Integration of Smart Glass in High Rise Facades: Performance and Challenges

Abstract - The increasing use of glass curtain walls in high-rise buildings has intensified concerns regarding energy consumption, thermal discomfort, and glare. Although transparent facades contribute to daylight access and visual connection with the outdoors, conventional glazing systems often perform poorly in controlling solar heat gain. Smart glass technologies offer an adaptive alternative, allowing the building envelope to respond dynamically to environmental conditions. This study examines the integration of smart glass systems, specifically electrochromic, suspended particle device, and polymer-dispersed liquid crystal glazing, in high-rise facades. Using a qualitative review-based methodology similar to recent building envelope research frameworks, this study evaluates the performance benefits related to energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and visual quality. It also identifies the key challenges that limit large-scale adoption, including cost, system integration, durability, and operational complexity. This study aims to provide architects and facade designers with a realistic assessment of smart glass as a performance-driven facade strategy rather than a purely aesthetic solution. Key Words: High-Rise Facades; Electrochromic Glazing; Building Energy Performance; Thermal Comfort; Visual Comfort; Adaptive Building Envelope