On Tuesday, June 23rd, we gathered our colleagues at Studio 315 for the event “Beyond the Surface: Facades, Details, and Durability Beyond the Render.” Although sudden rain forced us to move the event from the planned terrace into the studio, it did not overshadow our goal – a conversation about the essential durability of architecture. In partnership with Fundermax and Lamex, we opened a topic that is rarely discussed in the profession without embellishment: what exactly happens to buildings five years after construction?
The evening was dedicated to shattering the illusion of perfect computer visualizations and confronting the real challenges in construction. The focus was on the behavior of materials over time and the importance of detailing, which dictates the longevity of every architectural work.
Through a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Nikola Radović on behalf of NRA Atelier, attendees had the opportunity to hear practical experiences from two different, yet inextricably linked perspectives: the manufacturer and the contractor. Brankica Nedeljković and Bojan Perić (Fundermax CEE) spoke about the technological characteristics of modern materials, durability testing, and the importance of selecting appropriate cladding capable of withstanding the test of time and various weather conditions. Meanwhile, Boban Medenica (Lamex) shared field experiences, emphasizing that even the most expensive material loses its function if the installation details are not carefully planned and executed on-site.
The active discussion and the strong response from the profession confirmed the need for this format of knowledge exchange. The conclusion of the evening is clear – quality architecture does not live solely in a render; it proves itself through resilience, functionality, and durability in the real world.
