A comprehensive guide to the design and execution ofsophisticated exterior building enclosuresFocused on the design process for architects and relatedprofessionals, this book addresses the design and execution ofsophisticated exterior building enclosures for a number ofcommercial building types and in a variety of building materials.It focuses on the design process by delineating enclosure basics,the participants (owners, architects, engineers, consultants) andtheir roles and responsibilities through collaboration, andtracking the design process through construction.This comprehensive handbook covers all of the factors thataffect the design of a building enclosure, including function,visual aesthetics, performance requirements, and many othercriteria. In-depth case studies of projects of various scales,types, and climate conditions illustrate the successfulimplementation of exterior wall enclosure solutions in brickmasonry, stone, architectural concrete, glass, and metals.This unique and indispensable guide:* Defines the functions, physical requirements, designprinciples, and types of exterior building enclosures* Identifies the participants in the design and constructionprocess and specifies their roles and responsibilities* Presents a step-by-step process for the design of exteriorenclosures, from defining goals and developing concepts throughcreating construction documents* Reviews the construction process from bidding and negotiationthrough the paper phase to the "brick and mortar" stage* Provides details on the properties of exterior enclosurematerials, including structural considerations, weather protection,fire safety, and more* Covers a variety of materials, including brick masonry, naturalstone masonry, architectural concrete, metal framing and glass, andall-glass enclosuresWritten by the technical director of the San Francisco office ofSkidmore, Owings & Merrill, Exterior Building Enclosuresis an indispensable resource for architects, engineers, facadeconsultants, and green design consultants working on commercialbuilding projects.