Brise-soleil: what it is, how it works and what its advantages are

Created to control the direct incidence of sunlight on buildings, the brise-soleil is an architectural solution that combines functionality and aesthetics. Particularly present on facades and large openings, this feature helps filter natural light before it reaches the interior projects.

More than a visual element, the brise can directly influence the thermal comfort, lighting, and energy efficiency of a building. For this reason, its application depends on factors such as solar orientation, climate, position of openings, and specific needs of each project.

What is a brise-soleil?

The French term brise-soleil can be translated as “sun breaker.” In architecture, it identifies a structure installed mainly on facades to reduce or control the direct incidence of solar radiation on doors, windows, and glazed surfaces.

Projeto de GAM Arquitetos. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)

Brises can be composed of horizontal or vertical slats, fixed or movable, and produced in different materials, such as concrete, wood, aluminum, and steel. The choice varies according to the architectural language and, mainly, the expected performance of the facade.

How does the brise-soleil work?

Its operation is directly related to the sun's path throughout the day and the seasons of the year. By creating a barrier between solar radiation and the building's opening, the brise produces shade without necessarily preventing the entry of natural light.

Projeto de Vangii Guerra. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)

That is precisely why the orientation of the slats must be studied according to the position of the facade. Horizontal and vertical brises respond differently to the solar trajectory. Correct sizing makes it possible to block the most intense radiation during certain periods and, when desirable, take advantage of the sun at other times.

What are the benefits?

One of the main benefits is the improvement of thermal comfort within the projects. Since part of the radiation is blocked before reaching glass and internal surfaces, there is a reduction in heat gain caused by direct exposure to the sun.

Projeto de GAM Arquitetos. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)

This control can also reduce the need for artificial climate control. In well-sized projects, the brise contributes to reducing the energy consumption associated with air conditioning, becoming one of the passive strategies that can be incorporated into more efficient constructions.

(Fran Parente/Divulgação)

There are also benefits related to lighting. The feature allows for taking advantage of natural light in a more controlled way, reducing glare and excessive brightness. Depending on the design, it can also enhance privacy without completely closing off the building from the outside.

Horizontal or vertical brise?

The choice between horizontal and vertical brises should not be purely aesthetic. Horizontal brises are especially efficient against higher solar incidences, while vertical ones can respond better to the sun that comes in sideways and at lower angles.

Projeto de Studio Arthur Casas (Fran Parente/Divulgação)

For this reason, a project can combine different configurations according to the orientation of each façade. There is no universal solution: geographic location, solar trajectory, surroundings and use of the projects must be considered to define the position and spacing of the slats.

Do fixed and movable brises have different functions?

Fixed brises are sized to provide permanent solar protection, without the user needing to make adjustments throughout the day. In addition to the simplicity of operation, they can become striking elements of the architectural composition.

A Residência Brise é um refúgio praiano no Rio de Janeiro que foi totalmente reformado pela talentosa e renomada arquiteta Gisele Taranto. (MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)

Movable models, on the other hand, allow for regulating the entry of light according to external conditions, altering the inclination or position of the slats. This flexibility offers greater control, although it may require mechanisms, maintenance and automation systems, depending on the project.

The brise-soleil as an element of Brazilian architecture

In Brazil, the brise gained special relevance during the development of modern architecture, when architects began to seek responses suited to the tropical climate while also exploring more open and glazed façades.

(Reprodução/Ministério da Cultura/Divulgação)

One of the most emblematic examples is the Gustavo Capanema Palace, in Rio de Janeiro, a landmark of Brazilian modernism that incorporated movable brises on its façade. The solution demonstrates how solar protection and architectural language can work together, transforming a climatic need into part of the building's identity.

(Reprodução/Ministério da Cultura/Divulgação)

Today, the principle remains current. In contemporary projects, the brise-soleil continues to be a tool for reconciling natural light, environmental comfort, efficiency and architectural expression, showing that a building's relationship with the sun can also guide its form.

This text was developed with the assistance of CASACOR Publisher, an exclusive content agent developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. The generated content was subsequently edited by Yeska Coelho.