Angela Mejorin will kick off the seminar with opening remarks, setting the stage for the day's discussions on Technology Meets Nature. She will introduce the key themes and speakers. Following this, members of the PBFD Advisory Group will present insights into the initiative’s direction, sharing their expertise on upcoming projects and strategies to advance in the PBFD mission. This session provides an overview of the vision shaping the future of PBFD.

Kicking off the Performance-Based Façade Design (PBFD) seminar, Michele Pasca di Magliano, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, will deliver an inspiring keynote on the future of urban, building, and façade design. With extensive expertise in high-rise developments and large-scale urban projects, Michele has been instrumental in delivering globally recognized designs, including the recently awarded Napoli Porta Est Masterplan, the Singapore New Science Centre, and the iconic Morpheus Hotel in Macau. During his keynote, Michele will explore how advanced technologies can seamlessly merge with natural systems to create sustainable, high-performance architectural solutions. His work emphasizes the integration of cutting-edge technology and timeless craftsmanship, a theme that will be central to PBFD 2025 discussions.

Sedak’s innovations in 3D-bent tempered glass are transforming architectural design by enabling complex geometries once thought impossible. Joan Tarrús will discuss Sedak’s advancements, including doubly-curved, heat-strengthened glass and energy-efficient coatings, which have been implemented in landmark projects like The Henderson in Hong Kong and L’Oréal Headquarters in Paris. These innovations push the boundaries of traditional glass processing, enabling architects to create bold, dynamic façades. Joan will also showcase Sedak’s proprietary equipment for high-precision freeform glass, marking a significant breakthrough in façade engineering. This technology allows for greater flexibility in design, merging cutting-edge technology with nature, and providing architects the tools to unlock new possibilities in shaping building envelopes.

Kuraray’s focus on sustainable laminated safety glass integrates innovative materials and technologies to reduce environmental impact. Ingo Stelzer will introduce a new classification system designed to help designers assess the carbon footprint of laminated glass interlayers, taking into account the manufacturing and shipping processes. This system offers a clear, practical framework for evaluating glass options with lower environmental impact. The presentation will also explore eco-friendly alternatives, such as recycled PVB grades and bio-based raw materials, that contribute to greener glass production without compromising performance. Additionally, Ingo will discuss how structural interlayers can reduce the thickness of glass while maintaining or even improving its performance, providing both energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint. To support the selection of sustainable solutions, Ingo will present Kuraray Carbon Reduce AI, an AI-based software that helps glazing specialists choose the best laminated glass configurations for sustainability and performance.

Staticus' Hybrid Unitised Façade (HUF) system uses engineered timber to replace conventional aluminium profiles, reducing embodied carbon by up to 65%. This system was first implemented at Textiltorget in Stockholm, following a collaboration with OsloMet, SINTEF, and KTU. Real-time sensor networks embedded in the façade monitor environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and pressure, creating a digital twin that allows for predictive maintenance and continuous design optimization. Building on this success, Staticus is now exploring Danish willow as an alternative material. With a rapid harvest cycle of just 3-5 years, compared to over 20 years for traditional timber, willow offers exceptional carbon sequestration, supports biodiversity, and contributes to phytoremediation. In partnership with Pilebyg and Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, Staticus has developed a prototype using willow, showcasing the material's potential to create more sustainable, climate-resilient building envelopes while optimizing the circular economy throughout the building lifecycle.

Terracotta is a natural, traditional building material that has played a crucial role in construction for centuries. Renowned for its durability, aesthetic appeal, and environmental benefits, terracotta remains an essential element in modern architecture. This session will explore its potential for façades, focusing on a high-rise residential project in New York City, designed by Selldorf Architects and Frank Seta & Associates. Massimo will present Simeon’s unitized façade system, which combines advanced glazing technology with terracotta to offer greater design flexibility while maintaining structural integrity and durability. This unitized system sets new standards for sustainable façades, demonstrating how traditional materials can meet modern performance requirements.

As part of the PBFD off-site tour on Saturday, 13th, a limited group of 50 attendees will have the opportunity to view the mock-up of this façade solution, providing a hands-on experience of how Simeon’s terracotta system can be seamlessly integrated into large-scale urban projects.

Stephen Katz from Gensler will present their latest use of stainless steel façade panels in the 200 Park project in San Jose, California, a progressive office building located in the heart of Silicon Valley. The project addresses the challenges of California’s strict energy efficiency requirements, particularly in solar heat gain control. Through advanced parametric modelling, the design team optimized the opaque façade to reduce solar heat gain, balancing aesthetic appeal with performance. Stainless steel was selected for its aesthetic qualities, durability, and low maintenance, alongside its low embodied carbon compared to other opaque materials. The panels were incorporated into a unitized curtain wall system, requiring careful consideration of material thickness, panel flatness, and the prevention of oil canning effects. Stephen will also discuss the challenges faced in maintaining solar glare control and ensuring the panels' structural integrity within high-rise designs. This session offers valuable insights into how stainless steel can be successfully integrated into modern high-rise façades, providing a sustainable solution without compromising on performance or design.

