Parametric design workflow for solar, context-adaptive and reusable facades in changing urban environments

This study proposes a concept and workflow for solar, context-adaptive and reusable facades. Integrating solar control with parametric facade design, the workflow uses solar radiation to inform facade modules with variable openness or properties (e.g. frit cover), enabling envelopes to adapt to urban context changes while promoting circularity. The method was tested through simulations, assessing daylight, glare, energy and circularity in changing urban scenarios.

A Solar Circularity Indicator (SCI) was introduced to track façade alterations and reuse. In the 100m new obstruction scenario, 79% of facade modules were maintained, while 29% of altered modules were reused, yielding an 85% SCI. Sunlight Autonomy metrics aligned well with SCI. Re-design improved Spatial Daylight Autonomy by up to 4% with minimal energy increase (<1%). Our solution provided 2% more useful daylight (100–3000lux) than glazed facades and 11% less glare. The workflow provides a framework for circular, performance-based designs that preserve aesthetics and adaptability.