Sun Protection Day: Sustainable Light and Climate Regulation with Façade Awnings

On June 21, International Sun Protection Day, Griesser puts the spotlight on a crucial, often underestimated element of sustainable architecture: sun protection. Intelligent shading systems play a vital role in the energy efficiency and thermal comfort of modern buildings. The example of a visionary campus south of Paris highlights this in action.

Case Study: ENS Urban Campus in Moulon, France

In 2020, ENS Cachan relocated to the state of the art Paris Saclay campus, designed by world renowned architect Renzo Piano. The campus features five rectangular buildings surrounding a park of over one hectare – a showcase of bioclimatic design.

The campus was designed for maximum energy efficiency and quality of life. It features 60 electric actuators for the glass roofs, 1,200 motorised ventilation elements and 3,200 façade awnings. The latter enable highly precise control of daylight, glare and heat gain. Managed by weather stations, control panels and KNX motor controls from Griesser, they respond in real time to changing conditions – fully automatic and low-maintenance.

Background

• Major project to foster research, teaching, and innovation in the Paris Saclay region
• Development of a new university town for over 60,000 students and 100,000 residents
• Goal: sustainable, vibrant, and climate-conscious architecture without widespread air conditioning

Challenges

• Hot summers with intense solar exposure
• Transparent façades leveraging daylight, yet prone to overheating
• High demands for thermal and visual comfort

Schematic Representations:
Natural climate control in winter (fig. above) and summer (fig. below). The façades are permeable, enabling natural ventilation while providing shading.

Solution: Intelligent Sun Protection as a Key Element
In close collaboration with Atelier Renzo Piano, concepts were developed that combine natural cross ventilation, thermal buffer zones, and intelligent sun protection. The façade awnings, equipped with wind sensors, close or move to a safe position in strong winds – and dynamically adapt to light and weather conditions thanks to KNX technology.

Campus ENS – Interior Images:
Modern, light filled interiors with comfortable temperatures – a climate that supports teaching and research.

Results

• Prevention of summer overheating without active cooling
• Optimised daylight usage with minimal glare
• Reduced energy consumption through automated shading
• High comfort and protection for all user groups

Conclusion
Sun protection is much more than a comfort feature – it’s an active contribution to sustainable architecture. Griesser demonstrates that when shading, sensor technology, and architectural design work hand in hand, spaces are created that serve both people and the planet.

Photo credits: Plompmozes, ENS