Transform your outdoor space: unlocking the advantages of louvre opening roofs for versatile living

Written by

17 April 2024

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4 min read

In recent years, the desire to optimise our outdoor spaces for comfort, functionality, and style has led to a surge in innovative solutions. louvre opening roofs have emerged as a transformative option, promising to redefine the way we experience and utilise our outdoor environments.

At its core, a louvre opening roof is a sophisticated evolution of the classic pergola structure, enhanced by the integration of operable louvre blades. This seemingly simple addition gives outdoor spaces a newfound versatility, allowing homeowners to tailor their outdoor experience to suit a multitude of activities and preferences. To better understand how a louvre opening roof enhances outdoor spaces, we spoke to NZ Louvres’ Todd Lay.

“Louvre opening roofs have created a paradigm shift in how we spend our time in the outdoors. It opens more opportunities for alfresco activities – anything from dining, entertaining, and socialising, to R&R, exercise, or even working from home.”

What sets louvre opening roofs apart from other outdoor shading or covering options is their unparalleled flexibility. Unlike static structures or traditional umbrellas, louvre opening roofs offer adjustable louvres that can be tilted to control light transmission and airflow, providing protection from the elements while maintaining an open and inviting atmosphere.

“The benefits are many, but primarily, louvre opening roofs provide so much more flexibility than other options,” shares Todd. “While other shade/shelter systems may be fit for one specific purpose, a louvre opening roof provides more utility – effectively satisfying a number of use cases.”

In this Hawke's Bay property, a louvre system uses vertical and horizontal louvres along with blinds to create a complete outdoor room.

From a design standpoint, the possibilities with louvre opening roofs are virtually limitless. Whether integrated seamlessly into existing architecture or boldly showcased as a standalone feature, louvre opening roofs can be customised to complement any aesthetic preference. With various configurations available, including standalone structures, building-attached designs, and options for cantilevered posts or angled installations, homeowners are empowered to tailor their outdoor spaces to reflect their unique style and vision.

“They don’t need to be folded away in windy conditions like umbrellas or awnings, they provide better protection for outdoor furniture, can incorporate LED lighting for evening use, and importantly, create a dramatic improvement in a home’s aesthetics.”

Integrated screens or blinds are another addition that can provide further ease of use, with advanced motorised mechanisms enhancing their functionality, transforming outdoor spaces into dynamic and inviting environments that can be enjoyed year-round.

This cosy outdoor area with fireplace is enhanced with a louvre system that allows light in when it's sunny and provides protection from the rain when the louvres are closed.

Designing your louvres for your outdoor area

Collaboration between homeowners, architects, and landscape designers ensures that louvre opening roofs are seamlessly integrated into the overall design scheme, enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of outdoor living spaces.

“In many ways, our consultative approach with clients informs our design process when specifying a solution. Understanding what the customer is trying to achieve determines which design features matter most. For example, colour choice is an important criterion which ensures the louvres match the aesthetic and blend in with the home or outdoor space (or in some cases presents a striking contrast),” shares Todd.

“The addition of LED lighting allows for use of the outdoor space into the evening, and inclusion of screens, louvre panels, and/or Ziptrak blinds around the sides provide additional weather protection and privacy where required.”

Beyond aesthetics and functionality, louvres also offer tangible benefits in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability. By providing shade and shelter, louvres help regulate temperatures and reduce the need for indoor heating or cooling, contributing to energy conservation and lower utility costs. Additionally, NZ Louvres’ use of high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques ensures longevity and durability, minimising environmental impact and maximising the lifespan of outdoor living investments.

“With Dulux *Duralloy/Duratec, powder coating the colour and finish performance warranties are up to 25 years. NZ Louvres is a Sustainable Business Network Impact Investor and uses Toitu Carbon Reduce certified aluminium, which is sourced (and extruded) in New Zealand.

When it comes to selecting a supplier, it’s imperative to assess quality, reliability, aesthetics, customisation, sustainability and life expectancy, says Todd.

“The ability to provide PS1 and meet relevant NZ Building Code standards is crucial; industry knowledge, experience, and reputation are also vital aspects of choosing a supplier.”

When it comes to maintenance, NZ Louvres’ louvre roofs require very little. A seasonal wash and wipe-down, clearing the gutters at the end of autumn, and keeping loose branches, or shrubbery clear of the moving blades is generally all that is required.

As the demand for innovative outdoor living solutions continues to grow, NZ Louvres stand at the forefront, offering a harmonious blend of form and function. Through their versatility, aesthetics, and sustainability, louvre opening roofs unlock the full potential of outdoor spaces, inviting us to reimagine the way we live, connect, and experience the world around us.

Discover louvre opening roofs from NZ Louvres

Disclaimer: Duralloy™ and Duratec™ are registered trademarks

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