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In recent weeks, we've discussed how buildings that implement a brise soleil system or double-skin facade can regulate solar heat gain. Utensils known as louvers, essentially blinds and shutters with horizontal slats, are often an essential component of a brise soleil or double-skin facade system. These instruments, fixed or adjustable, are angled to regulate the passage of light and air.
Modern louvers have evolved significantly in complexity and application since their early use as rudimentary wood constructions over kitchen ventilation holes. Today, louvers may be composed of aluminum, metal, glass, or wood, and operated via pulleys, levers, or motorization. Industrial facilities like steel foundries and power plants frequently employ louvers for natural ventilation and temperature control. In architecture, they can be used to improve indoor daylighting, limit glare, and redirect diffuse light.
While louvers are mostly implemented for practical purposes, a project from half a dozen years ago in Miami embraces the aesthetic appeal they can provide. Designed by Rene Gonzalez for developer Mast Capital, the appropriately named, 12-residence Louver House includes over 15,000 linear feet of louver blade, totalling nearly three miles. These aluminum louvers, sourced from American-made products and suppliers, weigh over 50,000 pounds and will be positioned within a facade integrating 40,000 pounds of glass. The assembly and installation of the louvers requires over 30,000 screws and bolts. In addition to their traditional, aforementioned properties, the louvers also double as attractive privacy screens.
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From 2015 to 2017, UrbanToronto and its sister publication, SkyriseCities, ran an occasional series of articles under the heading Explainer. Each one took a concept from Urban Planning, Architecture, Construction, or other topics that often wind up in our publications, and presented an in depth look at it. It's time to revisit (and update where necessary) those articles for readers who are unfamiliar with them. While you may already know what some of these terms mean, others may be new to you. We are publishing or updating and republishing Explainer on a weekly basis. This article is an update of one that was originally published in 2017.
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Do you have other planning terms that you would like to see featured on Explainer? Share your comments and questions in the comments section below!
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