Architect
DSA Architects
Product
SageGlass Climaplus Classic

The Challenge

The Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai (SISD) is a leading international day and boarding school, educating more than 2,000 students. The SISD campus prioritizes wellbeing and sustainability. Filled with natural light, SISD’s spacious classrooms, libraries and laboratories were designed to engage students and encourage learning in a comfortable, healthy interior climate. 

The SISD building was designed for energy optimisation, in pursuit of the Minergie label, a renowned Swiss certificate for new and refurbished low-energy-consumption buildings. In addition to energy efficiency and commitment to environmental standards, SISD also wanted to maximise the beauty of its location by maintaining the stunning view of the Dubai skyline.

With this dynamic glazing on the façade of our building, we’re setting the precedent for environmental responsibility in an educational environment, and Saint-Gobain and SageGlass are an integral part of our vision.
Joe Barchini, Partner and COO
Swiss International Scientific School of Dubai

The Solution

The project team chose SageGlass for its ability to meet this range of needs. When appropriate, the electronically tintable glazing darkens to prevent sunlight and heat from entering the building, a function which can significantly reduce energy consumption and the need for HVAC. By also reducing glare and balancing daylight levels, SageGlass improves occupants’ comfort and wellbeing – key attributes of high-quality educational spaces. 

With SageGlass, SISD students stay connected to their surroundings. Visual barriers like blinds or shades are unnecessary with SageGlass. Even at its darkest tint, the dynamic glazing remains transparent to preserve outdoor views and a connection to the natural environment, which has been shown to boost productivity and satisfaction in the workplace.

 

The Benefits

SageGlass supports the school founders’ vision to transform the traditional ideals of school buildings. SISD became the first building in the MENA region to earn the Swiss-based Minergie label for environmental standards. 

“Innovative products like SageGlass are helping to create beautiful spaces that also improve the overall health and well-being of building occupants,” says Joe Barchini, Partner and COO at SISD. “From our offices, we can enjoy the wonderful view of the Dubai skyline, even when the sun is shining directly on our windows. We want to attract dynamic educators and staff, so we must offer working spaces that align with our values of social responsibility and sustainability. SageGlass’ unparalleled ability to enhance the indoor experience for occupants made it the perfect fit for our school.”