Innovative combinations of glass and steel

Modern architecture requires transparency, brightness and elegance, that’s why combinations of glass and steel are used. Steel constructions in combination with glass are the most suitable to satisfy these requirements.

New technological developments have developed both the options available, but also reduced the difficulties in designing, detailing and erecting steel and glass buildings. Another advantage of steel and glass structures is their long life combined with relatively low maintenance costs. This makes them particularly economical and interesting for the design of innovative constructions.

Safety glass is the most frequently used in these applications. This type of glass is obtained by heating to 650-700 degrees C and rapid cooling.

Glass and steel walls are often used in the atriums and hallways of large buildings because they ensure transparency, high brightness and give the feeling of openness. Also, using metal steel structures, buildings with unconventional shapes can be created, with curved roofs and smooth angles.

Steel and glass are synergistic materials often used for the facades and roofs of multi-story buildings. The glass panels are generally supported by separate vertical steel elements in the main structural frame of the building.

Stainless steel and structural steel tubular sections are often used in combination with glass.

Facade systems include the structural elements (steel) that ensure lateral and vertical resistance against wind or other actions and the cladding elements of the building, which provide thermal and acoustic resistance. The types of facade system that are used depend on the type and size of the building and the urban planning requirements.

Glass and steel combinations used for the Emporia mall building in Malmö, Sweden

It is an innovative building made up of 804 glass panels, each designed and manufactured with a complex curvature. The curved glass was colored by laminating the panels with luminous blue and orange plastic films, which were then glued into aluminum frames. These frames are connected to the tubular steel structure.

Architects: Gert Wingårdh, Johan Eklind, Joakim Lyth

Graphic design: Jennie Stolpe

Interior architect: Helena Toresson

Area: 27000.0 sq m

Due to the fact that the street is filled with buildings that have different uses and aspects, the Emporia shopping center had to be special to be noticed. The roof of the shopping center was not forgotten by the designers either. It hosts a park accessible both from inside the shopping center and from outside.