Category: Facade Systems

Adding A Walkway Canopy To Your Design

Posted on by Danpal

A walkway canopy is architecture’s way of turning the outdoors into a comfort zone for both commercial and residential settings. Whether your need for a covered walkway canopy is for a home or business environment, you’ll appreciate the benefits that Danpal manufacturing and design bring to canopy architecture. Walkway canopies are often seen in outdoor restaurant seating, where they provide covering for diners but also add to the ambience of the establishment. They are also seen in home landscaping, where they can add a festive touch to the exterior appearance of a house. But a Danpal walkway canopy design is much more than a piece of canvas on a pole. The famed Danpal reputation for innovation and visual appeal makes polycarbonate canopy design an attractive and useful feature for your building.

Of course, we immediately think of the ways that walkway canopy systems offer shelter from the elements, but even the simplest of walkway awnings can transform the visual aspect of the landscape. A street of shops distinguished by the items that are sold within, but connected by an exterior walkway canopy, gives a commercial zone a picturesque appearance. In a domestic setting, a covered walkway canopy at a festive occasion shields guests from rain as they enjoy the fresh air and the company of others. Whether you’re enjoying alfresco dining at your favorite restaurant or chatting with friends at a neighborhood get-together, you can appreciate the ways in which an outdoor walkway canopy enhances the occasion.

A Danpalon Canopy Redefines Outdoor Architectural Canopy Design

Don’t be confused when we talk of daylighting architecture and canopy roof design in the same sentence. The combination of natural light and architecture has brought about a dynamic partnership between what nature can provide and what technology can enhance.

Danpal is a pioneer in daylighting architecture, the process by which natural light becomes one of the building components of a design. Of course, as soon as Danpal is part of the conversation about canopy roof material, the conversation turns to a polycarbonate roof canopy. It’s light in weight and easy to work with, which gives it a versatility that’s especially convenient for an outdoor setting. You’ve seen polycarbonate canopy systems in a variety of locations, and you’re used to seeing polycarbonate used in conservatories, garages, decks, patios and even pool covers. It’s practically unbreakable, which helps to explain how polycarbonate canopy design has captivated the imagination of architects.

Because it’s 250 times stronger than conventional glass, polycarbonate is able to hold up against harsh weather. That means that whether the season features extreme cold or extreme heat, polycarbonate covered walkways are up to the challenge.

The Walkway Canopy Of Hwa Hun

Located near Seoul near Bukhansan Mountain in Korea, Hwa Hun or “Blooming House” is a brilliant example of how Danpal materials and stunning architecture combine to create a design that is both aesthetically impressive and structurally superior. The house not only uses Danpalon® in its Danpal façade system but also in its walkway canopy, where Danpalon® is placed over steel pipes. An architectural canopy is an invigorating element for a residence or a business that also adds to the appeal of the neighborhood.

The Advantages Of Danpalon® For Your Walkway Canopy

The reason why Danpalon® panels are the preferred choice for canopy roof systems is easy to understand. It’s well known in the construction industry that any Danpal product is subjected to rigorous in-house quality control testing so that the final results meet Danpal standards. Because Danpal is an international company with a thriving commercial presence on five continents, its global markets are an important consideration when manufacturing materials for export. Danpal products perform to excel regardless of where they are installed: whether it’s the Alps of France or the Australian Outback, Danpal manufactures materials that will be durable enough to withstand weather conditions all over the world.

Walkway CanopyVersatility Of Materials And Colors In Walkway Canopies

For business establishments that want to make sure the external features of their setting enhance the overall appearance and don’t detract from the impression that’s made on customers, there are various options to choose from when considering polycarbonate canopy details.

You might choose simple walkway canopies that are utilitarian in function, or you might be aiming for a more elaborate presentation that adds visual appeal. Danpal offers various options in building canopy design that will meet the widest range of customer preferences.

Walkway Canopies Provide Shelter From The Elements

People love being outside, until bad weather makes an appearance. With the arrival of summer, more events are held outside. For restaurants welcoming the return to normal after the constraints imposed by COVID, outdoor seating remains a popular option. An attractive walkway canopy design is a visual way for a business to look inviting.

Diners sitting at a table might have an umbrella to shelter them from harsh sunshine or blustery conditions, but servers bringing menu items to those tables can benefit from a canopy that shields the transit paths from exposure. Danpal flexibility and ease of access are always an important factor when making a decision on the dimensions of the walkway canopy that’s needed.

Optimizing Natural Light With Danpal’s Walkway Canopy Systems

Danpal is a pioneer in daylighting architecture, the process by which natural light becomes one of the building components of a design. Whether you are in the market for a walkway canopy or skylight roofing or any of the Danpal systems, it’s quite likely that you’ll want to check out the options that come with daylighting architecture. Studies have shown that adding more natural light improves productivity and nurtures a sense of wellness. In these stressful times, a little more sunshine can go a long way toward making building structures more holistic for those inside.

Contact Danpal to discuss Walkway Canopy for your next architectural project.

Façade Glazing Systems Nurture Light While Providing Strength of Performance

Posted on by Danpal

Danpal building materials are as much a process of innovation as they are a manufactured product. When it comes to façade glazing systems, Danpal delivers its renowned daylighting architecture with the high-quality performance that is part of the company’s legend. With a reputation that spans half a century and calls five continents home, Danpal knows how to utilize esthetics and function in a manner that’s unmatched in the building industry. Danpal’s expertise makes it possible to turn daylight into a building project!

Façade Glazing Systems Need to Be Strong

Finding the appropriate balance between strength and beauty requires the experience of a team of expert engineers and designers working within a culture of innovation. Danpal nurtures this mix of expertise and cutting-edge results. Weather has been around since long before humans began building structures to live in or work in; Danpal knows that weather can’t be cancelled because it’s unpleasant or inconvenient or harsh. What a Danpal façade glazing system can do, however, is provide protection from the harm that weather can cause. Rain, snow, wind, hail and sunshine will continue to be a threat to buildings, but they can’t overpower Danpal.

What Are The Performance Features Of The Façade Glazing System?

It’s impossible to list the advantages of any Danpal product without mentioning the superior qualities of Microcell technology and its impressive durability. UV protection, high-impact resistance, and airtight and watertight security give the façade glazing system its formidable ability to function as a barrier against weather. Ease of installation makes the façade glazing system a pleasure to work with for architects and building crews.

What Is The Danpal Double Glazed Façade System?

A double glazed façade system provides an increased level of protection against weather and has a gap between the two facades; one of the facades, either the interior or the exterior façade, can be removed without compromising the effectiveness of the protection against the weather. This feature makes it easier to perform long-term maintenance when circumstances require it. Made of Danpatherm, the panels have excellent thermal characteristics which allow for the storing and transmission of heat. Because the panels are pre-made at the factory, they are ready to be installed when they are delivered to the worksite, a time-saving process that also offers a savings in cost.

What Is The Visual Appeal Offered By The Façade Glazing System?

The system’s superior transparency and tonal qualities let it balance the qualities of light and thermal dynamics. Creativity is enhanced in a Danpal façade glazing system because Danpal offers such a variety of colors, effects and finishes that visual contrasts make a dynamic impression. Daylighting architecture is one of the many ways in which Danpal has successfully sought ways to expand the capacity of architecture to make use of nature so that it co-exists with construction. The system is equipped with a no-glare feature that helps natural light provide improved visibility rather than impede it.

Contact Danpal to discuss Façade Glazing Systems Nurture Light for your next architectural project.

Jules Ladoumègue Sports Complex, a Sun-Shade Blades In Deep Red

Posted on by Danpal

In Paris, the land is rare and expensive. It is on the site previously occupied by the Jules Ladoumègue Sports Stadium that the walls of a new Maintenance and Storage Site (SMR) for the T3 tramway line have just been built.

It was unthinkable that the Jules Ladoumègue would no longer offer its sports facilities to the district – so the stadium was simply rebuilt on the roof of the new building and now faces the ring road. Today, it includes a soccer field, a rugby field, and as a buffer between them and the noise of the traffic, a long building housing tennis courts.

The west wall is Controlite®, with integrated brise soleil to protect from strong light and manage solar gain.

On the Facades east side,  the Jules Ladoumègue Sports Complex, which faces the sports fields, the Danpalon® wall is covered by a horizontal wooden lattice filter. Dietmar Feichtinger, the project architect, designed it as “a kind of artificial landscape, evocative of the synthetic grass”.

The covered tennis courts are a nod to the new Paris Philharmonic concert hall, located in the neighboring park of La Villette, with alternating red and transparent Danpalon® panels evocative of piano keys. “Red is a color that also features inside, in various materials, such as the cloth on the ceiling. It’s a theme that runs through the building”, concludes Dietmar Feichtinger making the Jules Ladoumègue Sports Complex an outstanding area for multi-sports.

Jules Ladoumègue Sports

 

 

DETAILS OF THE PROJECT:
Name of the Project: Jules Ladoumègue Sports Complex, Paris. France
Applications: Facade
Systems: Danpal Controlite for Facade
Thickness: 16mm, 1040mm
Color: Red + Clear
Company: STEELLIFE co,.LTD
Architects: Agence Dietmar Feichtinger
Contractor: Vulcain
Copyright: © David Boureau-DFA

 

 

Newhaven Energy Recovery Facility, a Curvaceous Colosus

Posted on by Danpal

Imposing in size but well-integrated in its environment, the Newhaven Energy Recovery Facility on quite a difficult terrain, along the Ouse river, wedged between heterogeneous industrial buildings and residential areas, along a regional park.

The building is partially buried and emerges from the ground only 27 m high out of the 45 m required for the waste treatment process that is carried out over 200 m in length.

All that can be seen has been softened, rounded, curved to visually blur the building and reduce the impact on the environment. The building exterior is designed in three parts, which correspond to different stages of waste treatment.

On one side, the waste is received under a steel cladding, whereas at the other end an apse in porous textile covers the cooling elements. Between the two, a huge Danpalon® hall covers the processing pit and the heart of the system. During the day, light enters and lights up the installations. At night, the continuous activity of the building is gently enhanced with minimal light pollution.

In slightly cloudy weather, the milky appearance of the cladding allows it to almost merge with the sky, thus minimizing the visual impact of the imposing building. It was a difficult architectural choice to have made transparent what is usually opaque, and curve what is usually square. A choice that has had a positive effect as this treatment center has not been subject to the usual controversies that these kinds of projects are generally known to face.

 

Newhaven Energy Recovery FacilityDETAILS OF THE PROJECT:
Name of the Project:  Newhaven Energy Recovery Facility, UK
Applications: Facade + Skylight
Systems: Danpal Facade System + Danpal Roofing System
Thickness: 16mm, 1040mm
Colors: Clear Softlite
Company: Soprema
Architects : Jean Robert MAZAUD, S’pace
Installer: Lakesmere (UK)
Copyright: © S’PACE SA

 

A Sport Complex with a Forest Allegory

Posted on by Danpal

On the edge between urbanity and nature, set up between a ZAC and a hiking trail along a river, the Epernon sports complex finds its personality in the search for harmony with its environment, without issimulation or assimilation.

On the town side, it is illuminated and the mineral concrete of the forecourt welcomes the visitors. On the riverside, the printed Danpalon® facade integrates with the park, without touching it, providing the reflection of trees in the Drouette valley.

“Initially, we had planned to screen-print this facade,” recalls Bernard Ritaly, Architect. “A visit to a trade show, during the design phase, allowed us to discover digital printing. This method enables us to create a facing with more personal development, it opens up a field of possibilities that were not accessible earlier.

With a little imagination and fantasy, this is the solution that we have retained; at less than two meters away, the printed photo cannot be distinguished; only pixels are visible. One needs to move back from the facade to be able to understand what it represents.”

The trees printed on the Danpalon® double skin harmoniously mingle with the vertical wooden shingles, another key material of this Sport complex.

For Bernard Ritaly, “the facades are an allegory of the forest and of the plant world. We have used untreated larch, which will gradually become tinted and in a few years from now, the entire building will be naturally grey. The pattern will not move.”

