Renaissance Hotel Amsterdam | Architect: Kentie Architecten | Client: Kondor Wessels Amsterdam│Photography: J Filipe Wiens
Shaping ideas together, building them together
March 2026 | Blog | Reading time: 3 minutes | Author: Caroline Kruit
For several years now, Metadecor has been using the line 'Together we create remarkable façades'. And for now, we see no reason to change it. Especially that first word: together, captures the essence of how we work and how our projects come to life.
Building in 2026 is about making choices, exploring possibilities, and continuously improving. It’s about finding solutions that stand the test of time. And that only works when you do it together — in multidisciplinary teams where each discipline is respected for its expertise and perspective.
What sets Metadecor apart from an average façade contractor? We often say: our approach. Others might point to our engineering capabilities. But in reality, our façades are the result of a much broader team — from engineering and project management to production and installation. Every project is unique. Each design asks for a different kind of expertise. And every project is built on a new collaboration with all parties involved — a collaboration we prefer to start as early as possible, to achieve the best possible result.
Dutch Photomuseum Pakhuis SANTOS Rotterdam. Architect: Renner Hainke Wirth Zirn Architekten & WDJArchitecten
Joining forces: Pakhuis Santos, Rotterdam
I happened to be involved in one of the early sessions for the extension of the Santos warehouse in Rotterdam (now home to the Dutch Photo Museum). Contractor Burgy was responsible for the renovation and restoration, and was looking for a partner to help realise the architect’s vision: a “golden” anodised perforated aluminium crown on top of the historic building.
Together with our colleagues at Metadecor, the architects (Renner Hainke Wirth Zirn Architekten and WDJA), and the client, the first steps were taken in a workshop setting. One key discipline was initially missing: structural engineering. That had consequences — but also opportunities. By integrating structure and façade early on, a significant amount of steel could be saved. And for a historic building like Santos, every kilo less truly matters. The collaboration had to expand — and it did. The building, now completed with its distinctive crown in MD Designperforation, has recently opened to the public. A tangible result of what collaboration can achieve.
Project: Ter Hoeven Verfgroep Apeldoorn. Architect: COURAGE.
Playing with colour and pattern: Ter Hoeven Verfgroep, Apeldoorn
What happens when an architect who typically works with large glass surfaces and a predominantly black palette decides to design a bright red building with a perforated façade? Lars Courage and his team set out to translate the client’s identity into a striking architectural statement. Bold red. Brighter than a fire truck.
Together with Metadecor, a unique pattern was developed in MD Formatura — not only functioning as solar shading, but also expressing the company’s identity at scale. Through mock-ups and test panels, both client and planning authorities were convinced — of both pattern and colour. The façade is now complete, and the building is currently being fitted out. If you happen to pass by the Matenpoort in Apeldoorn, you won’t miss it. It’s hard not to smile when you see it.
Pavilion SOMBRA. From left to right: Martin Elslo (Head-engineering Metadecor), Yayun Liu and Bertrand Schippan (MVRDV) and Nikola Znaor (Airshade Technologies).
Exploring new ideas together: SOMBRA Pavilion
Collaborating with startups brings a different dynamic altogether. The lessons we learn here often feed back into other projects. Developing solutions that haven’t been applied before requires close collaboration and constant adjustment.
The partnership with Airshade Technologies is a good example. It started with the development of a prototype, commissioned to Metadecor by engineering firm ARUP. International teams, working in English, discussing concepts at a highly abstract level — and then bringing them into reality. In our workshop in Kampen, the concept is continuously tested and refined. What works, what doesn’t — step by step. Today, the collaboration has grown into multiple projects and ongoing development. Nikola and Joe from Airshade regularly visit to work on full-scale mock-ups for projects in Southern Europe. Progress isn’t always linear. But together, we move forward.
Discover the power of shadow and pattern at our HQ in Kampen.
Let’s move ideas forward: together
And, as any blog should end: a genuine call to action. Challenge us with your ideas. We are energised by projects that haven’t been done before. What’s more interesting than taking an idea that raises eyebrows — and developing it together into something that ultimately works?
Very little.
So bring your ideas. We’re ready to explore them with you, and to make them work.
Five Façade Trends for 2025
November 2025 | Blog | Reading time: 4 minutes
Do we have a tradition? For the third year in a row, Metadecor presents the latest trends in architecture and façade design – as we see them reflected in project requests and ongoing work. We make no claims about the “why” behind these trends; we simply observe them. And we share how we – together with the team of architects, consultants, and contractors – work towards the best possible response to every (new) challenge.
