Sun control options for residential applications

Specifiers are spoilt for choice when it comes to shading systems. With a wide range of options available, there is something for every residential application. Beyond ensuring privacy and keeping things cool, the best of these also help satisfy aesthetic and environmental goals.

Given the breadth of choice and the need, for example, to decide between internally and externally mounted options, it is worth asking what factors should be considered when specifying blinds, curtains, and other sun control systems.

According to Verosol, a manufacturer and supplier of performance-based window coverings for architects and designers, safety should always top this list of considerations.

Image: Ambience ZIP External Roller Blind / Verosol

In the case of shading systems, this relates mainly to the chords and chains found on manual blinds and curtains, and their capacity to injure (or even kill) young children.

In response to this state of affairs, manufacturers and regulators around the world have started to act. Window coverings with cords are on the way out and are being replaced by motorised or automated options. 

In fact, in many countries they have been made illegal altogether. While this is not yet the case in Australia, most believe it is case of not if but when.

Moving to other considerations when choosing shading systems, the provision of privacy is an obvious factor. Here, choice depends on personal requirements, and the function of the space involved. Depending on this, specifiers can choose between transparent, translucent, or even block out materials, for complete privacy. 

Temperature control is another clear variable. The capacity of shading systems to control internal temperature correlates directly with their ability to block heat and light. This involves measurements like U Value, Visible Light Transmittance (VLT), Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), Solar Absorption, Solar Reflection, etc.

Another factor, which is related to this is light and glare control. Shading products that can control UV rays help minimise the degradation of décor and furnishings; while glare control is important in rooms where screens, devices, televisions, and so on are used.

Then – particularly in the case of homes situated near major roads, train tracks, industrial sites – the acoustic properties of shading systems are also worth noting.

Which brings us to another key consideration, and one that continues to become more and more prominent, not just within the built environment but across all aspects of society. Like all types of buildings products and materials, shading systems should be environmentally sustainable.

When choosing shading systems, specifiers should be aware of the carbon footprints of the products in question, as well as other impacts like manufacturing by-products, pollution, their contribution to resource depletion, and so on.

On top of that, they should be aware of their capacity to improve thermal efficiency and reduce the home’s energy needs.

Image: Twin Roller Blinds / Verosol
 

An organisation with a demonstrated history of commitment to sustainability, Verosol is the inventor of a process of vacuum bonding reflective metal alloy with fabrics to create curtains and blinds that can reflect up to 85% of solar radiation. Known as Silverscreen, these fabrics find use in all types of residential applications.

Climate responsive automation
According to Shade Factor, a specialist in custom made shading systems for commercial and residential applications, climate responsive automation and architectural integration are two important considerations for those involved in residential projects.

In line with this, the company offers various solutions, including motorised blinds, awnings, and external venetian blinds from Warema; concealed roller blind boxes and recessed curtain tracks from Blindspace; and Warema Climatronic, a smart system which facilitates whole-home automation and enables shading systems to adjust automatically, according to climatic conditions.

Highly versatile, external blinds and shutters offer significant benefits when motorised and paired with control systems. Acting as a protective layer, they shield buildings from the sun, enhancing comfort, privacy, and preserving furniture and artworks. 

On top of that, innovations like Warema ProVisio slats provide precise light control, privacy, and clear views. With proper design and specification, these systems suit most residential applications without notable limitations.

Architectural integration 
Shade Factor was recently able demonstrate this expertise in residential applications at Burnt Earth Beach House, an Anglesea home designed for his own family by architect John Wardle.

Positioned on a coastal cliff, and including extensive glazing, the home’s design focuses on capturing sunlight and framing specific views of the Victorian coastline.

Because of all the windows, thermal performance was a key consideration. Wardle had, by necessity, to pay close attention to not just insulation, but the placement of these windows and the provision of shade. He needed to manage sunlight while preserving views.

In collaboration with Shade Factor, he installed advanced shading solutions throughout the home. Each area of the house required a different approach based on the room’s function, the time of day, and the intensity of the sun. The exterior blind systems were customised to ensure optimal light control without unnecessarily obstructing views.

And the sophisticated blind systems, which all vary according to their positions around the house, had to be managed with the specific nature of some very technical requirements that were delivered by Shade Factor.

Within the living area of the house, two fabric awning systems – drop arm awnings and vertical awnings – were installed to protect the home’s art and furnishings from direct sunlight. 

These tailored shading solutions ensure that Burnt Earth Beach House is not only comfortable and functional in various times throughout the year, but also that its design in sympathetic with its surrounding environment. Now complete, the home not only achieves aesthetic excellence, but also maximises comfort and environmental performance.

Specialty venetian blinds & rack arm systems
According to Sydney-based manufacturer Horiso, the market is currently experiencing a renewed interest in specialty venetian blinds and rack arm systems for external applications. 

Versatile and compatible with various architectural styles, these systems have become particularly popular in coastal settings. According to the company, this can be put down to the fact that homes in these types of locations benefit from the ability to control light and privacy, while at the same time, handling the harsh coastal weather conditions. 

Additionally, the company reports increased use of these systems in inland regions, where the management of intense sunlight and variable weather are important considerations.