This break provides attendees with an opportunity to relax, network, and reflect on the insights shared during the presentations. This interlude offers a chance to exchange ideas, explore innovative concepts, and build connections.

SOMBRA is an experiment in non-electric dynamic shading that responds to sunlight through air-powered soft robotics. This project debuts as part of the Time Space Existence exhibition at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025, showcasing a new type of adaptive building skin that uses air-powered technology, eliminating the need for electrical energy to control shading. The dynamic aluminium skin of SOMBRA is designed to adjust automatically based on the sun's position throughout the day, enhancing energy efficiency and interior comfort. The actuation mechanism is developed through a collaboration between Airshade Technologies, Metadecor, ARUP, and AMOLF Institute, marking a world-first implementation of soft robotics technology in façade design. The SOMBRA pavilion, located in the Giardini della Marinaressa, is the result of extensive collaboration with key partners: Alumet for anodizing, Van Rossum Engineering for the structural design, and Kersten Europe for bending. These partners have contributed their expertise across multiple disciplines, creating a functional, responsive, and visually captivating shading system.

Peter Dushenski’s presentation will tackle the challenges of designing buildings in the extreme climates of the Arctic and subarctic regions north of 60° latitude. In these areas, the need for thermal efficiency and durability must be balanced with human-centered design, ensuring access to daylight and natural views, which are critical for mental well-being and cultural identity. Peter will explore how access to daylight and nature in the built environment can improve mental health, cognitive function, and productivity, especially in regions with long winters and polar nights. He will also address strategies for achieving optimal window-to-wall ratios in cold climates, focusing on solutions that reduce heat loss without sacrificing the connection to the outside world. Innovations in glazing and framing will be highlighted, such as low-emissivity coatings and thermally broken fiberglass frames, which improve energy performance and durability while reducing maintenance needs in environments prone to ice buildup and rapid thermal cycling. Peter will demonstrate that Arctic architecture can embrace both technical resilience and beauty, proving that even in the coldest climates, spaces can be both functional and uplifting.

Agnes Koltay will deliver the closing keynote for the first day of the PBFD 2025 seminar on Technology Meets Nature. Agnes will reflect on the challenges and successes of the Misk Art Institute Museum in Riyadh, designed by Studio Anne Holtrop. The project pushed the boundaries of façade engineering, particularly with the implementation of a complex cast glass façade featuring intricate borosilicate glass elements. This innovative solution required a careful balance between cutting-edge technology and aesthetic precision, ensuring both high performance and visual appeal in a project that demanded creativity in the face of challenging design constraints. Agnes’ keynote will focus on the technological and aesthetic possibilities in a region with its own unique challenges: high temperatures, desert environments, and the need for cutting-edge design solutions. The session will offer valuable insights into how innovative façade solutions can create buildings that not only respond to environmental needs but also engage deeply with the cultural and artistic identity of their surroundings. This presentation will leave the audience with a profound understanding of how façade engineering can push architectural boundaries, ensuring that beauty, performance, and sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into building design, regardless of the climate or context.

Angela Mejorin will conclude the first day of PBFD 2025, themed Technology Meets Nature, by summarizing the key insights shared throughout the seminar. She will also provide essential information regarding the Grand Finale networking event, directing attendees to Palazzo Nani Bernardo for an evening of discussions from 7:45-10:30 PM.

The evening will unfold against a backdrop of the Palazzo's stunning Renaissance-style design, which provides an elegant setting for networking and socializing. Guests will enjoy access to one of Venice's largest private gardens, a serene and expansive green space that offers a rare opportunity to unwind in the heart of the city. As the event takes place in this historic location, attendees will have the chance to reflect on the day's discussions while experiencing fine food, drinks and music. The evening will serve as a memorable conclusion to the first day of PBFD 2025, providing a sophisticated environment for forging new relationships.

Professor Mikkel K. Kragh will kick off the discussions for the day on Façades as Drivers for Sustainable Developments. As the Head of the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering at Aarhus University, Mikkel brings a wealth of expertise in high-performance façades and sustainable design. His professional experience includes roles at Arup, Permasteelisa Group, and Dow, and he is also a Fellow of the Society of Façade Engineering. Mikkel will moderate the second day of PBFD, which promises to be highly interactive. He will introduce the day's agenda, highlighting key themes and sessions focused on sustainable building practices and the future of high-performance façades. His remarks will also emphasize the significance of cross-disciplinary collaboration, a central theme that will be explored throughout the day.

Marino Mazzon represents the Climate Change Working Group of the Engineers of Venice, bringing a strong focus on climate change and sustainable engineering practices. Since 2018, he has been deeply engaged in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, including leading the development of the Climate Change Position Paper for the Venice Order of Engineers and the Federation of Engineers of the Veneto Region. In his address, Marino will reflect on the critical role that engineers play in tackling climate change, emphasizing the importance of innovative technologies and sustainable building practices in mitigating environmental impact.