Sport Complex

DETAILS OF THE PROJECT:

Name of the Project: Epernon Sports Complex
Applications: Facade + Skylight
Systems: Danpal Facade System + Controlite for Roof System
Colors: Opal + Clear
Company: Soprema
Architects: Ligne 7 Architecture

 

 

Intercommunal Technical Center Combining Metal, Wood Shimmer, and Transparency

Posted on by Danpal

Intercommunal Technical Center, Drancy (France) – Facade Danpalon® 10mm and 16mm, 600 mm, Color Clear, 1511 m² – © Agence Pierre Lombard – Architects: Pierre Lombard Architecte DPLG (FR) – Installer: DBS (FR)

Dedicated to the services of the city, and Intercommunal Technical Center combines a variety of activities, some noisy (workshops of different services, oading areas near the railway line of the Bourget yard), and some quiet (offices, archives, company store in a residential area).

CTI-v5For the Bourget airport Urban Community Centre, the choice was to divide these activities into two parallel buildings, lengthwise.

Between the two, an interior street, 8 meters wide, acts as a link between the two worlds. A part of the street is covered by Danpalon®, creating an inner courtyard that enables the movement from one external space to the other without being exposed to harsh weather.

CTI-v4For workshops and storage areas, in-depth illumination, and good insulation were required (the whole is known as BBC), even if the heating requirements are less important than for offices. The facades blend wooden siding on the bottom part and, on the top, Danpalon® 16 mm clear of 4 m height.

Intercommunal Technical Center

“Aesthetically, it works well with a contrast between smooth, bright and modern material, and the softer, matt, and sober wood,” explains Jonathan Deschamps, Head Architect Project Manager of the Pierre Lombard Agency.

CTI-v7“During the day, Danpalon® brings a quality of natural light inside the workshops. It takes another dimension in the evening when the workshops are lit and make it visible from the outside. Its metallic side highlights woodwork and aluminum finish flaps, creating a material unit on the facades”.

An Interview with Danpal Korea President – Mr. Han

Posted on by Danpal

We had the fortunate opportunity to sit-down, and talk with a very busy Mr. Han, about his work, as he guides Danpal Korea to a bright future.

Mr. Han is a multitalented individual, who is not only the president of Danpal Korea, but who is also the V.P of the Korea Institute of Architects, and amongst other titles, is an alternate member of the UNESCO-UIA Co-Committee of World Capital of Architecture.

1. Please tell us a little bit more about you and your background?

I am Young-keun Han, the president of Danpal Korea, a commissioner of Presidential Commission on Architecture Policy Republic of Korea, the vice president of Korea Institute of Architects, an alternative member of UNESCO-UIA Co-Committee of World Capital of Architecture and a commissioner of Architecture Commission of Seoul City. I am also an architect and university professor. I have experience in designing buildings and architecture ever since I finished my study of architect in France. During that time, I was able to experience architect and engineering industry for about 20 years and came across to know about Danpalon and its applications as aesthetically flexible building materials having great potential.

2. How did you originally get involved with DANPAL?

While I was in France, I had a chance to design a house for the Bayer France’s chairman and he was very satisfied with the design and outcome. As a result, I became his architectural consultant. From the Bayer’s raw material annual forum, I came to know of Danpalon which uses the Bayer’s Makrolon as the main ingredient. And after that, I have witnessed the design, application, and maintenance of the Bayer group’s Danpalon project. I was marveled at Danpalon as a building material and led me to start my business with Danpal in Korea.

3. Can you tell us more about how you have developed DANPAL Korea, into a successful supplier of architectural solutions (moving away from simple panels)?

As an architect, I have discussed a lot about building structures and materials with my fellow architects. In the early days in Korea, about 15 years ago, polycarbonate panels were not widely used as building envelopes. But I brought these fantastic materials at the moment when architects were seeking and desire of new materials. And I tried to apply Danpalon to well-designed building projects so that they could perform as my showcase.

Based on the high-quality product as Danpalon, I provided skilled engineering to support better applications. Most of all, I have tended to think that I am contributing to the new culture for architecture in Korea, rather than just selling panels for profits.

4. What challenges in supplying our systems for projects, do you continually face in Korea, and how have you overcome them?

Although Danpalon is known as high-end imported material, it is more expensive than four other competitors. In addition to that, products from China are not only cheaper but quicker to be delivered as they close to Korea.

The next issue is the Korean building regulations. Danpal products are globally used but that doesn’t mean they perfectly meet all Korean regulation. Especially, the standard for fire resistance and insulation is getting more and more intensified, and reducing the gap to meet the requirements is not fast enough.

To solve these issues, we approach each case differently and try to identify the client’s desire in early-stage whether he wants superior products or only cares of price so that we know where to put our efforts. We also try to secure more stock available in order to meet the desired delivery time. We understand well that this is not a perfect solution and Danpal products are order-made, therefore, the production requires more time. But we also hope more support from Danpal to find better and more effective ways to reduce delivery time.

For the regulations, we can hardly imagine how the regulations will be in the future. But now the best we can do is to suggest the applicable design of the products complying with the new regulation to our clients.

5. What sort of strategies have you used to overcome local competitors, especially those, who sell on price?

Danpal Korea offers solutions. With my employees’ knowledge and experience in engineering and architecture, and understanding of the Korean market, Danpal Korea provides not only products but Total Service. This means that from the design stage, Danpal Korea works with our clients until their projects end. And even after the projects we go on and check if our clients are satisfied with their results. I believe this could make clients favour our solution over the price.

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6. What do you feel are the key advantages that a DANPAL solution offers, over other more established options in the market?

I think Danpal products are genuinely made by the market-leading company Danpal whereas other similar building material companies imitate and follow the trend created by Danpal. This gives significant differences for product superiority when it comes to application. With the experience and knowledge, Danpal has, Danpal solutions are built for high functioning that actually works. This is because Danpal products are continuously being evolved and get perfected by Danpal’s R&D, which makes other competitors hard to follow.

7. How important is it to provide high-level specification for each project, in order to secure supply, and how do go about this process?

Suggesting on Danpal’s specification is the first step in the process to develop projects.
In that, we need to address our solution’s functionality, efficiency, and as well as economic value to people who design, inspect, and manage projects and people who work on sites. Normally they don’t work in a group all together, so even though we convince the designer or architect, that doesn’t mean that we secured the project. We have to go through and met each stakeholder to be satisfied.

Since Danpal Korea is not a big company that has enough manpower, we have difficulties reaching out to every single one and its satisfaction. But we try to use every available resource as possible. For example, in order to get more information and supports, I use my network in architectural associations that I’m affiliated to.

And more importantly, we let our clients correctly understand the traits of our products and performance, so that we can build mutual trust with our clients and be recognized as a credible and healthy partner.

8. What future do you see for DANPAL in Korea, and how are you gearing up for these changes?

Danpal solutions may not be a substitute for all kinds of building materials for sure. And they are not ordinary materials or ubiquitous applied to everywhere, at least, in Korea so that its market is not as big as other ordinary materials like glass. But I believe its uniqueness can find the niche, and when Danpal solutions are required, there can be hardly ever substituted due to strength and durability compared to lightness and variety of color options.

So far, 85% of our projects are Façade and we have only 15% of roofing projects but we are now expanding to roofing and interior projects. For our future, what I want to do is to combine Danpalon and solar panels for clients who want solar energy. This will increase more marketable area. I am sure that Danpal solutions’ original functionality and technology to enhance energy efficiency and environmentally friendly products can be the answer for not only Danpal Korea but also for Global Danpal.

9. Can you tell us about a project that you are most proud of, and which DANPAL system you ended up using?

The most memorable project to me is Soongeui Arena Park Stadium using Danpal Roofing System. The project required 34.4 meter long panels, the longest panels ever used for our projects. In order to install these long panels inclined, the structure became very complicated. With the help of Danpal, we were able to save structural costs from total expenses. This was because Danpal and Danpal Korea are not just panel sellers but we find and provide the solution and service together.

10. What advice can you provide to our other global partners, on the steps you have taken, to grow the DANPAL brand in, your market?

I often say this but because of its importance, I will repeat it. We are not selling just products and panels. Because our products are not consumer products that can be immediately used as they are, just selling cannot be done without putting extra effort to support clients. Therefore, it is very important to have the experts and qualified manpower to provide engineering services and great marketing as well. 

Our products are designed, tailored, and installed, and this process takes some time until projects finished. And the notion that I obtained in this business is to remind people that we are offering them solutions to solve their problems. With the high-quality Danpal’s solutions and the efforts to provide service, there will be a bright future and your success.

Velodrome Couvert de Roubaix – An Elevated Cycling Ring

Posted on by Danpal

 

To lighten the construction, the ground floor is fully glazed and constitutes the foundation of the ring formed by Danpalon® supported by a metal framework. “This makes it possible to lift the translucent ring off the floor to give the impression that it is floating in the air, bringing light and airiness to the complex,” explains Thomas Houot, Architect from the ANAA agency.

velodrome couvert de roubaixApart from the rounded shape and the considerable height (11m) that it allows, Danpalon® has also been selected for its thermal and lighting properties, essential in this HQE project. “We had to limit energy consumption and we have sought to make maximum use of natural lighting.

The light we get through the structure is gentle and of excellent quality,” explains Thomas Houot.

“Furthermore, at night, we wanted the activity inside to be visible from the outside. In addition to specific lighting for the track, we placed polycarbonate tubes with fluorescent light sources on top of the walking frames and terraces. At night the structure becomes transparent and the building looks like a lantern”.

DETAILS OF THE PROJECT:
Name of the Project: Velodrome Couvert de Roubaix
Application: Façade
System: Danpal Façade System
Thickness: Danpalon Panel 16mm, 20mm, Double Glazing
Architects: ANAA Architectes – Thomas Houot – BET TCE
Copyright: © David Coppieters

 

velodrome couvert de roubaix

Insulated translucent wall panels

Posted on by Danpal

 

The wall panels that are used in Danpal facades create a façade that exhibits the superior performance that clients have come to expect from the veteran company, along with the remarkable inclusion of light for which Danpal is well known. These insulated translucent wall panels are an attractive alternative to the traditional large glass windows that were often seen in the past. While those windows did admit light into an area, they were unable to block the accompanying glare that was an inevitable side effect of the natural light.  Danpal’s insulated translucent wall panels are designed to bring in the light and block the glare, as well as provide superior energy efficiency to the building.

Translucent Facade

The Advantages Of The Insulated Translucent Wall Panels

The translucent panels are designed to diffuse the amount of light that enters an area, creating a soothing glow that lends itself to the atmosphere that’s preferable for reading, writing, or quiet conversation. Because of the reduced glare, employees working at their desks can benefit from the natural light without suffering from irritating glare.  Danpal has developed panels that have shading functions; the settings for these panels can be adjusted to suit personal comfort levels for customers as well as workers.  The translucent facades have UV blockers to remove any harm that the sun could cause as well as lower the heat index.  Doing without the glare and the risk of sunburn is a bonus of Danpal’s insulated wall panels that glass fails to provide. The pure effects of the daylight without the glare-free the window from the need for shades or curtains, which would reduce the benefits of the natural light that makes such a difference in the look and feel of a room or a work area. 

The Thermal Properties Of Insulated Translucent Wall Panels

Danpathern is a façade system that is designed for excellent thermal properties so that it enhances in the storing of heat while also presenting a barrier to the wind and dirt that are outside.  Danpal products are celebrated for their superior thermal properties, which help the heating and cooling systems of the building.

Translucent Facades

Translucent Wall Panels Are Transformative

We hope we’ve made a convincing argument for why Danpal is the leader in translucent facades. Now we want to explain a little more about the charm of translucent wall systems. You may never have thought of walls as a system before, but in well-integrated architectural designs, walls can contribute not only structurally, but also in terms of energy efficiency, improved visibility, and overall performance.

