Saturday, November 6, 2010

Multifunctional Curtain Walls, Now and Then

What is curtain wall defined? Architects and structural engineers are certainly familiar with the term curtain wall. On the other hand, interior designers may also know about the term but for the record, curtain walls are not an interior design. Ergo, curtain wall serves as a façade placed strategically in commercial building and offices. Apparently, curtain walls differ from so called office partition systems because they are basically found outside the structure. A curtain wall is a façade that provide linkages and connections to buildings through various floors and columns.

Basically, curtain walls are made of aluminum and glass. You will already know that the materials used in these walls are modern. But, historically speaking, curtain walls have been employed and used in the past and they served as both a structure and protection. Through the years, curtain walls have evolved into something timely and sophisticated, with the advent of technological advancements.

In the ancient times, the stones are the primary materials in making curtain walls but at present, curtain walls made of aluminum and glass dominate. You will see a number of towers in major cities protected or shield by curtain walls. In the past, curtain walls serve as lookouts and up to now, the purpose is still the same. Buildings that have high walls require curtain walls and not because stylish and remarkable but because they should become a part of the entire building.

So, it is understandable the business corporations and companies employ curtain walls and the strong influence the ancient curtain walls have in the present times is still intact. But since changes are inevitable, you hardly see curtain walls made of stone since they are usually made of glass and aluminum. This is not surprising at all because curtain walls made of such materials can be created readily and don’t require much effort. Since there a many possible curtain materials to be used, you can even be bold and creative. This way, you can customize the any commercial curtain walls you acquire for your own benefits.

If you want to increase the aesthetic of your building, do something about your façade. Without exerting much more effort, you can reap the benefits of such a good decision when it comes to choosing the exterior interior that impresses and captivates. Do you remember the feeling of seeing a real curtain wall? If your answer is no, then, you have all the time in the world to work on it and start decorating and building your façade the soonest time. And if you worry about security, get rid of your worries because curtain walls are air-resistant and particularly prone to any natural and adverse weather conditions like strong wind, earthquake, air, and more.

You can even make your curtain wall waterproof if you want to make the user safe and effective. And when it comes to design, you are the judge of your own standards and preferences, too.