Fasad

Fasad refers to the exterior face or envelope of a building. In English the term is facade; in several European languages, including Swedish, Norwegian, Polish, Danish, and Russian transliterations, the form fasad is common. The word originates from the French façade, from Italian facciata, from Latin facies meaning face.

A facade is more than decorative; it defines the building’s outer shell, contributing to weather protection, security, daylight distribution, and energy performance. It accommodates openings for windows and doors, and may incorporate structural elements, ornamentation, balconies, cornices, or cladding. Modern conceptions emphasize the relationship between the envelope, the interior plan, and environmental performance.

Types and construction methods vary. Facades can be load-bearing or non-load-bearing; modern high-rise façades often use curtain-wall systems with a lightweight frame and non-structural panels. Traditional facades may be masonry bearing walls. Cladding materials range from stone, brick, and timber to glass, metal, and composite panels. Green façades and dynamic or faceted facades are used to improve energy efficiency or to create changing appearances.

History and styles: Facades reflect architectural periods from classical exteriors to contemporary interpretations. The 20th century saw innovations such as glass curtain walls and modular panels, enabling new urban silhouettes. Today, facade design often prioritizes sustainability, daylight optimization, acoustic control, and sometimes interactive or kinetic features, balancing aesthetics with performance and urban context.