Sunlight is wonderful. Sunlight is the source of light. But the glare that comes with sunlight is unpleasant. The soft light that comes with translucent wall panels makes a significant difference in the interior appearance of your home. Artificial light is harsh, whether you’re putting on your makeup in the morning before you go to work, or proofing a report before it goes to the printer. Natural light, brought inside and disseminated through translucent cladding panels, lets you see the world in a whole new way.

The Energy Efficiency Of Insulated Translucent Panels

There was a time when windows were regarded as the culprit in energy loss. No one in those days expected humble glazing to be the solution to the problem of escaping energy. But now, thanks to the advances made in construction of both translucent interior wall panels and translucent exterior wall panels, thermodynamic advances maintain an energy efficient balance. In order to understand how insulated translucent wall panels perform, it’s necessary to understand the concept of the building envelope. The building envelope, the structural barrier that exists between a build’s interior and exterior, is what maintains the heating and cooling inside.

We don’t always consider the role of climate control when we’re sitting inside, but that’s okay, because insulated translucent wall panels are taking care of it. The ability to store heat reduces energy costs for the consumer. Maintaining an even, comfortable temperature year-round, through the cold days and the warm ones, is part of what makes Danpal’s translucent building panels so remarkable.

The Hidden Strength of Translucent Facade

Translucent building panels made of polycarbonate defy the conventional concept of what a building material should look like in order to present an impression of strength. But architects who are familiar with the properties of a translucent polycarbonate sheet know that polycarbonate stands up to punishment. It’s 30 times stronger than acrylic and 250 times stronger than glass. Did you know that some police shields are made out of polycarbonate? If polycarbonate can stop a bullet, then translucent building materials made of polycarbonate can stop the rain.

Translucent wall panels can change the way you think about a building. Beautiful to look at, comfortable to live in, economically efficient in terms of energy use, they’re Danpal-designed to make the world a better place, one building at a time.

Contact Danpal to discuss natural lighting with the use of our translucent wall panels for your next architectural project.

Plastic facade panels

Posted on by Danpal

Different building materials, like anything else, enjoy different cycles of popularity.  We’ve come a long way since medieval times when building designers were limited to wood and brick if they were charged with constructing a massive project that would reflect the glory of the reigning monarch.  And as April 2019 fire at Notre Dame Cathedral proved, the stone walls and interior were able to withstand the blaze, but the wooden roof and spire could not. In today’s world, we have more durable materials to work with. One of those materials, polycarbonate, is used to make plastic façade panels that are part of countless Danpal projects. 

The Advantages Of Using Polycarbonate For Plastic Façade Panels

Polycarbonate façade panels must be stronger than the weather that pounds them on a regular basis and polycarbonate, which is 200 times stronger than tempered glass, has shown itself to be resistant to the elements. In fact, when polycarbonate is co-extruded with advanced inhibitors, it has the capacity to last the life cycle of the building. Polycarbonate thermoplastics are used for safety glasses, riot gear, sports equipment and bullet proofing, so that gives you some idea of just how strong they are.  Another advantage of polycarbonate is its flexibility; polycarbonate polymers are able to be curved organically so that they take on the shape of the building. This flexibility displays itself in another unique fashion; although polycarbonate materials are so much stronger than glass, they are actually less than half its weight. 

Plastic Façade Panels And Thermal Efficiency

As a society, we are very conscious of the plight of the environment and energy-conscious consumers strive to do what we can to protect the planet.  Plastic façade panels are one way to do that. When a polycarbonate thermoplastic is extruded into a multicell panel, it’s possible to achieve U-values below 1.0Ug (W/m2.K). Plastic façade panels made with polycarbonate materials can help a building achieve a green rating, something that’s a mark of excellence in our world today.

Contact Danpal to discuss  Polycarbonate Facade Panels using our Danpalon polycarbonate sheets and Danpal Facade Solutions for your next architectural project.

 

Plastic facade panels

How A Double Glazed Glass Adds Efficiency To A Building’s Energy Use

Posted on by Danpal

The simplest definition of double glazed glass is that it’s a window with two panes of glass, which creates a double glazed sealed unit. The two panes of glass are separated by a spacer bar which creates an air gap. The strength of this double glazed façade is the boost it supplies to thermal insulation, allowing a room to retain its internal heat and preventing the external chill from intruding. With double skin façade detail, the external layer of glass is typically tougher and more resistant to the weather so that it’s capable of withstanding the forces of nature when they strike. What may seem like a humble window is actually one of Danpal’s façade glazing systems made from polycarbonate, capable of you warm inside when it’s cold outside.

It wasn’t called a façade glazing system a long time ago, when technology hadn’t advanced to the point that windows were regarded as an effective means of keeping warmth within a structure. History differs on who first came up with the idea that double panes of glass, now known as double glazed glass, could keep us warmer inside while winter winds howled outside, but whether it was the Americans who patented “Thermopane” in the 1930s or 19th century Scots who added that vital second pane of glass to the windows, or the Romans who first devised their own version of a glass panel façade, it’s certain that Danpal has taken the technique to new heights of efficiency with the use of double panes of polycarbonate, and what a difference that has made! With half a century of expertise and experience in the building materials industry, our façade glazing systems have created a reputation for excellence.

You Can Count On Glass Facades For Energy Efficiency

Double glazed glass has the power to do wonders for the way in which your home or workplace promotes responsible energy usage. On the simplest level, energy efficiency in the home or workplace relies upon dry insulation. This can be a challenge if the building does not have adequate protection against the weather, and a glass façade or a polycarbonate façade is one way to provide that protection. Snow and rain, wind and hail, and even heat and sunlight, are powerful forces of nature, and if they manage to penetrate the interior of a building, it won’t take long before moisture makes itself at home in the insulation, compromising its ability to maintain energy efficiency. With a façade glazing system, the building is a structural advocate for greater energy efficiency that also enhances the comfort of those inside.

When moisture attacks insulation, there are several different outcomes, none of them good. The insulation is no longer able to maintain a consistent flow of energy within the building. You may find that you have to adjust the temperatures for heating and cooling. That’s because, without the strength of Danpal’s façade glazing systems, energy is escaping from within the building. Wasted energy is one of the threats to environmental safety. Paying for wasted energy is also a threat to your economic well-being; check your utility bills to see if you’re paying more than you should be. There are a lot of things you want to spend your money on, but wasted energy isn’t one of them! Double glazed glass, on the other hand, is an excellent investment. Danpal’s double polycarbonate sheet will give you all the advantages of glass and will be even more economical than glass.

Danpal’s engineers and design experts understand this. That’s why our double skin facade system is so popular with architects and their clients. We understand that today’s consumers are committed to lifestyles that use energy wisely, and they expect their homes and workplaces to meet these environmental standards. Buildings have an obligation to the planet as well as to the people who live and work inside their walls. But even though weather is a part of nature, it has to stay outside where it belongs. With Danpal glass polycarbonate systems, the double-click locking seam’s higher load resistance is part of the protection against the weather. The snap-on connections are the means by which weather remains outside instead of getting inside. With Danpal’s façade glazing systems, which are made from polycarbonate, cutting-edge technology of today meets the timeless goal of staying comfortable and dry inside, regardless of what’s going on, weather-wise, outside. Double glazed glass is the way to go!

Bring In The Daylight With A Glass Curtain Wall Facade

Danpal facade glazing systems are one of the exciting ways that our products have redefined the construction industry. The outer walls of the system are designed not for a structural role but to prevent weather from penetrating inside. There’s an esthetic advantage in having a curtain glass façade system installed. It’s the way that natural light can be a visible presence inside the building. Danpal, a pioneer in daylighting architecture, creates façade systems from polycarbonate that incorporate light into the design of a building, nurturing an atmosphere where the occupants both see better and feel better. Bringing natural light into internal working and living spaces has a dramatic effect on the people inside. And why not? Human beings crave the light, so it’s no wonder that we feel better in it. We’re more productive when we have daylight around us. And with Danpal daylighting, we can control the amount of light that we prefer, while reducing the glare. Daylighting and double glazed glass or polycarbonate can do so much to enhance internal comfort while working with natural light to create a more holistic environment. Did you ever think that your home or office could actually improve how well you see and feel? Polycarbonate and glass façade systems can be a part of creating a more holistic home and workplace environment. If you have to be inside working, isn’t it better to have daylight inside with you?

Danpal’s facade glazing systems are one of the ways in which our motto, Global Vision, Local Focus, demonstrates our dedication to providing our customers with products that promote energy efficiency and support environmental responsibility. Consider the ways in which a glazed curtain wall can enhance your comfort while expanding your commitment to energy efficiency and we’re sure that you’ll find satisfaction with Danpal’s products.

Contact Danpal to discuss double glazed glass for your next architectural project.

Green Building Facades Are Pro-Environment, Pro-Comfort

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Green building facades are one of the ways in which architects and climate change have come to an agreement on how to build living and working spaces that prioritize the environment. As the public becomes more committed to a sustainable lifestyle, the construction industry’s research and development engineers and designers have joined forces with architects so that eco friendly façade materials are in the front line of environmental protection. When consumers install sustainable building facades on the outside, they’re bringing comfort to the inside. While facades are doing their job regulating the exchange of heat and light, they’re also helping to keep the temperature regulated inside, and lowering the amount of energy that’s consumed in the process.

The strength of the ecological movement depends on protecting the planet’s natural resources. It also depends upon consumers who are willing to do their part. Green building façade design can alter the future of our society as we work together to prioritize Planet Earth. There are different types of green facades, but the final result is the same: a building that does not make this century’s environmental crisis worse.

green buildings

Sustainable Building Facades Support Thermal Insulation

Keeping a consistent indoor temperature throughout the year, during hot summers and cold winters, demonstrates the effectiveness of thermal insulation when it’s functioning properly. But heating and cooling systems might seem to be the natural enemies of summer and winter temperatures. That’s where sustainable building facades make the difference. Translucent facades from polycarbonate keep inside temperatures at optimal levels because of the way they reflect and absorb the radiation of the sun. These eco friendly façade materials create a comfortable atmosphere inside the structure. When everything is working as it should be, and the “U” and “R” values are what they should be, that internal comfort is matched by an external balance. Energy isn’t escaping, emissions are reduced, and that building’s carbon footprint is no longer leaving a giant-sized imprint. Another win for green building façade design!

Green Building Facades Take Home Improvement To A Higher Level

The United States Green Building Council got on board with green building façade design with its LEED certification program, which recognized structures that promote the reduction of carbon emissions and waste that ends up in landfills, promote energy savings and efficient use of water, improve indoor air quality, protect natural resources, and are built upon sites which are regarded as socially and environmentally responsible. Not only is the environment better off, but so are property values. It’s the smart economic choice to build for the environment.

A sustainable building façade can also be made of renewable materials (like polycarbonate) without needing energy for the process because they already exist. The different types of green facades don’t put certification standards ahead of structural quality. They have to meet Danpal’s high performance criteria as well.

Green Building Facades Design Harmonize With Nature

The sun is a force of nature and a powerful one. A green building façade is only one feature of an architectural design. And yet, these two entirely dissimilar entities can work together to create comfortable conditions within the building so that, beyond the walls, nature benefits.
Being in harmony with nature is not a new concept, of course. But in today’s environmentally conscious society, people realize that if the planet is to thrive, it’s up to us to make the changes that are needed. Architects realize that people want to live and work in buildings that support environmental needs. Building material manufacturers like Danpal realize that cutting-edge technology is needed, now more than ever, in order to give customers what they want so that the environment can have what it needs.

Green Building Facades And Daylighting Architecture

It’s always been there, certainly. The beauty of natural light, its superiority to artificial light, its obvious appeal, these qualities are well known. But it was not until daylight could be incorporated into a building without adding the glare that so often accompanies natural light that daylighting became an architectural feature. Under the right conditions, daylight can be an integral part of the ultimate sustainable building façade. When you think of natural light as an architectural component that influences the performance of your heating and cooling system and also enhances the visual appearance of the structure, you’re going to be even more impressed with the working partnership that Danpal has struck with Mother Nature.

