Exploring a New Material for Architectural Skins Through Circular Design
Denvelops has collaborated in a research project FLEXI-CRETE by ETSAB-EPSEB UPC focused on the development of a new material for architectural skins aimed at improving architectural comfort and exploring innovative applications for contemporary building envelopes. The project investigates sustainable and circular design strategies using translucent components and advanced material systems applied to architecture.
The new tiles used in the project FLEXI-CRETE were developed by Paula Martín and Oriol París and Oriol Pons as part of the material and architectural research carried out by the ETSAB-EPSEB team.
More information about the material research and the overall project can be found on the official ETSAB-EPSEB article:
FLEXI-CRETE Research Project – New Circular Material for Architectural Comfort
Integrating the New Material into Denvelops’ Construction System
As part of this collaboration, Denvelops integrated the newly developed pieces into its hybrid construction system through the creation of a small-scale demonstrative structure combining façade and pergola in a single intervention.
This prototype enabled the team to evaluate both the aesthetic qualities and the functional performance of the new material for architectural skins in a real architectural application. The demonstrator explored aspects such as light behavior, material integration, compositional flexibility, shading performance, and the adaptability of the system to different architectural solutions.
Successful Testing and Future Applications
The test proved to be highly successful, confirming the strong potential of integrating this new material for architectural skins into real architectural systems and opening up new opportunities for future applications.
At Denvelops, we are especially excited about the possibility of implementing these solutions in upcoming architectural projects, continuing our commitment to material innovation, circular architecture, and the development of lightweight, demountable, and adaptable construction systems.
Innovation in Architectural Skins and Circular Architecture
This collaboration further reinforces Denvelops’ commitment to applied research and the transfer of innovative technologies into the field of contemporary architecture and construction. By working on new material solutions for architectural skins, Denvelops continues to explore how sustainable materials and adaptive façade systems can shape the future of architectural design.