Project Montevideo in Antwerp, Belgium (m2 Architecten). A tall, robust building of weathering (corten) steel with a bold, striking appearance.
ROBUST
Is Brutalism a trend or a movement? Or simply a name for solid buildings built to last forever? We’re happy with any definition – as long as we regularly get to realise projects like Fugro’s headquarters or Montevideo, both featuring striking façades of weathering (corten) steel. The DV&O building in Zaandam also has a high level of abstraction. The car park we’re currently working on in Zaventem, with kilometres upon kilometres of horizontal aluminium louvres, is impressive in both scale and presence. Yet those who look closely will notice subtle details and gestures that bring a sense of humanity to these robust structures. As far as we’re concerned, this trend can stay.
SOMBRA, the world’s first pavilion with air-driven dynamic shading, entirely without electricity.
Moving with the sun
A perfect fit within the trend of biomimicry: utilising natural processes to improve building comfort and reduce energy use. With MD Airshade, we use the sun itself as the on-off switch for dynamic solar shading – entirely without electricity. Our pavilion SOMBRA (on display in Venice until 23 November 2025, then travelling on) demonstrates what MD Airshade can do: an air-powered façade that closes on its own. Air tanks within the façade warm up in the sun, creating pressure that allows the panels to close. As night cools the air, the façade reopens. The system uses no operational carbon and even saves energy because (a) MD Airshade requires no electricity, and (b) it provides precise shading, reducing cooling demand.
Project Binnendok Car Park in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (SOME Architects).
Detachable
A growing criterion in façade design is disassembly. Metadecor façades have always been fully demountable. We never thought that this would become a unique selling point – it’s simply how we build. To assess façades or buildings for disassembly (e.g. for BREEAM or GPR Building) a specific measurement method has been developed. That is unnecessary for our panels, façade elements or mounting systems, because everything is mechanically attached and, in most cases, can be removed individually.
Wooden louvres for Fugro Car Park in Nootdorp, the Netherlands (architect: cepezed).
More wood
We’re seeing more natural materials appearing in façades. Within our MD Lamel product group, wood has now become a fully-fledged material. In several projects, wooden louvres define the architectural expression – from clean linear forms (Fugro car park) to flowing parametric curves (Zuidwolde project). The demand for wood façades is rising at Metadecor too – but it’s not always real timber. Over the past year, we’ve seen more projects using aluminium louvres with a sublimated wood pattern. Sometimes, looks can be deceiving…
Black nesting boxes at the top of the façade provide birds and bats with a safe spot, seamlessly integrated into the façade panels of Fugro Headquarters in Nootdorp, the Netherlands (architect: cepezed).
A Place for Nature
Living greenery, flying creatures… they’re finding a home in our façades. Starting with plants: open structures such as MD Expanded Metal or MD Designperforation are perfect “climbing frames” for vegetation. Cable systems and MD Nettick can also be used for this purpose. One project that combines several of these options is the Hart van de Waalsprong car park. For birds and bats, we’ve already built numerous (almost invisible) nesting spaces into façade elements – for example, at Fugro’s headquarters. Yes, that same rugged building from our first trend. Let’s hope its bold appearance doesn’t scare off our flying friends.
Oh, and these aren’t the only trends… We’ve seen many more fascinating requests and creative ideas, that could be the trend of years to come. Don’t hesitate to call or email us with your unconventional design. We´re not easily fazed, so challenge us with your idea, and we’ll tackle it together!
Project Ter Hoeven Verfgroep in Apeldoorn, the Netherlands - engineering phase in progress.
Post-Holiday Projects to Look Forward To
Flip-flops at the ready, the Metadecor ‘We love the Sun’ beach towel neatly rolled into the bag – bring on the summer holidays! There’s hardly anything better than setting off on a break knowing that a host of exciting projects will be waiting when you return in mid-August. We’d love to give you a preview of what’s coming up in the second half of 2025.
The Bouwvak – building vacation – is a typically Dutch phenomenon: not the easiest thing to explain to our international partners. But here’s the gist: the Kampen workshop will close for three weeks, and our main office will be almost deserted. On 18 August, (nearly) all colleagues will be back and ready to dive into the next phase of remarkable projects.
