The fascinating world of architecture and design features the use of unique materials and innovative techniques that continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. Among these is silicone extrusion, a versatile and robust material forging its place in the world of design. Silicone extrusions offer designers and architects numerous benefits, whether they’re creating unique design features or enhancing the functionality of buildings. Need silicone extrusions for your civil engineering project? See how Viking Extrusions can help.
Why Silicone Extrusions are Crucial to Architecture, Design, and Civil Engineering
It’s an incredibly innovative time to navigate the landscape of civil engineering. The industry is making some incredible breakthroughs. We now have the ability to mould this robust, versatile material into a vast array of shapes and sizes. It provides immense opportunities for architects, designers and manufacturers.
Silicone has a number of uses, and we explore this unconventional design element, explore its role in architecture and design and discover some remarkable silicone extrusion applications worldwide that demonstrate how they enhance aesthetics, functionality and durability in residential and commercial properties.
Silicone Extrusions in Architecture
Silicone extrusions are crucial in modern architecture due to their inherent durability, resilience and flexibility. By tailoring them to specific design requirements, you can mould these extrusions into an array of forms and sizes to fulfil structural and aesthetic requirements. They serve as sealing gaskets for glazed façades, which reduces air and water penetration and subsequently enhances energy efficiency. Moreover, the industry uses silicone extrusions when creating dynamic façade systems. You can find them in the intricate detailing of architectural masterpieces.
One unique application of silicone extrusions in architecture is in the construction of the London Aquatics Centre where designers used them to create stunning wave-like patterns on the roof, contributing to the centre’s distinctive aesthetic.
Silicone extrusions in the Eden Project’s biomes showcase their role in creating innovative and sustainable architectural designs. In both examples, silicone extrusions improve the design aesthetic and enhance functionality by improving energy efficiency and weather resistance.
Silicone extrusions offer architects and designers the opportunity to create innovative architectural features while maintaining the practicalities of longevity and durability. As weather-resistant materials, designers are increasingly using them to create complex façade systems. They offer both a modern aesthetic and a practical, sustainable solution. Durability and minimum maintenance make silicone extrusions a smart choice in architecture and design.
Viking Extrusions’ Civil Engineering Notable Projects
At Viking Extrusions, our team of silicone engineers has extensive experience working on many major construction projects around the world. Here are a few of the notable civil engineering projects we have been involved in over the years:
- Emirates Stadium (see article featured image)
- Waterloo Station (see image below)
- The Shard
- Seero Fi Al Ardh Carousel (Doha – Qatar)
- Houses of Parliament / Big Ben
Silicone Extrusions in Home Designs
In home design, silicone extrusions have uses that go beyond their structural roles in windows and doors. They can contribute to the spatial design, comfort and safety of residential buildings. For instance, the construction industry uses them to provide insulation, dampproofing and soundproofing. Silicone extrusions can create unique design features, such as flexible LED lighting strips, and even create decorative elements that add colour, texture or shape to the home.
A unique residential application is the creation of modern, state-of-the-art bathrooms where silicone profiles are crucial in creating seamless and waterproof shower cubicles. They also enhance home aesthetics and safety by ensuring different floor levels transition smoothly, reducing the risk of tripping or falling. These examples demonstrate how silicone extrusions can contribute to enhancing the convenience, security and benefits of contemporary homes.
In residential buildings, designers can use silicone extrusions in intricate ways to improve the overall living experience of the occupants. For instance, by creating seamless connections between floors in the home and reducing tripping hazards, silicone extrusions have shown their worth. The damp-proofing and soundproofing applications of this material have also been pivotal in enhancing the comfort of modern homes.
Silicone Extrusions in Commercial Construction
In the commercial construction industry, the application of silicone extrusions is just as prevalent. The industry uses them in numerous ways, such as sealing gaskets for curtain walls and roofs, dampening noise or implementing heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
A notable application is in the glazing industry, where silicone extrusions are crucial components for installing large glass windows in commercial buildings, enhancing the aesthetics of the building and contributing to energy efficiency and safety by reducing air and water infiltration.
Select Viking Extrusions to Meet All of Your Silicone Extrusion Needs for Architecture and Design
Viking Extrusions, established in 1983, is at the forefront of silicone extrusion technology. We specialise in creating custom silicone profiles, tubes, cords and 3D-printed silicone mould prototypes that cater to various design and architectural needs. Viking Extrusions can assist architects, designers and builders in their projects by turning ideas into reality with their innovative silicone extrusion solutions.
Whether you’re embarking on a large commercial project or a bespoke residential design, Viking Extrusions has the products and services to meet your needs. Our team of experts is on hand to guide you through the process, from conceptualisation to completion.
Silicone extrusions have unique applications in architecture, home design and commercial construction. Their versatility, durability and malleability make them beneficial for creating innovative and sustainable designs. They improve aesthetics, enhance functionality, add comfort and ensure safety in residential and commercial buildings. As we move towards a future that values sustainability, creativity and functionality, partnering with Viking Extrusions, a company that provides quality silicone extrusion solutions, becomes even more essential. Contact the team to see how we can help.
