50mm vs. 35mm Curtain Wall Systems — What's the Difference?

Curtain wall systems come in a variety of profile sizes — the most common being 50mm and 35mm face widths. For architects, designers, and developers in the UAE, choosing the right profile affects both aesthetics and performance.

In this post, we’ll break down the differences between 50mm and 35mm curtain wall systems, when to use each, and what Swift Rooms offers for high-performance façades.

What Does “50mm” or “35mm” Mean?

The measurement refers to the visible face width of the aluminium profile from the exterior. It impacts the visual appearance and sometimes the structural capability of the system.

• 50mm System: The standard width — often used in commercial buildings, villas, and high-rise projects.
• 35mm System: A slimmer, more minimalist option — ideal for boutique architecture or high-end villas where slim sightlines are preferred.

Key Differences

Feature                                                 50mm Curtain Wall                                               35mm Curtain Wall     

Face Width 50mm (visible aluminium)                                   35mm (more glass, less aluminium)

Aesthetic Balanced sightlines                                                Ultra-slim, minimalist look

Strength Higher structural capacity                                    Suitable for smaller spans

Cost Generally lower due to standardisation             Slightly higher due to customisation

Use Case Villas, towers, commercial buildings                  Luxury villas, boutique projects

Which Curtain Wall Profile Should You Choose?

Choose 50mm if:

• You need structural strength for larger glazed spans
• You're working on a high-rise, commercial, or mixed-use building
• You want a well-established, cost-efficient solution

Choose 35mm if:

• You’re aiming for ultra-minimalist sightlines
• A luxury design finish is important (e.g. high-end villas)
• The façade has smaller spans and lower wind load requirements

Swift Rooms Curtain Wall Solutions

At Swift Rooms, we supply and install aluminium curtain wall systems using leading brands such as Cortizo and Technal. Our experts can advise whether a 50mm or 35mm profile best suits your project goals, ensuring:

• Thermal efficiency for UAE’s climate
• Sleek, modern aesthetics
• Precise, weatherproof installation

Whether you’re working on a luxury home or a commercial development, we’ll help you specify the right solution. Contact us today