Green Façade
Construction has begun on the façade of the Souburgh Care Centre in Waddinxveen. Soft green MD Designperforation elements are ready for mounting, waiting in our workshop. The design by Eentien Architecten features brickwork bays with recessed balconies and aluminium details – planters, balustrades – making it undoubtedly a green façade. Installation is scheduled for Q3, though we may need to wait until spring 2026 to see the greenery in full bloom.
Bold Red Identity
From green to red: the signature colour of the Ter Hoeven Verfgroep will feature prominently in custom MD Formatura panels for their new headquarters in Apeldoorn. For Courage Architecten, this is a unique choice – the firm typically favours black. But in this case, there was no other way: the architectural challenge demanded it. Local planning authorities have now granted approval, and engineering is underway. Production is expected this autumn.
Sturdy Design
In Nijmegen, a full-scale mock-up is displayed on-site to test the colour and detailing of MD Flack panels for the Iris building, part of the Waalkwartier development. We’re confident in the outcome. The design by VMX Architects reveals a bold structure with striking lines in the colour Tanami Sablé – a name that, come to think of it, sounds rather holiday-like. Engineering is in full swing, and production will begin shortly.
Transparent Facelift
Just before the summer break, significant progress was made in Abcoude on the MD Expanded Metal façade for A9 Studios. The engineering proved complex due to the surprises within the existing building fabric. But now, the prefabricated panels are ready for quick installation. The design by Debby Alferink visually unifies the various buildings on the site. With its warm copper-toned skin, this mixed-use building gains a façade that will stand the test of time. Completion is anticipated in early autumn.
For Pakhuis Santos (The Netherlands Photo Museum), the rooftop extension is an architectural statement responding to sunlight in various ways – through a parametrically designed MD Designperforation skin and a deep overhang that mitigates high-angle solar exposure. Architects: RWZH and WDJ Architecten. Photos: Hans Wilschut.
Brise Soleil: The Architectural Sunbreaker
By Caroline Kruit, International Business Developer for Metadecor
The literal translation of brise soleil – sunbreaker – already says a great deal. But what distinguishes a brise soleil from a drop-arm awning or a horizontal louvre system? A brise soleil is typically part of the architecture itself – an integral component of a building’s overall design concept. Architect Le Corbusier designed massive concrete overhangs to block the high summer sun (without obstructing the low winter sun), embedding the brise soleil into the narrative of his architecture. In 2025, there are more reasons than ever to integrate this form of passive solar shading into our buildings. So here it is: a case for architectural sunbreakers.
Passive Solar Shading
Passive shading – whether static or dynamic – scores highly under BREEAM and LEED assessment frameworks. It has a significant impact on a building’s energy performance: reducing the need for cooling, and improving daylighting, which lowers reliance on artificial lighting. Direct sunlight can be uncomfortable – a well-designed sunbreaker prevents glare and excessive brightness.
A Constant Factor in Design
Like gravity, the sun is a constant consideration in architectural design. While in Northern and Central Europe it may occasionally retreat behind heavy cloud cover, there are plenty of days – even weeks – where solar exposure dominates interior comfort. Yet passive solar shading is rarely mandated by building codes. This is despite the widely acknowledged rise in overheating issues in the built environment.
Historically Embedded
History shows that ancient architects and builders understood the effects of heat and glare – even if they didn’t use terms like “thermal stress” or cite energy efficiency as motivation. Their responses included deep reveals and arcades on sun-exposed façades, perforated screens (such as mashrabiyas in the Middle East and ceramic screens in parts of Asia), and extensive overhangs. These shading solutions were fully integrated into the architectural fabric, often supplemented with temporary elements like fabric screens or awnings in both horizontal and vertical applications.
Project DV&O in Zaandam is a good example of a selfshading building, with different shading elements as an integral part of the façade (and building volume): vertical MD Lamel in the façades, a significant overhang clad with MD Flack. Architects: Studio Prototype and ArchiTech Company. Photos: Jeroen Musch.
Solar Shading as Architectural Statement
Le Corbusier's pronounced roof overhangs were his take on brise soleil – blocking the intense summer sun while admitting low-angle winter light. Jean Nouvel took it further in 1987 with the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, where sensor-controlled diaphragms across the façade open and close – clicking and zooming - in response to sunlight. Norman Foster has spoken of self-shading buildings in his recent work: façades carefully composed so that direct sunlight is blocked by fixed architectural elements such as vertical fins or deep recesses. Crucially, these are not add-ons. Shading is designed into the building from the outset – part of its architectural DNA.
