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Design for Durability and Maintenance: We Have a Problem
We can see examples of this in new construction projects in mainland China where architects might design the most green building, engineers will design clever structural tricks to leverage the materials, but the builder might not be fully aware of special handling requirements of new materials. It's too easy to finger point but when flaws arise the entire team needs to take responsibility.
Often clients choose inferior products to build with. Given the pictures of the building this may be the case. There are very few finishes that give wood a natural look (stained) that hold up well. If it is a stained wood product outside you will be re-staining on an as needed basis.
If a designer or engineer or architect or builder specifies a product, it simply has to be suitable ...it's not debatable
It is very possible to construct a durable wood cladding system for city applications and there are books and trade magazines dedicated to the subject with photos of projects, details and products.
I hope that answeres your questions.
I worked in shop fitting for a while, and it often comes down to the construction and specification from the architects. Usually the building owner will be told nothing in regards to maintenance.
Natural materials will always give you a better result.
In the case of the wooden exterior, the builder should know that exterior, possibly naval grade finishes will be required.
In the case of the cars, the engineers should know that most small commuter cars will be used in cities. Bumpers should be chrome or unpainted plastic.
http://www.behance.net/gallery/Renault-4Ever/2041427
However, often these ideas like these are not implemented because manufacturers, contractors etc. are more interested in making money and keeping cost down... A repaired car doesn't generate much profit!
If you want to be creative with materials in new applications, you have to solve the problems that limited those applications previously. You can't simply "decide" to make an outdoor hardwood eave and not have the supporting technology to make it happen. That's not innovative, that's ignorant.