All architectural planning comes with compromise, whether it’s function over beauty, indoor space over outdoor or simply budget reality over fantasy, but one area that should never be compromised on is energy saving.
In particular, the fine balance between light and shade needs to be considered when it comes to energy saving. Whilst shade is an important concept in architecture, as it keeps things cooler, it also comes at a price and that is lack of light. The use of fabrics in architecture can be a great way of getting this balance right.
The Importance of Light and Shade
Light from the sun is the cheapest form of lighting there is. Not only that, but natural light is also thought to improve the mood of those working, studying or living in a certain building. Shade, on the other hand, protects both inhabitants and storage items from the sun’s harmful rays and helps rooms feel up to 15 degrees cooler (although in reality the temperature in shade hardly drops at all).
Energy Savings with a Tensile Structure
Fabric structures such as those made by tensile structure designer Fabric Architecture will ultimately offer savings on energy by reducing the need for artificial lighting, as they allow light from the sun to come through with abundance. The cooling effect of the shade also saves on air conditioning, making it a two-fold energy-saving solution. Energy saving is a significant consideration for companies in order to reduce their carbon footprint and also to make savings. As well as the use of fabrics in architecture, businesses can do all sorts of things to keep energy use low.
Tensile Options
Tensile architecture also offers a level of flexibility that standard materials do not – again offering savings on energy costs. Some types of fabric architecture can be designed to be retractable, allowing buildings to make the most of warm weather when necessary. Tensile structures also allow for greater ventilation, saving companies money on keeping inside areas cool. The amount of ventilation can be adapted when necessary. Fabric architecture can also be chosen in a range of colours.
Fabric is an increasingly popular choice for companies looking to design a building with more flexibility and energy-saving options. It can also give it a fresh and modern look that is very visually appealing.
