ABSTRACT | This paper starts by introducing an expression proposed by William J. Mitchell measuring the “complexity” of a designed and constructed architectural project. After reviewing other interpretations of this term, as well as specific peculiarities from the building industry, the article expands this metric from an organisational and technological perspective. This is followed by the case studies of six non-standard facades whose process complexities are driven by their project-specific affordances. By comparing built projects of different architects and implementation environments, the paper suggests specific criteria for non-standard architectural designs. Application of acquired knowledge has the potential to help architects better control their project’s design and construction solution space.