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Case Study: Delivering a Multi-Storey Façade System in Record Time
A Race Against Time
In today’s construction industry, time is money. For developers working on large-scale projects, delays can impact not only budgets but also reputations. At Unisyst PLC, we recently faced such a challenge: delivering a multi-storey aluminium façade system for a high-profile commercial building in Colombo — all within an aggressive timeline.
This case study showcases how our team leveraged design expertise, advanced fabrication techniques, and seamless project management to complete the façade in record time — while ensuring safety, quality, and performance standards were never compromised.
Project Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Client | Leading Colombo-based real estate developer |
| Project Type | Commercial multi-storey building |
| Scope | Commercial multi-storey building |
| Timeline | 6 months (typical project of this scale requires 9–12 months) |
| Key Challenges | Tight schedule, material logistics, monsoon season disruptions |
| Unisyst’s Role | End-to-end solution provider under the Hayleys Group banner |
Challenge: Beating the Clock Without Compromising Quality
The client’s business model depended on launching operations on a specific date to attract key tenants. Any delays in façade completion would have pushed back fit-outs and leasing schedules.
Key hurdles included:
- Compressed project timeline compared to industry standards.
- Supply chain disruptions for aluminium systems.
- Weather challenges during monsoon season in Sri Lanka.
- High-rise safety concerns for multi-level façade installation.
Our Solution: Combining Expertise and Innovation
At Unisyst, we approached the challenge through a 3-pillar strategy:
Advanced Design & Engineering
a. Used BIM (Building Information Modelling) to simulate façade design, clash detection, and installation sequencing.
b. Optimised panel sizes and framing systems to reduce fabrication complexity.
c. Ensured compliance with Sri Lankan building codes and international standards.
Streamlined Fabrication Process
a. Leveraged in-house facilities to fabricate custom aluminium profiles and panels.
b. Adopted Just-In-Time (JIT) manufacturing to align with site requirements.
c. Implemented quality assurance at each stage, minimizing rework.
Agile Project Management
a. Coordinated across stakeholders (architects, engineers, contractors) via weekly virtual check-ins.
b. Applied modular installation techniques, enabling faster on-site assembly.
c. Built contingency buffers into the schedule to handle monsoon interruptions.
| Phase | Traditional Timeline | Unisyst Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Engineering | 3 months | 2 months |
| Fabrication & QA | 4–5 months | 3 months |
| On-site Installation | 3–4 months | 1 month |
| Total Duration | 10–12 months | 6 months |
Results: More Than Just On-Time Delivery
By following this integrated approach, Unisyst achieved:
- On-Time Completion: Delivered in 6 months, meeting the client’s grand opening target.
- Cost Savings: Optimised resource use saved approximately 15% in project costs.
- Safety Excellence: Zero incidents reported during the high-rise installation phase.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: A sleek, modern façade reinforced the building’s premium positioning.
Why This Case Matters for Future Projects
This project proves that with the right aluminium solutions provider, developers can achieve ambitious project goals. Speed, safety, and aesthetics don’t have to come at the cost of one another.
Key Takeaways for Developers and Architects
- Plan with BIM early: Reduces redesigns and saves weeks in the timeline.
- Choose contractors with in-house fabrication: Ensures speed and quality control.
- Integrate project management digitally: Keeps all stakeholders aligned.
- Think modular: Prefabrication is the future of aluminium façades.
Delivering this multi-storey façade system in record time is a milestone we’re proud of at Unisyst PLC. Backed by the strength of the Hayleys Group, we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in Sri Lanka’s aluminium and façade industry.
Are you planning a commercial or residential project with strict deadlines?
Call us today at +94 114 347 987 or request a free quote through our website. Let Unisyst engineering help you transform your vision into a landmark – on time, every time.