Architecture has embraced the movement to “go green” with green building designs that employ environmentally sound practices and use materials (such as polycarbonate) which conform to stricter federal standards for ecological performance. Buildings, like people, have a carbon footprint that can do harm to the environment if we are not careful. Green building facades from polycarbonate are just one of the ways in which Danpal continues to be true to our motto, Global Vision, Local Focus. Wherever the climate, there’s a Danpal green building façade that will improve your structure’s performance regarding sustainable energy usage.

The Strength And Appeal Of A Double Skin Façade System

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A double skin façade is a structural term that refers to the two façades of a building, typically the vertical element, with a cavity in between them. Within that cavity is an air flow. The benefit of this system is the way that it maintains a consistent temperature, a sign that energy is being used efficiently. If you’re cozy and warm in the winter, and cool in the summer, then you probably don’t even think about whether or not your heating and cooling systems are operating at their most efficient levels. But when energy is being lost, and temperatures have to be adjusted, it’s a sign that you’re losing energy. Energy lost is energy wasted and that means money is spent for energy you aren’t using. Installation of an architectural curtain wall can restore the balance of your heating and cooling systems so that the double skin façade takes on some of the work of keeping a building’s interior spaces warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

The matter of energy is particularly apparent in big-city construction, where limited space makes high-rise buildings an inevitable part of the landscape. However, these buildings carry immense weight, an obstacle in architectural design. An architectural curtain wall alleviates the issue of weight by adding glass, which carries a high convection coefficient rather than a construction material that would lead to greater thermal loss.

The subject of façades leads to an examination of glass. When a segment of a building’s front exterior employs a glass curtain wall system as part of daylighting architecture, we’re reminded of the powerful visual appeal of glass. Thanks to the major improvements made in façade engineering, glass is a primary construction material for contemporary buildings.

Curtain walling describes the nonstructural outer wall of a building whose purpose is to block weather from penetrating the structure’s interior while at the same time ensuring the comfort of the people within.

The nonstructural status of a double glazing curtain wall allows it to be made out of a lightweight material like glass. A primary aspect of double skin façade detail is its ability to present a barrier to the air and moisture that wind, rain and snow could bring inside. These double façade systems can withstand the wind loads while absorbing the wind sway.

The glass of a double skin façade system adds flexibility to the design of the building, because it can be molded into

different shapes. A double skin curtain wall’s performance is matched by its attractive aesthetic benefits, with transparent and translucent capabilities that feature natural light as part of the internal setting. By its ability to allow sunlight to enter into a building, a curtain wall façade helps to economize on energy costs. That’s because you’re using more natural light and less artificial light. The way that technology has enhanced the properties of glass has turned glass into an ally in the regulation of building heating and cooling. Further investigation into the properties of the architectural curtain wall will validate your decision to install it into your home or office building.

Architectural Curtain Wall Energy Efficiency

Curtain Wall System

You might think that a nonstructural component of a building design would be an insignificant part of the structure, but that’s not the case. Glass panel façades assist a building in the crucial area of energy efficiency, a topic which has become a shared concern of a growing majority of the world’s population. Keep in mind that the double skin façade, because the intermediate cavity between the two layers reinforces the system’s insulating capacity against winds, extremes in temperature, and also sound, offers a multifunctional advantage.

A building’s thermal efficiency needs to be able to perform in both high and low temperatures, a task which a glass curtain wall can easily accomplish. Double skin façades, because of their adaptability to hot and cold temperatures, add diversity to the heating and cooling process. If you live in a cold climate, the air buffer serves as a barrier to prevent heat loss. On the other hand, when the cavity in the glass curtain wall has absorbed heat, it’s able to provide warmth for space outside the glass, thereby lowering the demand on your indoor heating system. Your architectural curtain wall can also be enhanced with modifications such as inlets, outlet fins, or air circulators to benefit the performance of the façade.

The double skin façade system, which readily adapts to the temperature changes brought by the different seasons of the year, improves the internal insulation by keeping it dry, lowering utility costs, and supporting environmental standards designed to benefit the planet and the people who live on it.

Another feature of a double glass curtain wall system that enhances its ecological value is the fact that glass is inherently better able to keep its appearance and integrity longer than more traditional building materials. For one thing, glass doesn’t rust the way metal does. It doesn’t become weathered the way that wood does. A glass curtain wall provides a dual purpose by supporting energy efficiency, always a priority in our climate-conscious world, and at the same time, strengthening the system itself. This immunity to the danger posed by the elements makes your double curtain wall environmentally superior in performance.

How Danpal’s Double Skin Façades Benefit the Environment

We all know that in poorer countries, maintaining sustainable environmental practices can be a challenge. But did you know that in industrialized countries, buildings account for 40% of the energy usage? Our buildings are modern and technologically advanced, but it’s our responsibility to make sure that they adhere to the federally regulated environmental standards which are intended to protect the planet. Double skin façades are proven to effectively improve thermal efficiency. This advance in the architectural curtain wall structure achieves that highly desired win-win combination: thermal efficiency that promotes responsible energy usage while, at the same time, providing a financial benefit to the individual. Danpal is committed to customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility; with our glass curtain walls, we fulfill both

Danpal, which because of its commercial presence on five continents is acknowledged as an international leader in the building industry, is especially diligent in developing and maintaining systems like the double skin wall for façade which please our clients and protect our environment.

The quest for improved energy efficiency has led to the development of a double skin façade that not only supports good environmental stewardship but also provide better overall weather protection for buildings. The double skin curtain wall system is one of the ways in which Danpal research and innovation have helped the company remain true to its Global Vision, Local Focus philosophy in its business practices. With half a century of experience in the building industry, Danpal has become a leader in new and innovative product manufacturing that is as high in performance quality as it is holistic in its effects on the environment.

Contact us today for a free demonstration of the Danpatherm System and be ready for your next double skin façade project!

Double Glazed Facade

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Double glazed facade is designed so that air flows within the gap between the two facades. The Danpathern panels in the façade system allows either the interior or exterior one to be removed without reducing the effectiveness of the weather protection.  This is an obvious advantage when considering long-term maintenance. Danpal prides itself on the ease of installation of its products, something which is demonstrated fully with its double glazed facades.

Double Glazed Façade Design Saves Time and Money

The Danpatherm panels are pre-fabricated at the factory and arrive at the worksite ready to be installed.  The efficiency of this production process reduces the amount of time and number of workers who are needed for the installation of the system. Whenever time is saved, the economic advantage shows up soon after in the bank account.  The efficiency of production is a Danpal characteristic, one which is appreciated by architects and clients alike. 

Double Polycarbonate Facades Reinforce Protection From The Elements

Danpatherm is a Danpal product that possesses superior thermal properties, making it particularly adept at storing and transmitting heat. It also possesses the level of strength that is wind-resistant, keeping out those parts of nature that belong outside, not in.  

Double Skin Facade Bring In Natural Light

Another special attraction of the Danpal double skin facade is the way that natural light is incorporated into the interior of the structure.  Controlite System, which is made of translucent glazing materials, has internal louvres which adjust in order to maintain a no-glare interior space within the rooms. This provides natural light that results in better visibility, contributes to the comfort of the interior, and spares the occupants from the glare that would be present outside. No need for sunglasses inside, even if the sunlight is present!

Learn More about Danpatherm System and use it in your next Double Glazed Facade Project

Danpatherm – The Bearer of Light

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As architecture moves forward, buildings face the ever-evolving challenge of, how to stand-out among the crowd. As a supplier, Danpal has a potential answer, and we refer to it as Danpatherm. This cassette-based concept gives us the opportunity to use our Danpatherm K7 and Danpatherm K12 based façade solutions, as carriers for advanced LED lighting systems. This trick of lighting is unique in our market, and is what allows the Danpatherm Façade System to ‘stand-out from the crowd’.

Danpatherm Let’s take a step back for a moment, so we can understand what sets the K7 and K12 façade solution, apart from other translucent offerings. The Danpatherm design concept relies on the implementation of fully finished off pre-fabricated cassettes, which are flanked by Danpalon panels covering each face. These double-glazed units are sealed-off against external elements and arrive on-site, sized and ready for installation. Having the finished product arrive on-site, drastically reduces both the man-power and man-hours need for a successful installation.

So we have established that time on site can be reduced, and that the cassettes arrive fully completed, negating the need for additional engineering on site. The next attribute to consider, which is key to our Danpatherm system, is that in our case, double-glazing means that you can remove either the exterior or interior face of the cassette, without compromising the weather line. When considering long-term maintenance issues, this ability will become both ever more important and impressive. Can you imagine the cost implications of needing to have an entire façade removed, and in doing so, compromise the building’s occupants?

Danpatherm

The next more obvious point to cover, is that by using two Danpalon microcell panels, together in a single cassette – we can more than double the U-Value! More than double the u-value, just how is this possible, you might ask? Well, by separating the 2 Danpalon panels with an air-gap, we have essentially trapped a layer of air, as additional insulation. Still not enough, how about using the cassette as a carrier for glass fibre insulation material, and achieving a u-value of 0.52 W/m2 K! A point to remember is that even by adding in the insulation material, we are still able to achieve measurable levels of light transmission.

Now, if it wasn’t enough that a single façade system type, could offer all these attributes, with some of them being completely unique – K7 and K12 can also bring you LED light! To achieve this highly technical feat of engineering, Danpal partnered with LED lighting experts, who together developed a bespoke lighting solution for the Danpatherm cassette module. The solution is comprised of separate IP67 outdoor certified LED units, each with the capability to produce a full spectrum of both colored and white light.

What does this mean for an architect, and what does this mean for their next building project? It means that the architect now has the power to uniquely transform the very face of the building, into a vivid display of light! A display of light that reflects the architect’s intention and that speaks the design language of the building. A perfect example of this technology in use can be seen in use, in the Antel Arena in Uruguay. This multi-purpose indoor sports arena, can cater for up to 15 000 people and lights up the night time sky, with a light display visible from miles around.

Perhaps it is time that we re-think our view on Danpatherm, and in the process, rediscover the magic of LED light displays. To look upon our projects with an eye for, what might be and what can be done, by approaching the design with a ‘child-like’ openness to the ‘impossible’. At Danpal, we have a habit of turning the impossible into reality, by allowing our clients the magic, to design with light. We call this… Light Architecture!

Originality And Performance Are At Work With Façade Materials

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Façade Materials: We live in a world where multitasking is the way we get things done. We’re participating in conference calls on the way to work; we stop at the gym on our way to work; we answer telephones and email messages simultaneously. Sometimes, we’re even good at juggling the tasks.

So it’s no surprise that elements in building construction do the same thing, especially façade materials. The materials of a structure can dazzle the eye with color, with texture, with a shimmering finish that makes the building look as if it belongs on a canvas. Façade materials also provide protection from the elements, so that weather, which can inflict fierce punishment on a building’s exterior, doesn’t invade the interior and cause damage to the insulation. Protecting insulation, and making a building look beautiful while doing it, are all part of the multitasking that goes on with façade materials.

WEATHER DOESN’T STOP, BUT DANPAL FAÇADE STOP WEATHER

Weather seems intent on destruction these days. We’ve watched as the weather patterns have turned ominous, giving us the hottest temperatures on record. We’ve had wildfires and hurricanes that have caused horrific destruction. Landslides are common. Snowstorms are named so that we can identify them by the problems they cause as they force roads to close, leave homes without power, and make terms like “polar vortex” part of everyday winter language. materials of Facades can’t ease the fury of weather. But they can keep insulation protected from moisture left behind by snow and rain. A building’s wellbeing is tied to thermal insulation. How to keep insulation from getting damp is the role that the materials play in that crucial process. Danpal façade materials have a double-click locking seam to support high security so that weather is less overwhelming for a building. Panels made of microcell technology also contribute to the ability of façade materials to resist weather. Thanks to the co-extended UV protection, Danpal materials promote a longer life span for a building so that it continues to fulfill its purpose throughout the seasons.

