From what you have described, it seems that the previous owner used the rolled up timber blinds. This is the cheaper option.
If aesthetic is your priority, maybe you want to consider using these aluminum sun screen



Added on with the tinting, that should be able reduce the heat transmission into your unit.
When getting the tinting, go for the highest Total Solar Energy/Heat Rejection (TSER). No point compromising these for cheap window tints.

The aluminum sun screen is installed at the balcony railing location. You could still use the balcony. There is also another one that I happen to come across where the blades could be adjusted. Not sure if it could be rolled up.

BTW, I think there are also the timber kind that works quite the same like the aluminum sun screen. Try google...

Install turbine ventilators, aluminum insulation sheets, install rockwool in the ceiling, paint your roof with Nippon Solaroof paint

These are just some of the methods that people used. You do not have to use all of them.
Installing the turbine ventilators is the cheapest. Cost less the 1k for those reputable brands.

Doubt very much you are allowed to install the turbine ventilation of strata title property. You will have to check with the management first.
You could install them on most landed property. On some landed properties within a G&G, I have heard from friends that their management does not allow.

hahaha. Cannot install on the wall la... That's not how the turbine ventilator works

To give you an idea, you could look them up in the net or read HERE



This post has been edited by kelvyn: Sep 5 2011, 09:12 PM

Best is to avoid property facing West if possible.