Facade Generation in USC

Recently, USC Architecture held a workshop called "TOP FUEL: Filters Funnels Flows" with famous Germany-based architect Frank Barkow, who is known for his research in facade systems. The workshop was one-week investigation of interactive facade system and how the facade system can become to have complex functions such as collecting rainwater, absorbing heat, providing shade, responding to use, responding to weather, transform according to different needs and so on, besides its function as skin of the building. The building skins we see in downtown, Los Angeles, are usually anonymous glass curtain walls that only do its part as a mere closure of the building. USC Architecture pushes students to rethink "what is facade or skin of a building" in terms of its function and performance. The workshop concentrated on facade generation with the help of Frank Barkow. The students designed and fabricated full-scale building components of new solution for skin performance. The workshop was held during March 21-March 28, 2011.  http://arch-pubs.usc.edu/topfuel/