Aluminium is one of the world’s most versatile metals. It is also an increasingly popular building material that has opened up a world of possibilities for many architectural projects. It is a non-toxic, durable and corrosion-resistant metal, and thanks to its lightweight nature, ductility and malleability, aluminium is rightly defined as a tool for unlimited creativity in the hands of the architect! The metal can be used to create structures that cannot be made from wood, plastic, or even steel. And it’s not just about aesthetics; the sustainable nature of aluminium makes it the metal of choice for architects and builders alike for a wide range of projects in the construction sector.
According to the latest survey, 40% of the UK’s annual aluminium production is being utilised within the construction industry. This is equivalent to 150,000 tonnes of aluminium per annum, of which approximately 65,000 tonnes are extruded products and 25,000 tonnes are sheet materials.
Real-world architectural gems built using aluminium
Today, aluminium is being extensively used by architectural firms to create visually stunning structures. Here are some examples:
Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is one of the tallest buildings in the world and is located in Dubai, UAE. This tower’s facade is made of aluminium and glass, which gives it a sleek and modern appearance. Currently, Burj Khalifa holds a world record for installing the highest amount of aluminium in its structure, which has a height of over 512 meters.
The Wave
The Wave is a residential structure, which is an excellent example of a modern aluminium structure. It is located in the town of Almere, Holland. It was created in the year 2004 and was designed by an artist named René van Zuuk. The shape of the building reflects its very own lakeside location. Most of the external panels of this structure are made of aluminium, which is used to prevent corrosion in humid weather.
Fondation Louis Vuitton
This contemporary art museum and cultural hub in Paris is an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. The facade of this museum is made with approximately 16,000 ceramic Ductal tiles. These tiles are, in turn, supported by over 2000 aluminium wall panels. The panels are arranged to create a dynamic and striking visual appearance.
A few more latest architectural wonders that have made significant use of aluminium in the structure include:
Delugan Meissl Associated Architects, in Vienna, Austria & Hotel Ora in Incheon, South Korea & Burasiri Wacharapol in Bangkok,Thailand
Source: When Design Meets Functionality in Façades: High-Tech Aluminium Surfaces | ArchDaily
Why is aluminium preferred in the architectural industry?
Aluminium has been considered one of the most versatile building materials in the architectural world for its combination of aesthetics, strength, and durability. Below are some of the reasons why aluminium is considered superior to other materials in architectural applications:
• A wide selection of finishes: Aluminum can be coated simply with different coatings, anodising, or powder coating to achieve a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes, enabling architects to create a variety of design components.
• Ease of maintenance: Aluminium is known for its low-maintenance property. It is resistant to weathering and corrosion, reducing its need for frequent maintenance. This also saves time and resources over the building's lifespan.
• Weather resistance and durability: Architectural elements constructed of aluminium are guaranteed to keep their look and structural integrity over time, especially in difficult situations, thanks to the protective oxide coating that aluminium generates on its surface.
• Sleek modern aesthetics: Architects looking for a sophisticated appearance for their projects frequently choose aluminium because of its smooth surface and sleek appearance. The metal's subtle silvery sheen adds to the contemporary look of any futuristic project.
To wrap up…
Aluminum is a symbol of innovation and creativity in the world of architecture. Its adaptability, resilience and visual appeal have literally sparked a design revolution. From giving the artistic curves of The Wave to making the awe-inspiring complexity of the Fondation Louis Vuitton a reality, aluminium has become a masterpiece that defines the modern urban landscape. With sustainable practices becoming more important, the metal's combination of aesthetics and functionality has cemented its place as a key player in modern architecture.
