Call for Sponsors - A New Shading Vernacular for a Changing Climate

We are seeking support for the development of new guidance and case studies to explore the challenges facing the housebuilding industry due to a changing climate. We believe there is a need for a change in design approach to make shading solutions the new vernacular for both new and existing homes.

Project partners

Good Homes Alliance – A sustainability organisation with a focus on net zero, new build homes. Membership network of 90+ members from across industry including architects and consultants, plus 35+ local authorities, housing associations and private sector developers, who are set to build 120,000 new homes over the next 10 years.
British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) – A national trade association with 500+ members that manufacture, supply and install interior and exterior blinds, awnings, security grilles and shutters and associated motor and control systems.

Proposed topics/chapters

The issues/challenges facing housing developers and the need for shading (e.g. heatwaves, summer overheating, cold winters).
What role can shading play – Examples of types of shading devices and their benefits (for a range of housing types and different climates).
Design implications for UK housing.
Barriers to shading in conservation areas, vernacular buildings etc.
What role can Part O and planning play (both positive and negative).
UK supply/manufacturing opportunities.
Best practice solutions and case studies (UK specific).
Appendices: Model specifications/Employers Requirements.

Audience: Architects, designers, specifiers, local authorities, housing associations, private developers, and policy makers.

Timeframe: 3-6 months, aim for launch event in Q2 2023.

Sponsorship details

Funding target: £30,000 +VAT (6 sponsors @ £5,000 +VAT).

Proposed funders/sponsors: Companies involved with the manufacture, supply and/or installation of shading devices (particularly external) such as shutters, blinds, awnings, and dynamic passive shading solutions. Also relevant to window manufacturers and other organisations involved in reducing overheating risk and improving thermal comfort in buildings.

Benefits to sponsors:

Acknowledgement of your support in the guide (PDF/printed version TBC) including logo on front page, and company biography and weblink on acknowledgements page.
A case study and/or product profile within the guide showcasing your shading solution.
Opportunity to co-author sections of the guide (with peer-review from project steering group).
Opportunity to present at launch and networking event in 2023 with all GHA/BBSA members invited, plus wider mailing lists.
Acknowledge of your support in all press and PR, including regular press releases, project webpage, social media and newsletters.

More information: To enquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Richard Broad, Projects & Communications Manager, Good Homes Alliance – richard@goodhomes.org.uk.

For examples of previous GHA authored guidance, please see the following links:

Call for Sponsors – A New Shading Vernacular for a Changing Climate