Combining glazing and shading for better building performance

Glazing and shading are two essential elements of a façade. Glazing brings daylight, views and a sense of openness, while also influencing insulation and solar reflection. Internal solar shading adds another layer of value by controlling glare and heat. When thoughtfully combined, the two can make external shading unnecessary, unlocking the full performance of both glass and textiles. This creates façades that are efficient, comfortable and refined, while offering architects freedom in both design and detailing.

Putting the approach into practice with Saint-Gobain

To demonstrate the potential of the combination of glazing and solar shading, Kvadrat Shade is working together with Saint-Gobain Glass. This allows us to provide architects and façade engineers with technical guidance, specifications and tested solutions that show the measurable benefits of pairing high-performance glass with internal shading.

Discover the tested benefits of combining high-performance glass and internal solar shading in the joint white paper from Saint-Gobain and Kvadrat Shade.

Optimising sun shading with metallised textiles

Saint-Gobain Glass and Kvadrat Shade work together to optimise sun shading solutions by combining advanced glazing with Kvadrat High Performance Textiles. Our metallised textiles effectively reflect sunlight, helping to control glare and reduce heat gain while maintaining daylight and clear views. When carefully paired with high-performance glazing, this combination enhances indoor comfort, supports energy efficiency and allows façades to perform at their best. With the right configuration, internal shading and glazing can even challenge the need for external shading, achieving maximum performance for the building and its occupants.

A solution for every project

While developed in partnership with Saint-Gobain Glass, the same principles apply with any high-performance glazing. The key is the thoughtful combination: the right glass with the right internal shading delivers façades that reduce solar gain, improve comfort and enhance overall performance, giving architects the tools to create the best possible outcome for their projects.

Combining solar-control glass with metallised internal shading allows façades to perform at their best. This intelligent pairing optimises the total solar energy transmitted (g-total value), providing effective solar protection, a glare-free environment and comfortable indoor temperatures. In some setups, the g-total value can reach as low as 0.09 - meaning up to 91 percent of incoming solar radiation is kept out, while only a minimal amount enters the building.