The Crescent Project: Advanced facade engineering for a complex, multi-use development

BY NADÈGE ELYSE MUSTAFA

18 May 2026

Exterior view, The Crescent Project, Baku, Azerbaijan. Photography by [Çuhadaroğlu Aluminium]

The Crescent Project, located in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a large-scale and highly complex development that integrates hotel, residential, office and retail functions within a single architectural scheme. The project, owned by Pasha Holding, involved numerous local, international subcontractors and suppliers throughout its construction phase, engaging specialised companies for critical components such as form-work systems, steel fabrication and advanced facade works. Its location on an artificial island, combined with its challenging geometric architecture, required a high level of coordination between the main contractor and various specialist subcontractors.

Exterior view, The Crescent Project, Baku, Azerbaijan. Photography by [Çuhadaroğlu Aluminium]

Within this framework, Çuhadaroğlu played an active role in the design, engineering, detailing, production, and installation of the facade systems. During the design phase, architectural drawings and engineering details were aligned to ensure a seamless transition from concept to execution, supported by project management meetings, model and drawing approval processes, and on-site technical assistance. This collaborative approach ensured accurate implementation of the design, both aesthetically and structurally.

 

From a facade engineering perspective, Crescent is an exceptionally sophisticated project. Five custom- designed systems were utilised across the building, requiring an extensive architectural and engineering team for their development and execution. The crescent-shaped and inclined form of the hotel demanded non-standard facade solutions; the facade system was optimised according to the varying glass angles on each floor.

The Crescent Project, Baku, Azerbaijan. Photography by [Çuhadaroğlu Aluminium]

Consequently, the glass panel profiles and connection details were uniquely designed for each level. Special connection and support systems were carefully engineered to address the structure’s asymmetric loads, wind forces, and other challenging environmental and structural conditions. The facade design process began with 3D modelling and engineering analyses, progressing through mock-up production, rigorous performance testing, and the development of detailed installation and assembly methodologies.

The Crescent Project, Baku, Azerbaijan. Photography by [Çuhadaroğlu Aluminium]

Crescent features a 40,000m² facade, including 33,000m² of glass and 7,000m² of cladding. Its scale and complexity required multidisciplinary teams across production, planning, installation, and quality control. Çuhadaroğlu began work in 2018, delivering design, detailing, andproduction alongside on-site installation, with all engineering and installation successfully completed in 2020.