Solar shading is not new. For centuries, builders in hot climates have used a variety of methods, such as narrow streets, deep balconies, arcades, and mashrabiyas, to create more comfortable areas away from the sun’s glare. Over time, these early forms of solar shading have evolved into the high-tech solutions used today.

Brise Soleil

One of the problems with solar shading is that, as well as reducing heat, it also reduces light. Brise soleil offers a solution that reduces glare and heat, while allowing natural light. Brise Soleil uses vertical, horizontal, or angled blades that can be fixed or adjustable, on the outside of buildings. The variety of possible materials, from traditional to modern, means that these can also add to the aesthetic appearance of the building.

Dynamic shading

With tech revolutionising many aspects of modern life, it is not surprising that it is also used in solar shading. Dynamic solar shading can move as the sun moves, providing light and temperature control throughout the day. These can be in the form of kinetic facades, operable louvres, and external blinds. These can use sensors to monitor the levels of daylight, winds, solar radiation, and even occupancy of the building to offer optimal shading.

Self-shading facades

Modern architecture also plays a role in the evolution of solar shading. Today, architects are designing buildings with facades that shade themselves. The use of overhangs, deep reveals, and loggias at the right angle and shape can cast shade on other parts of the building, expertly designed to maintain comfortable levels of light, while maximising energy efficiency.