Architectural glass facades have become iconic symbols of contemporary urban landscapes, seamlessly blending artistry and functionality. These sleek structures redefine the relationship between interior and exterior spaces, offering a dynamic and visually striking aesthetic.
As architects and designers continue to push the boundaries of innovation, glass facades have evolved into more than just transparent barriers; they represent a fusion of form and purpose, transforming the way we perceive and interact with built environments.
Our Approach
We’ll put together a façade package that makes the right impression, meets your design aspirations using the most economic systems and materials to match with your cost plan.
Whilst a growing number of ‘off the shelf’ façade solutions have become available; our specialist approach means we can give every project something totally unique. Our in-house engineering services can integrate with your team to produce something that can stand the test of time.
Modular façade systems using aluminium are popular with many architects and designers and we have plenty of experience in this area. With building energy costs a critical factor, we’re committed to lowering our footprint in any way possible.
We only source from the best, most responsible glass processors and accessory manufacturers. We’ll work closely with them to bring in specialised glass elements that fit the client’s needs. Our curtain walling partners include Raico, Schueco, Wicona, Reynaers, Kawneer and Forster.
It is with this approach, we will reduce risk and map a façade solution which meets with your brief and performance requirements.
Design Flexibility
One of the most notable features of architectural glass facades is their versatility in design. Glass allows architects to explore creative possibilities and experiment with forms that were previously unattainable. From sleek, minimalist skyscrapers to curvilinear structures that mimic nature, the design flexibility offered by glass enables architects to realize their visionary concepts. This adaptability is particularly evident in contemporary urban developments, where glass facades contribute to the creation of iconic city skylines.
Façade Types
There are various types of facades in architecture, each with its unique characteristics, materials, and design considerations. Facades play a crucial role in defining the visual identity of a building and influencing its performance. Here are the types of facades we deliver:
Glass Facades
Glass facades use large expanses of glass to create transparent or semi-transparent building envelopes. They are popular in modern architecture for their sleek and contemporary appearance. Support methods include bolted systems, which secure glass panels with minimal visibility, and structural bonded systems, which use adhesives for clean lines and added strength. Fins and beams can also be integrated for extra support, ensuring both elegance and safety.
Metal Facades
Metal facades can be constructed using materials like aluminium, steel, or zinc. They offer a modern and industrial appearance and can be formed into various shapes. Aluminium is especially popular, offering systems like Structural Glazed (SG) facades for a seamless glass look and aluminium capped systems for robust support. Bespoke designs allow for tailored architectural solutions. Steel, offering additional strength, is also used. Lightweight, durable, and versatile, metal facades are a top choice for contemporary designs.
Timber Facades
Wood facades use timber as the primary material, creating a warm and natural appearance. With various wood types and finishes available, they provide numerous design possibilities. Timber facades are sustainable, using renewable resources, and blend harmoniously with the environment. They also deliver excellent thermal performance, contributing to energy efficiency and comfort.
Curtain Wall Facades
Curtain wall facades are non-structural, lightweight outer coverings that are typically made of aluminium and glass. They provide a seamless, continuous look to the building envelope. Unitised curtain walling, assembled off-site, ensures quality and efficiency, while bespoke designs cater to specific architectural needs. These facades can be integrated with pre-cast panels and supported by Steel Framing Systems (SFS), combining functionality with modern design.
Rainscreen Facades
Rainscreens enhance both the appearance and function of facades, protecting buildings from weather damage. Aluminium rainscreens are durable, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant, while steel versions offer strength with a modern look. Timber rainscreens provide a warm, natural aesthetic, excellent insulation, and sustainability. These rainscreens not only improve the longevity of the facade but also contribute to a building’s overall visual appeal.
Blast and Ballistic-Resistant Facades
For projects demanding the highest level of security, blast-rated and ballistic-resistant glass facades offer protection while maintaining design elegance. Engineered to withstand extreme impacts, this glass is ideal for high-risk environments like government buildings. Despite its robust security, it integrates seamlessly into modern designs, ensuring both safety and aesthetic appeal.
Benefits of Glass Facades
Glass facades are a key feature in modern architecture, offering a blend of aesthetic appeal and functionality. They allow for seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces while maximising natural light, which can improve mood, productivity, and the overall user experience. Occupants of buildings with well-designed glass facades often report higher satisfaction levels due to the sense of openness, improved daylighting, and connection with the external environment.
Modern glazing technologies have significantly enhanced the performance of glass facades. Innovations such as low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, solar control glass, and insulated glass units (IGUs) help reduce heat gain and loss, allowing buildings to maintain a stable internal temperature throughout the year. This contributes to lower heating and cooling demands, resulting in reduced energy consumption and operational costs. High-performance systems also help meet increasingly stringent building regulations and sustainability targets.
In terms of acoustic performance, laminated and specially treated glass options can reduce external noise levels, which is especially beneficial for projects in busy urban areas or near transport hubs. With the right specification, glass facades can contribute to both thermal and acoustic comfort, making them a practical solution for offices, commercial buildings, schools, healthcare settings, and more.
The versatility of glass also allows for a wide range of finishes, coatings, frit patterns, and tints, enabling designers to enhance privacy, manage solar glare, or introduce branding elements. OAG works with leading global suppliers to offer bespoke glass solutions that are carefully matched to each project’s technical and aesthetic requirements. Our established relationships with manufacturers like Schueco, Raico, Wicona, Kawneer, and Forster ensure that every project benefits from reliable, premium materials.
Safety and durability are also key considerations. OAG’s approach includes structural analysis and load testing to ensure each façade system complies with wind, snow, and impact loads. Glass facades can be combined with laminated or tempered safety glass, making them suitable for high-traffic areas or locations with elevated risk. Where required, we can also incorporate fire-rated, blast-resistant, or ballistic-resistant systems to meet the specific needs of complex projects without compromising on design intent.
From a construction and lifecycle perspective, glass facades offer long-term advantages. They are low-maintenance and resistant to corrosion, especially when combined with high-quality framing systems made from aluminium or steel. This longevity contributes to the overall value of the asset, while the modular nature of many of our systems also supports ease of repair and future adaptability.
Furthermore, glass is fully recyclable. When combined with responsible sourcing, modular construction techniques, and energy-efficient specifications, glass facades can support sustainability certifications such as BREEAM and LEED. In line with our commitment to reducing environmental impact, OAG prioritises supply chains that share our focus on quality, ethics, and ecological responsibility.
Conclusion
In summary, facades are integral to the overall performance and aesthetics of buildings, contributing to energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and the longevity of structures. Glass facades in particular play a transformative role in modern architecture, bridging the gap between form and function. They offer architects and developers the opportunity to create bold visual statements while still meeting the technical demands of contemporary buildings.
At OAG, our expertise in delivering glass façade systems lies not only in our engineering know-how but also in our collaborative and consultative approach. We work closely with architects, contractors, and clients from concept to completion, offering a tailored solution that aligns with the project’s vision, budget, and environmental goals.
Our track record includes some of the UK’s most recognisable commercial and public buildings. With every project, we apply the same meticulous attention to detail, from selecting materials to managing installation, to ensure the façade performs well both aesthetically and operationally.
As cities evolve and the demand for sustainable, light-filled, and inspirational spaces increases, glass facades will continue to define the future of architectural design. OAG is proud to play a part in that future – bringing ideas to life through thoughtful, innovative, and reliable façade solutions.
