Project Description

University of Ljubljana’s School of Law achieves a budget-smart complex facade geometry through its second glass skin. It is a wonderful example of how even clear glass can transform the appearance of the building when installed in Bendheim’s patented, fully customizable rainscreen glass systems. The vertically- and horizontally-shingled glass panels add a textural quality to the facade. A creative slanted panel layout and sinuous curves appear to change the shape of the building, presenting the appearance of a highly sophisticated exterior in front of the building’s traditional glass curtain wall. 18” catwalks behind the ventilated second skin facilitate maintenance, allowing both glass walls to be easily cleaned. Designed from a perforated material, they preserve drainage and ventilation advantages. As an added benefit, the catwalks don’t require additional structural supports – they use the rainscreen substructure’s tie-backs. The project uses approximately 21,500 sq. ft. of clear laminated safety glass.

Complex-shaped primary exterior walls may invite moisture and structural challenges, and may not be achievable within the given budget. There are numerous advantages to using the second skin of the building to create a more expressive and unique facade shape – from cost savings to risk mitigation.