Using Louvre Roofs to Extend Outdoor Living

Enhanced Outdoor Living

Perched high above Tauranga with sweeping views across the harbour to Mount Maunganui, this contemporary home was designed to make the most of its spectacular outlook. But while the front deck delivered stunning scenery, the reality of long, hot, sunny afternoons soon revealed a challenge. The intense afternoon sun made the outdoor space uncomfortable during the hottest parts of the day, forcing the homeowners and their guests indoors. Despite being one of the home's standout features, the deck was not being enjoyed to its full potential.

2 Bay Wall Mounted SunPivot® Louvre Roofs with Dulux Titania blades & Electric Cow Frame

A Tailored Louvre Roof Solution

To maximise the functionality of both outdoor areas, HomePlus Tauranga designed and installed custom SunPivot® Louvre Roof systems for the property. The large front deck was fitted with a two-bay wall-mounted SunPivots®, while a separate single-bay Roof was installed over the smaller rear deck, allowing the homeowners to continue enjoying the morning sun while gaining protection from the elements.

The front installation features two adjoining bays that can be controlled independently. This flexibility allows the homeowners to adjust each section to the ideal angle throughout the day, controlling sunlight, airflow, and shelter at the touch of a button. Whether providing shade on a hot summer afternoon or protection from unexpected rain, the system adapts effortlessly to changing conditions.

Open Louvre Roof 

Closed SunPivot® Louvre roof to keep the rain out

From Underused to Most-Loved

The homeowners run a home-based childcare service from the location, and the transformation has been remarkable. What was once an outdoor area avoided during peak summer heat has become one of the most popular spaces. The covered outdoor space has effectively become an extension of the indoor living area, providing year-round comfort and delivering welcome shade during sunny weather and dependable shelter when rain arrives.

Back Deck Single SunPivot® Louvre Roof

Designed to Complement the Home

Every Louvre Roof is custom-made, and this project was carefully tailored to complement the home's contemporary design. The louvre blades powder coated in Dulux Titania, a light colour that helps maximise natural light when the roof is closed. For contrast, the posts and frames were finished in Dulux Electric Cow, creating a seamless connection with the home's existing joinery and architectural detailing.

The end result is both practical and visually striking, enhancing the home's appearance while significantly improving the way the outdoor spaces are used. This Tauranga project is a perfect example of how a well-designed Louvre Roof can transform an exposed outdoor area into a comfortable, flexible living space that can be enjoyed throughout every season.

You can find out more about a HomePlus Louvre roof here or read about the installation in this 2017 Trends article 

* This is an updated version of a 2017 published article