At Kingspan, our team has the pleasure of working with talented architects to help elevate their projects with the use of insulated metal panels (IMPs). For this blog, we sit down with Michael Baldassarra of Baldassarra Architects to get his thoughts on the advantages of using IMPs.
Tell us about Baldassarra Architects.
Based in Ontario, our portfolio of industrial, commercial, retail and medical projects demonstrates our diverse capabilities and expertise. Over the past 37 years, we have accumulated invaluable knowledge and experience from our many years of operation, and we take great pride in the numerous awards and the strong client relationships developed to date. Our organizational structure emphasizes strong team collaboration, with a nucleus of talented designers providing the artistic, managerial, and problem-solving skills required for the most demanding architectural endeavors. This dynamic structure allows us to make the best use of our combined expertise and gives us the flexibility to adapt quickly and effectively to new challenges and situations.
The future of the industry continues to evolve and presents new challenges. We have and will continue to adapt and apply innovative techniques to every project we undertake, with special regard to detail, function and client satisfaction.
What are some of the benefits of using IMPs?
As architects, we are always looking for ways to create impactful designs for our clients. Working with IMPs allows us to do that in several ways.
IMPs provide a versatile, well insulated, aesthetically pleasing solution for many applications. Based on the size and scale of buildings that we are designing in today’s market, the attributes provided by the materials we use can make a big difference.
Additionally, ease of installation and scaling through the use of IMPs can assist in the design process. In terms of aesthetics, Kingspan offers a variety of different profiles and color options to choose from that can help bring any design to life.
Is speed an advantage of using IMPs compared to concrete and other materials?
Yes, IMPs provide speed when it comes to both sourcing and fabricating the material, as well as installation. Given the pace the industry is moving at, availability and speed in securing material has become extremely important. With respect to accelerated construction schedules and the need to beat winter conditions, speed of installation is also a critical factor for construction teams.
Are you starting to see clients factor in sustainability, carbon offset, etc. when planning a new building?
Yes, energy performance is very important to clients. Kingspan’s IMPs adhere to all energy and sustainability standards. We tend to see more of a sustainability focus with high-profile clients. Additionally, we’re seeing more sustainable practices in the industrial sector – this is an area that has been lagging but is starting to now catch up.
Which projects have you used Kingspan’s IMPs on?
We’re using IMPs on a number of projects across the Greater Toronto Area, all within the industrial sector.
As an architect, how do you add aesthetic elements when designing with IMPs?
The variety of different profiles, color options and accessory features (fins) that Kingspan offers helps to enhance a building’s aesthetic. Given the size of most buildings that we design, it can be important de-emphasize the large-scale length of certain elevations. Breaking up the elevation through the use of different panel types, colors or features – such as the fins – can help to add the required articulation.