Natural ventilation and solar shading are essential tools for sustainable architectural design.

Louvres are vertical or horizontal slats designed to admit airflow and defend against rain. They are often installed into openings of buildings as part of a natural ventilation solution. They can include adjustable configurations that allow occupants to control the amount of light, air, and heat entering their space. By harnessing the natural flow of wind, they allow for cross ventilation, creating a breathable and naturally cooler building. This simple sustainable solution for managing internal climate reduces the energy consumption of heating and cooling systems.

Horizontal and vertical sunshades are typically designed with depth and configuration to suit the orientation to the sun at various times of the year. Shading the glazed areas of buildings reduces solar heat gains and creates a more comfortable internal environment while also reducing the requirement for air conditioning. This combination of natural louvred ventilation and solar shading lessens the reliance on mechanical ventilation systems, which use energy to circulate air. With an overall reduction of energy loads, there is less reliance on electricity to cool the building, lowering the emission of greenhouse gases.