In contemporary architecture, large glazed surfaces blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, bringing an abundance of natural light into the home. At the same time, they present an important challenge when it comes to maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature, reducing glare and ensuring privacy. Today, shading is therefore no longer merely a technical solution, but an integral part of architectural design.
A contemporary villa in Istria is a perfect example. It is characterised by clean lines, a restrained palette of materials and a strong connection with its Mediterranean surroundings. A light-coloured stone façade, terracotta roof tiles, lush greenery and low, elongated volumes create a contemporary interpretation of traditional Istrian architecture.
Large glazed surfaces open towards the garden and swimming pool, providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. Precisely because of these expansive glass surfaces, choosing the right external shading solution was one of the key considerations in the design of the building.
Light Under Control
Sunlight can be an important source of natural light indoors, but particularly during the summer months, it can also cause overheating and glare. External shading systems make it possible to control the amount of light and heat before it even passes through the glass.
ROLTEK HERO.2 external Venetian blinds, custom-made for each individual opening, were selected for the villa. Their dimensions, configuration, colour and control method were tailored to the architecture of the building, ensuring that the shading systems do not stand out from the design but complement it.
Another advantage of external Venetian blinds is that they do not completely obstruct the view. By adjusting the angle of the slats, users can control the amount of light entering the interior throughout the day and create different atmospheres – from bright and open to more intimate and shaded.
Patented P-Slat for Precise Shading
An important feature of the HERO system is the patented P-slat, whose distinctive shape enables effective light control and glare reduction. With the slats positioned at the appropriate angle, the interior can remain pleasantly illuminated while still preserving the view outside.
This solution was particularly well suited to the Istrian villa. The large glazed surfaces remain visually open and connected to their surroundings, while users can adjust the ambience of the interior according to the position of the sun and their desired level of privacy.
The shading system therefore does not act as an element that closes off the space, but rather as a tool for shaping light and creating the desired atmosphere.
A Solution for Large Glazed Surfaces
The property also features exceptionally large glazed openings, some more than four metres wide. Dimensions of this scale require particular attention when planning external shading, as the system must combine refined aesthetics with stability and reliability.
HERO is also designed for demanding architectural projects with larger glazed surfaces, where the durability and stability of the shading system are particularly important. This is especially relevant in Istria, where buildings are often exposed to strong gusts of wind and the bora.
At this villa, the external Venetian blinds have therefore become much more than protection from the sun. Their design, colour and configuration integrate seamlessly into the architecture while providing greater comfort, privacy and control over natural light.
Contemporary shading is therefore no longer something that is simply added to a building at the end of the design process. In thoughtfully designed architecture, it is an integral part of the concept from the very beginning
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