Cite this article
Yazdi-Bahri, S.S., Sadr, M.M., Hosseini, S.M. (2026) ‘Enhancing comfort and energy efficiency in buildings: A systematic review of double skin façade performance’, Architecture Papers of the Faculty of Architecture and Design STU, 31(3), pp. 42-60. https://www.doi.org/10.2478/alfa-2026-0015
SUMMARY
This study presents a systematic review of double skin façades (DSFs) and their role in improving building energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and environmental performance. DSFs consist of two façade layers separated by an air cavity, which acts as a thermal buffer and ventilation channel. By regulating solar heat gain, reducing heat loss, and enhancing natural ventilation, DSFs contribute significantly to sustainable building design.
The review analyses 80 studies published between 2019 and present using a PRISMA-based methodology. The literature demonstrates that DSFs can reduce building heating and cooling energy demands by approximately 15–59%, depending on climate conditions, façade configuration, ventilation strategy, and design parameters. Key performance factors include cavity width, glazing type, shading devices, building orientation, and airflow management.
Six primary DSF typologies are identified and evaluated: box-window, corridor, shaft-box, double-glazed glass façade (DGGF), multi-story, and curved façades. Box-window systems provide strong thermal performance but often face economic challenges due to high construction costs and long payback periods. Corridor façades show potential for both energy savings and wind energy harvesting. Shaft-box systems achieve high energy savings in temperate climates but raise fire safety concerns related to smoke propagation. DGGFs demonstrate excellent insulation and ventilation performance, reducing heat gains and losses significantly. Multi-story façades offer substantial energy savings in high-rise buildings, while curved façades improve ventilation and aerodynamic performance through optimised geometry.
The review highlights the strong influence of climate on DSF effectiveness. Temperate and Mediterranean climates generally achieve the highest performance improvements, whereas hot climates require careful control of overheating risks. Advanced technologies such as smart controls, adaptive shading systems, phase-change materials, and renewable energy integration further enhance DSF performance.
Despite their benefits, DSFs face several challenges. Current research lacks standardised performance assessment methods, making comparisons between studies difficult. Many studies rely heavily on simulation tools with limited long-term experimental validation. Economic feasibility remains uncertain in some contexts due to high installation and maintenance costs. Additional concerns include overheating, fire safety, and the need for more comprehensive life-cycle assessments.
The study concludes that DSFs are a highly promising solution for sustainable architecture, capable of improving occupant comfort, reducing energy consumption, and supporting climate-responsive building design. Future research should focus on long-term operational performance, smart adaptive façade technologies, renewable energy integration, standardised evaluation frameworks, and holistic sustainability assessments to maximise the effectiveness of DSF systems in future buildings.