Material Applications

Material Research

Material Research

Often material solutions have origins outside of the facade industry. Our research team determines the range of possibilities to meet the architects design intent and present a palette of options. Our associates spend time in research and development centers in private and academic environments to determine adaptive facade technologies.

Application Assessment

We assess the environmental conditions of the project to determine what materials best suit the anticipated life cycle and maintenance costs. Self-cleaning, low coefficient of friction and structural capacity are some of the factors considered during material application assessments.

Application Assessment
Prototype Development

Prototype Development

Nothing compares to creating actual prototypes of facade materials during the concept stage. These prototypes help the design team evaluate the visual, spatial and tactile characteristics of the material. We can produce prototypes in our studios or have fabricators produce the prototypes to our specifications.

Material Mockups

Scale or full-size mockups assist the design team with dimension and massing. We recommend producing visual mockups during concept or developing the design in a neutral location so it can be refined before the facade concept is presented to the client. Visual mockups can be erected at some of our locations or at designated sites.

Material Mock Ups
Material Testing

Material Testing

Many of the materials we work with are deviations from standard developed products, so it is imperative that tests be conducted. With natural or earthen materials, we recommend and supervise testing to ensure that the material will meet or exceed performance requirements.

Green Material Sourcing

Our team of professionals certifies the source of green materials and verifies the actual origins of the raw materials, production processes and waste byproducts. With the environmental movement, many material and systems companies claim to be green and sustainable. Our unbiased and objective audit process provides satisfaction that your project will be environmentally sound.

Green Material Sourcing

Other Areas of Expertise