Both new and existing homes are incorporating venetian blinds, tensioned shading systems and rack arm systems. In new constructions, these systems are often integrated into the design from the outset, ensuring seamless functionality and aesthetic appeal. 

Meanwhile, in the case of existing buildings, retrofitting modern blinds and shutters plays a role in enhancing energy efficiency and comfort.

Venetian blinds and rack arm systems are suitable for both modern and heritage architecture. In modern homes, sleek and minimalistic designs complement contemporary aesthetics, while in heritage buildings, more traditional styles (featuring, for example, timber blades) can be employed to maintain historical character.

Rack arm systems and tensioned shading systems are also recommended for uniquely shaped areas, such as skylights, which require specialised shading solutions. Ensuring effective light control and insulation, custom tensioned blinds and rack arm systems can be customised to fit these non-standard spaces.

Large windows, especially floor-to-ceiling ones, are another common application. Venetian blinds for these expansive glass areas help manage natural light, reduce glare, and improve thermal performance, making the living spaces more comfortable and energy efficient.

That said, venetian blinds are generally not recommended for installation on windows with non-standard shapes. Typically designed for standard rectangular windows, they may not provide the necessary coverage or functionality for these types of windows.

Rack arm systems, on the other hand, can be adapted to almost any window shape. Whether the windows are circular, triangular, or indeed any shape, these systems can be customised to ensure effective shading and light control. This flexibility makes them a suitable choice for buildings with diverse architectural features.

Overall, according to Horiso, the versatility and functionality of venetian blinds, rack arm systems and tensioned shading systems makes them a popular choice across a wide range of residential applications.

Automated roller blinds
Though they have been available since the late 1960s, automated roller blinds have now really come into their own.

As the case of a luxury residence Sydney’s Dover Heights illustrates, when specified thoughtfully and integrated with home automation systems, the best of these systems can be relied upon to not only enhance comfort and privacy, but also deliver benefits associated with improved efficiency, sustainability, and more.

Supplied by Norfolk Blinds, the blinds were chosen to complement the home's open-plan layout, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sleek finishes.
Part of a broader re-build and interior renovation, the project was not without its challenges. 

Firstly, given that the home features expansive areas of glazing – including large floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding doors, and multiple skylights – custom sizing was necessary. In short, the architects had to ensure that the blinds would provide complete coverage.

Then, as per the homeowners’ wishes, the blinds had to be discreet and elegant. Their colour, texture, and fabric choices needed to be versatile enough to blend seamlessly with both the broader décor and home’s overall minimalist aesthetic.

In addition, to facilitate control via voice commands and apps, they wanted to be able to integrate the blinds with their home automation system. This required the roller blinds to be motorised and compatible with advanced smart technologies.

And finally, given the home’s large windows, energy efficiency was a key consideration. The blinds had to provide thermal insulation in summer and allow for plenty of natural light during the cooler months.

Supplied by Norfolk Blinds, the fabric selected was a premium solar screen material that delivered a combination of light filtering and UV protection. 

The roller blinds were motorised for ease of use and connected to the home’s Control4 Connect home automation system. Compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, this allows the homeowners to control the blinds via voice command or through a mobile app. 

Additionally, the motorised blinds were programmed to adjust according to the time of day and ambient light conditions, optimising energy efficiency and comfort.

To maintain the home’s sleek, modern aesthetic, the roller blinds were specified in a neutral, light grey. The fabric was chosen to complement the clean lines and minimalist furniture while adding an element of sophistication. The blinds were designed to be discreet when rolled up, with ceiling pelmet recesses that housed the fabric neatly.

The solar screen fabric not only provides light control but also acts as a barrier to heat. Then, in winter, the fabric has the capacity to retain heat, helping maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and, thanks to its acoustic properties, reduces excessive noise from the outside.
 

Side retention systems

Established in 1983, Ricky Richards is a family owned and operated business that has grown to become a leading distributor of technical textiles, sun control fabrics and print media.

The company has recently noted a trend towards the use of side retention systems in external residential applications.
Drop awning systems with soft skin materials, which is tensioned between left and right channels, these shading products essentially provide homes with additional space in which to live entertain, and so forth. 

Image: External Blinds / Horiso.

Blurring the indoor/outdoor distinction, side retention systems find use on patios, barbeque areas, at pool sides, and so forth. Protected from the elements, they combine the benefits of the dining room or living room with those of traditional outdoor spaces.

Importantly, Ricky Richards’ Outlook series is available in three different openness choices. Outlook Zero provides 100% protection from the wind, rain and the sun; while Outlook Mode 95% allows for more light and airflow.

As colours match over the different openness factors, they can be mixed and matched. For example, the customers might want their view and have more light and airflow on one side, in which case they would use Outlook Mode 95%. Or they may prefer complete privacy, and this is where they have the option of the Outlook Mode 0%, which delivers a complete visual block out.

So beyond ensuring privacy and keeping things cool, the best of these solutions also help satisfy aesthetic and environmental goals.

SUPPLIERS

Verosol            

Shade Factor

Norfolk Blinds

Horiso

Ricky Richards