It's a Breeze

Breeze blocks, or screen blocks, are concrete patterned blocks that have been used for decades to provide privacy and shade. Often found in warmer climates, the decorative blocks create a barrier while still allowing the breeze to flow through. They are common in Mid-Century design, but with the right pattern, these blocks can be used with any style. The look has even made its way indoors as partitions to separate spaces.  

By Melissa Mauzy

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1. Tesselle Blocks Decorative Cement Breeze Blocks, often called Screen Blocks or Ventilation Blocks, are available from Tesselle in dozens of patterns, and 8 colors. They are ideal for separating and defining spaces, while providing sun protection, increasing privacy, and maintaining openness and airflow. Tesselle carries several patterns in stock, available on a first-come basis, and offers free shipping within the 48 contiguous states. Custom orders are delivered in approximately 12 weeks. 

2. Water Views By Interior Dimensions. The home's main floor was divided into many small rooms with walls that inhibited flow and the views of the water. The designer’s challenge was to open up the floor plan to maximize the water views while still clearly defining the different living zones. This Morocco panel from Redi-Screen perfectly separates the hallway and living room, and honors the home's Mid-century roots.  

3. Standout Entrance By Bart Reines Construction. The custom, two-story architectural breeze block is a standout feature for the entryway to this stunning, modern home in Miami Beach, FL. The breeze block provides a sense of privacy and security for the home, while it’s classic MiMo features allow visibility through the wall and reduce the sense of enclosure.

4. Palm Springs By Pulp Designs and DXV. The designer used breeze blocks to complete the indoor/outdoor feel of this design. It helped to differentiate the spaces without making anything feel closed off.

5. Open Beach Bungalow By White Sands Design Build. This Manhattan Beach home was gutted and completely updated back to its roots. The eclectic Spanish beach bungalow’s floor plan was opened up, and the designer utilized a decorative privacy screen to separate spaces.