fasades

A facade, plural facades (also spelled façades; sometimes misspelled as fasades), is the exterior face of a building—the visible surface that communicates its architectural character. The term originates from French and Italian roots and may refer to the principal front or any outer envelope designed to present a controlled appearance to the public.

Functions include weather protection, thermal envelope, daylight management, and aesthetic expression. Facades also define building scale, support signage and security, and contribute to energy performance.

Components include cladding, structural backup, insulation, moisture barriers, and glazing. Common materials are stone, brick, timber, metal, glass, and composite panels. Facades can be solid walls, glass curtain walls, or ventilated/double-skin systems that improve insulation and airflow.

Design considerations: proportion and rhythm; material and surface texture; color, glare control, and reflectivity; and climate-responsive strategies such as shading, operable windows, and proper insulation. Modern projects emphasize energy efficiency and daylighting through computational design and performance simulations.

Styles range from historical façades of classical and baroque architecture to modernist glass envelopes and high-tech skins. In the 21st century, sustainable and dynamic facades—often with microclimate control, shading devices, and responsive elements—have become increasingly common.

Maintenance and safety: facades require regular inspection and cleaning, especially panels and sealants. Fire safety and material compatibility are governed by building codes and standards, with ongoing work to address cladding fire risk in tall buildings.