Building façades are no longer just architectural elements, but are becoming active components of energy performance. Smart façade systems integrate sensors, adaptive glazing, automated ventilation, and photovoltaic solutions, contributing to reduced energy consumption and increased indoor comfort.

A study conducted by the Building Performance Institute Europe shows that dynamic façades can reduce energy consumption for climate control by up to 45%. In Romania, the first implementations are appearing in office buildings in Bucharest and in university campuses in Iași and Cluj.

These systems monitor parameters such as temperature, brightness, and CO₂ levels, adjusting in real time the opening of glazed surfaces, ventilation, and shading. The materials used include electrochromic glass, photovoltaic membranes, and self-cleaning composite materials.

The challenges are related to costs, integration with the building structure, and the lack of clear standards for validating performance in the national context. Collaboration between architects, engineers, and developers is needed, as well as incentives through National Energy Efficiency Programs.

Smart façade systems will soon become a standard criterion in sustainable projects and next-generation public buildings.

(Photo: Freepik)