There are a variety of building categories that make up commercial real estate (CRE) including offices, industrial facilities, retail establishments, hotels, self-storage facilities and multifamily housing structures. While these buildings are constructed to serve different functions, one feature many of them have in common today is a high performing building envelope courtesy of insulated metal panels.
When people think about where insulated metal panels are being used in the CRE sector, industrial and self-storage buildings immediately come to mind. It might be surprising to learn that insulated metal panels are increasing in popularity for all commercial buildings including multifamily housing.
The construction of multifamily properties has increased rapidly over the last several years, and this sector is expected to remain strong compared to other CRE sectors as a result of favorable demographics, a strong job market, and higher mortgage rates impacting housing affordability. KPMG reports that multifamily projects currently under construction remain near record highs.
Trends such as green buildings and mixed-use developments are shaping the design of these multifamily properties. To deliver buildings that align with these trends, architects are turning to insulated metal panels.
The focus on increasing thermal performance and lowering energy consumption is driving growing demand for Kingspan insulated metal panels in the construction of multifamily housing. Kingspan insulated metal panels have a core of continuous, rigid insulation technology that delivers exceptional R-values. This high thermal performance aids net zero energy and low-carbon efforts, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions, increased energy efficiency and reduced energy costs.
Another important consideration in the design of multifamily building projects today is blending residential and commercial spaces. To achieve the required design aesthetic and maximum curb appeal for these projects without sacrificing performance or energy efficiency, architects are choosing Kingspan panels.
Mixed-use projects like this require the design flexibility offered by insulated metal panels. These panels come in a wide range of profiles and patterns, color options, textures and finishes that can be customized to fit any project’s design aesthetic. They can also be installed vertically or horizontally for more design options. With endless design possibilities, Kingspan panels can be used to create a distinctive look that integrates well with any location aesthetic.
Insulated metal panels also help to increase speed of build compared to conventional multi-component wall assemblies and are designed to last, both highly valued benefits in the construction of multifamily buildings.
The use of Kingspan insulated metal panels at 808 Memorial Drive and The Nest resulted in residential buildings that are energy efficient and durable.
There is no doubt that the design flexibility and other key advantages of insulated metal panels are fueling their use not only in multifamily housing construction projects but all buildings in the commercial real estate sector.