Most architects, developers and property managers who are considering curtain walling for their next project are doing so with the aesthetics of the project first and foremost.

Ever since the construction of Oriel Chambers, the first building with a prototype curtain wall, 

glazed facades have been a particularly striking addition to many buildings to the point that modern construction projects look almost incomplete without the characteristic steel and shimmering glass.

However, looks are not the only benefit of curtain walls, and with that in mind, here are some of the main uses they have in construction.

Improved Natural Lighting

The best commercial interior design aesthetics maximise the amount of natural lighting available, and using a glazed curtain wall reduces the effect walls have on a carefully crafted office filled with glass partitions.

There are significant practical benefits to this, with several studies linking productivity to so-called daylighting, as well as various benefits to mental and physical health.

A curtain wall allows for as many of these benefits as possible, whilst also enabling the use of UV-absorbing or reflective coatings to avoid the greenhouse effect that can sometimes come from glass buildings on hot days.

Thermal Efficiency

Incorporating double and triple-glazing glass panels can help to improve insulation, which stops heat loss over cold winter months and reduces the strain on air conditioning systems during winter, as long as advanced materials, designs and technological approaches are used.

With an increased focus on passive heating and cooling in building design, curtain walls have become a major priority in improving thermal efficiency, meeting stringent regulations and helping to reduce operating costs.

Sound Insulation

A lot of buildings with curtain walls are based in major cities with a lot of people, a lot of activity and a lot of noise. 

Using advanced glazing and framing, buildings can create a quieter atmosphere that benefits customers, workers and tenants, depending on the purpose of the building.