Subtly integrated blinds prevent overheating of new bank branch

Visibility is crucial for a bank branch as a new home for two merged Crelan branches from Roeselare. With the new Fixscreen Minimal CW50 blinds from Renson, which are perfectly integrated on the curtain wall along the street side, this is further emphasized.

A minimalist and functional building that meets all the needs of a modern bank and insurance office: that was the client's wish. Large areas of glass and an open-landscape office were therefore an obvious requirement here for the architect, who relied on an elongated beam as the design for this new building. "But one that is placed on a pedestal, with a circular frame in the front facade as a sober accent," clarifies architect Corneel Schepens (architects' office Schepens BV). "In addition, the window sections stand out in relation to the front facade and both the stairs and entrance ramp were incorporated into the pedestal." Glass walls central to the building maintain maximum visibility while still functionally separating the public zone from the landscape office and meeting rooms.

Ideal for slim window profiles

This became a pilot project for Renson's Fixscreen Minimal CW50 fabric awning. The minimalist, wind-resistant awning was specially developed for curtain walls like this one. The torque guides are therefore as wide (50 mm) as the profiles of the curtain wall. 

"Thanks to this new type of fabric awning, we were still able to choose slim curtain wall profiles," said the architect. Moreover, both the narrow side guides and compact fabric boxes of the awning are completely hidden in the facade, which ultimately only benefits the detailing. With all parts in the same color and without visible screws, the awning forms one aesthetic whole in harmony with the architecture.

Subtly integrated buffer against bright sun

So Renson's Fixscreen Minimal CW50 was seamlessly integrated into the exterior facade. And so this sun protection is actually hardly noticeable. Even with the screens lowered, everything forms a beautiful whole. At the same time, the sun is blocked where it is most effective in preventing overheating inside: even before it can reach the glass. However, it was primarily the negative effect of low or bright sunlight (resulting in reflection on the computer screens and white desks) that made the client opt for fabric sunshades. The fact that this solution does not have to detract from the sleek design of this office is of course a bonus.