Title:
BEYOND THE GLASS ICON: Reimagining High-Rise Building Envelopes in Tropical Cities

Authors:
J. Baba-Ahmad Z., Eryildiz H.S, Turkey

Abstract:

Glass curtain wall facades have become emblematic of contemporary high-rise architecture, reflecting both technological advancement and a global design trend. In tropical climates, however, these glass-dominated structures are prone to excessive solar heat gain, elevated cooling demands, and increased energy consumption. This study investigates the continued popularity of glass exteriors in high-rise buildings and evaluates climate-adaptive strategies to improve building performance in tropical urban contexts. Focusing on Abuja, Nigeria, and drawing on case studies from Kuala Lumpur, Cairo, and Riyadh, the paper traces the evolution of high-rise construction and the proliferation of glass facades, underscoring the environmental challenges associated with extensive glazing. The analysis explores the influence of building envelope design on environmental performance and energy efficiency. Guided by bioclimatic design principles and tropical architecture, the study highlights climate-responsive solutions, including optimized window-to-wall ratios, ventilated double-skin facades, and integrated shading systems. It also examines emerging technologies such as smart glazing, adaptive facades, and responsive envelopes that reduce cooling loads while maximizing daylight utilization. Comparative analysis of high-rise buildings in Kuala Lumpur, Cairo, and Riyadh identifies effective envelope strategies for hot, tropical climates. These findings are then contextualized within Abuja’s recent high-rise developments, such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, the World Trade Center Abuja, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, which increasingly feature glass facades. The results indicate that implementing climate-smart envelope strategies can substantially enhance the performance of high-rise buildings in tropical environments. The paper proposes an innovative approach to high-rise envelope design in Abuja that prioritizes climate adaptation, energy conservation, and occupant comfort. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable high-rise architecture in rapidly developing tropical cities and provides actionable guidance for architects, planners, and policymakers aiming to reconcile design innovation with environmental sustainability.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.51505/ijaemr.2026.11332