Canopies in Commercial Refurbishment
One of the most common forms of
refurbishment is often external. Replacing
fascias, soffits and cladding to improve not
only the overall aesthetic of the building but
also its performance. With higher performing,
pleasant buildings, landlords are capable of
seeking higher rents and proprietors see an
increased revenue through user experience
and satisfaction.
Two recent projects, while contrasting on
the outset, both highlight the importance of
maximising use of outside space to add to
user experience which, in turn, adds further
value to the estate.
Angouleme Way Retail Park in Bury has
recently undertaken a site-wide external
refurbishment, refreshing the insulation and
external cladding for retail units occupied by
retailers including TK Maxx, Argos and PC
World. As part of the works, tendered out by
the landlords, new entrance canopies were
also specified, replacing the tired structures
which previously served to sit above the store
entrances. At over 8 metres in height and
oversailing the stores entrances, the new
canopies not only provide weather protection
for shoppers but also serve as a visual
attraction, signifying that the retail park is
worth a visit.
With the current situation emphasising the
importance of outside space and allowing
for people to queue or gather outside a
property, canopies and external shelters are
to become more prevalent in public areas,
where landlords and business owners seek to
62 - www.refurbandrestore.co.uk
provide areas for the public to shop in safety
and comfort.
The same can be said for the public sector,
be it within retail environments or other public
enterprises.
The recent refurbishment of Thornhill
Crematorium, owned and operated by
Cardiff City Council, also made use of the
outside space, providing areas for mourners
to gather in comfort, protected from the
elements, and also for funeral directors
to conduct their business in safety. The
Council opted for a series of timber canopies,
walkways and porte cocheres constructed
from glulaminated timber; an engineered
sustainable material designed for its
structural integrity and visual appeal. This
material adds a natural warmth to the exterior
of the building, while still providing protection
from rain, sleet and UV.
Fordingbridge plc, a West Sussex based firm
specialising in the design and build of such
structures, provided the canopy elements for
each project. Working to a rigorous internal
process, they are able to provide all design,
structural engineering and manufacture
requirements from their custom built facility
at the foot of the South Downs National Park.
For more information on the projects above,
visit fordingbridge.co.uk