive and comfortable hotel settings.
Reduction of waste and pollution: Reducing the load of air conditioning with solar-powered kinetic facades is an effective way to reduce air conditioning loads, thereby lowering greenhouse gas emissions which, in turn, reduces the damage to the ozone. The development of kinetic architecture has given buildings and their occupants a thriving role in supporting the environment.
Esthetic improvements to prefabricated modular structures: With the installation of a kinetic façade that functions like a protective skin, the building has an attractive exterior that adds to its appearance.
Thanks to kinetic architecture, buildings and their occupants are allied in a mutual commitment to leave a holistic impression about the environment.
