S_enn: Pure minimalism in stainless steel

The basic idea of the s_enn metal blind fits on one sheet of paper: it should simply be better. We developed its core component – its slat – in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in Freiburg.  As a result, s_enn reduces the building's energy consumption to the optimum degree. Meanwhile visual contact with the outside world is maintained by the blind's high level of transparency.

With the s_enn metal blind, what we have been able to create is a classic product: a high level of wind stability and a timeless appearance are its stand-out features. Let minimalist aesthetics and utmost precision in stainless steel thrill you!

s_enn product benefits

  • Sunshade product with high transparency for optimum visibility to the outside
  • Modern stainless steel look
  • Modest installation dimensions thanks to small winding diameter
  • Low weight thanks to roll-formed components
  • Provides perfect daylight
  • High reduction in solar energy
  • Extremely wind resistant, suitable for tall buildings

References

The Upper West Berlin is the new landmark of Berlin's City West district. 118 metres high and with 33 storeys, the building, built in 2016, is one of the tallest in Berlin. The tower has the appearance of a sculpture by virtue of its striking white façade. With its net-like structure the latter leaves a lasting impression.

The s_enn metal blind supplements the building in its aesthetic appeal. As the stainless steel blind is designed to be extremely stable in the wind, it provides efficient sunshade even on high buildings. With its high level of transparency, it ensures utmost visibility through to the outside.

A feature enjoyed by visitors to the Skybar One Lounge. At a height of nearly 110 metres, it offers them breathtaking views over Berlin. Even with the blind drawn down this remains an impressive experience.

s_enn also provides reliable privacy screening and sunshade to a hotel, further businesses and office premises housed within the Upper West Berlin.

Project scope

  • 1648 s_enn blinds
  • 5100 m² total surface area

 

Architects

  • Langhof Architektur und Stadtentwicklung
  • KSP Jürgen Engel Architekten

 

Client

  • Strabag Real Estate
  •  

The Carmen Würth Forum is a culture and convention centre south of the German town of Künzelsau. This building, constructed by well-known screw manufacturer Reinhold Würth, was finished in 2006.

The culture and convention centre boasts an events hall that can hold 2500 guests and a chamber music hall with seats for 600 people. The adjacent outdoor area has space for up to 10,000 spectators. The light, spacious foyer, the fully glazed frontage and the picturesque location overlooking open meadows give the Carmen Würth Forum a feeling of space and far-reaching views.

The aesthetically pleasing s_enn metal blind, which is stable in wind, was installed here too. Around 60 stainless steel blinds accentuate the building's clean lines with their intricate design. They provide a high level of transparency and let plenty of light into this airy building – while never obstructing the view outside. At the same time, this high-quality metal blind offers the perfect amount of sun protection and stops the inside of the event space from getting too hot.

Photos: © realgrün Landschaftsarchitekten, Munich

Scope of the project

  • Approx. 60 s_enn blinds
  • Very tall blind units

Architects

  • David Chipperfield Architects Gesellschaft von Architekten mbH, Berlin

Building owner

  • Adolf Würth GmbH & Co. KG

Project period

  • 2011–2017

Use

  • Office

Originally dating back to 1969, The Box in Berlin has now been fully refurbished and turned into a modern office building with an area reserved for gastronomic delights. The renovation work was completed in October 2014.

This modern building really makes an impression with its cube-shaped structure, attractive glazed frontage and loft offices, plus an exclusive additional top floor. Not to mention its fantastic view of the Spree.

The s_enn metal blind, which is stable in wind, accentuates the building's extraordinary charm and also provides privacy and sun protection to help achieve a pleasant indoor temperature. With its slimline design and high-quality workmanship, this stainless steel metal blind fits unobtrusively into the expanded aluminium curtain wall.

Thanks to its transparent design, this stainless steel blind offers great visibility to the outside and allows the perfect amount of light to enter the building. At the same time, the s_enn offers protection from the worst of the sun's rays, so the building does not heat up too much on hot days.

Photos: © Christian Richters Photography

Scope of the project

  • Approx. 180 s_enn blinds

Architects

  • AHM Architekten, Berlin

Building owner

  • ANH Hausbesitz GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Arnsberg/ Berlin

Project period

  • 2012–2014

Use

  • Office

The standard blind colour

Stainless steel colour

Technical benefits

As soon as the sun rises to more than 21º above the horizon, any direct penetration of the sun’s rays is completely cut out.

 

The blinds conform to wind resistance class 5* (equates to resisting winds of up to 21 m/s). This makes s_enn, s_enro much more wind stable than conventional external blinds and textile awnings.

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* Dependent on dimensions and installation situation

The blinds are able to prevent up to 85% of incident solar energy. Air-conditioning costs can thus be greatly reduced or air conditioning not used at all.

A high level of transparency from inside to outside thanks to an opening percentage of c. 21%.

The stainless steel micro slats can be easily recycled.

Version

View of slats from outside

Material: Stainless steel micro slats, roll-formed

Width: min. 0.65 m, max. 2.70 m

Height: max. 6.00 m

Surface area: max. 14 m2

Blind weight: c.  4.2 kg/m²

Energy reduction: gtotal = 0.16 (1),  gtotal = 0.10 (2)

Wind stability: max. resistance class 5*

Drive system: 230V tubular motor

Control system protection requirement: Wind monitor and frost sensor

 

We reserve the right to make technical changes without prior notice.

 

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(1) Metal blind in combination with thermally insulating glazing (total energy transmittance of the glazing as per EN 410: 0.53)
(2) Metal blind in combination with sunshade glazing (total energy transmittance of the glazing as per EN 410: 0.36)

* Dependent on dimensions and installation situation