Angela Mejorin will focus on the future of the PBFD initiative, outlining its strategic direction and the next steps for its evolution. She will explore key developments and initiatives that will shape PBFD’s future, highlighting the critical importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and global engagement.

Angela will provide an in-depth overview of PBFD's growth, emphasizing not only its technical advancements but also its broader impact within the façade sector. She will also share plans for advancing PBFD's objectives, expanding its influence globally. In this session, Angela will highlight opportunities for participants to engage more deeply with PBFD and actively contribute to its ongoing development in the years ahead.

R-IOT is a concept that combines cyber-strategic techniques and physical maintenance operations to extend the lifespan of façades. This innovative approach focuses on precognitive maintenance through continuous monitoring enabled by the Internet of Things (IoT), allowing for predictive and timely interventions that prevent the premature deterioration of façade systems. The R-IOT concept aims to increase the service life of facades to over 75 years by providing a system for ongoing maintenance, ensuring the structural integrity and aesthetic quality of the building over time. R-IOT’s modular, reversible design ensures the longevity of building facades through its adaptability, reducing the need for extensive repairs or replacements. The concept emphasizes sustainability by incorporating recyclable materials and allowing for the efficient reuse of components, aligning with the growing demand for circular economy principles in construction. R-IOT earned first prize in the Metals in Construction (MiC) 2024 Design Challenge, which focused on Curtain Wall Design for Longevity.

This break allows participants to unwind, network, and digest the valuable insights from the sessions. It serves as an ideal moment for informal discussions, idea exchange, and fostering new professional connections.

Professor Mikkel K. Kragh will introduce the panel session Façade Circularity in Practice: Strategies for Adaptive-Reuse Across Global Markets. He will highlight the global challenges and opportunities of adaptive reuse in façade design before handing over to the panelists from Eckersley O'Callaghan, who will share practical insights on implementing circular design strategies worldwide.

The construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions and material waste, making the transition to circular economy principles essential. Façade systems, in particular, offer significant opportunities for material reuse, design for disassembly, and resource efficiency. However, implementing circularity at scale requires a deep understanding of market-specific challenges, regulatory landscapes, and practical design solutions.

This presentation will explore best practices in façade circularity and material reuse, drawing on extensive experience across four key markets: France, the USA, the UK, and Italy. Projects have incorporated reclaimed and recycled façade materials, including stone, concrete, aluminum, brickwork, and glass, demonstrating the feasibility of reuse strategies across diverse building types and construction contexts. Real-world applications of circular design will be discussed, from material audits to integrating reclaimed components within modern performance-based façade systems. A key enabler of façade circularity is the development of industry-wide collaboration and knowledge-sharing platforms.

Ongoing research is focused on establishing systematic methodologies to assess the reuse potential of building components, helping designers and developers make informed decisions about material retention, adaptation, and end-of-life strategies. Drawing from international experience, valuable insights will be shared on how different markets approach façade reuse. For example, in France, involvement in the UNESCO Headquarters renovation in Paris demonstrates how circular strategies can be successfully applied to historically significant buildings while meeting modern sustainability and performance goals. In the USA, evolving regulatory frameworks present both challenges and opportunities for broader adoption of reuse practices.

By comparing regional perspectives, the session will highlight key barriers such as material sourcing limitations, the lack of standardized testing for reused components, and contractual complexities, while also discussing emerging solutions to accelerate industry-wide adoption.

This session will provide practical guidance for façade designers, engineers, developers, and policymakers aiming to integrate circularity into their projects. Strategies will be discussed for optimizing façade design for reuse, engaging with supply chains to source reclaimed materials, and aligning project goals with evolving sustainability policies. By bridging technical expertise with on-the-ground implementation, the panel will offer actionable insights on moving beyond theoretical circularity towards scalable, performance-based façade reuse solutions.

Following the morning's sessions, Mikkel K. Kragh will host a live Q&A session to facilitate deeper engagement and discussion with the audience.

Thomas Winterstetter’s keynote will close the 3rd edition of PBFD, showcasing the latest innovations in modern façade technology, with an emphasis on sustainability and high-performance design. As buildings become more complex and energy efficiency requirements increase, façades are evolving from passive elements into dynamic systems that significantly enhance energy performance, adaptability, and longevity. Winterstetter will examine advanced materials and technologies that are driving this shift.

A key aspect of the presentation will focus on how modern façades can offer flexibility and adaptability, helping buildings stay relevant and efficient in the long term. Through real-world case studies, Winterstetter will demonstrate how innovative façade technologies are meeting the growing demands for sustainability and performance in contemporary architecture. The session will offer practical insights for architects, engineers, and developers aiming to implement energy-efficient façade solutions that align with evolving sustainability goals and regulatory standards.

Angela Mejorin will conclude the second and final day of PBFD 2025 with a reflection on the key takeaways from the conference. She will also announce the theme for the 2026 seminar and offer a preview of what to expect in the next edition of the PBFD conference.