LIGHT AND SHADE
Architect and interior designer Thomas Mang reveals in ELLE DECORATION how to embrace the shade in style.
Sun protection is becoming increasingly relevant in our latitudes and is a real asset as an architectural element – whether as Roman shades, café curtains, Japanese paper blinds or classic drapes.
ELLE DECORATION reports on this in an interview with luxury architect and interior designer Thomas Mang.
Whether it’s Roman blinds, café curtains, Japanese paper blinds or classic curtains: there are many ways to protect the interior of your home from the sun and keep the heat out. Fortunately …
— Sunshades as interior design
Ultimately, we want a solution that complements the style of the home rather than looking out of place. In Mediterranean countries, this is usually achieved on the outside, using blinds or shutters.
Here in Germany, sun protection has often been overlooked in the past. Now there is an opportunity to tackle the issue from the inside. Munich-based architect Thomas Mang explains what to look out for.
ELLE DECORATION: How do you find a sunshade solution that complements the look of the interior?
THOMAS MANG: By using recurring colours, fabrics or surface textures. And by paying attention to detail: with Venetian blinds, you can choose a cord in the same colour as the sofa. Also important: the lining fabric, as it’s visible from the outside. Use stripes or patterns here to enhance the architecture.
ELLE DECORATION: Speaking of architecture – what do you recommend for windows in sloping ceilings?
THOMAS MANG: Here we like to use external blinds that are fitted directly onto the window frame. They create an elegant look and allow the windows to open easily.
ELLE DECORATION: What types of sun protection are in vogue?
THOMAS MANG: Roman or bamboo blinds, Venetian blinds – but also the good old curtains.
ELLE DECORATION: When should one opt for them?
THOMAS MANG: For floor-to-ceiling windows. This emphasises the height of the room. Incidentally, if you position the curtain rod in the top third of the window lintel, you gain even more height.
ELLE DECORATION: Which fabrics are suitable?
THOMAS MANG: It’s important that they’re lightfast. There are also thermally insulating ones – which makes particular sense for south-facing windows.
