The Future of Shade: Fabric Components in Sustainable Architectural Design
This course is no longer active. AEC Daily will not report completion information for this course.
Shade structures are becoming increasingly inherent to the design conversation. As the environment is constantly changing and evolving, our requirements for shade are evolving along with it. This course provides an overview of how fabric is being integrated into architectural designs for exterior shading focusing on design, personal health, and energy efficiency.
Upon completion of this course, the Learner should be able to:
- Discuss innovations and futuristic objectives for using shade structures constructed with fabric in commercial architecture.
- Explain how shade structures made of fabric can add both appealing design and functionality to building structures.
- Define the benefits of shade structures for personal health and UV protection.
- Discuss how the use of textiles in shade structures can positively impact thermal performance and energy efficiency.
- List LEED® credits to which awnings and solar shades can contribute directly.
Approximately 1 hour. Delivered online, at your own pace.
Presented by Gina B. Wicker on behalf of Sunbrella. View the Privacy Policy .
Presenter Information

Name: Gina B. Wicker
Title: Director of Architecture and Design Markets, Sunbrella
Background: Gina Wicker is the Director of Architecture and Design Markets for Sunbrella® fabrics. She has more than 15 years experience in textile design with a focus on high-performance upholstery, wall covering and shade fabrics. She drew on her extensive design experience when she transitioned into marketing where she spent more than five years promoting the Sunbrella brand in the shade, marine and upholstery markets. Her expertise helped to grow the brand’s reputation as the go-to high performance fabric for applications where design and beauty are as important as function and performance. Wicker earned a Bachelor of Science in textiles with a concentration in design from NC State University and a Master of Business Administration from Duke University.