Julkisivu

Julkisivu, meaning facade in Finnish, refers to the exterior face of a building—the visible surface that faces public space. It includes the outer wall and its architectural treatment: cladding, openings, balconies, and decorative elements. The julkisivu performs protective, environmental, and aesthetic roles, shielding interior spaces from weather, providing daylight, and shaping the building's identity.

Architectural practice distinguishes load-bearing facades and non-load-bearing skins such as curtain walls. Common facade systems include brick or stone masonry, concrete, timber, metal panels, and glass. Cladding may be monolithic or composed of panels, with insulation and moisture barriers integrated. Windows and openings are sized and arranged to optimize light, ventilation, and energy use while respecting proportions and rhythm.

Material choices are influenced by climate, durability, maintenance, and heritage considerations. In Finland, weather resistance and insulation are particularly important, leading to robust facades with effective sealants and cold-weather performance. Restoration and preservation rules may apply in historic districts, sometimes requiring facade conservation.

Design considerations include energy efficiency, fire safety, acoustic performance, and accessibility. Regulations govern facade height, color, materials, and modifications, and may require energy performance certificates and permits for alterations.

Maintenance and retrofit projects address weathering, moisture ingress, and aging; common measures include cleaning, re-sealing joints, repainting, insulation upgrades, and, increasingly, integration of solar panels or green façades.