Paul Hughes, from FunderMax, comments on the rising trend and demand for individual design within the cladding industry, and subsequent challenges.
There are numerous challenges that confront facade producers in today’s competitive construction market. All of which have to be balanced carefully. When it comes to choosing preferred rainscreen products, design, price point, longevity and sustainability are all of equal importance as part of the selection process. However, there is now another prerequisite which cannot be overlooked as the demand for individual expression and creativity has never been greater.
As brands look to new ways to stand out, we’ve seen a significant increase in orders of completely unique ‘one off’ high pressure laminate panels. From bold geometric designs to large format re-created photographs and intricate motifs, there has definitely been a surge in the desire for individual panels. Subsequently this has placed pressure on the sector to produce a range that allows such expression.
Creative architectural design made possible
Over the past few years companies have seemed to move away from colour blocking, and safe grey and beige palettes, to more emotive photographic effects and naturally inspired facades. There is a real growth in creative architectural design, with imaginative use of large format panel cladding. Today, versatility, creativity and cost effectiveness are on the essential tick list when it comes to rainscreen cladding.
Sustainability & creativity – Intrinsically linked
The importance of sustainable design has been up for debate in recent years, with RIBA president Angela Brady leading on the subject. One of the key things that has come out of these discussions is the need for creators to not just develop sustainable solutions, but ones which are ‘irresistible’ from a design perspective too. A number of the world’s leading architects were involved in the debate at Ecobuild and the concluding thought was that there is a distinct lack of innovation within the industry.
We’re moving in the right direction – we’re certainly bucking the trend, but as a sector we need to do more to meet the demand and exceed expectations. It was by no means a surprise that sustainability, low carbon building materials and creativity therewith were also on the agenda at this year’s Ecobuild, as the industry looks to its fellow creators for inspiration.
When it comes to sustainability, high pressure laminate continues to excel. As well as making great environmental sense, it also enhances energy efficiency when used as an overclad on existing buildings. Created mainly from recycled waste materials – layered kraft paper which is then compacted – it is exceptionally green.
Meeting the demand of a future trend
As people become more aware of the sustainable qualities of rainscreen and its energy efficiency, the demand continues to grow, as cladding is seen as a versatile, sustainable and cost effective solution.
Though cost effectiveness is definitely a positive attribute, it can sometimes be viewed negatively as designers and creators question its quality. This is one of the prime reasons why I am whole heartedly behind the trend for individual expression. There are seemingly limitless possibilities with today’s contemporary high pressure laminate – whatever designers have envisaged can be brought to life, and this goes someway to counteracting that negativity.
The human factor plays a huge role in architecture, so the ability to individualise makes rainscreen a more favourable and expressive choice. And as the demand for ‘the unique’ rises it’s essential that the industry rises to meet that demand, at the same time paying particular attention to sustainability. As Angela Brady asserts ‘sustainability’ and ‘irresistibility’ should go hand in hand.
