Compagnie de Saint Gobain : VS-1, Glassolutions’ façade system with no visible structure

Glassolutions UK has launched VS-1 (vertical solution), a façade system composed only of a vertical structure. The large screens present an entirely glazed surface that lets in as much daylight as possible enhancing the building's visual appeal as well as the comfort of its occupants.

The VS-1 system without horizontal elements offers architects great design flexibility, as the vertical mullions can be installed either inside or outside the building. This system can accommodate single, double or triple glazing units manufactured from monolithic or laminated glass panes.

The head office of the software giant Adobe in Utah (USA) uses VS-1 in its façade. The openings measure up to 8m in height on this 26,000m² building that welcomes 1,100 employees.

A new Waitrose store, the British chain of high-end supermarkets, in Chester, close to Liverpool, is also clad with the system. The 10.5m high openings integrate SGG COOL-LITE SKN165 II solar control glass that minimises the energy consumption of the building designed to achieve the level of 'Excellent' in the BREEAM environmental certification.

The offices of the insurance company Hiscox in York have 12.5m high screens which incorporate curved glass units of SGG COOL-LITE SKN 167. The spectacular four-storey building houses up to 500 employees.