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The aesthetics of a grille/diffuser is a subject that all too often falls to the wayside in the selection process. Whilst the performance parameters are of utmost importance, the artistic element is left from focus. It’s understandable as this is somewhat subjective to the individual and the space in which it’s being installed. It’s not something quantifiable in the same way a sound pressure level or static pressure loss is. This subject takes the topic of diffuser selection from the field of engineering and dips it in the creative world of interior design and architecture.
A grille/diffuser occupies an interesting place in the development of new spaces. It’s part of a functional HVAC system, the purpose of which is to create a comfortable and clean environment for its occupants. The HVAC system is fundamentally functional in which all the common components are to be hidden from view where possible in most circumstances, from the AHU hidden behind plant screening on the roof to the ductwork and fans hidden in the ceiling void. The grille/diffuser (henceforth will be referred to as ‘outlet’) however is on view. The outlet whilst fulfilling its functional goal of moving air into the space in a specific manner to ensure comfortable and clean conditions must also be in keeping with the aesthetic of the space in which it is being installed. All too often the outlet is treated solely as a final component of the HVAC system and not enough consideration is allowed for the aesthetic and architectural element of the space. This is akin to putting an expensive artwork in a cheap metal frame because ‘it does the job’. Sure, it will hold the picture up on display just fine but when, just like the artist, architects and interior designers spend so much time and effort creating sleek and elegant interiors, they deserve better than that.
It's integral we understand and empathise with the designers and that the visual impact and aesthetic of the outlet is an important driver in product range development. There are 2 keyways of approaching the topic of the air outlet aesthetic. The first is to provide a product which is as subtle and as visually non-intrusive as possible. The second is to provide an outlet that is sleek and standouts to be an architectural feature of the space. Those 2 approaches may seem to be at odds with each other, but this is where the designer has the power to create the space in their vision utilising our vast range of frame types, sizes and colours to fulfil their desired aesthetic.
A plaster in frame option is a particular favourite of interior designers and architects alike. This frame option leans into the concept of the air outlet being as visually non-intrusive as possible. Whilst the frame of the air outlet is essential for construction of the product itself, it does increase the overall visual appearance of the outlet. This frame allows itself to become ‘invisible’ post installation as it’s hidden behind a skim of plaster.
Conversely, the designer could opt to make a feature out of the air outlet rather than hiding it away, making it an integral part of the architectural canvas. A high-capacity architectural slot-style product lends itself perfectly to this type of design. It’s single slot design creates bold solid lines, creating stunning visuals which can be constructed in long linear lengths to perfectly suit the size of the room, down to the nearest millimetre.
Another important consideration for air outlet selection is not just that it is in keeping with the room and doesn’t look out of place, but also that it’s shape suits that of the space. It’s not uncommon for a room to have a curved wall or ceiling. The room is usually going to have corners (unless it’s a circle!). Being able to manufacture products curved to the radius of the wall or ceiling to maintain the appearance the designer has worked so hard to achieve. Furthermore, being able to manufacture mitred corners to suit the angle of the corner gives even greater design flexibility. This allows the designer to have a diffuser that perfectly follows the contours of the room without compromise.
Whilst the focus has been more on the architectural element of the air outlet, the other benefits of using a high-end outlet should not be ignored. A high-end diffuser backed by technical expertise and market leading selection software ensures the outlet makes the space feel high-end and not just look like it. Correctly selecting the appropriate size of outlet provides low, non-intrusive noise levels and case specific designed air patterns that provide thermal comfort and distribution for the whole space. High-end diffusers often will come with adjustable blades or air pattern controllers to allow for fine tuning.
