Facades that move

Innovative folding shutters combine shading, ventilation and aesthetics

For architects looking for a distinctive element in their design, Artino offers a special solution: electric folding shutters that give facade and exterior space a whole new character. The Dutch company is the only party in our country to supply this system and is presenting it for the first time this year at Architect@Work Amsterdam.

Artino's electric folding shutters are distinguished by their dual function. Closed, they form a sleek, seamless whole with the facade. At the push of a button, the shutters fold up smoothly, not only opening the view, but also serving directly as an awning. This keeps the space behind them protected from sun and rain, while allowing plenty of daylight and ventilation in. The shutters can be finished completely as desired. Wood, aluminum, bamboo, corten steel or a perforated pattern, the system lends itself to countless styles. This allows each facade to have its own signature, from understated to expressive.

Architect as key party

The participation in Architect@Work Amsterdam is a conscious step, says owner Geert-Jan Roos: "In recent years we have invested heavily in the further development of the system. We now have a solid product that is already being used in beautiful projects. Yet awareness is still relatively limited. Architect@Work is the place for us to raise awareness of this system."

In addition, the role of the architect plays a decisive role. Roos: "Our system requires integration from the design phase. The folding shutters have a solid construction and require installation space. Therefore, the architect is the most important party to include in this story. Those who apply it early in the design process can really make it a special calling card."

Flexibility in execution

Because the systems are developed entirely in-house, the possibilities are vast, both in choice of material and in size and degree of light transmission. Even one-piece versions up to ten meters wide are possible. A recent project shows the power of this flexibility: for a house with facades clad entirely in bamboo, folding shutters were supplied in the same material, but with an open structure. This preserves the view, while facade and shutters together form a harmonious and sleek whole.