In today’s world of design, projects need to able to stand out or sometimes blend in, as well as everything in between. Exterior building facades must be sustainable, durable, energy efficient, and yet versatile enough to allow designers to meet their aesthetic requirements and desires. This article discusses how precast concrete’s aesthetic versatility can help you achieve your aesthetic design goals. It provides an overview of finishes, how to achieve them and when best to use them based on project location, environmental factors, and needs. The article also discusses combination finishes, veneers of natural materials, and self-cleaning facades. This course will offer 2.0 continuing education units.

UPDATE: From the Winter 2013 issue of ASCENT magazine, this article offers 2 HSW Learning Units of continuing education after successfully passing the assessment quiz.