Evaluating the appropriateness of double skin glass facade system, within the context of sustainability, for North Cyprus (TRNC)

ABSTRACT: The current study aimed to investigate the appropriateness of Double Skin Glass Facade (DSGF) systems for Large Scaled Glazed Facade Commercial and Office Buildings (LSGFCOB), within the context of sustainability for North Cyprus (NC), since there are no DSGF systems in NC. To accomplish this aim, observation of 15 LSGFCOB (having more than 120m GF), were analyzed according to the types of glazed facade system, facade‟s orientation, construction cost per m2, shading device and ventilation system. Secondly, perceptions of 23 stakeholders, in construction sectors as well as educational sector, regarding DSGF systems and sustainability in GF systems as well as existing reasons of not using DSGF systems for LSGFCOB in NC, were identified. The major research techniques used in this study were in the form of semi-structured interviews, based on quantitative method, and personal observations, based on descriptive methodology, with the application of qualitative data analysis. In order to gather information about the existing LSGFCOB in NC, visual data were collected (photographs of 15 analyzed buildings). In addition, the stakeholders of the buildings were interviewed in order to collect further information of the glazed facade systems. Interviews were conducted also to find out the knowledge and opinions of the stakeholders about the advantages and disadvantages of using DSGF system as well as their future strategies and expectations, for using these systems, from the governmental authorities in construction sectors in NC. The study concluded that, since there is not enough client demand, mainly because of the high cost in the market for DSGF systems to be used in LSGFCOB, there is a barrier to develop the sector which will apply these kinds of DSGF systems in NC. It is most likely that in the nearest future, due to the high cost and customer demand in the market, DSGF systems might not be sustainable to be applied in LSGFCOB in NC. For now, it can be recommended to use proper shading devices, in appropriate direction where it is needed, with careful design and selection of appropriate materials for existing LSGFCOB. On the whole, there is a need of government to encourage the society, customers and stakeholders to use these systems for backing the worldwide demand of Sustainable Construction and Development. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………