Organic facades are a relatively new trend in architecture that prioritize sustainability and environmental consciousness. This type of facade is designed to blend in with the natural environment and provide a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional facades.
Green and Living styles are two examples of organic facades that have become increasingly popular in recent years. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at these two styles and explore their unique features and benefits.
Green Style Facades.
Green-style facades, also known as green walls, are designed to be covered in vegetation. They can be installed either indoors or outdoors and are typically made up of a variety of plant species.
The main benefits of green-style facades include:
- Improved air quality – plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which helps to improve the quality of air around the building.
- Energy savings – green style facades can help to reduce energy costs by providing insulation during the winter months and shading during the summer months.
- Aesthetic appeal – green walls can add a unique and natural aesthetic to a building’s exterior.
Living Style Facades.
Living-style facades, also known as living walls, are similar to green walls but are designed to include a wider variety of elements, such as water features and even small ecosystems.
The main benefits of living-style facades include:
- Improved biodiversity – living walls can provide a habitat for insects, birds, and other wildlife, helping to improve local biodiversity.
- Reduced urban heat island effect – the addition of vegetation and water features can help to reduce the impact of the urban heat island effect, which is caused by the absorption of heat by buildings and pavement in urban areas.
- Improved air quality – like green walls, living walls can help to improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Materials Used in Organic Facades.
The materials used in organic facades can vary depending on the specific style and design. For green walls, a variety of materials can be used for the structure, including metal frames, plastic modules, and soil-filled bags.
Living walls typically require a more complex structure, as they often include water features and irrigation systems. They may be constructed using materials such as concrete, steel, and plastic.
Both green and living-style facades require careful consideration of the plants used, as the wrong species can cause damage to the building over time.
Design Elements of Organic Facades.
Organic facades are designed to blend in with the natural environment, so they often include a variety of natural elements such as plants, water features, and rocks.
Green walls typically have a more uniform appearance, with plants arranged in a grid-like pattern.
Living walls, on the other hand, can be more complex and include a wider variety of elements. They may include water features, such as fountains or small ponds, and may even include small ecosystems, such as a mini rainforest or desert biome.
Advantages of Organic Facades.
Organic facades offer a variety of benefits over traditional facades, including:
- Improved air quality.
- Energy savings.
- Aesthetic appeal.
- Improved biodiversity.
- Reduced urban heat island effect.
Challenges of Organic Facades.
Organic facades can be more expensive to install and maintain than traditional facades. They require careful consideration of the plants used and may require a more complex structure to support the weight of the vegetation and water features.
Additionally, the maintenance requirements for organic facades can be higher than those for traditional facades, as the plants and other elements require regular watering and trimming.
Preservation of Organic Facades.
Preserving organic facades requires careful attention to the specific needs of the plants and other elements used. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the vegetation remains healthy and that the structure remains stable and secure.
Modernization of Organic Facades.
Modernization of organic facades can include the use of more innovative materials, such as recycled plastic modules for green walls, and the incorporation of smart technology to automate watering and monitor plant health.
Additionally, new design elements can be added to organic facades to improve their functionality and aesthetic appeal, such as the use of colored lighting to highlight specific areas or features.
Conclusion.
Organic facades, such as green and living styles, offer a unique and eco-friendly alternative to traditional facades. They provide a variety of benefits, including improved air quality, energy savings, and improved biodiversity. While they can be more expensive to install and maintain, the aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits they provide make them an appealing option for many homeowners and businesses. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative and sustainable designs for organic facades in the future.