The design element using a ventilated double skin with an intermediate shading device, forming a two-layer facade, is called what?

• A. Curtain wall
• B. Double-layered facade
• C. Glass curtain
• D. Solid wall

Answer: (B)

A ventilated double skin with an intermediate shading device forms a two-layer facade. This setup features an exterior and an interior facade separated by an air cavity, with shading elements placed between or in front of the layers to control solar gain. The air gap acts as insulation, while the shading device reduces heat and glare, helping to keep the interior cooler in tropical climates and can even assist natural ventilation through the cavity. In practice, you might see louvers or brises-soleil serving as the shading between the layers, with vents at the top and bottom to encourage air movement. This combination is best described as a double-layered facade, distinguishing it from single-layer curtain walls, glass-curtain systems, or solid walls that lack a ventilated cavity.