Something to consider with roller blinds- The blockout ones can really block the airflow in Summer, and if you do leave the louvres open, the slightest breeze will cause the bottom rod to bang against the window frame. You can fix them so they don't do this, but again you have the reduced airflow.....which is why you have louvres in the first place. We have the same problem. My son's bedroom. He seems to have adjusted to no window coverings. Luckily we have no privacy issues.

Hello, this is exactly why window treatment specialists such as ourselves exist! There are a lot of options depending on your preference for internal look. Some simple ideas such a dual roller blinds have already been referenced. You’ll have to meet with a consultant to see how two fabrics pair, especially if you’re considering one being light filtering. You can also mix treatments such as a dark roller blind recess fit to the window, and a light roman blind fit over the architrave which will give you a soft fabric finish. Alternatively white plantation shutters contrasting an exterior black window frame can actually look really stunning. It does depend on the style of the black framing you use. Feel free to post a picture of your style of window frame used and I can try to help you online Shannon -RPShutters www.riverinaplantationshutters.com.au

Double Hung Windows (aka sash windows) allow you to enjoy the benefits of natural light and air in any context in your home, including areas with limited opening spaces By opening both sashes halfway, of a double-hung window, you allow for more air flow than a single-sliding window. The top sash opening helps hot air to escape. While the lower sash opening draws in cooler, fresh air. Would you install a Double Hung Window over a normal sliding window?

Hello, There are lots of options and it depends on your budget and the style of house you are going for. I would really encourage people to consider this element in the overall design rather than just look at it as an 'add on' to the building. Definately agree with Macyjean in that you should try to keep the sun off the glass in the first instance. Once the heat has penetrated the glazing, ventilation or artificial cooling is the only remedy. Internal curtains and blinds have limited impact. If you can keep whatever external treatment you use away from the windows by a small amount that would be good to encourage external air movement. If louvres or shutters are too close to the window, they will trap the heat which will ultimately go through the glass. They also limit your ability to open those windows. In Brisbane I used fixed timber slat screens that were 50/50 solid/open and about 500mm away from the western facade and windows, which also had glass louvres to keep the air moving. Maybe not necessary in south Victoria, especially in winter. I also used various coloured glass to give an awesome effect in the evenings. This could work nicely in your dining room. Consider larger roof overhangs on the west to delay the afternoon sun coming in the higher windows. If you want to maintain all the view to the west, louvres can be be deeper so they can be further apart to reduce afternoon sun but if they are not adjustable, the sun will come directly in at some point as the sun passes by and lowers. This will be earlier in the afternoon in summer if the louvres run vertically. Another option, depending on the space you have, is to grow climbers up a separate frame outside the building. If it is deciduous, the sun will get in for the colder months. This is a very old tried and tested method if you look to mediterranean homes. Even concrete screens can be incorporated. If they are away from the wall by a little bit, they will absorb the suns heat and radiate it away as the evening temperature drops. These can be a standard product or something custom if you budget extends to this. Corten steel screens with laser cut patterns are pretty popular at the moment but these would have to suit your house style. Good luck, C.