Facade Materials DANPAL FAÇADE MATERIALS DELIVER LIGHT AND THERMAL DYNAMICS

Danpal’s façade materials are made of materials that can boast of superior flexibility, transparency and tonal qualities when compared to glass. That’s because our single-glazed facades are translucent, dry-glazed systems specifically designed for a vitality of appearance that is anything but dull! Danpal colors, textures, and finishes turn a structure into a work of art that unleashes an architect’s vision and creativity.

EXPECT ORIGINALITY

Danpal knows that there are countless ways to make a building stand out from the other structures around it, and why shouldn’t a building create its own unique impression in a community, whether it’s a commercial or a residential sector? Imagine the effect that’s created when light and dark colors are contrasted: the building naturally inspires an unforgettable image in the viewer. The actual dimensions of a building can also seem to be reconfigured if varying shades of a particular color are used to create a layering effect that conjures an impression of depth. Color, finishes, and textures open the door to so many possibilities with façade materials, which deliver construction multitasking at its most impressive!

Façade Materials Let Daylight In, Keep Weather Out

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Most of us have mixed feelings about the weather. We dread the onset of winter and the cold weather that it brings. We’re none too enthusiastic about rain, even though we welcome it so that our gardens and water supplies are replenished. We don’t like windy days because there’s always a risk if the wind is gusting at a powerful rate, that the force may bring down power lines or tear off roofs. We like warm days without excessive humidity, but we don’t always get weather like that. One thing on which we’re all in agreement, however, is that natural light is one of the best features of the natural world. Who doesn’t appreciate the better illumination that it provides, along with the instinctive improvement in our moods? Danpal, a company with half a century of experience in the building industry, had come up with a product, façade materials, that allows us to enjoy the best of weather—the light—while protecting us from the worst.

ENJOY DAYLIGHT WITH FAÇADE MATERIALS

Natural light is one of our favorite aspects of the outdoors and Danpal has blended our appreciation for daylight with its building manufacturing to pioneer “daylighting architecture.” That’s a form of building that permits the presence of natural light into our buildings, both homes, and offices.

Natural light provides illumination that doesn’t just help us to see better; it also helps us feel better. We know from scientific studies that people are more productive and more optimistic in natural light. Façade materials aren’t attempting to replace artificial light, but they give us the ability to enjoy the light that nature created for us.

Facade Materials FAÇADE MATERIALS NEED TO BE STRONG AGAINST WEATHER

What kind of building material is strong enough to withstand the never-ending onslaught of the elements? How can a company create a product that is able to endure the battering force of storm winds, the fury of a downpour of rain, an attack of hail, a heavy snowfall?

Weather doesn’t let up; it simply changes seasons. But Danpal, with a skilled crew of engineers, has relied upon research and development to manufacture façade materials that are strong.

Thanks to microcell technology and a snap-lock connection system, Danpal façade materials keep the weather outside. The higher load resistance comes from our double-click locking seam. We have excellent thermal insulation thanks to the cell structure of the Danpal façade materials. Our façade materials even have UV protection so that the intensity of the sun won’t cause damage.

FAÇADE MATERIALS AND FLEXIBILITY ARE A TEAM

It may seem surprising that our façade materials are so flexible. We don’t always associate strength with flexibility but the ease of installation is a known characteristic of Danpal manufacturing.

Façade materials need to be strong so that they won’t be damaged by the weather. They must also be light in weight so that they’re easy to work with. We’re pleased to say that our façade materials meet our expectations in both regards.

Façade materials add to a building’s performance

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Are façade materials giving an add value to a building’s performance? What are the things that we notice about the buildings where we work and sleep, shop, use any exercise bikes at home, and seek entertainment? Do they serve the function for which they are designed? Are they warm in the cold weather and cool in the hot weather? Is the lighting sufficient for our needs? Are they built with our comfort in mind? There are other things that we don’t notice immediately. We may not notice if they’re built out of sustainable materials or if they conform to the most current environmental standards. We are unlikely to notice if there is mold or dampness in parts of the structure where we don’t go. We might not always notice the behind-the-scenes concerns that are part of a building’s hidden performance.

But what’s the first thing that you notice about a building? You notice how it looks.

EXTERIOR FAÇADE MATERIALS ACCENTUATE A BUILDING’S APPEAL

A traditional style of architecture for a building located in a trendy hot spot would seem out of place, just as a cutting-edge design would be ill-suited in a neighborhood of stately eighteenth-century structures. Danpal’s façade materials allow a building to take on an appearance that can be customized to suit its environment while adding marvelous color and texture options that give the structure a unique flavor. Lighting is an option that can be enhanced with façade materials. If you’d like to supplement the look of your building with depth to its perspective, you can layer different shades of color. Choosing from Danpal’s columns and brick stacks gives even more options. Design a building that people will notice by choosing façade materials.

POLYCARBONATE FAÇADE LET LIGHT SHINE IN

Studies have shown that people, whether in the workplace or in their homes, feel better and are more productive when they are in an environment which adds natural light to the setting. But you don’t need a study to tell you that. You already know that you see better, for one thing, when natural light is available. You feel better; your mood improves and you benefit from an attitude that takes its cues from the uplifting atmosphere of natural light. Façade materials benefit from Danpal’s pioneering daylighting architecture, which is an architectural way to include sunshine as part of your decorating design.

STRENGH COMES WITH FAÇADE MATERIALS

Now that we’ve accounted for the many features of façade materials that you’ll notice in a building, it’s time to concentrate on what you might not notice right away, and that’s the strength. A building has to meet the expectations of its function; if it’s an office, a medical facility, a workplace, or a residence, it conforms to the intended usage for which it was designed. But strength is a factor that contributes not only to the function but also to the building’s stamina and life span. Danpal’s microcell technology has dramatically increased the strength of our building materials. That means that weather, one of the most powerful and potential damaging threats to a building’s wellbeing, is held at bay. That’s because our snap-lock connection system is designed to prevent snow, wind, hail and rain from invading your interior space. The impressive quality of our thermal insulation can do its job the right way, which allows your energy usage to perform the way it’s supposed to. Façade materials keep your insulation dry, which in turn keeps your energy usage efficient and your year-round temperature constant.

What you may not notice about a building is important. That’s why Danpal notices these things for you.

Welsh National Sailing Academy. Land, sea and sky.

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Situated on an exposed North Wales peninsula between the Irish Sea and the Afon Erch river estuary, the stunning Welsh National Sailing Academy building is both an international centre of excellence for sailing and a multi-purpose event space for the local community.

Working with the Sailing Academy and the Gwynydd County Council, Ellis Williams Architects of Liverpool based the building’s unique design on the classic principle of ‘form following function’.

A unique spiral building design is centered on a large circular main hall, enabling fully rigged boats to be towed in and out with ease while being protected from the location’s strong coastal winds. Curved public terraces overlooking sailing competitions in the bay are situated to the more sheltered north western side, with a glazed café area offering stunning panoramic views of both the bay and the Snowdonia National Park beyond.

Pwllheli-Wesl-National-Sailing-AcademyOn the opposite side, a bar and terrace looks out towards the marina and estuary. A critical design criteria for the project was to maximize the amount of natural daylight entering the circular hall to assist in the preparation of sailing boats and their close scrutinizing by competition judges. To meet this requirement, Ellis Williams specified Danpalon® translucent polycarbonate panel cladding system for both the curved hall façade and the round hall roof.

To harmonize with the project’s extensive use of natural stone gabions, sea grass banking and treated softwood building materials clear (uncoloured) Danpalon® panels were selected and pre-treated with Softlite coating to limit light glare and achieve a subtle matt finish.

The translucent panels also enabled a variety of attractive night time building illumination effects to be achieved using energy-efficient coloured LED lighting, while its excellent thermal properties mean the central hall is able to function as an unheated event space.

With its unique and stunning aesthetic appearance, the Welsh National Sailing Academy has won a series of national architecture prizes including the RIBA Regional, LABC, ICE and CEW awards.

Gaining Heat in a Windy City

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For a large swimming pool complex, high winds and cool temperatures outside make thermal efficiency targets that little bit harder to attain. Add in the need to maximize the amount of natural light poolside, and achieving required heat gains presents a challenge. Translucent Danpalon® façade systems are providing building designers with an elegant solution.

Pachuca in Central Mexico is a very windy city and by Mexican standards is also quite cold, with an average temperature of 16ºC throughout the year. When Alberca Universidad Politécnica Metropolitana came to rebuild its swimming pool complex the building’s thermal efficiency was a key design criteria.

FACADE SYSTEMAt the same time, the project needed to reuse as much existing infrastructure as was possible. With the swimming pool then largely determining the building’s orientation, façade design played a vital role in maximizing natural light and heat gain on the inside while handling the high winds on the outside.

The architects, Instituto Hidalguense de la Infraestructura Fisica Educativa (INHIFE) also had to face the challenge of building in sandy soil conditions that offered a relatively low weight resistance. With the weight and movement of the swimming pool being a significant part of the structure’s overall loading, the use of lightweight façade materials was vital. Turning to translucent Danpalon® polycarbonate façade systems, the INHIFE architects found an aesthetically pleasing and technically robust solution capable of meeting the project’s competing demands for light diffusion, thermal insulation, physical strength and low material weight.

A full-height Danpalon® façade constructed using 16mm Ice panels runs the complete length of one side of the swimming pool on a steel frame, while a further Danpalon® façade using a combination of 22mm 3DLite metallic grey and red panels sits at one end of the pool.

INHIFE architect Edgar Baca said, “The fantastic level of light diffusion that these two complementary façades achieve creates a truly unique ambience, with high quality daylight for the interior and a wonderful luminosity for the exterior at night.”

He continued, “Danpalon® has added a huge amount of character to the building thanks to the interaction of material, light and surroundings. At no point does it ever look the same. The hue, texture and appearance depends on where it’s viewed from and the weather conditions. It has given the project real life and personality.”

The new swimming pool complex is a unique wedge-like form composed of gentle slopes, elegant curves and striking lines. A heightened façade wall to increase the natural light diffusion and enable optimization of roof span and pitch was aided by the use of extra long Danpalon® panels, which also avoided the need for horizontal jointing. Panel installation was rapid, taking just a few days from delivery to completion.

Baca added, “Considering the enhanced thermal efficiency the new swimming pool building has attained, and the tremendous functionality it is now providing, this is a project that to date has not once caused us to think that any kind of design adjustment was merited – it really is working to perfection.”

Polycarbonate Sheets: Today’s Building Material Choice For Strength and Flexibility

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Fifty years as leaders in the building industry with polycarbonate sheets systems have provided Danpal with a reputation for innovation and expertise. We operate on five continents so, in addition to our decades of experience, we have a global presence that enhances our ability to live up to our motto, Global Vision, Local Focus. As the market’s expectations change to include materials that are stronger, lighter, more energy-efficient, and easier to work with, Danpal has been in the forefront of the transformation in the industry. Our reputation as leaders in the manufacturing of building materials has been solidified by our commitment to cutting-edge products that meet customer expectations.

Not all companies have been able to keep up the pace of change that has resulted from technological advances, and not all of the products that were once popular in the industry have been able to maintain their edge. Polycarbonate sheets are one of the new products on the market; they are so strong, flexible and attractive that they are replacing more traditional building materials such as glass.

Polycarbonate Sheets Don’t Surrender To Weather

No matter what weather pattern we’re in, we can be sure that weather will continue to be a force with which to be reckoned. Snow, rain, wind, and hail haven’t changed. Fortunately, technology and efficiency have changed. Polycarbonate panels, which are available in two different forms, are part of the technological innovation that is redefining how buildings are designed and built. You may choose multiwall polycarbonate panels, which is a structured sheet with hollow air chambers, or solid polycarbonate, which is a clear, flat sheeting that resembles glass in looks but is much stronger and lighter.

polycarbonate sheetsPolycarbonate Sheets Are Flexible

If a product is lightweight and easy to work with, as polycarbonate plastic sheets are, it’s going to be popular with architects and clients. That’s because installation is going to be smoother as well, causing less disruption for the client and the workplace. When time is saved, money is saved. The flexibility of polycarbonate sheets has already won over clients who manufacture farming machinery, windshields, security screens, and moving machinery parts. Polycarbonate sheets actually bend, making them so much more versatile than glass. If you have an arching roof, a larger polycarbonate sheet is particularly well suited. The larger the size of the sheet, the greater is the bend’s radius. Read all about the advantages of polycarbonate roofing sheets.

