ETS4 - The Third Skin

Since mankind deserted caves the primary concern of man-made structures has been shelter and protection from the environment. The Envelope of buildings has since been multi-tasking and ambiguous in that it forms a barrier as much as a filter for various environmental aspects. Beyond its technical role the building skin has often expressed the building function as well as the might and power of its owner / occupier hence is also the ‘face’ of a building. Today facades are often highly complex and multi layered environmental performers communicating on multiple levels with occupiers and the outside worldThis course as part of the TS programme will offer a technical journey through the history of this arguably most fascinating element of architecture. It will also explore current technologies that enable the buildings skin to respond intelligently to variable conditions along case studies and with input from invited guest lectures who are experts in the field.