Energy efficiency is putting external sun shading in the spotlight. At R+T 2027, SATTLER showcases the potential of textile solutions with its PVC-free screen collection TWILIGHT. Uli Neumair explains the role of screens in the building of the future.

“The future of sun shading begins outside the window”

Rising temperatures and growing energy-efficiency requirements are bringing external sun shading increasingly into focus. At R+T 2027, SATTLER will showcase the potential of textile solutions. The focus will be on its PVC-free TWILIGHT screen collection, which is being further developed and expanded for the trade fair. Uli Neumair, Sales Director Central Europe & Strategic Accounts at SATTLER, explains why textile screens are becoming increasingly important for the buildings of the future—and what visitors can expect in Stuttgart.

What role can textile sun shading play in the energy transition in the building sector?

Uli Neumair: A very important one. Energy efficiency does not start with building services; it starts with the building envelope. External sun shading reduces solar heat gain before it enters the building through the glazing. This can significantly reduce cooling demand. At the same time, daylight, glare protection and visual contact with the outdoors all need to be considered. Modern sun shading has to bring these requirements together.

Your TWILIGHT collection addresses these needs. What sets it apart?

Uli Neumair: TWILIGHT combines functionality, sustainability and architectural design freedom. The PVC-free screen collection includes TWILIGHT Comfort, TWILIGHT Pearl and TWILIGHT Elements—different fabric qualities to meet varying requirements for light transmission, visibility and glare protection.

One particular advantage is the coordinated colours of TWILIGHT Elements and TWILIGHT Comfort. The two qualities are colour-matched and can be used in the same colour but with different openness factors within a building. With an openness factor of 0%, TWILIGHT Elements provides near-total privacy and light shielding. TWILIGHT Comfort, with an openness factor of 4%, allows more daylight to enter while still providing glare protection. This makes it possible to meet different requirements throughout a building without changing the façade’s consistent appearance. We can therefore offer solutions for a wide range of building types and uses—from residential buildings, hotels and offices to public buildings.

How is demand for solutions like these developing?

Uli Neumair: We are seeing energy efficiency and sustainability gain considerably in importance among architects, planners, system manufacturers and fabricators. At the same time, comfort must not be overlooked. People want pleasant indoor temperatures and daylight without having to give up their view of the outdoors entirely. That combination is exactly what makes textile screens so appealing.

At R+T 2027, you plan to present the next stage in the development of TWILIGHT. What can visitors expect?

Uli Neumair: At R+T 2027, we will show how modern external sun shading can actively help save energy. The focus will be on our TWILIGHT collection, which we are specifically developing further and expanding. We will also present SATTLER’s comprehensive range of textile solutions for awnings, pergolas, screens, parasols and sun sails. We look forward to meeting visitors in person and working together to shape the future of textile sun shading.

So your stand will not be dedicated exclusively to screens?

Uli Neumair: That’s right. TWILIGHT will be a key focus, but at R+T we also want to showcase the full breadth of our expertise. Our portfolio ranges from classic awning fabrics and solutions for pergolas and ZIP systems to textiles for parasols, window awnings and sun sails. This allows us to serve a wide variety of applications—from private terraces to demanding commercial projects.

SATTLER also has its own in-house fabrication expertise. What benefit does this bring to your partners?

Uli Neumair: Our in-house fabrication gives us a very clear understanding of what it takes to work with technical textiles. This practical expertise feeds directly into product development. We also share our know-how through training sessions and hands-on workshops. For us, a good product also means helping our partners make the most of its potential.

Why should trade visitors make sure to visit your stand at R+T 2027?

Uli Neumair: Because it is the perfect place to experience just how versatile modern textile sun shading has become. We want to do more than present products—we want to talk about applications, new requirements and solutions. R+T is the ideal platform for these conversations. Anyone interested in how textile solutions can bring together energy efficiency, comfort and design should come and see us.

Photo caption (source: SATTLER)

1. Uli Neumair, Sales Director Central Europe & Strategic Accounts at SATTLER