A STUDY INTO THE EXTENSIVE USE OF GLASS IN CONDOMINIUM BUILDINGS

Abstract

Most of the upcoming condominiums are using an extensive amount of glass on the façade. Some of the possible reasons for using extensive amount of glass include government influence, buildability and sustainability. As glass is transparent, it allows the penetration of daylight and heat. With different treatments, glass can have different functions such as self-cleaning, energy saving, sound insulated and fire resistance. However, there are disadvantages when an extensive amount of glass is used on the façade. Especially in a tropical country like Singapore, heat will be a problem. Some other disadvantages include safety issues and lack of privacy. Hence, there is a need to find out if an extensive use of glass on condominiums will pose as a problem.

Through the research, survey and interviews conducted, the term ‘extensive’ is being defined. It is being defined as a building with a window-to-wall ratio of 60% and above is considered to be using an extensive amount of glass. Based on the survey findings, the residents feel that location, accessibility and design are the most important factors for purchasing condominiums. Most of the residents are attracted to the simple and refined design created by the extensive use of glass. Some of inconveniences caused are high air-conditioning needs, high maintenance cost, lack of privacy, and glare. Even there are inconveniences caused, most of the residents still prefer to live in condominiums with extensive glass design. The professionals have also stated that the inconveniences can be reduced by having proper design, material choice, workmanship and maintenance plans. By taking these factors into consideration, the building performance will be able to improve even when there is an extensive use of glass.

The possible recommendations are to customise the appropriate glass type for different condominiums. As the technologies are still advancing, new developments for glass should focus on integrating the different functions into one type of glass. The limitation in this study is the difficulty in obtaining permissions to enter the condominiums. Furthermore, there are only two professionals being interviewed. The interview results may not be enough to represent to views of most of the architects or engineers.