The specification of a new build or renovation project inevitably raises questions, many of them concerning design and the trade-off between optimal aesthetics, practicality and function – especially when the end user, builder, architect and engineers are all in the same room!
As we all know, first impressions are crucial and the appearance of a building can have a huge impact upon how a company or organisation is perceived, and similarly on the mood, feel and general demeanour of its occupants.
We’ve put together four important design considerations when planning an architectural louvre or solar shading system:
1. Do I want the louvre / solar shading system to be a design feature of my building?
Whether your project is commercial or residential, you have the option to incorporate a louvre or solar shading system into your building design subtly, simply to make use of its functional capabilities or alternatively, why not create a statement with a bold design feature that will stand out as a focal point of your building? Our ‘VersaTIL’ screening systems for example, are designed to be slender, subtle and unobtrusive systems incorporating ‘secret fix’ details. Mallasol™ systems in contrast, can be applied in a range of materials and bright coloured finishes as eye-catching vertical feature fins or horizontally, as a canopy arrangement.
2. Are there any elements of my building I want to cover up?
Sadly, not all buildings were created pretty and some architecture doesn’t date so well. But with so many design-led systems available, you’ll be able to find a modern, stylish option that can make your building beautiful again, with the added bonus of heat, glare or airflow control, something that a traditional cladding or canopy system may not be able to offer. Don’t forget about the option to go bespoke, so you can obtain a design to your exact specification.
3. What effect do I want to achieve?
If you’re enhancing a building with a louvre or solar shading system, it’s a must to consider the overall effect you’d like to create. What’s the purpose of the building? If it houses a company, what would fit the brand image? Are you thinking green, sleek, subtle, bold, contemporary or traditional? And these are just a few ideas for starters…
4. What material and finish do I need?
The material and finish used for your project will depend upon the design and functionality you’re looking to achieve. Are you looking for a feature on your building? What aesthetic effect do you want to create? Are you trying to minimise maintenance without losing visual impact? To talk about just a couple of examples, our Medera™ systems bring you the natural character of timber, with a number of different species and finishing treatments available, each bringing a slightly different appearance and feel. Our Solex™ and Aquarius™ systems can be manufactured from aluminium, steel or perforated aluminium mesh with almost any surface finish possible including polyester powder coating, galvanising and anodising.
There are also the technical aspects to consider. What materials would work with your existing structure and achieve your light, heat and ventilation specifications? If you’re ready to explore the options, we have a large product range to choose from, all of which can be completely customised and engineered to meet your exact requirements and visual goals. Remember, our in house design team are always happy to discuss your ideas, needs and ambitions with you. In the meantime, all the best with your project!
