ABSTRACT

[Double-skin façades (DSF) are building enclosures characterized by an air space separating multiple glazed building skins. A DSF uses the air space, or cavity, between the layers as an insulating buffer against extremes of temperature or sound, as a protected zone to place solar control devices, and optionally as a zone to support natural ventilation strategies. In this chapter, a bioclimatic design matrix exhibits how physical façade components can combine in support of whole-building bioclimatic design strategies. DSF are presented as a ‘kit of parts,’ a collection of elements that can be combined in different ways to meet bioclimatic design goals of the whole building. Functional elements of the façade (air space, shading elements, ventilation openings, glazing, structure, and controls) can be variably configured, giving DSF construction unique potential to adapt to a wide array of sites, programs, and other design factors. Bioclimatic concepts are outlined with a focus on design strategies common in high-performance DSF architecture related to daylight optimization, thermal heating and cooling, and acoustics.]