comScore
CASACOR
Architecture

6 types of brises to control light and enhance the facade

Architectural elements that unite aesthetics and functionality, the brises transform the facade and optimize the thermal and luminous comfort of the projects

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at May 14, 2025, 4:03 AM

08 min de leitura
Project of Vangii Guerra.

Project of Vangii Guerra. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio)

Brises are versatile architectural elements that serve a dual purpose: controlling the entry of sunlight and providing identity to the facade. With different materials, shapes, and applications, they have become important allies in projects that seek thermal comfort and aesthetic appeal. Whether in houses or commercial buildings, the use of brises reveals a care for climate, privacy, and aesthetics. The choice of the ideal model depends on solar orientation, architectural style, and the desired visual effect. Get to know the main types and get inspired to use this solution in residential or corporate projects.

1. Fixed Vertical Brise


The fixed vertical brise is one of the most traditional and effective options for facades facing east or west, where sunlight incidence occurs at lower angles. With blades arranged vertically, it blocks direct sunlight during the hottest hours, contributing to internal thermal comfort. Additionally, it provides a visual barrier without compromising the natural ventilation of the projects, creating more pleasant and protected spaces. Aesthetically, this type of brise creates a striking visual rhythm on the facade, with a repetition of elements that confer dynamism and modernity. It can be made from materials such as aluminum, wood, or concrete, depending on the desired effect. The important thing is that the brise harmoniously integrates into the architecture, enhancing the set with textures, shadows, and depth.

2. Fixed Horizontal Brise


Ideal for facades facing north, the fixed horizontal brise acts as a small awning, preventing direct sunlight when it is at its highest point. Its horizontal blades allow the passage of indirect light and ventilation, creating cooler and naturally lit spaces. It is an effective solution for controlling excessive sunlight without harming the lighting of the interiors. Aesthetically, this type of brise can accentuate the horizontal lines of the construction, reinforcing the feeling of amplitude and lightness. When executed with lightweight materials like aluminum or natural wood, it offers a contemporary, sophisticated, and sustainable look. It is common to find this model in minimalist facades, where solar control and clean design are valued.

3. Movable Brise


The movable brise is a versatile solution that allows the user to control light entry according to the moment's need. With blades that move manually or automatically, it offers greater flexibility regarding shading, ventilation, and even the external view. This makes it ideal for projects seeking dynamism and interaction with the projects, in addition to optimized thermal comfort. From an aesthetic point of view, the movable brise can be a surprising element on the facade. When opened, it allows light to enter and reveals the interior; when closed, it ensures privacy and protection. The constant movement creates plays of light and shadow, offering a mutable and engaging visual that further enhances the architectural project.

4. Glass Brise


The glass brise is an elegant and contemporary solution that combines transparency, lightness, and solar control. Even though it is a material associated with brightness, the glass can be worked strategically to filter solar radiation without completely blocking the view or the entry of natural light. This is possible thanks to treatments such as screen printing, sandblasting, or the use of reflective films, which make the brise both functional and aesthetically interesting. This option is ideal for projects that aim to protect internal projects from excessive heat but do not want to lose the visual connection with the exterior. Aesthetically, the glass brise stands out for its discretion and sophistication, functioning as a kind of lightweight skin over the facade. It can be installed in flat, slanted, or even curved plates, creating dynamic and refined surfaces. When combined with metal structures or aluminum profiles, this type of brise reinforces the minimalist and technological language of the project. It is widely used in commercial buildings and contemporary residential that seek to combine technical performance with a clean and current aesthetic.

5. Perforated Metal Brise


The perforated metal brise combines solar protection with a differentiated visual effect. Its perforated sheets filter natural light and create interesting shadow patterns inside, while also providing privacy. This solution is widely used in commercial and institutional buildings, where a modern look and high performance in ventilation and natural lighting are sought. In addition to functionality, this type of brise stands out for its graphic potential. The perforations can be designed in a personalized way, with geometric, organic patterns, or even images. This transforms the facade into a kind of artistic panel that changes appearance throughout the day as the sun's position alters, adding identity and visual impact to the project.

6. Green Brise


The green brise combines the shading function with the presence of vegetation, creating fresher and more pleasant facades. In this model, metal or wood structures are used to support the growth of climbing plants or suspended pots. The vegetation acts as a natural barrier against heat and contributes to the quality of the air and the feeling of well-being in the internal projects. In addition to environmental benefits, green brises also play a relevant aesthetic role, bringing texture, movement, and color to facades. They are especially indicated for cities with hot and dry climates, where the presence of green can make a significant difference in the temperature and urban landscape. When well planned, these brises become true vertical gardens integrated into the architecture. CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the Technology team of CASACOR from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.