An Essential Design Consideration
Contemporary architects have access to a far wider range of materials and technologies for passive solar control than their predecessors. But with today’s complex regulations, climate imperatives, budgets, and certification demands, it’s understandable that solar shading isn’t always prioritized. Still, the sun is ever-present – and increasingly so. We can’t afford to ignore it.
Future-Proof with Brise Soleil
To make buildings future-ready – whether new builds or refurbishments – we need to give the sun a literal place in the plan. Our advice: make sunbreakers part of the architectural concept from the very start. Yes, we’ve delivered successful retrofit solutions, adding shading elements to existing façades. But, if we’re honest, it’s the integrated shading façades that truly excite us – they offer the greatest benefits not just in terms of energy performance, but also architectural impact and contextual response. And working on retrofit, that would be our advice too (except for listed buildings perhaps): to give the full façade a makeover, incorporating shadowing elements in the concept.
Exemplary Projects: Integrated Solar Shading
One standout example of integrated shading solutions is Theater Zuidplein, where a generous cantilever and a perforated screen using MD Designperforation define the building’s appearance and contribute to its energy efficiency and usability. Remarkably, the entire perforated pattern was produced using a single punch mould, and the curved panels were shaped on site by mounting flat aluminium sheets to pre-curved profiles. The architectural design by De Zwarte Hond is visually striking but technically straightforward in execution.
Theater Zuidplein features both a prominent cantilever and a façade infill of uniquely perforated MD Design panels, integrating shading on multiple levels. Architect: De Zwarte Hond. Photos: Daria Scagliola.
Louvres Like Lashes
Another case is Het Zandkasteel in The Hague – a school building where three-dimensional aluminium shading “lashes” (MD Shapes with perforation) prevent direct sunlight from hitting blackboards, maintaining visibility and comfort. Spring Architecten led the design and brought in ArchiTech Company to develop the shading elements. Their solution was based on extensive solar simulations – videos of which can be viewed on the ArchiTech Company website (Multipurpose school – The Hague).
At Het Zandkasteel in The Hague, bespoke three-dimensional aluminium “lashes” (MD Shapes with MD Designperforation) shade classrooms from direct sunlight. Architects: bct architecten in collaboration with ArchiTech Company. Visuals courtesy of the architects.
A Parametric, Semi-Transparent Façade
In another collaboration with ArchiTech Company, the Wolderhuus in Zuidwolde features a unifying façade designed by bct architecten. A timber louvre skin wraps both the existing structure and a new extension. Engineers at Metadecor translated the wireframe model into an aluminium substructure, supporting timber panels. By varying louvre sizes and spacing according to orientation, they achieved the right balance of transparency – allowing ample daylight in while blocking excessive heat.
Responsive When Necessary
As the overview illustrates, a brise soleil need not be a fixed element. Moveable panels are an option – shading the interior only when required. Projects such as Tussen de Lakens in Amsterdam (by Abbink X Co with an MD Formatura pattern by Chris Kabel) and Old Town Court in Prague (featuring MD Designperforation by Bofill Taller de Arquitectura) showcase large, moveable screens that follow the façade pattern. Even when closed, these allow outward views. Operation options range from manual control to full integration with building automation systems using motors and sensors.
Living Architecture
Metadecor’s collaboration with the startup Airshade Technologies introduces another alternative for responsive shading. Airshade systems respond to solar heat passively – without sensors or motors – using heated air within sealed containers to trigger movement. The SOMBRA Pavilion showcases this technology: its MD Formatura panels automatically close after several hours of direct sun and reopen during the night. There’s no on/off switch – though an override can be installed if safety requires it – only that great shining orb in the sky.
Working Together Toward New Solutions
As attention to energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and healthy buildings increases, passive shading – whether fixed or dynamic – can offer tremendous value. In many current Metadecor projects, passive shading is a key component in the design and engineering process. We challenge architects to explore new integrated approaches, pushing the boundaries of ventilated façades. This is most effective when we collaborate early in the design phase. Together, we can create façades that make an impact – in partnership with each other and the sun.
The industrial unit of Toyota Material Handling in Ede.
Rustworthy Architecture
written by: Caroline Kruit, International Business Developer voor Metadecor
A façade with a rugged, rusting surface? We are seeing a lot of it at the moment. It’s nothing new, of course: the oldest façades made from weathering steel (or corten steel, as it’s most commonly called) in the Netherlands have been around for over half a century. At Metadecor, we enjoy working with this type of steel and already completed a wide range of applications and projects using it. Soon, we’ll be able to share new projects: this is a sneak preview and an overview at the same time.
