ETFE Membrane Structure Curtain Wall of Second Home in England likes a Bread

The Old Morley House Theatre located at Second Home in London , founded in 1800, had its front wall architecture destroyed during World War II. As a result of this damage, the exterior was rebuilt. The architects proposed an idealized design concept of a hidden membrane facade that runs throughout the entire building. 

Second Home choices ETFE membrane as the curtain fabric was a significant decision.The essence of ETFE lies in the fact that its surface texture and spatial curvature are always determined by the mechanical relationships between tension, gravity, and deformation. This core characteristic enables it to transcend the superficial definitions of traditional architectural forms imposed by functionalism, thereby creating a more expressive spatial visual experience.

The core advantage of the ETFE membrane structure’s exterior facade lies in its ability to create a lightweight, high-strength, fully enclosed waterproof wall system. ETFE membrane material is extremely lightweight, weighing only 1% of the weight of glass of the same area. Additionally, ETFE membranes have a high light transmittance of over 95%, allowing natural light to penetrate and saving energy. Their excellent self-cleaning properties also reduce the maintenance costs associated with the exterior walls.

Second Home uses lightweight, transparent architecture as its curtain tension wall, seeking a balance with gravity within rigid spaces through the principles of natural construction. In this way, the building itself becomes a means of observing and perceiving the essence of nature.