Venetian blinds consist of a stack of thin slats suspended on guide rails or tapes. A crank, strap or electric motor raises and lowers the stack, and the slats also tilt around their axis. This tilt is the key advantage: you can direct daylight into the room without fully losing the view outside, while still being shielded from prying eyes.\n\nThey are operated manually or by motor, often integrated into a control system with wind and sun sensors. When wind picks up, exterior blinds retract automatically to avoid damage – important because they are exposed to the weather. Interior versions are simpler but offer less heat protection, since the warmth is already behind the glass.\n\nVenetian blinds are used wherever sun, heat and visibility need flexible control: living rooms, offices, bedrooms or glazed façades. They help keep rooms cool in summer and reduce cooling demand.\n\nWhen buying, look at slat width, material and wind-resistance class. Insist on clean installation, correct measurements and a warranty. Common mistakes include underpowered motors, missing wind protection and cheap coatings that fade quickly.
Venetian blinds
Venetian blinds are sun- and privacy-protection systems made of narrow horizontal metal slats that tilt continuously and can be raised completely. In Switzerland the term usually refers to the exterior aluminium blinds fitted to windows and façades, which allow light and heat to be regulated precisely.
Example
A family in a new-build flat in Winterthur with large south-facing glazing struggles with overheated rooms in summer. They have exterior venetian blinds installed with a motor and sun sensor: in strong sunlight the blinds lower automatically and the slats tilt so the sun stays outside while daylight still reaches the room. The flat stays noticeably cooler, without anyone having to crank by hand all the time.
Frequently asked
What is the difference between venetian blinds and roller shutters?
Roller shutters use a closed curtain of slats that fully darkens the window. Venetian blinds have individual tiltable slats that let you regulate light and view continuously without blacking out the room. Venetian blinds therefore offer more daylight flexibility, while roller shutters provide better blackout.
Can venetian blinds be retrofitted?
Yes, exterior venetian blinds can often be retrofitted, provided there is enough space on the façade or in the window reveal. A specialist assesses the situation on site, takes measurements and clarifies whether a manual or motorised solution fits better. For rentals or condominiums you usually need the owner's or the management's approval.
How much do venetian blinds cost?
The price depends on window size, quantity, material, colour, drive type (manual or motorised) and installation effort. Exterior motorised blinds with sensor control are more involved than simple interior blinds. It is best to obtain several quotes from regional blind specialists and have measurements taken on site.