Weathering steel (or corten steel) does come with its own 'manual'. It’s a heavy material (steel is over three times heavier than aluminium) and it releases rust runoff. That last point makes it less suitable for public spaces or areas where the rust (or rusty rainwater) might come into contact with delicate materials. Rust-stained water on glass or concrete can create lasting marks, but a sensible detailing can cover most that risk. Leaning against a rusting façade can leave stains - there is no way around that.
Project De Graafschap in Doetinchem, the Netherlands.
Patterns and forms
But, oh my... it can be stunning, that rich texture and ever-changing surface colour of rusty steel! Whether the weathering steel is formed into MD Expanded Metal (as at Toyota Handling in Ede, visible from the A12 motorway), or applied as MD Flack (as used for the Villa in Hippolytushoef) - the material has a life of its own. The new car park at the Naturalis museum in Leiden features a striking MD Designperforation pattern in corten steel. As of June 2025, the panels are being assembled at Metadecor’s assembly hall, and the material still has a bluish-grey tone. The panel on our mock-up wall is already showing more orange shades!
Panel for Naturalis museum in Leiden.
Not just industrial
Once reserved for more industrial settings and building types, 'corten' is now also seen in residential and office architecture. For Fugro headquarters in Nootdorp we created MD Flack panels and MD Lamel arrays in weathering steel. In certain areas of the façade, bird nest boxes have been integrated into the panels. The project is now in its final construction phase and will be completed later this year, the façades are already finished.
A whole lot of steel
The Montevideo residential building in Antwerp features a bold corten steel façade using MD Flack, the largest corten project Metadecor has undertaken to date. This project is also nearing completion. As with Fugro, it's not guaranteed that the patina will be fully oxidised by the time of handover: the process goes through several stages and typically takes at least a year to stabilise. It never stops 'rusting' entirely, but to make beautiful photos of an evenly coloured surface just a little patience is necessary.
Project Montevideo in Antwerp, Belgium.
Brutalism with a corten look
The texture and character of “real” weathering steel is hard to fully replicate with a corten-look coating, but the latest developments in this area come impressively close. For the Wisselspoor residential building the entire façade was built using aluminium elements finished with a corten-look coating. The colour and texture contribute significantly to the building’s brutalist appearance.
More and different
Of course, a façade doesn’t have to be entirely made of weathering steel (or a corten-look material). Projects like De Graafschap or the JWF Barracks show that accent elements can also make a strong visual statement. For an international project, we’ve been exploring the use of MD Formatura in weathering steel which has also proven feasible. At Metadecor, we’re always keen to continue exploring the possibilities of bold, rusting façades in collaboration with architects and clients.
Champions League and Football Pitches
By Caroline Kruit, International Business Developer for Metadecor
At Metadecor, we create (read: engineer, produce, assemble, and install) remarkable façades all over the world. Along with ceilings, screens, and more. We tend to stay rather down-to-earth about it. Yes, we’ve set up an innovative pavilion at the Architecture Biennale in Venice. We’re working on unique façades in Europe, a golden pergola in the US... But we also apply the same craftsmanship and attention to detail when making a modest cladding for a materials depot in MD Strekmetaal.
"Who does not honour the small, is not worthy of the great." This litteral translation of the Dutch saying ‘Wie het kleine niet eert, is het grote niet weerd’ can be interpreted in many different ways in façade construction. It could relate to the scale of projects, their complexity, or even small details like screws (in the same colour as the panel being installed). Potential projects need to align with the way we work. Do we make special things? Absolutely! But we also make ‘ordinary’, very neat façades. Not everything we make is shown on news websites and social media, or at trade shows.
Presentation about SOMBRA, May 7th 2025, during Future Façade in Utrecht (NL). From left: Nikola Znaor (Airshade Technologies), Caroline Kruit and Martin Elslo (Metadecor).
Future Facade, Biennale Venice
Week 19 of 2025 was quite a rollercoaster for Metadecor. We attended a trade show in Utrecht and an opening (and what an opening: the Biennale!) in Venice, we had numerous projects in an exciting stage of assembly and installation, new projects and intensive acquisition talks. All of that in just four days (Monday May 5th was a Dutch national holiday). Staying grounded and maintaining our usual down-to-earth approach was certainly a challenge.
