SUMMER 2018 The benefits of going big


The benefits for schools of being able to cover large spaces so they can be used more often for more activities are numerous. It helps to maximise the use of the whole school estate, and adds a focal point for school life, with the newly transformed area becoming a hub of social activity. It gives a new space for dining, sports and entertainment.


So why don?t more schools who have large spaces take on projects to add shelter to those areas?


Large areas can be tricky. How will a canopy fit in with surrounding buildings? How will it be fixed? What costs are involved? Will the space be safe for users?


A compelling solution is the use of timber framed canopies that overcome many of the obstacles to transforming larger spaces into useable areas that enhance school life.


For example, our domed Tarnhow timber framed canopy provides the following benefits:


- A good fit with surrounding buildings. The stylish look and finish of timber complements both modern and traditional buildings, leading to an elegant finished installation.


- When compared to steel frames, timber canopies are lower cost and are efficient to install and maintain.


- Safe to use. A domed canopy removes the need for supporting posts which means no obstacles for those who use the canopy space. The materials use are also fully safety checked and meet accepted British and European standards.


Our timber canopies can be enhanced with the addition of lights and heating to extend the opportunities for the space to be used. They can be stained in a range of colours to fit in with the surrounding buildings or wider environment.


If you want to make the most of the big opportunity to enhance school life on your campus then the Tarnhow timber frame could be the option for you.


The bigger the space, the bigger the benefit


This is a great example of how to transform a large, uncovered space. It showcases the beauty of a timber frame and how well the natural material works with the surrounding buildings. It also delivers the practical benefits that schools require. In this case, it was the provision of the maximum useable space that was safe and flexible.


The Tarnhow Dome Free Standing Canopy allowed the space to be covered with no central supporting posts, meaning children could move freely under the canopy. The space can be used in many ways - dining, break times and even school events. This approach also delivered a cost-effective price that could not be achieved with other options, such as steel.


The pictures show the finished canopy which is a colossal 35 metres long, by 11 metres wide and 5 metres high. It fits in perfectly with the surrounding buildings and turns what could have been dead space into the vibrant heart of the school day, with many pupils using if for dining and meeting.


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