Residential complex in Rome featuring insulated terracotta rainscreens.

The Via del Serafico project in Rome is a residential development comprising eight buildings, each ranging from five to six storeys.

The buildings have terraces accessible through large glazed sliding doors. Operable side-hung windows, designed with external roller shutters are also present. The main building entrance boasts a multiple height glazed curtain wall. Furthermore, the opaque facade comprises an insulated terracotta rainscreen fixed onto a backing wall.

Eckersley O’Callaghan is actively providing facade engineering services for the “progetto definitivo” design stage (equivalent to RIBA Stage 3). This involves a comprehensive review of glazed and terracotta systems, structural calculations for glass and framing members, thermal assessments, and detailing the facade in CAD format. Moreover, we are providing valuable advice on the cost aspects associated with the facade.

We also conducted a detailed study comparing backing walls for the opaque facade, considering factors such as weight, build-up thickness, rainscreen fixing, interface with windows, thermal and acoustic performance, installation quality, speed, and cost. This involved structural and thermal calculations, discussions with suppliers on cost and construction matters.

Additionally, we optimised the supporting strategy for terracotta cladding to minimise thermal bridging and reviewed window and door systems for the best project fit.

Location
Rome, Italy

Client
DeA Capital

Architect
One Works