At the (new) Future Facade trade show in Utrecht (7th and 8th May 2025), we showcased patterns in aluminium and steel. In the Maze of Innovations, we presented a glimpse of the ingenuity and beauty of the SOMBRA pavilion, which we developed for the Time Space Existence exhibition in Venice in collaboration with a top team of companies. Innovation, unique façades, and smart construction techniques were the main topics of discussion.
Impression of the opening days of SOMBRA in Marinaressa Giardini in Venice (8-10 May, 2025).
Champions League
With the opening of SOMBRA (on 10th May 2025), we suddenly found ourselves in the Champions League final: the reactions to the pavilion in Venice – and the publications that appeared the following week on major platforms – told us that we had truly created something unique. Norman Foster, in collaboration with Porsche, developed a pier in the Arsenale, while MVRDV, with Metadecor, created a pavilion in the Marinaressa Giardini. Forget Dutch modesty: this is a masterpiece!
The initiators of SOMBRA: Nikola Znaor (Airshade Technologies) and Caroline Kruit (Metadecor).
The collaboration with the startup Airshade Technologies marked the beginning of our SOMBRA adventure. With the companies that joined the initiative (Alumet, MVRDV, ARUP, Van Rossum Consulting Engineers, AMOLF Institute, and Kersten Group), we elevated the project to an absurdly high level. Both the process and the outcome offer many positive learning moments, which we can carry forward into the next challenging project.
A Simple Game of Football
‘Back home’ in Kampen The Netherlands, we reflect on a week of extremes. The constructive conversations at the trade show, the positive reception of SOMBRA, the usual dynamics of a medium-sized construction company. The birthdays of four (!) colleagues. The handover of the façade for the materials depot for Plus Ultra in Utrecht – a modest project with panels from MD Strekmetaal – a fence, simple yet beautifully crafted. That too is something to be proud of. Together, we create remarkable façades. Together, we can achieve more than we sometimes realise. The Champions League arena and the football pitch around the corner: Metadecor plays on both. Football will be football 😉.
The materials depot of Plus Ultra in Utrecht (NL) with MD Expanded Metal, completed in week 19, 2025.
Kempinski Hotel Muscat Oman, the location of Arc Middle East 2025.
Dare to design!
Text: Caroline Kruit, International Business Developer for Metadecor
Invite a hundred-plus architects to a hotel in magical Oman for a weekend and confront them with a group of suppliers of building materials from across the world. Get the dialogue started with inspiring lectures of peers, make sure that the atmosphere and food are good and make a program that keeps them busy from breakfast until a late afternoon drink at the bar. Metadecor International was present at Arc Middle East and this is what we learned from that rollercoaster of conversations.
Arc Middle East programs one-on-one discussions and lectures about AI, hospitality and building certifications.
The real estate business in the Middle East is booming and lots of people from all over the world are flocking together in the region to play a part. A few hundred of them attended the three day Bond Event in Muscat. A more international group of architects, real estate developers and suppliers is hard to imagine: all continents were present. That fact is interesting in itself and it generates multiple perspectives on contemporary architecture and themes that are on the table during the early stages of projects. Worldwide.
Selling shadow (and façades?)
Looking back at the many conversations I had during the event, there are a few insights that I would like to share. Funnily enough, these insights have less to do with façades and shadow – the items that I was selling as a supplier – but more with the general attitude of the architects towards their designs. Yes, I had a couple of in-depth talks about energy efficiency and the significant function of the building envelope to create comfortable and healthy buildings. There were interesting discussions about resourcing aluminium, about material efficiency during the design process and designing for a circular building economy. These are most important topics, that we address on a daily basis at Metadecor. But what about architecture? In my opinion, beautiful (-ly made) architecture is the most sustainable form of building - wherever you build.
Bespoke does not equal expensive
In a world where costs are a (or: the) main driving factor in decision making in real estate – the Middle East is no exception to that rule – it seems that even the thought of budget cuts limits the creative process of architects. The need to ‘design within budget’ presses hard on first proposals, early sketches and professional ambition. To choose regular, of the shelve products is a safe strategy. But what if you are not aware of the costs of a certain – bespoke - solution? Is it that more expensive to make a unique pattern for your façade? No! Should all façade panels be square or rectangular? No, of course not! Bend and curve all you like – it won’t cost the world if you make a smart plan.