Polycarbonate is hardened so that its strength is 200 times that of glass but only half as heavy. And yet, polycarbonate sheets are virtually unbreakable. It’s plain to see why architects choose polycarbonate sheets to work with.

The Danpal Ventilated Rain System (VRS) Uses Polycarbonate Panels

Danpal’s Ventilated Rain System’s polycarbonate sheets keep insulation dry thanks to the air gap that provides natural ventilation. Keeping insulation dry is a vital consideration in the life span of a building because once insulation is compromised, so is the building, even if problems don’t show up immediately.

By using clear polycarbonate sheets or any other polycarbonate sheet color, you’re giving your building all the protection that it needs in order to be able to fight off weather and prevent moisture from penetrating. You’re benefitting as well, because polycarbonate is one of the most popular materials in the industry.

Façade Materials: What a Difference Daylight Makes

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You’d think it would be obvious: add daylight to the inside of a building for better lighting and enhanced atmosphere. It is obvious, but only Danpal has recognized how much daylight inside a building can transform a structure. With a half-century of experience in the building industry, Danpal has been a pioneer in daylighting techniques, holding fast to the belief that a well-designed building should offer as much natural light as possible. That’s why Danpal façade materials are such an advance in building products. Danpal, the first company to develop the Danpalon® translucent panel standing seam system, has three decades of experience in providing façade materials that are used all over the globe. Danpal proves that daylight travels well!

Façade MaterialsHow Daylighting Techniques Make a Difference in Façade Materials

Buildings are for people. Filling the living and working spaces with natural light gives people a workplace that’s more conducive to productivity because people are spending their day in a happier, healthier environment. Danpal’s philosophy is that developing solutions that meet visual, thermal, and energy needs should not exclude holistic benefits. Danpal feels that building designs should begin with an understanding of how the sun shapes our experience. Creating façade materials that follow through on this vison makes Danpal a leader in what we might describe as “user-friendly” buildings.

Knowing What There is to Know About Daylighting

The excitement that is created when daylight becomes part of the building toolkit has inspired a new perception about architecture. Natural light is regarded as usable square footage internally, which expands ways of capitalizing on the uses of the building project. What we’ve found is that light has a genuine effect on how people feel, think, and work. Imagine the possibilities if a building can actually be part of the wellness process that generates an improved attitude and sense of optimism.

Technology Shapes the Effectiveness of Danpal Façade Materials

Danpal façade materials are highly regarded for their ability to resist weather as well as for their support of daylighting techniques. Danpal’s Microcell technology has a double-click locking seam that promises higher load resistance, with a snap-lock connection system to make weather stay where it belongs, which is outside, not inside. The cell structure of the façade materials possess high-quality thermal insulation. This means that façade materials made by Danpal can fight back when weather is at its most destructive.

Another advantage to Danpal’s façade materials is the fact that they’re light in weight. This makes them easier to work with and to install. When a process is easier and simpler to accomplish, the end result means less money spent and less inconvenience experienced.

Façade Materials Create a More Beautiful Building

Daylighting is one of our most famous esthetic features, but it’s not the only one. Color is another way of making your building stand out. Whether you decide to layer different shades of color, or alternate dark and light colors, you’re giving your building the opportunity to show just how much façade materials expand your creative options. Knowing the community in which your building will be located is the first step in determining what your building’s appearance should be. A building with a contemporary look in a block of traditional structures will indeed stand out, but perhaps not in the way that you would like. With a little research, you can design the building that looks just right!

Use Facade Materials from Danpal to Build with Daylight

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It’s no surprise that buildings which are constructed to incorporate natural light into the design have an advantage over the traditional structure that relies on artificial light for illumination. Natural light doesn’t just help us to see better; it also helps us feel better. Danpal’s facade materials show how cutting-edge technology and the ageless, timeless appeal of natural light can give a building the architectural edge.

How Light Architecture Works in Facade Materials

With glazed panels and tight spacing between the ribs, light is evenly diffused so that it’s exactly what the customer wants, not too much and not too little. The design is created so that the amount of light can be controlled. The integration of the conventional glazing can, depending upon preference, either reveal visual contrasts in the building or conceal a building’s less attractive features. Mother Nature provides the daylight, of course, but Danpal provides facade materials in a stunning array of colors. effects, finishes, and textures that architects enjoy working with. It’s a perfect match!

Facade MaterialsWeather Can’t Beat Danpal Facade Materials

No matter what season it is, the weather has quite an arsenal of weapons to challenge a building’s durability. What happens when it’s raining buckets? Or when there’s a heavy snowfall? What about wind? How about hail? You’re worried about leaks, impact, and damages, but with our facade materials, you don’t need to worry. The snap-lock connection system prevents air and moisture from penetrating the defenses of the facade materials. Microcell technology is designed to withstand the impact of hail. Danpal’s extended UV protections protects the building from the damage that sunlight can cause.

Facade Materials Boost Energy Efficiency

The question of a building’s energy efficiency is one that is on an architect’s mind well before he or she begins designing the structure. Danpals’s facade materials possess superior thermal insulation and improvements in the “V” and “R” values contribute as well to the overall high marks of the energy efficiency.

Facade Materials that are Easy to Work with

The strength and beauty of Danpal’s facade materials are so impressive that customers sometimes forget about the other advantages of the products. For example, the panels are very light in weight, which makes them so much easier to work with and install.

Danpal, which has been in the business for 50 years, has put its half century of experience to good use by emphasizing the importance of research and development. Operating on five continents, Danpal has five regional subsidiaries which contribute to the company’s state-of-the-art production process. That accounts for Danpal’s success in terms of its international market, but what’s just as important is the company’s commitment to global concerns. Paying attention to the environmental concerns that are a priority for today’s public has given Danpal an understanding of what customers want for the buildings in which they live and work. Our customers rely on us to deliver products that match their belief that a sustainable life is the best one for the generations to come. We build our buildings to last and we’re doing everything we can to make sure that our planet lasts too.

Facade Systems Bring Beauty, Sustainability and Durability to Your Building

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Sometimes, the most modern building trends are so successful because they make use of something that’s been around well before architects started designing. We’re talking about natural light, of course, that element that can totally transform the appearance of a building. If you’re searching for a design that employs natural light in a way that no other construction method can, you should consider a facade system.

Facade Systems Build With Natural Light

Natural light doesn’t just enter a designed building without careful advance planning. The architect who designs a building deliberately considers the placement of the light by accommodating the angles where the sunlight will appear in the structure at various times during the day. By tapping into the bounty of natural light, that wonderful resource that is available virtually on demand, the architect channels its beautify and its usefulness into a well-planned design.

Facade SystemsThe Strength of Facade Systems

A facade system will bring a level of beauty to your building that other exteriors can’t match. But at the same time, facade systems are durable. They have to be if they’re going to protect a building from the impact of weather. Rain, snow, wind, hail, and even sun all have the power to weaken and damage the structure over time. But facade systems are designed with strength in mind so that they stand up to everything that Mother Nature can send. Different climates will call for different facade systems; what works for a building in a hot, sunny region won’t suit a building in a damp, rainy location. But the versatility of facade systems means that there’s one that’s just right for you.

Facade Systems Are More Popular Than Ever

Buildings have specific functions that require conforming to the template of the structure’s purpose. A gymnasium isn’t going to have the same purpose as a library, and the two buildings won’t be identical. Any building needs to meet certain regulations and codes and as environmental issues have become more of a universal concern, these requirements are reflected in the way buildings are designed and constructed. Facade systems please the public because their energy efficiency is a vital part of the sustainable life style that people practice.

But there’s one area where codes and rules aren’t the driving force behind the design and that is in the creativity that facade systems unleash. If you’re bored by the way so many buildings seem to be designed with a cookie-cutter format, each one looking the same as the one before it, you’re going to appreciate the unbelievable freedom that facade systems offer. With facade systems, the function of a building doesn’t trap it inside a boring format that just repeats what everyone else is building. Functionality is vital for any building, but it doesn’t need to inhibit the potential of a structure to be visually appealing. Danpal’s facade systems allow a structure to perform its intended function while nurturing the people who work and live inside it.

Every building, whatever its intended purpose, is part of a neighborhood and that neighborhood is a community. People who go about their daily business are uplifted when they have the opportunity to enjoy beauty that improves the environment in a holistic way. By choosing a Danpal facade system, you’re making your part of the world a better place.

Building for Style with Facade Materials

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Façade Materials Inspired by Style

If you’re on a quest to find something new in building materials, inspirations for exciting and innovative designs are as close as the nearest housing development. Before you lock yourself into the monotony of designing a building that looks like every other one, why not take a ride around the area to see what’s being built around you? You’ll be amazed to find the range that is available, particularly if you’re in a neighborhood where there’s a building that’s made out of façade materials. Never mind the same, boring old structure that’s build out of the same old boring materials. Danpal façade materials, because of the amazing array of colors that is offered, give a house a dazzling look. If it’s hard to imagine a building that delivers a sense of style, you’re in for a treat, because facade materials deliver remarkable, unique beauty.

Facade Materials are a Smart Economic Investment

Facade MaterialsHowever, facade materials aren’t just esthetically attractive. Façade materials offer one of the most versatile investments that can be made in the housing field. The unique cell structure of Danpal facades generates superior thermal insulation that significantly enhances a building’s energy efficiency. The Microcell structure of the panels offers the highest possible resistance to damage caused by hail and impact. This resistance is maintained despite the light weight of the materials, which gives them an impressive lifetime of service. Thanks to the snap-lock connection system, air and water aren’t able to penetrate the building’s exterior. The building enjoys higher load resistance as a result of the high security offered by the double “click” locking seam. With the top quality of its co-extended UV protection, the facade materials deliver a longer life. Installation is quick and simple, making the overall price cost effective for your budget.

Facade Materials Have Style

The novelty of living and working in a building that reflects its own unique image has made facade materials a dynamic form of architectural self expression. The colors that you choose will depend on personal preference and the style of the structure’s design. Also, it’s a good idea to choose colors that are easy to clean. Remember that facade materials give you a versatility that other traditional materials lack. You can use different shades of a particular color to produce a layering effect that creates an impression of depth. Or, if you want to make a statement, you can opt for a bold look that contrasts darks and lights along with different textures.

The building needs to create harmony within its surroundings. That’s easy with facade materials; you can choose enhancements such as columns, feature lighting, and brick stacks so that your structure stands out.

Facade Materials and Light

Natural light is an inherent feature of facade materials, much more so than it is in buildings that are designed from a traditional material. Thanks to the glazing panel’s unique structure, natural light is evenly diffused. Because of a design that’s created with architectural daylight applications in mind, the tight spacing between the ribs of the panels produces an appearance that appeals to the esthetic senses.

Esthetics, affordability, durability and efficiency are all hallmarks of façade systems. Take a look at what’s in store for you!

Translucent Facade for a Strong, Flexible, Attractive Building Exterior

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Translucent Facade for a Stronger Exterior

When we think of construction of a translucent facade wall, we start out with an image of an architect creating the design for a building that fulfills the purpose for which it was intended. Our next scene tends to be that of the construction site: heavy machinery and workers in hard hats, laboring in a noisy setting. Finally, we see the building rising where once there was nothing. It all seems so easy.

