Engineering-led approaches to reducing embodied carbon, improving circularity, and maintaining performance in contemporary façade design
The widespread use of highly glazed façades has delivered daylight, transparency, and architectural expression, but it has also driven significant embodied carbon, material complexity, and long-term maintenance risk. As UK architects respond to net zero targets, circular economy expectations, and tighter scrutiny of environmental claims, façade design is increasingly being challenged to move beyond default “glass box” solutions.
This session reframes the façade as an engineered system rather than a collection of products. It explores how structural logic, material efficiency, and system simplification can materially reduce environmental impact while maintaining safety, comfort, and design intent. Drawing on applied research and real-world delivery experience, the session examines where genuine carbon reductions are achievable and where perceived sustainability gains often fall short.
Focusing on the interface between architecture and façade engineering, the session provides architects with clearer decision-making frameworks for early-stage design, specification, and option appraisal. The emphasis is on practical, evidence-based strategies that support robust, lower-carbon façades across their full lifecycle.
Head of Engineering UK @ Novum Structures
Stefan has over fifteen years of experience in the façade industry and holds a PhD in Structural Engineering from his native Bulgaria. He has worked on an array of challenging projects across Europe and the Middle East. Stefan specialises in complex façade designs with challenging structural requirements. He has an established reputation for delivering outstanding, clear façade designs, driven by the motivation to fully realise the architect’s vision. He is currently Head of Engineering at Novum Structures since November 2024. Previously led the engineering for the UK at Schüco International KG.
