Architects can confidently Specify external Solar Shading with Warema's fire-classified external venetian blinds. Date: 31st July 2026 By: Clara James Category: BlindsExpert AdviceExternal SolutionsInsights The demand for high-performance façade solutions continues to grow as architects, developers and building owners seek to balance occupant comfort, energy efficiency, sustainability and fire safety. Warema's recent achievement in obtaining a fire classification for its external venetian blind system marks a significant step forward for the solar shading industry and opens up new opportunities for a wide range of commercial, residential and mixed-use developments. Waverley works closely with Warema on projects across the UK, providing specialist advice, specification support and project delivery for its extensive range of external venetian blinds and shutters. This close working relationship enables Waverley to combine Warema's leading product technology with its own expertise in specification, automation and installation. A Breakthrough for High-Risk and High-Rise Buildings Fire safety has become an increasingly important consideration when specifying products for building façades. Following changes to UK Building Regulations, stringent fire performance requirements now apply to many residential, healthcare, hospitality and other higher-risk buildings where occupants may be sleeping, unfamiliar with the building, or less able to evacuate quickly. This has historically limited the range of external shading solutions available on some projects. The introduction of a fire-classified external venetian blind solution from Warema provides architects, façade consultants and developers with greater confidence when considering external solar shading as part of the building envelope. Warema has achieved A2-s1, d0 fire-classification for the 80 S, 80 AF, and 80 WF slats that can be specified for external venetian blind systems, tested and classified in accordance with EN 13501-1. This is significant because: * A2 = Limited combustibility (very limited contribution to fire). * s1 = Very limited smoke production. * d0 = No flaming droplets or particles. This level of performance is important for façade applications on many higher-risk buildings in the UK, where external wall components are subject to stringent fire performance requirements. Warema states that this classification provides architects and planners with a documented basis for specification, approval processes and tendering on relevant projects. This achievement represents an important advancement for projects where façade fire performance is a key specification consideration, helping designers balance solar control, occupant comfort and fire safety requirements. Easier Than Ever to Specify The introduction of a fire-classified solution makes external solar shading easier to consider on projects where fire performance is a key design requirement. However, every project is different. Building use, façade design, orientation, wind loads, control requirements and fire strategy can all influence the most appropriate shading solution. That's where Waverley can help. Specification Support from Waverley As a specialist supplier and installer of intelligent solar shading systems, Waverley works closely together with Warema to assist architects, consultants, contractors and developers to ensure the right solution is selected for every project. From early-stage design and specification through to technical coordination, installation and commissioning, Waverley combines its own project expertise with Warema's extensive product range and technical knowledge to help identify the right solution for each application. Its team can assist with: * - Product selection * - Performance and fire safety considerations * - Budget guidance * - Technical advice * - NBS specifications * - Project-specific specification writing * - Automation and control system integration Whether you are at concept stage, planning a refurbishment, or developing a detailed specification, its experienced team can help ensure your external shading solution meets both project objectives and regulatory requirements. Combining Solar Shading and Fire Performance External venetian blinds are widely recognised as one of the most effective methods of reducing solar gain before heat enters a building. By stopping solar radiation externally, they help minimise overheating, reduce glare and improve occupant comfort while supporting building energy performance. The addition of a recognised fire classification means project teams can now benefit from these advantages while addressing increasingly stringent fire safety requirements. For offices, education facilities, healthcare environments, residential developments and mixed-use schemes, this creates an opportunity to deliver: * - Reduced solar gain and overheating * - Improved occupant comfort and wellbeing * - Better glare control * - Reduced reliance on mechanical cooling * - Enhanced building energy performance * - A façade solution that supports modern fire safety objectives Flexible Design Options for Every Project Beyond its fire performance credentials, the Warema external venetian blind range offers exceptional design flexibility. The system is available with a wide range of: * - Slat profiles and geometries * - Colours and finishes * - Guide rail and cable-guided options * - Concealed and exposed installation methods * - Motorised and automated control solutions * - Integration with intelligent building management systems This extensive range of options enables architects to tailor the shading solution to the specific aesthetic, environmental and operational requirements of each project. Speak to Waverley If you are considering external solar shading for an upcoming project, contact Waverley today. Waverley can help you identify the most suitable Warema solution, develop a project-specific specification and provide support throughout the design, tender and delivery process.

Gropyus, a German-Austrian PropTech startup, has raised €100 million in a Series C round, bringing total equity to €400 million. The company says the funding positions it on a path to profitability within two to three years, with positive cash flow targeted by year-end. Founded in 2019 by Lieferheld founder Markus Fuhrmann and former Zalando IT chief Philipp Erler, Gropyus manufactures multi-family housing using industrialised serial production in hybrid timber construction. Pre-fabricated floor and wall elements are produced in factories and assembled on-site through digitalised processes. The round was led by existing investor Semapa Next, with participation from Vonovia, Warema, Vienna Insurance Group, FAM, Manta Ray and Practical Venture Capital. Gropyus currently has seven projects underway totalling 800 residential units across 80,000 square metres, including a 158-unit building in Berlin for Vonovia subsidiary Buwog.