External Venetian Blinds in Little Brick House | Shade Factor

Shade Factor is a leading Australian specialist in custom-made, high-performance, and long-lasting shading products for residential and commercial buildings. For Little Brick House in Northcote, Shade Factor supplied Warema external venetian blinds to provide adjustable solar control while maintaining street connection.

In a Northcote backyard, Little Brick House by Ben Callery Architects is a compact two-storey dwelling that explores density, sustainability, and multigenerational living. Occupying approximately 60 square metres per level, the home was designed for a parent downsizing from the adjacent family house, enabling continued proximity to family and community within a purpose-built setting for long-term comfort.

The plan balances efficiency with generosity. On the ground floor, a guest room is intended to evolve into the main bedroom over time, supported by an accessible bathroom and compact laundry. The rear living area opens to a courtyard garden, while the upper level provides a second living space and study to the street, paired with a quiet bedroom positioned within the canopy of a mature gum tree. Recycled brickwork grounds the dwelling in its suburban context, and Australian timbers bring warmth and tactility to the interiors.

Environmental performance is central to the project. The house is all-electric and supported by rooftop solar generation; masonry construction and high-performance glazing assist passive climate control.

Managing solar exposure on west-facing windows was a key challenge. To address this without compromising engagement with the street, operable external venetian blinds were integrated into the brick façade. Supplied by Shade Factor, these systems provide fine control of light, heat, and glare, tilt to retain outward views when required, and retract to maintain an open outlook. Their discreet installation adds subtle animation to the frontage while supporting seasonal and daily adjustments for comfort and privacy.

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