Specialized facade services
CNC Facade Installation (Patterned & Openwork Panels)
A CNC facade uses panels cut into patterns and openwork designs by CNC machines. These panels can be applied over the main skin as a second skin, at entrances, in lobbies and light wells, giving the building a unique visual identity.
1Applications
- Decorative second skin over glass or plain facades
- Signature entrances and lobbies
- Light wells and semi-transparent partitions
- Screening of exposed services or service areas
- Interior surfaces in lobbies and cultural/commercial centers
2Materials
- Aluminum sheet
- Galvanized or stainless steel sheet
- Aluminum composite panels
- HPL
- Compressed wood or thermowood (in certain special spaces)
3Technical Notes
- Defining the right open-area ratio to control light, view and mechanical strength
- CNC pattern design accounting for blade width and allowable spacing
- Substructure and panel fixing design that is both safe and easy to install and replace
- Corner, joint and edge details to preserve the beauty of the pattern
Custom execution detail
A CNC panel means your own bespoke pattern (logo, Persian motif, signature) cut precisely from sheet. The most sensitive points: the edge fold and the concealed fixing that leaves no visible screw on the facade.
Part-by-part notes:
- 1Metal panel CNC-cut to a bespoke design — the cutting file is taken from the architect's artwork; before full production one mock-up panel is approved, so colour, line weight and perforation spacing are signed off first.
- 2Top hanging rail — the full weight of the panel hangs from the upper rail; the bottom screws only prevent displacement and carry no load. That means a panel can be replaced without any demolition.
- 3Four-edge panel fold (return) — a precise edge fold both stiffens the panel and allows it to hook onto the rail; hand folding with a torch flame = ripples and a chewed, corrosion-prone edge.
- 4Horizontal stiffener (backing rib) to stop the sheet oil-canning — mandatory on panels larger than 120 cm; without it, the sheet bulges with every temperature swing.
AI & analytical tools
- Pattern generation and optimization with generative design algorithms, balancing open-area ratio, aesthetics and manufacturability
- Light and shadow simulation and the impact of openwork patterns on interior daylight and privacy
- Smart cost estimate based on area, material type and pattern complexity
Execution steps
- 1Receiving the idea or concept (the architect's design or the client's brief)
- 2CNC-ready pattern design and refinement of details for strength and buildability
- 3Substructure and connection detail design
- 4Panel fabrication and final finish application (paint, anodizing, etc.)
- 5Installation, adjustment and lighting if required
- 6Handover and documentation
Take the next step
If you are after a unique openwork skin for your project's facade, entrust the design and installation of your CNC facade to the execution experience and design capability of the Namakaran Fakher Engineering Co. team.