Mitigating Overheating in the Algarve

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A stunning villa is nearing completion in the Quinta do Lago area of the Algarve in Portugal for a private client.

Designed by award-winning international architects Vasco Vieira Arquitectos, this house has a striking contemporary design featuring innovative use of concrete and glass and strong geometric lines to create double height spaces and uninterrupted views.


With the combination of transparent and solid materials – timber fins, glass and concrete – the design plays with light and shadow throughout the property.

A pergola at roof level extends nearly 5m to provide shade for the ground floor spaces.



Overheating Analysis


Mesh was commissioned to provide dynamic thermal modelling to analyse the potential for overheating and propose solutions to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature all year round.


We assessed the impact of climate change and how occupant thermal comfort is likely to change over time, to make the design of the villa as future proof as possible.

A rise in temperature of 1.4°C is predicted in this area of Portugal between 2031 and 2050, which would affect the performance of the property and comfort for its occupants.



Practical Solutions


We were able to analyse the entire property, room by room, for potential overheating issues.


Our recommendations:


  • Additional brise soleil sunshading for the west façade to protect a glazed office space from late afternoon overheating
     
  • High-level fixed glazing was changed to openable windows to create air circulation and an air stack effect.



Client Feedback


Property Owner and Developer:


“Having an independent assessment of the building’s performance against more stringent UK standards was a very useful exercise that gave us peace of mind.  The Mesh team was technically competent and super responsive to our brief.


We wanted to assess the building’s performance in maintaining a comfortable ambient temperature over time, and in particular our use of glass and shading.


On Mesh’s recommendation, we have added more vertical fins to protect the glazed areas from late afternoon sun. We changed some of the fixed glazing at roof level to electric opening windows to achieve a stack effect and air flow. We are also using high specification solar reflective glass that is more typically used for commercial projects.


This was a really interesting process and well worth doing given the importance of designing-in thermal performance.”



Images - Vasco Vieira Arquitectos



A new villa at Quinta Do Lago in the Algarve, designed by Vasco Vieira Arquitectos

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by Doug Johnson 9 December 2025
As the year draws to a close, the Mesh team has been out in the community helping to spread some much-needed festive cheer. From fundraising in Santa suits, food donations for local families and donating warm clothing for those who need it most, the team has embraced the spirit of giving in the run-up to Christmas. Running for a Cause: The Guildford Santa Fun Run Despite the wet weather, members of the Mesh team braved the elements for the Guildford Santa Fun Run, raising money for the children’s charity, Challengers. Joined by Jacqueline Smith from our client TALO, Mesh’s Founder and Director Doug Johnson, along with Maria Fiore and Ilianna Filippopoulou, completed the festive run in full Santa attire. The team also reached their fundraising target, helping Challengers continue its exceptional work in supporting disabled children and young people in the community. Supporting Local Families in Need through the Lions Christmas Food Parcel Appeal For another year, Mesh proudly supported the Lions’ Christmas Food Parcel Appeal, helping to provide food parcels to individuals and families in need over the festive period. Thanks to the generosity of the Mesh team and many local businesses and residents, a huge selection of donated goods is now being sorted and delivered by the incredible volunteers at Lions Farnham. This annual initiative continues to be a meaningful way for us to support vulnerable members of our local community during what can be a really challenging time of year. The Coats for All Initiative Mesh has also taken part in the Coats for All initiative, a brilliant scheme that distributes warm, good-quality coats to anyone who needs one. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, and partners who donated pre-loved coats in excellent condition, we are helping to ensure that more people can stay warm this winter. Many local libraries are acting as collection points, making this a simple but impactful way for people to support others in the colder months — and we are proud to play our part. According to Mesh Founder and Director, Doug Johnson: “Community sits at the heart of Mesh, and it’s been inspiring to see our team give their time, energy and generosity to support such worthwhile causes - not just this Christmas but throughout the year. Whether running through the rain, collecting food, or fundraising for local charities, everyone has contributed to making a real difference — and I couldn’t be prouder.” At Mesh, we believe that small acts of kindness create meaningful impact. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, participated, or volunteered this year. We look forward to continuing our community support into 2026 and beyond."
9 December 2025
As the year draws to a close, the Mesh team has been out in the community helping to spread some much-needed festive cheer. From fundraising in Santa suits, food donations for local families and donating warm clothing for those who need it most, the team has embraced the spirit of giving in the run-up to Christmas. Running for a Cause: The Guildford Santa Fun Run Despite the wet weather, members of the Mesh team braved the elements for the Guildford Santa Fun Run, raising money for the children’s charity, Challengers. Joined by Jacqueline Smith from our client TALO, Mesh’s Founder and Director Doug Johnson, along with Maria Fiore and Ilianna Filippopoulou, completed the festive run in full Santa attire. The team also reached their fundraising target, helping Challengers continue its exceptional work in supporting disabled children and young people in the community. Supporting Local Families in Need through the Lions Christmas Food Parcel Appeal For another year, Mesh proudly supported the Lions’ Christmas Food Parcel Appeal, helping to provide food parcels to individuals and families in need over the festive period. Thanks to the generosity of the Mesh team and many local businesses and residents, a huge selection of donated goods is now being sorted and delivered by the incredible volunteers at Lions Farnham. This annual initiative continues to be a meaningful way for us to support vulnerable members of our local community during what can be a challenging time of year. The Coats for All Initiative Mesh has also taken part in the Coats for All initiative, a brilliant scheme that distributes warm, good-quality coats to anyone who needs one. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, and partners who donated pre-loved coats in excellent condition, we are helping ensure that more people can stay warm this winter. Many local libraries are acting as collection points, making this a simple but impactful way for people to support others in the colder months — and we are proud to play our part. According to Mesh Founder and Director, Doug Johnson: “Community sits at the heart of Mesh, and it’s been inspiring to see our team give their time, energy and generosity to support such worthwhile causes - not just this Christmas but throughout the year. Whether running through the rain, collecting food, or fundraising for local charities, everyone has contributed to making a real difference — and I couldn’t be prouder.” At Mesh, we believe that small acts of kindness create meaningful impact. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, participated, or volunteered this year. We look forward to continuing our community support into 2026 and beyond."
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