A panel facade is composed of individually mounted large flat pieces mounted onto the framework and bordering each other. In contrast to a curtain wall, the panels are not connected to each other in a hanging framework.

This is a common system for facades of precast concrete as well as various types of stone and metal. Panels are often applied to the framework or other backing, but they can sometimes play a load-bearing structural role themselves.

Panels may or may not have a veneer applied to them; this does not alter the facade system as long as the joints between panels remain visible.