YEAR-ROUND WATERPROOF SHADE SOLUTION

Working alongside Ashley Halliday Architects, Shadeform were tasked with providing a waterproof retractable shade solution for a new courtyard dining area with an emphasis on ease of use, practicality, and functional design.

The coverage area was approximately 8.5m x 10m which exceeds the maximum 6.5m width for a single Shaderunner® system, meaning two systems were required over the courtyard. The unique design of the Shaderunner® features tensile wire support system rather than the heavier structural elements associated with other retractable options. For this application the tensile wires were supported by a series of custom hot dip galvanised and painted brackets, chemically anchored to the existing precast concrete building panels. The flexible design of the Shaderunner® enables it to be installed to a range of support structures, such as to an existing or purpose-built pergola, between walls and many more.

Weatherproofing was a key requirement on this project. Shaderunners® are manufactured from a durable waterproof PVC fabric to effectively manage water runoff. Shaderunners® are installed overlapping with side fall across the width of the fabric, directing rainwater to run across the higher sail, discharging onto the lower sail and across to a custom boxed gutter. This simple but effective solution enables the Shaderunner® to provide weatherproof protection for larger span areas without the need for additional structural elements within the protected area.

The Shaderunner® is available either manually operated with an endless cord system or RTS motorised.  For this commercial application motorised operation was selected, featuring a durable Somfy motor housed in a slimline powdercoated headbox. Further automated control can be provided by the addition of sun or wind sensors to extend or retract the Shaderunners® during different climates. In high wind or heavy rain, the Shaderunner® will retract or extend automatically to protect the shaded area.

The Shaderunner® is manufactured from durable components, including marine grade 316 stainless steel fittings and Ronstan yachting ball bearing pulleys. As a result, the Shaderunner® is ideally suited to a wide range of applications, from the smallest domestic setting right up to large span commercial projects. When designing commercial or residential outdoor spaces, practical shading should be at the forefront of the design process. A well-designed space should consider retractable shading, having the combined effect of reducing the sun’s impact during summer and making the most of available light and warmth in winter. By selecting waterproof fabrics, protection can be extended to include all weather protection for year-round use of outdoor spaces.

Patrons of this courtyard eatery can now enjoy their dining experience with the benefit of all-weather retractable protection for year-round enjoyment.

The Shaderunner® is available Australia-wide, to find out more on the Shaderunner® products and other projects that it has been showcased in, click the links below.