Recycled Facade Mock-Up

Design Studio ReBeauty

Sunscreen Facade Element

The design studio ReBeauty focused on recycling materials from an office building in Vienna, salvaging them during demolition to create a functional architectural element. The project culminated in a full-scale, 1:1 mock-up of a facade.

Our outcome was a grid facade and shading system made from reused aluminium grid heating elements and electric socket panels. The panels fit within the grid, creating varying levels of transparency to block sunlight or rain. This innovative design allowed flexibility in shading and protection, while utilizing materials from the demolition. The sunscreen facade element was assembled using materials entirely from the building, including custom-cut clamps, steel angles, bolts, window seals, and aluminium grids. Only cable ties were new. Each module covers 3m², and with the available materials, around 50 modules could be built, covering 150m² of facade. Prefabricated modules can be installed quickly as either a sunshade or a ventilated facade. This sustainable approach shows the potential for reuse in modern construction, combining functionality with environmental responsibility.