Do not close the door
Closing the door on creative and unique options, before you even open it – it is an attitude that is averse to the education of architects. No wonder that I sensed a mild (?) disappointment in the profession here and there, during my talks with architects. And this was my response: “Dare to design!” Take the effort, make the hours. Yes, it takes time to make something that nobody has made before. And time is money, we understand that. But the time you spend in designing a bespoke façade gives you something as a bonus: the love for your own profession.
Oman was the location for Arc Middle East 2025: it inspired even an International Business Developer to some creativity.
Feel the love, walk the mile
Our message to architects and developers worldwide: ask for our advice and we will work with you towards a bespoke solution that will fit that stringent budget. Let’s walk the extra mile and invest time (and creativity) into something that is not standard, but unique and beautiful on its own. And functional, of course. While we’re at it, we can incorporate multiple qualities in the design and the façade itself. It makes the effort even more worthwhile, to add invisible features to a very much visible architecture. Use the knowledge and experience at Metadecor to optimize, simplify and make the best translation from design to production. Start with the ambition and work from there. Do not ask for our catalogue. Metadecor doesn’t have one. Perhaps it would make your job a little bit easier – but that is just what we want to avoid. We dare you. Please challenge us too.
Arc Middle East in Oman, February 2025 - an event with architects, project developers and suppliers, discussing innovation and current developments in architecture and building technology.
Looking back in reverse
No, we are not going to do a retrospective on 2024. We are going to look ahead: what will 2025 bring us? We are not choosing the easy path in the coming months, that is already clear. Every Metadecor project is unique and has a deeper meaning – in the design, functionality or method of production and installation – and we will tell you more about this in the coming year.
With many challenging projects in progress, in design and engineering and its own Shadow Pavilion in the making, Metadecor's third decade is about progress, innovation, high performance with low-tech and the Art of Creating Shadow.
We learned a lot in 2024, the year that Metadecor existed for twenty years. We not only learned from the projects we were allowed to do, but also about ourselves, the values we stand for and the challenges we can and want to take on. Metadecor has grown again and not only in turnover figures.
Multifunctional elements
2025 is the year of delivery and publication of a number of projects that have involved a lot of practical thinking and smart ingenuity. A façade renovation in the south of France, a beautiful stadium in Helmond, a brutal building with a corten façade in Belgium, a pergola in California, a ceiling with a world map, a subtle screen for a villa... we are eager to publish them, to show what beautiful things we can make.
We would like to tell you what these projects are, do and can do, other than being attractive: keeping out sun, wind and rain, contributing to the energy efficiency of the buildings, sustainable and logistical solutions for difficult locations, embedding a building in a (historical) context, smart production and assembly techniques… There are so many layers of meaning and function!
Design a shadow, then the façade
We are therefore challenging our network (and ourselves) for the year 2025: we are turning it around. First think about what a façade should do, be able to do and be - before a design is made.
First design those beautiful shadow patterns - then think about what kind of façade you need. Reverse logic. Completely close that south façade to limit the sun load? This may not be necessary at all with an MD Formatura element for a glass façade, where the twisted elements block the greatest solar load but daylight is admitted - sparingly.
“Shadow” is of course a metaphor when we talk about the Art of Creating Shadow. It is not only about keeping out or directing sun(light), but also about all those other themes that have been mentioned and are "included" in a design process, but could just as well be the starting point. Start with functionalities and the (side) effects and design the best solution from there.
Shadow Pavilion - ode to the sun
To show what we mean by 'thinking differently' and 'challenging yourself', Metadecor has taken the initiative for the Shadow Pavilion. This pavilion is an ode to the sun and an example of carefully handling everything that the sun brings us, dynamic sun protection without the use of electricity and responsible use of building materials.
The Shadow Pavilion is a collaboration with startup Airshade Technologies (see the page about the prototype we built together for Abu Dhabi), Alumet (our partner in anodizing), architectural firm MVRDV, Van Rossem Raadgevend Ingenieurs (for the construction), ARUP (for the solar studies and geometric and mechanical elaboration) and AMOLF Institute (for the development of the 3D printed actuators of the Airshade installation). We expect to present the pavilion to an international audience in early May.
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BIG5 Global: Five BIG Conclusions
Metadecor International participated in BIG 5 Global which was held in Dubai in the last week of November 2024. The Benelux Pavilion was located in Hall 8 of this main event for the construction industry in the UAE. Four days of talking about (new) building projects, façades and building technology: it gave a lot of food for thought.
