Case Study: Structural Glass & Historic Building Architecture

As our 20th Anniversary celebration continues, we are unveiling the next chapter in our retrospective of groundbreaking work. While our passion lies in pushing the boundaries of structural glass engineering to bring bold architectural visions to life, we know that true innovation requires exceptional teamwork, clear vision, and unwavering ingenuity. Join us as we explore another landmark project that exemplifies this collaborative spirit.

Published in 2024 by Facade Tectonics, the Case Study entitled Design of Façade and Overhead All-Glass Structures in Building Renovations – Preserving Historic Building Architecture Through the Use of Structural Glass, explores Sentech’s collaborative journey on an unprecedented feat of engineering: preserving historic building architecture through the use of structural glass. The design of structural glass systems continues to evolve with the parallel development of new manufacturing technology and these ongoing improvements have led to the increased use of sophisticated structural glass applications. This allows us to modernize and protect historic spaces with stunning, transparent overhead structures and façade designs.

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Design of Facade and Overhead All-Glass Structures in Building Renovations: Preserving Historic Building Architecture Through the Use of Structural Glass

Authors:

Alfonso Lopez, P.E. – Principal and CEO, Sentech Architectural Systems

David Dunham, P.E. – Chief Sales Officer, Sentech Architectural Systems

Andrew Duncan – Pre-Construction Design Consultant, Sentech Architectural Systems

ABSTRACT

The contemporary renovation of historic buildings often includes all-glass structures that allow architects to preserve the original building design and combine state-of-the-art glass structures with historic building architecture. The challenges in designing all-glass structures for historic buildings include the design of connections to unknown substrates, adapting glass to intricate geometric boundaries, selecting systems that blend seamlessly with the historic building design, challenging façade movement isolation, and unknown structural behavior of the support system. Using design examples and providing recommended best design practices, the authors illustrate how these design challenges can be overcome, while minimizing the impact on the existing building structure.

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