The truth is that a building is a much more complicated enterprise and every detail must be considered before the architect even begins to create the model. That’s one of the reasons why Danpal’s translucent facade exteriors are the smart choice for a building. Danpal has already done a lot of the preliminary work because the company’s research has created products that are specifically manufactured for particular needs. A building, before a single nail is hammered into place, has a location. If that location is in a rainy climate, the building material must be watertight to prevent leaks. If the building is going up in a landscape that’s prone to high winds, the structure must be able to absorb the impact. Lots of sunlight can be just as powerful a foe to a building as the rain, and we haven’t even mentioned snow or hail yet. But you get the idea. The architect isn’t the first one on the scene when it comes to designing a building. Danpal is, because their expert engineers and specialists have already researched and vetted the materials that will be chosen for construction.

Translucent FacadeTranslucent Facade: More Powerful than Weather

You’ve heard people say that there’s no use complaining about the weather because there’s nothing we can do about it. While it’s true that no one can stop the rain from falling or tame a wild wind, there are ways to defend a building so that it can withstand weather.

There’s weather, and then there’s Danpal weather-resistant translucent facade. Danpal’s translucent facades won’t fail you because Danpal’s reputation is built upon producing materials that last for decades. You won’t have to worry about cracks, scuffs and breaks showing up a few years after the building is completed because Danpal translucent facades are durable. Weather can’t be altered, but translucent facades don’t surrender to it.

Translucent Facade for Flexibility

Danpal delivers the strength. Danpal also delivers translucent facades that are nimble enough to allow freedom when meeting the design specifications. Danpal has managed to achieve that exquisite balance between strength and flexibility thanks to the translucent facades that deliver the best of both worlds.

The Beauty of Translucent Facade

Last, but certainly not least, the esthetics of translucent facade blend the strength of the exterior with the flexibility to create a final effect that makes a building worth looking at. It lasts a long time because Danpal’s products are designed for long-term effectiveness. It’s flexible because the ease of installation shapes the facade to match the esthetic preferences of the client.

Protection and beauty all in one eye-catching, enduring exterior; that’s what you get when you choose a translucent facade for your building project.

Contact Danpal to discuss about translucent facades our Systems for your next architectural project.

Cubby House Challenge

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Grimshaw is one of five practices selected to design and build a cubby for the Kids Under Cover 2017 Cubby House Challenge. The five cubbies were auctioned at a VIP event at the 2017 Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show, raising AUD$162,000 for the Kids Under Cover’s Studio Program, an early intervention strategy which helps to prevent youth homelessness.

MySpace, the cubby designed by Grimshaw, fetched AUD$21,000 and was the recipient of the Kids Choice Award, and the Most Imaginative and Interactive Award. We are honoured to have been a part of the 2017 Cubby House Challenge.

Cubby HouseThrough MySpace, Grimshaw has reconceptualised the traditional cubby, transforming the rigid building form into one that allows children to create their own space by manipulating various sized blocks across four levels. How they enter the cubby and arrange the interior is up to them – it is a non-static space that children can make their own and reinvent as they desire.

The moveable blocks have multiple uses to reinforce this sense of ownership and flexibility. They can be used to fill voids or provide openings, as furniture or storage and to house secret treasures and trinkets.

Two key workshops were held to develop the concept for MySpace. The first invited children to contribute their ideas of what constitutes the ultimate cubby. A space for flexibility, creativity and retreat were recurring themes, with orange a popular choice of colour.

The second workshop was a design charrette which offered Grimshaw’s architects the opportunity to recall their childhood cubby house dreams. The ideas were harnessed into a single concept with a strong connection to one of the architect’s memories of playing with the wooden crates in his father’s fruit and vegetable warehouse; crates were positioned to create voids to hide in or used as stepping stones to create a flexible oasis akin to a human-scale Lego set.

Cubby HouseThis concept was developed through the ethos of Grimshaw’s architectural practice; strong conceptual legibility, innovation and a rigorous approach to detailing, all underpinned by the principles of humane, enduring and sustainable design.
In turn, MySpace has been realized as a bespoke shelter which encourages confidence and creative play while offering a finely crafted installation fit for the most urbane of backyards.

Conceived as an elegant piece of joinery, the cubby’s frame has been built using 75mmx75mm Tasmanian Oak hardwood timber beams. Each member has been machine cut and routed to form a cross profile that integrates horizontal rails, allowing the boxes to be safely and easily maneuvered. With each member dowelled and glue joined to form a rigid connection there are no visible fixings. This ensures that the frame can facilitate safe vertical and horizontal movement and provide railings that may be easily held on to by small hands. Rubber matting is incorporated in the floor as a further safety measure.

The boxes within the cubby are fabricated from pine plywood. Each box is wrapped in high density foam, then covered with an external-grade colored fabric.

With a translucent polycarbonate (Danpal) roof and façade, MySpace provides a shelter which offers children a sense of concealment while providing visibility to the outside. The polycarbonate cladding system provides a clean façade finish by concealing all screw fixings. To complement the notion of a safe hideout, a yellow periscope peaks out from the roof to allow children to keep watch and observe their surroundings. Page 1 of 2 Lighting is another key feature of the cubby. Our design incorporates LED strip lighting into each internal corner of the frame to illuminate the interior and allow the cubby to ‘glow’ at night.

Grimshaw has worked closely and collaboratively with the builder and suppliers to deliver a cubby that is of the highest quality while offering a reconfigurable space to keep children intrigued – a true team effort for the benefit of the children that may make MySpace their own as well as those whom it may prevent youth homelessness for.

Architect’s Statement

Cubby House 6There was always something exciting about creating your own cubby house as a kid. Whether stacking cushions from the family sofa, draping bed sheets over the ironing board or arranging cardboard boxes to form enclosures, it allowed a sense of freedom to create and play, to be the master of one’s own universe.

This freedom of creative play is actively explored with MySpace, a cubby house designed by Grimshaw for Kids Under Cover, a not-for-profit organization which raises funds to help prevent youth homelessness.

Through MySpace we have reconceptualised the cubby, transforming the rigid building form into one that allows children to create their own space by manipulating various sized blocks over three levels. How they enter the space and arrange the interior is up to them – it is a space they can make their own and reinvent as they desire.

The moveable blocks have multiple uses to reinforce this sense of ownership and flexibility. They can be used to fill voids or provide openings, as furniture or storage and to house miniature gardens.

Two key workshops were held to develop the concept for MySpace. The first invited children to contribute their ideas of what constitutes the ultimate cubby. A space for flexibility, creativity and retreat were recurring themes, with orange a popular choice of colour.

The second workshop was an in-house design charrette offering our architects the opportunity to recall their own childhood cubby house dreams. In keeping with Grimshaw’s architectural practice, the cubby was developed from a strong concept, with the final design resulting from a deep interest in adaptable and flexible architecture and craftsmanship.

MySpace encapsulates childhood aspirations as well as a desire to empower children through their own creative play.

Facade Systems are the Popular Trend That’s Built to Last

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Escape the Same Old Design with Facade Systems

When you first decided to enter the design field, there’s a good chance that you did so because you wanted to give your imagination free rein. You didn’t want to be locked into the same tired old traditional building styles. You wanted to create structures that fulfilled the function of a building, but without neglecting the beauty that brings a design out of the cookie-cutter assembly line of boring sameness. That’s why facade systems, the popular trend in building, have become so popular with designers and clients alike. They maintain the functionality of a building, but they are able to stay true to their purpose without ignoring the fact that a building can be a source of inspiration for the people who live and work within it, and an enhancement to the neighborhood.

FACADE SYSTEMsWhy Facade Systems are the Smarter Building Choice

Transparent facade systems aren’t just a building’s pretty face. They’re actually its protective armor because they offer superior protection from the weather and high-impact resistance, along with optimal thermal dynamics. Weather rules the outside world and a building that’s constructed well needs to be able to stand up to whatever comes out of the sky. You’ll be amazed by how the quality of a facade system endures for years without needing to be replace. The energy efficiency and durability of facade systems make them the smart choice; our Danpal framed facade is one of the most popular options for buildings.

Keep in mind that facade systems aren’t one-size-fits-all for buildings. The type of façade that you select needs to suit the climate of the region where the building will be located. If you’re building in an area with an abundance of rain and wind, the facade system will have different specifications than a system that’s designed for a sunny climate. Another factor to consider is the style of the building. The façade systems should blend with the right facade, so that they complement one another. Otherwise, an ill-suited choice could ruin the overall effect. When you’re building with a facade system, you have so many more options for color, finishes, and special effects that you want to make sure that everything is just right.

Facade Systems and Light

Perhaps the most popular feature of a facade system is the way that it makes use of natural light. Your design should accommodate the angles at which the sunlight will strike the building at different times during the day, so that you can adjust for it. Factoring this into your calculations gives you the freedom to immediately improve the quality of the building’s interior with natural light.

If you’ve never thought about the wonderful opportunities for creativity that are yours when natural light is included in your design, you’re in for an amazing revelation. Natural light isn’t usually categorized as a building material, but translucent facades have changed the rules for design. Imagine the originality that you can work with when the pattern of light on your building façade comes from nature and your inspiration.

Translucent Facades: Building with Nature in Mind

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Fighting the Harmful Effects of Weather with Translucent Facades

Take a look around at the buildings in your city or town. Notice anything? You probably can’t detect the slow, steady damage that weather is causing to the buildings that we see every day. There’s no way to shield a building from the effects of the sun, the rain, or the wind. Buildings are located outside; that means that they have to expect to take the punishment that weather dishes out. But that doesn’t mean that nature has the upper hand. Translucent facades are the expert way to answer the challenge that nature poses and deliver a building product that endures. Not only that, but translucent facades know how to make the most of the daylight, bringing the best of the day into the building while shielding those inside from its negative effects.

How do Translucent Facades Protect Buildings from Nature

Translucent FacadesA translucent façade creates a seal so that water and air can’t penetrate. The façade’s durability makes it strong enough to withstand the punishing impact of hail and anything else that nature sends its way. Its flexibility with regard to the changing temperature of a building allow the translucent façade to expand in the heat and contract in the cold.

Building Daylight into the Translucent Façade

Now that we’ve told you how translucent facades protect a building from the harmful effects of nature, let us explain to you how our product can actually work with and enhance the natural environment. The benefits of sunlight are familiar to all of us. Not only does capitalizing on the natural light ease energy costs in buildings, but there’s a more personal benefit as well. Incorporating light into public buildings helps to create a positive atmosphere on the people within as they work, conduct their business, and interact with one another. A translucent façade uses daylight as one of its core building materials.

Why Translucent Facades are Better than Glass

Glass windows, although they allow daylight to enter, also let in the glare. Depending on the time of the day, often at daybreak or at dusk, the lower angles of the sun’s rays can be piercing in rooms where the windows face east or west.

That’s why large glass windows on one side of a room aren’t the solution. Flooding the space with uncontrolled bright light increases the level of heat in the room as well. Glass windows need blinds, shades, or curtains in order to minimize the adverse effects of the light; the result is often a room that’s much darker than it needs to be in order to reduce the penetrating glare from outside. There’s a cost factor to this as well, especially in warmer climates where the reduction in energy expense is cancelled by the air conditioning that’s needed to compensate for the excessive solar gain. Ironically, even in the winter, glass fails to offer satisfaction in energy efficiency, because the heat that comes in from outside during the day also escapes during the night.

If you’re looking for a building product that’s efficient, economical, and pleasing to the eye, consider translucent facades and bring in the daylight.

Danpal® Facade Systems: Pioneers of Light Architecture

Posted on by Danpal

Danpal® Facade systems come in a variety of colors, finishes and special effects, providing a dazzling array of creative options. These translucent, dry-glazed systems are available in a wide range of configurations suitable for various types of structures. Lightweight with superior flexibility, Danpal® facades provide high-impact protection from the elements in a variety of climates, particularly in comparison to glass. Transparency, combined with the balance of light and thermal dynamics for any facade, creates an appearance that’s esthetically pleasing and tough enough to handle the outdoor elements.

