Verandas, eaves, cobogós: 7 Brazilian solutions for a changing climate

The Brazilian climate has always demanded an architecture capable of responding to intense sun, rain, and high temperatures. Verandas, eaves, patios, and openwork elements have been part of this repertoire for decades, and many of these features remain relevant in the face of a changing climate scenario.

The need gains even more strength with the forecast of a Super El Niño in the second half of 2026. According to projections released by INPE, the phenomenon is expected to reach strong intensity between September and November, while different regions of the country may record above-average temperatures.

In this context, betting on strategic architectural elements can be a smart way to prepare projects for the changing climate – reducing dependence on air conditioning equipment and making better use of natural resources. Check out seven solutions that can be part of this planning.

1. Verandas and porches create shaded areas

More than expanding the usable area of the house, verandas and porches work as a kind of filter between the exterior and the interior projects. By creating a shaded area alongside the facades, they help reduce direct sun exposure on doors and windows.

Projeto de Bloco Arquitetos. (Joana França/Divulgação)

The solution can appear both in large verandas and in small transition spaces. Plants, outdoor curtains, and appropriate furniture can further reinforce protection and transform the space into a pleasant place for hot days.

2. Eaves protect facades and openings

Present in different regions of the country, eaves are a simple and efficient constructive solution. The extension of the roof creates shade over facades and windows, while also protecting walls and frames from rain.

A varanda com beirais largos é uma solução típica para lidar com as chuvas de regiões tropicais. Arquitetura e interiores de Brown Gallegos Studio. (Roberto D’Ambrosio Suárez/Divulgação)

Its design must consider the solar orientation and the characteristics of each project. On some facades, it can be combined with other protection strategies, such as brises and vegetation.

3. Cobogós let air circulate

Cobogós are among the most emblematic elements of Brazilian architecture. With their openwork, they allow the passage of air and natural light while filtering solar incidence and preserving privacy.

Projeto de Bezerra Panobianco. (Igor Carvalho/Divulgação)

They can appear on facades, verandas, hallways, and internal partitions. Beyond the aesthetic aspect, proper positioning helps favor the ventilation of the projects.

4. Brises control sun entry

Brises are architectural elements developed precisely to control solar radiationreaching the openings. Horizontal, vertical, or movable, they can be adapted according to the orientation of each façade.

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

In regions of intense heat, they work as an additional layer of protection before radiation reaches the window glass, a strategy that can help maintain more pleasant indoor temperatures.

5. Cross ventilation refreshes the projects

The natural circulation of air is another fundamental strategy for thermal comfort. Cross ventilation happens when openings are positioned in a way that allows air to enter on one side and exit on the other.

Mauricio Nóbrega, Bia Wolf, Maria Estellita e Patricia Vieira - Estar na Varanda. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2025. (André Nazareth/Divulgação)

Whenever possible, doors and windows should be planned considering the prevailing winds and the terrain configuration. The strategy reduces the feeling of stuffiness and can decrease the need for artificial climate control during certain periods.

6. Vegetation creates shade and improves the microclimate

Landscaping can also actively participate in thermal comfort. Trees near façades, climbing plants, gardens, and other plant species help create shaded areas and can contribute to a more pleasant microclimate.

Clariça Lima - Jardim dos Terraços. (Divulgação/Divulgação)

In houses with little space, pots and vertical gardens can also be used. The important thing is to choose species suited to the available light, water, and maintenance conditions.

7. Roofing helps control heat gain

The roof is among the surfaces most exposed to solar radiation and, therefore, deserves special attention in projects for hot regions. Ventilated roofs, thermal insulation, and green roofs are some of the alternatives that can reduce heat transfer to indoor projects.

The Garden Loft - Rose Campos Martorano, Alan Chierighini e Fábio Vieira da Silva. (Lio Simas/Divulgação)

Materials and finishing solutions should also be chosen considering thermal performance, not just appearance. This way, the ceiling itself begins to contribute to a more comfortable home.

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.