Cruise: A Sinuous Stainless Steel Facade System

Lightness in Suspended Facades

The Cruise Air System, designed by Roberto Volpe for Faraone, is a unique and innovative solution for transparent architectures. Unlike traditional spider-glass systems, Cruise does not use ball-joints and instead relies on laminated glass, which can be tempered or not depending on the project's requirements. The glass panels are installed leaning on the four corners, creating a sleek and seamless appearance. Made from stainless steel AISI316, Cruise is available in a polished or satin finish, adding a touch of elegance to any building.

The realization of Cruise involves the use of stainless steel AISI 316, which is cast using the lost-wax technique and then brushed and polished to achieve the desired finish. The dimensions of Cruise are 260 x 260 x 59 mm, making it suitable for a variety of architectural applications.

One of the key features of Cruise is its functionality. Acting as a fitting, Cruise securely fixes the glass panels to the main structure, ensuring stability and durability. The design of Cruise is not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound, with thorough calculations and testing conducted to ensure its strength and reliability.

The development of Cruise began in January 2013 and was completed in April 2013 in Corropoli, Italy. It was later exhibited at Made Expo in October 2013, showcasing its innovative design and technological advancements.

Cruise has received recognition for its outstanding design and innovation. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Building Materials and Construction Components Design category in 2014. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate exceptional expertise, creativity, and technical characteristics. Cruise's sinuous design and remarkable level of excellence evoke positive emotions and a sense of wonder.

With Cruise, Roberto Volpe has created a fitting that not only enhances the aesthetics of architectural glass facades but also introduces a new trend in transparent architectures. Its lightness and elegance make it a standout choice for designers and architects looking to make a statement with their projects.