As louvres are an integral part of the building envelope, aesthetics are an important part of the specification process. However, it is very important that performance criteria are not compromised in favour of a more aesthetically pleasing configuration. For example, louvres can be hidden behind features or perforated panels (which can also act as bird and insect screens) but it is important to remember that this can increase resistance to air flow through the louvre and therefore may mean a larger area of louvres may be needed to counteract this, always check the performance information from the manufacturer.
INTEGRATION INTO THE BUILDING FABRIC
Louvres can form a part of any façade design and are typically fitted into prepared openings or fixed to secondary supporting steel structure.
Some modular louvre options are available with glazing frames, allowing them to be easily integrated into curtain walling.
Louvre depth, weight (including any associated accessories) and maximum self-supporting unit size should be considered at design stage.
DESIGN CHOICES
With a wide range of options available, ventilation isn’t a restriction, it’s an opportunity.
HIDDEN OR VISIBLE MULLIONS
Louvres with hidden mullions offer a continuous line appearance. They are often used where there are multiple or irregular openings on an elevation.
Visible mullion options have a framed form, often arranged to line up with other façade features, such as glazing mullions or cladding panels.
HORIZONTAL OR VERTICAL BLADES
Horizontal blade louvres are the most common, with both continuous line and visible mullion options available.
Models featuring vertical blade arrangements have proven to be particularly effective at rain defence, whilst offering excellent airflow characteristics. Their visual appearance may be preferred on some projects.
SHAPES AND CURVES
Most louvres can be cut to create arches or other interesting shapes. Some models can be curved on plan, or faceted to create the illusion of a curve. Potential impact on performance should always be considered.
BLENDING IN OR STANDING OUT
Louvres can be installed behind decorative grilles or screens to mask their appearance, however the impact of such features on airflow should always be considered.
Some models allow flexibility in creating a truly bespoke façade utilising accent blades, colours and shade.
Bold use of colour, or even addition of LED lighting is possible with some louvre models, turning them into a unique design feature.
Blending in
While some louvres are all about standing out — others are more about blending in. Our Perform options are concealed behind an attractive, perforated aluminium skin. They’ve been fully tested for rain defence and airflow performance.
- Perforated aluminium skin is available in a wide range of colours and finishes. Custom materials or perforation patterns can be accommodated, subject to additional testing.
- The louvre modules are supplied powder coated black to disappear behind the decorative screen.
PERFORM MODELS
Standing out
Defy boring and add drama to your louvre application with our customisable Bold Line options. They allow you to accentuate the façade with colour, crisp shadow lines, varying blade depths or staggered blade placement. All this without compromising performance.
Accent blades used in Bold Line models can be specified in a contrasting colour, or even in multiple colours. They can span the façade or be arranged in an artistic pattern.
PERFORM MODELS
SLOPING APPLICATIONS
Some rain defence louvres can be integrated into sloping façades, while maintaining their performance.
CORNER TREATMENT
Some rain defence louvres can be integrated into sloping façades, while maintaining their performance.
COLOURS & FINISHES
Louvres can be anodised, or powder coated to standard or metallic RAL colours to suit the design requirements.