If you are looking at ways to upgrade your window coverings, you may have heard of brise soleil but not really understood what the term meant. Let’s take a closer look at this window system, which is particularly favoured by architects and commercial designers for a high-end, sleek look.
What is brise soleil?
Brise soleil is a solar shading system that uses vertical or horizontal blades to control the degree of light and solar heat that can enter a building. The system was created in the 1930s in France (‘brise soleil’ translates as ‘sunshade’) and is growing in popularity across the world.
These systems are designed to project above window glazing to prevent overheating and light glare. The fins, or blades, let low-level sun into the room throughout the day in winter but prevent the full summer sun from entering.
What are brise soleil systems made from?
Brise soleil systems are made from either solid shelves or blades; in turn, these are made from wood, aluminium, and other materials such as bamboo or mesh. The systems can be designed to look very architectural and design-led or created to have a more organic and natural look, depending on the desired end finish. Their function, however, remains the same and is carefully created to maximise the results.
Where are brise soleil systems used?
Available from manufacturers and suppliers such as https://alusystems.uk/, brise soleil systems are often used in large commercial buildings such as schools, offices, and hospitals. They are particularly popular in parts of the world where high and hot sun can pose a problem in terms of glare and heat. In the UK, this tends to be less of a problem, although the architectural value of these installations and easy way of helping to shade buildings still makes them a valuable choice for high-end buildings.
Brise soleil installations can look wonderful and very arresting, and they are used to great effect in cities across the world. Keep your eyes open as you pass big city high rises and architectural buildings and you may spot one.