Creating Transformational Geometry

Over the past two decades, the art of cold-forming glass has grown from an unknown approach to a widely accepted strategy for achieving an array of singly-curved (cold-bent) and doubly-curved (cold-warped) façade surface geometries. Cold-bending and cold-warping are not solutions for all curved geometries, nor should they be blindly adopted without careful consideration to the constraints that will drive their successful implementation on a façade. For the right project, however, cold-bending or cold-warping can prove to be elegant and effective solutions.

This study will include some insightful strategies for managing the geometric complexity and technical challenges for successful delivery of a cold-warped glass façade program. The discussion will include some common principles of cold-warping and will extend to a review a custom cold-warped façade solution utilized on a new facility for a prestigious educational institution in Southern California.

Advanced analysis and design tools, including the integration of various design constraints into three-dimensional modeling software are included in the discussion. The application of recent research topics regarding surface stability, deformation response, and frame member design is also included.