What coordination is required between facade design and building services systems?

Successful facades depend on close coordination with building services (MEP) to integrate penetrations, rooftop equipment, HVAC intakes, exhausts, fire protection and electrical routes without compromising weatherproofing or aesthetics. Early-stage coordination maps all required service locations and sizes, allowing the facade team to design penetrations with proper flashings, curb details and service pockets that maintain drainage and thermal continuity. Mechanical louvers and intake grills should be harmonized with rainscreen cavity paths to avoid short-circuiting airflow or trapping debris; specify bird- and insect-proofing where required. Roof-to-wall transitions, parapet details and rooftop equipment supports must be coordinated so load transfers avoid overloading facade anchors or creating unacceptable local movements. Electrical and lighting conduits, signage power, and access controls need designated chase spaces or removable panels for servicing; avoid field penetrations that compromise warranty coverage. Fire-stopping and compartmentation interfaces must be resolved with passive fire protection systems integrated into the facade assembly. Access requirements for cleaning, inspection, and rooftop maintenance should be included—anchor points, removable brackets and maintenance hatches reduce risk and cost downstream. Finally, use BIM coordination with clash detection to catch spatial conflicts early and produce coordinated shop drawings that reflect the real-world intersection of facade and services. This cross-discipline collaboration minimizes rework and secures both performance and operability.