Our team is one that has gone to great lengths over the last decade to provide its clients with exactly what they desire. We possess a special aptitude for commercial architecture. Over the years we have been involved in an array of projects that add value for all stakeholders. No matter how big or small the challenge ends up being, we always manage to come out on top. Continue reading →

Regent Street Windows is one of the most interesting architectural competitions of the year. It gives RIBA selected architects the opportunity to work in collaboration with renowned businesses on the street. Their task is to create stunning window displays that celebrate the brands, good design, and attract customers. Therefore, it can have a really positive impact on the commercial architecture in the area. Continue reading →

The great thing about commercial architecture is it can take an infill site and transform it. Good design has the ability to unlock the potential of the land. Beyond that it can also connect neighbourhoods and create more beneficial spaces. Continue reading →

2018 has seen many changes and developments in the architectural industry. Here at Coffey Architects, we have first hand experience of them. We tailor all the buildings we work on to your needs and requirements. Our team prides themselves on making creative, beautiful buildings; this is our passion after-all. Whether your project is big or small, bold or minimal we can help. With over 10 years of experience, we have developed an outstanding reputation for our work in commercial architecture. Continue reading →

The curtain wall is one of the most groundbreaking innovations in modern commercial architecture. It has transformed the aesthetics of properties and provides benefits such as increasing natural light within the structure. In addition, the surface is non-structural and therefore can be much lighter. This is why they are commonly made of glass.

The Hallidie Building, San Francisco

The seven storey retail and office building is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2018. When it was complete in 1918 it was unique, the very first building in the US to feature a lightweight, sheer glass curtain wall. It was a groundbreaking design by architect Willis Polk.

A number of issues inspired the creation of the glazed wall. Firstly there were budget limitations. Creating an entire surface from brick would have cost much more than the curtain wall. After-all it would have required more extensive foundations to account for the additional weight. In addition, the use of glass helped to maximise the amount of natural light inside the building.

Striking yet odd

The glass facade makes the building stand out but also made it something of an oddity at the time. It creates an interesting juxtaposition with the gold painted iron work that was common in the area during the period.

One of the incredible things about the design is that the glass wall is attached to each concrete floor with brackets and steel mullions. As a result it is a similar to the floating walls we see on modern commercial architecture today, particularly skyscrapers. This shows just how innovative the idea was for the time.

Modern buildings

Curtain walls are very common now. The weight savings are a big reason why it is possible to build such large skyscrapers. They would have a much larger footprint if heavier materials were necessary instead of lightweight glass. It would also dramatically increase the construction costs.

Coffey Architects loves commercial architecture, especially iconic buildings that innovate and inspire others. The Hallidie Building definitely deserves fits into this category.

The architecture field moves forward thanks to technological advancements. New equipment allows architects to be more creative with their designs. It can also reduce the amount of time that is necessary for modelling and feasibility studies. One of the most powerful devices an architect can use is a 3D printer; with one they can produce accurate models from a number of materials. Continue reading →