Beyond the surface
Building envelopes, historically seen as a blend of aesthetics and protection against external elements, have evolved. Today, it is not just about the allure, but also about the immediate functionality and sustainability they offer. These essential components put the building exterior front and center, creating a powerful first impression amidst a fluctuating real estate market.
Yet, quality in modern building design transcends outward appearance. Beyond aesthetic allure, the caliber of a building is gauged by its functionality—particularly by its ability to regulate internal climates and improve energy efficiencies. Such is the indispensable role of the building envelope in contemporary architecture. Forsyth Pointe exemplifies this with its performance-based design approach, employing high-performance glazing and state-of-the-art insulation methods that not only bolster energy efficiency, but also adhere to stringent performance criteria. This technical foresight allows the integration of architectural elements that harness natural light and mitigate heat gain, a testament to the project’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Pushing boundaries with facade installation
Specializing in providing building enclosure services, IWR North America’s involvement with Forsyth Pointe showcases how specialty contractors play a pivotal role in bringing these new-age architectural visions to life. The expertise is not just in doing the work, but in navigating the unique challenges each project presents and devising innovative solutions.
Crafted by Christner Architects, the vision for Forsyth Pointe was unequivocal: large units of glass, seamlessly integrated into the building, providing both form and function. This glass curtain wall exemplifies the high-end nature of the development and contemporary architectural trend that embraces large, transparent sections to maximize light and view.
To bring this architectural vision to life, IWR North America was tasked with the installation of 27,406 m2 (295,000 sf) of curtain walls. The complexity of Forsyth Pointe’s facade was not merely in its size but in coordinating 23 distinct systems that contribute to the building’s thermal, structural, and aesthetic integrity. From the transparency of high-performance glazing to the engineering of metal panels and attachment assemblies, each component played a critical role in the overall design.
The advanced coordination required to align these systems ensured the high-performance glazing did not just meet the design intent visually, but also conformed to exacting thermal and structural specifications. This process went beyond product selection, involving a meticulous orchestration of systems and components to achieve a unified level of performance. This unity was critical to maintaining Christner’s design intent, ensuring each line and contour met the building’s performance requirements without compromising the envisioned aesthetic.
