There are many variables in choosing a cladding type including budget, function, maintenance, aesthetics, architectural intent and context. A cladding type can take on a different character and meaning depending on the building design or setting. Some schemes have a strong cladding concept from the start, while others evolve during the design process.

Generally speaking each cladding type has its own unique character and application which ‘speaks’ to the form it encloses — a shed, a box, biomorphic blob or chalet. However, claddings are continually reinvented and used in new ways, defining new typologies to add to the long list of architectural styles.

 

Three cladding ideas:

1. Corrugated iron cladding

Traditional corrugated iron is used on this rural house but detailed in a modern way. This reinterpretation allows the seemingly utilitarian product to take on a new meaning. Architect Gerald Parsonson. Photo Simon Devitt.

 

 

2. Zinc cladding

Dark Anthra-Zinc cladding frames this addition with strong clean lines. The contrasting fibre cement white box is suspended beneath in an abstract composition. Architects Daniel Marshall. Photo Simon Devitt.

 

 

3. Fibre cement cladding

The weather skin here is translucent polycarbonate sheeting fixed to a steel subframe. Over the top, offset on aluminium rails, is a layer of fibre cement sheets water jet-cut with an abstract pattern to let the light through. This solution particularly suits an urban site where privacy, security and a strong aesthetic are required. Architect Richard Naish. Photo Simon Devitt.