The façade is one of the most defining elements of any building, shaping its visual identity, environmental performance, and interaction with its surroundings. Elevation design combines aesthetics with function—balancing form, materiality, daylight control, thermal insulation, and constructability.

Beyond visual appeal, a well-designed façade must respond to climate, orientation, structural constraints, and internal spatial layout. It plays a key role in regulating heat gain, managing glare, enabling natural ventilation, and contributing to occupant comfort and building sustainability. Elevation design must also comply with building codes, fire safety, acoustics, and urban planning regulations.

This section introduces the foundational principles and strategies behind designing architectural façades and elevations. It outlines the process of composing, detailing, and integrating exterior building skins that are context-sensitive, durable, and aligned with overall design objectives.