What are the Benefits of the Danpal® Facade Systems?

facade systemsNatural light pleases the eye but Danpal® facade systems takes beauty one step further with glazing panels that evenly diffuse that light while accommodating the architectural application of daylight through tight spacing in between the ribs. The artistry of the colors, textures, finishes, and effects delivers a glorious palette of options that illuminate by day and turn into light boxes at night. Being tough enough to handle the great outdoors means that the panels, with their Microcell structure, are built to resist damage from hail. And while we’re talking about the elements, you’ll appreciate the fact that the Danpal® facade system boasts co-extended UV protection that guarantees a longer system life. Mother Nature doesn’t always play by the rules, but that’s okay, because with the snap-lock connection system, air and water won’t be able to penetrate the building. The structure is versatile enough to adapt, with concealed joints that create a flush external that can twist if necessary.

Beauty counts, but so does comfort, and the façade system’s superior thermal insulation improvements in ‘U’ and ‘R’ values enhance the building’s overall energy efficiency. The design can control the amount of light, conceal building features, or reveal fascinating visual contrasts, thanks to the integration with conventional glazing. Installation is easy and cost-effective and the system complies with SO9001 and CSTB requirements.

Danpal® Single Glazed Facades: Different Systems for Different Needs

  • The Thermal Advanced AirPT System provides integrated subsoil and frame and thermal break to deliver advanced performance.
  • The Advanced NM System is an advanced face system with an integrated frame.
  • The Traditional TP system is an economical façade system that delivers basic performance without a sub frame.

 

Danpal®: Pioneers in Light Architecture

With 50 years of expertise and innovation in light architecture, Danpal® can be confident that it has not only blazed the trail that others can only follow, but its façade systems have also remained on the cutting edge. The company’s vision guides everything it does to create state-of-the-art systems that make it possible for architects to transform both artificial and natural light into an architectural tool to enhance creativity. A global company that operates on five continents, Danpal® and its five regional subsidiaries employ global distribution and operation to supply the world with the latest in tailor-made daylighting for façade systems. Even the world’s best architects appreciate the inspiration that the Danpal® façade systems generate as the panels turn daylight itself into a creative building tool. Whether it’s the engineering, the design, the comfort or the esthetics, Danpal® solutions meet the most stringent requirements, as well as energy efficiency, to help conserve the world’s natural resources.

What exactly is translucent facade?

Posted on by Danpal

There seems to be confusion in some circles relating to the translucent facade, and it’s purpose. Considering that, we wanted to release a blog post that will set the record straight. We’ll highlight the type of professionals who might use the product, and some of the benefits they can expect. Hopefully, this post will encourage more people to make better use of the solution. As you will learn, it can add alluring design elements to any building while also providing structural advantages.

So what is a translucent facade?

Translucent facades are glazing panels used on the exterior of buildings. They help to protect the construct from weather damage, damp, and erosion. They come in a broad range of different colors and styles to suit every job. Many architects use them to improve the aesthetics of their design. By fixing them in place, it’s possible to hide unsightly building elements and create the perfect finish to any property. The products can assist in protecting people from harmful UV rays. They also ensure maximum thermal conduction. Individuals who use them will notice a reduction in energy bills because they use the sun’s natural light to heat and illuminate buildings.

So what are some of the other benefits?

We already mentioned that a translucent facade could help to protect buildings from weather damage. That is because the product creates a seal that stops penetration by water and air. They are also durable, and so they can withstand impact from hail and other unwanted elements. The materials offer super flexibility, and that is why they can last for many years. As a building becomes hot or cold, the products will expand and contract. They also come in many different styles and shades to suit almost any building design. Danpal® Facades provide an array of finishes and effects that offer dazzling creative options.

Translucent FacadeAre polycarbonate translucent facades cost-effective?

Compared to glass and other commonly used solutions, polycarbonate translucent facades offer much better value for money. They will stay in good condition for longer, and they’re highly secure. Unlike some other options, users won’t have to replace them very often. Indeed, they can remain in perfect condition for years. They also offer an environmentally-friendly alternative that doesn’t harm the planet. For more information, new clients just need to take a look at our brochure which is available on this site. You can then contact the team for advice and quotes.

Our state-of-the-art systems were created with architects and designers in mind. That is why the products we bring to the market always meet expectations. The professionals working for our brand have decades of combined experience in this industry. We listened to the complaints of designers and building specialists before coming up with the perfect solutions. Make sure you take a look at our range and consider all the benefits before taking a single step further. Those who still decide to use glass or an inferior material will never achieve optimum results. Just take a look at some of the most attractive buildings in any city. We’ll bet at least some of them use translucent facade products.

Contact Danpal to discuss translucent facade using our Danpal Facade Solutions for your next architectural project.

Essential info regarding facade materials

Posted on by Danpal

Danpal® offers a range of single glazed translucent facade systems for architects and designers. In this article, we’re going to discuss the beneficial elements and all the advantages of using those products. Hopefully, the information will assist professionals in making the right choices. These solutions are much better than glass for a variety of reasons we will discuss in just a moment. Also, they’re cost-effective and environmentally-friendly due to their long-lasting nature. Our items can assist in delivering the perfect balance of light into any building.

facade materialBenefits of our facade materials

  • Weather protection and high impact resistance

Alongside other advantages, those who opt for our facade materials will benefit from weather protection. The products also offer excellent resistance to the impact of hail and other projectiles. They are designed to expand and contract as temperatures rise and fall. So, they won’t crack or break like many inferior solutions on the market. They offer super flexibility that ensures they will stay in working order for many years. That is the primary reason architects and designers around the world turn to use when looking for the best facade solutions. The optimal balance of solar and thermal dynamics isn’t easy to achieve, but our products help to achieve that goal.

  • Superior air and water tightness

Leaks and damp can cause many issues for designers and architects. For that reason, we wanted to create a product that eliminates those problems entirely. Danpal® facade materials do that without breaking the bank. The snap-lock connection system ensures air and water cannot penetrate into the building. That means concerns relating to damp are no longer an issue. If air and water can’t get under the materials, owners will never encounter that hindrance. When selecting cheaper solutions, the same isn’t always true. That is why many people have to replace their products sooner than they otherwise would have done.

  • An extensive range of colours, textures, and finishes

Our team understands that designers often want to ensure all elements of their buildings match. For that reason, we offer a broad range of different colours, textures, and finishes to suit any job. The products will illuminate by day, and turn into light boxes at night. To see a full range, just take a look at systems section and Download link on the top. There are brochures available that cover all the ins and outs. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements. We strive to provide quotes and deal with requests as quickly as possible. So, you won’t have to wait around too long for a reply.

Our unique facade materials provides architects with an endless source of creative possibilities. Compared to many competitors, we offer superior products made to cutting-edge designs. We also employ the latest microcell technology to ensure everything we supply meets requirements. If you need a product that’s stylishly created a build to last, look no further. Contact us today, and let us know how we can assist.

Extension Building of Global Standard Technology (GST) Plant

Posted on by Danpal

The main business of GST is to manufacture and assemble semiconductor, Icd, medical appliance and electronic device. GST choice the new material for the factory building. Furthermore, the building is designed to present beauty of sculpture and symbolic language to emphasize the company and its environment-friendliness in terms of selecting Danpalon as material of Façade

A distribution oriented line up: Considering the easy access for shipment, the working area is located on the 1st and 2nd floor to facilitate the flow of working. So it enables to do stocking, assembling, testing, and shipping products on the ground floor. Employee parking lot is on the 3rd floor (top floor).

Global Standard Technology

Environment-friendly material for façade, Danpalon: Danpalon, which is a semi-transparent polycarbonate system made of 6 layered panels, can maximize daylighting effect by spreading light through diffused reflection under the daylight and save energy by decreasing the amount of CO2 produced by artificial lighting. With its excellent quality and amount of lights, it doesn’t create shadows inside from the structure as it provides even diffused light instead of direct light so productivity and safety of employees can be maximized. After sunset, the light inside of extension building is spread outside creating the image wall representing GST so it gives symbolism to building on Dongtan industrial complex 6gil as a lighting box.

Communication and connecting spaces: It is planned to connect existing building and extension building by using a bridge as a medium.

External space: Cooperative company area and reception area are separated while exit and entrance are combined to unify them as one building.

Based on our experience in building extension plant of GST, we would like to make a new design guide (Danpalon) for building a new plant considering environment-friendliness, convenient construction, light structure and various lighting by studying interior as well as exterior space design.

Global Standard Technology

How future facade systems will pay a major environmental role

Posted on by Danpal

One of the key buzzwords when you are looking at the design of a building in this day and age is sustainability. This is sustainability in terms of environmental impact, energy efficiency, as well as durability.

The owner of a structure wants to get the best bang for their buck in terms of the costs they are going to be paying for energy, as well as meeting and exceeding the environmental requirements that have been set out by the relevant authorities.

facade systemsOne of the more exciting trends in the field of facade systems has been the development of certain facades that have the ability to eat smog.

This is achieved through a treatment of a thin layer of titanium dioxide, which is a liquid or powder that can be applied to a facade system such as ours at Danpal and when the sun strikes this chemically treated surface, the process of oxidization begins of organic matter, meaning that pollutants will be transformed into carbon dioxide and water vapour.

This exciting new development has already been experimented with in certain projects, such as that of the Manuel Gea Gonzalez Hospital located in Mexico City. This is near the top of the list when looking at the most polluted cities in the world.

This is an exciting development and looks set to have a large impact way into the future. What stops us from coating complete cities is the material? This could be a stepping stone for all facade systems having air quality improvement features built in them during the manufacturing process, which could help to transform the environmental impact our buildings are currently having.

When looking at the environment on a global scale, up to 40% of the energy consumed is by building, so this could go a long way towards decreasing the damage that is being inflicted by these structures.

At Danpal, we have been focused on providing facade systems that are environmentally friendly. By using translucent faces, we are able to achieve a superior light diffusion. This means that not as much energy will have to be consumed when lighting up the interior of a structure.

The high thermal insulation and great R values of our system means that less money needs to be spent cooling and heating up a building, as the facade system naturally takes care of lot of these issues automatically.

Creative ideas to design a building with facade systems

Posted on by Danpal

When it comes to designing a building, the final finishing touch that gives it a polished and smart appearance is the type of facade systems that is chosen.

The structure of the building has its role, but the facade is the decoration that gives life to the building and is the prime ethical component that adds that charm.

This is why you should not rush the decision-making process. Some designers have their pre-determined facade decided for all projects they work on and are fairly inflexible when it comes to changing things up.

It is important that designers think about a horses for courses scenario. Certain types of facade will suit certain types of buildings, while some facades will look absolutely disastrous on them. This is why you need to keep in mind a few rudimentary variables and remarks when conducting the selection process.

Be creative with your Facade Systems

Don’t be stood in the same old rigid thought process project after facade systems project. Instead, get your creative juices flowing. This is highly likely the reason why you got into design in the first place, you enjoyed the creative and imaginative aspect of the design process and see the image in your head come to life in front of your eyes.

Understand the huge role light plays in your selection

As a designer, you will be well aware of the importance of natural light. The pattern of light is hugely important when it comes to the facade of a building.
You need to be aware at what sort of angles the sunlight will be hitting the building at different times of the day and adjust for that. By factoring this into your calculations, you will also be able to instantly improve the interior quality when it comes to natural light.

translucent facade system

Choosing a Facade, Horses for courses

When it comes to choosing a facade, don’t just go for the one that is currently in trend just for the sake of it. Make sure that you take your time fitting the style of the building with the right facade. You don’t want one aspect of the building spoiling everything else.

You also want to ensure that the type of facade you are using is appropriate for the climate in the region. If the building is located in a poorer climate where there’s a lot of rain and wind, there will be different requirements compared to if it was a sunnier climate.

Danpal and their selection of facade systems

Whatever your needs are when it comes to facade systems, Danpal can cater to them. It doesn’t matter what sort of structure you are building, the right design is out there for you.

Transparent facades are really the going trend these days. The Danpal framed facade is one of the most popular options being used as it offers great weather protection, has high impact resistance, and is transparent. All of these systems allow for a great transfer of light and also have optimal thermal dynamics.

Contact us today for a free demonstration of our Facade System and be ready for your next project!