The Halls of World Trade Center in Dubai were somewhat of a unique ‘ecosystem’ during BIG5 Global, with the temperature inside just above 20 degrees Celsius and no natural daylight. Meanwhile, temperatures outside reached beyond 30 degrees with a cheerful sun above the fairgrounds until just before closing time. Stepping inside at daybreak, leaving the building in the growing dark: it is the direct lead to Big Conclusion number 1 of 5 that we assembled at the end of the week.
Air conditioning is unavoidable in climates like in Dubai, but less AC is always better and healthier. With the predicted global warming, the use of air conditioning will increase in Europe too. How to accomplish less air conditioning? By creating more shade! Keep that sun (and the direct heat) away from the glass, away from the insulated envelope. With a double façade, a 'second skin' of (perforated) metal, for example, significant reductions in AC are within reach;
Passive shading is gaining ground in popularity. Yes, you read that correctly. Popularity. Not necessity. It is comfortable to reside and live in a selfshading building. See conclusion number 1. In the Middle-East, external (passive/dynamic) shading is not required or regulated (nor is it in Europe), but the awareness that the comfort and energy-efficiency can benefit from passive shading is growing rapidly;
Ornamentation implicates identity. Patterns make buildings and history recognizable. That is a given in Middle Eastern architecture. But this actually applies to all architecture and in all countries. At the fair in Dubai, people's eyes widened when they saw Het Plantsoen in Leiden and Theater Zuidplein in Rotterdam. Beautiful, contemporary patterns to cherish – forever. Sustainability in architecture – in its purest form;
Plantsoen in Leiden
Theatre Zuidplein in Rotterdam
A façade company as a 'one stop shop' for the entire process : from co-creation to engineering, project management, production, preassembly, transport and installation - it is a concept that makes Metadecor fairly unique. With our approach we want to help you: it starts with the support of the design team by our engineers, open communication with the client and cooperation on the construction site - with local partners or our own team(s). It is - for us - a good business model, that results in high quality solutions;
A (very) long lifespan for all parts of a building, including the façade, is climbing on the agenda. PDEs and LCAs are becoming increasingly important in the Middle East. For example: we work with partners who can provide increasingly higher guarantees on surface treatment for aluminium. “I want a 100-year guarantee for your façades,” said one developer from Sharjah. We can't give him that yet, but it sounds like a good ambition for the future.
Low Tech Façades for the Middle East
During the month of November 2024, Metadecor will attend and join several events in the Middle East to promote sun shading facades and low tech façade solutions for healthy cities. On the stage of Cityscapes Global in Riyadh (KSA), Caroline will join a discussion about ‘Energy Solutions in Property Development’. Metadecor International is also part of the Benelux Pavilion at one of the biggest trade shows in the region: BIG5 Global in Dubai. Get your free entrance with this link: https://ap.lc/LLJgA
In the Middle East, the month of November is all about events and networking. It undoubtedly has to do with the milder climate that makes it possible to have large gatherings in large halls and in the open space. But even in November, being outside means looking for a place in the shadow and being inside is moving in an mechanically airconditioned environment. Topics like sun shading or reducing the need/capacity for air-conditioning are in almost every conversation.
Façade engineering on stage
‘Low-tech façade solutions for healthy cities’ is the title of the abstract that Metadecor submitted for the Cityscapes Global event in Saudi Arabia (11-14 November 2024). As a result, Caroline will join the Asset Horizons stage in Riyadh and talk about the benefits of sun shading façades and integrated façade solutions on November 13th. For Metadecor, it is the first time we can showcase our knowledge and experience in façade engineering on a stage with other engineers, in front of an audience of decision makers in real estate development. An exciting prospect!
Booth 8C354 at BIG5 Global
In the last week of November, the World Trade Center Exhibition Grounds in Dubai are dedicated to the BIG5 Global, one of the largest construction trade shows in the world. Metadecor International occupies booth C354 in Hall 8, as part of the Benelux Pavilion. From November 26 until Friday the 29th, Wilco and Caroline will engage with the visitors of the event and – outside opening hours of BIG5 – meet the network that Metadecor has developed in the region over the past years.
We are looking forward to seeing new and familiar faces in Dubai, and talk about the topics that are close to our hearts: creating sun shading facades that not only are functional, but architectural gems as well. For new and existing buildings there are low-tech and very effective façade solutions that will create huge benefits for the users (and owners) of the built environment. Yes, the discussions will be different from the ones we had in Rotterdam in September. We want to give information and inspiration to the visitors of BIG5 Global and expect to get the same in return.