An award-winning architect reveals effective cooling solution for retrofits
As global temperatures continue to rise and extreme weather events become increasingly frequent, embracing effective and sustainable cooling solutions has never been more critical. The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2024 highlights the growing intensity of climate-related challenges, with extreme heat emerging as a top concern for communities worldwide.
In order to manage temperatures in homes without adding to the climate crisis by relying on carbon-expensive solutions like air con, the International Energy Agency (IEA) is encouraging the use of sustainable cooling practices to reduce emissions.
Preventing heat from entering buildings in the first place emerges as the most effective way to sustainably keep buildings cool. An advocate for sustainable design, award-winning architect Dominic McKenzie, explores architectural and retrofit strategies that seamlessly blend aesthetic with environmental responsibility.
McKenzie’s practice demonstrates how cutting-edge design can transform existing buildings into models of urban sustainability, challenging traditional approaches to architectural renewal. He said: “Retrofitting is important for architecture at the moment. We are moving away from iconic new-build houses, and I think what people are respecting more now is subtle and clever makeovers of existing building stock.
“From a sustainability viewpoint, it’s critical that we explore ways to manage overheating that can easily be applied to existing buildings. In the UK we are starting to see solutions that have long been popular in Europe, like external blinds.” He continued: “Shading is generally
considered the most effective and cost-efficient method for keeping homes cool. “Natural shading from strategically placed trees and vegetation can be effective but architectural shading solutions provide more robust, reliable protection from solar glare.”
Architectural shading, like awnings or exterior blinds, block solar radiation before it enters the home, preventing heat gain and reducing indoor temperatures dramatically. Fixed awnings provide consistent shade during peak sunlight hours, while retractable or adjustable blinds offer flexibility in managing solar exposure throughout the day.
Luxury exterior blinds provider, Kensington Blinds, has reported that their installations have reduced temperatures in homes by up to 7C. By installing these shading solutions on windows or glass walls, particularly those facing west and south, homes can improve energy efficiency, create more comfortable indoor environments, and replace the need for air conditioning. He continued: “I’m a little sceptical about solar glass and these general coatings on glass – I just don’t think they are very effective. “The glass reflects certain levels of solar glare to prevent overheating whilst allowing light through which is great in theory, but it tends to have an effect on the way the glass looks – it can become quite green. Having said this, projects don’t always need to choose either or, sometimes the best solution is to incorporate a range of methods.”