Q1. In your opinion, what is the contribution of facade as an element in the contemporary Indian architectural scenario?
Façade plays a major role in setting the mood of an environment by describing the style of the structure. It becomes the mask or the interactive screen through which an inhabitant approaches the outside world and how the outside world perceives the inhabitant. The development of sustainable facade materials offers the capability of shielding buildings from environmental conditions such as heat, the wind, and rain is a primary factor expected to drive ventilated facades growth. Hence, with the advent of modern architectural practices, the facade combines attributes of both appearance as well as superior performance in a manner.
Q2. Can you discuss the emerging technologies that you think have major impact on façade design?
Technology is constantly changing the way architects and designers think about facades. The emerging technologies are playing an increasingly influential role in the evolving façade and cladding design and delivery practices. With options like wet or dry cladding, ventilated or rain-screen facades, porcelain slim slabs from Stonelam Laminam offers a perfect harmony of form and function.
Q3. What are the various aspects that need to be considered while selecting the façade design material and equipment?
During the design phase, one needs to identify materials that can withstand the extreme climatic conditions. Aesthetics of the project, longevity, sustainability, durability, maintenance are some of the key factors that need to be considered while selecting the material.
Q4. When it comes to new construction vs. retrofitting, do you think the trends favour that former type of development over the later?
A retrofit project has some similarities to remodeling in the fact that you are adding something to the original construction and a new construction project is pretty straightforward, but each process can be unique and come with its own set of challenges and hurdles depending on the size and complexity. Choosing one over other entirely depends on individual preferences.
Q5. Sustainability has become a norm in the construction industry. In such a scenario, how are facades complying with green principles?
Sustainable building materials are becoming a niche and a cool trend. At Stonelam Laminam, we believe in promoting products that use sustainable technologies like low energy consumptions, zero pollutant emissions, minimum CO2 emissions etc. in the production process. Use of Natural raw materials and fully recyclable products are therefore what defines the range of large format thin porcelain slabs from Laminam, Italy.
Q6. Could you share with us the latest trends and products in the facade industry? What are the company’s flagship products and their features that set them apart?
The façade design not only marks an identity but also proposes the way for new facades to spring up. Large format slim porcelain slabs are taking over traditional products like HPL and ACP especially after the Grenfell Tower Fire accident last year in London. Our key is light weighted products reducing the dead load on any structure with exceptional characteristics like UV rays resistance and fire resistance making it perfect for any façade requirements.
Q7. What gives you the competitive edge over the other brands in your segment?
With a wide range of shades, finishes and textures to chose from, Stonelam Laminam slabs with its versatility in its application surpasses every brand in the similar segment. Produced using advanced technologies, it teams reduced thickness and large size with high resistance to mechanical stresses to chemicals, to wear, to scratches, and to deep abrasion, it is hygienic by nature, resistant to frost, fire, mold and to the effect of UV rays. All the characteristics and chromatic properties of the slabs are unchanging, designed to stand the test of time in all atmospheric conditions.