Elfed High School in Flintshire Adds Dining Shelter

What was the project brief?

Elfed High School in Buckley, Flintshire wanted a dining area canopy that could also function as a multi-purpose, covered space. They were looking for a high-quality model that combined practicality with an appealing design that complemented their branding – for the best of both worlds. The shelter also needed to be able to protect many students at once from bad weather while enjoying their breaks outdoors by having extensive dimensions. The staff approached us here at A&S Landscape because they were impressed with our canopy designs.

What was our dining canopy solution?

We looked at several different products from our range with Elfed High School and they were pleased with the overall service we gave during the consultation period. They liked our Motiva Duo™ the best, so we installed one on-site to create their dining canopy. This model has a duopitch symmetric roof that makes a statement in any outdoor space and works well at sheltering anyone beneath it from the rain. It was ideal to encourage the children to get out in the fresh air more often because its 20000mm X 7500mm specifications could accommodate dozens of people at break times and lunchtimes. What’s more, the staff chose a design that successfully matched the school colours: Sapphire Blue steelwork and an Opal polycarbonate roof. The canopy could even have a multitude of other uses, such as being an outdoor classroom shelter.

What was the result of the canopy?

Everyone at Elfed High School benefits from the new dining shelter and its design has made the space both more modern and functional. Students can now eat, chat with friends or even study outside, thanks to the covered area, and take some well-earned time away from lessons and exams. The canopy could revolutionise the institution’s outdoor learning too, or enable it to provide a wellbeing boost to its community by using it as a relaxation space. Plus, the durable product holds up well against wind and rain, so the unpredictable British weather doesn’t stop anyone from dining outside, no matter the season. We were thrilled to hear that they will be able to use the shelter in many aspects of their daily life.

About the client

Elfed High School is an 11-16 secondary institution. It teaches over 900 students and helps them to achieve academic success and look after their wellbeing. The five core values there of Respect, Honesty, Integrity, High Aspirations and Self Belief enable the children to live well in their local communities. It was a pleasure to work with the staff and contribute something to their facilities that will help to boost everyone’s health in various ways.

This client is situated in Buckley, Wales, which is known historically for being an industrial centre for pottery, bricks and coal. It has a proud tradition of a Jubilee which has been taking place for over 160 years, as well as two nature reserves, a golf course and the lovely, nearby Clwydian countryside which all present great opportunities for residents to keep fit and enjoy time with loved ones. Buckley is certainly a wonderful place to live or visit.

How can academic institutions use shelter colours in different ways?

Colour schemes and combinations can make a huge difference to the feel of a canopy and the impact it has on the site where it is installed. There are multiple choices for steel, polycarbonate, fabric and post pad shades, and schools can use them to convey different messages. For example, they could extend their branding to their outdoor facilities with a shelter by picking out Traffic Red steelwork, should that be one of their colours. A primary school might decide on a bright design to make for a fun and playful atmosphere, such as with a multicoloured roof. A secondary institution could consider something a little more modern to show its dedication to constantly improving facilities and keeping up with fast-moving times – a sleek Slate Grey canopy might convey this. Universities can use various shades in their covered solutions – which can also help international students to adapt to the unpredictable British weather – including to match the architecture of their campuses which may have contemporary or more traditional looks.

Whatever the institution, it’s clear they can benefit from careful design choices to get the most out of their canopies. At A&S Landscape, we have the widest range of colours available in the industry, so contact us to discuss your project on 01743 444100 now.

What other sectors does A&S Landscape work in?

We don’t just work with customers from the academic sector; we provide shelter solutions to a range of other industries. From healthcare sites like hospitals and medical centres to public attractions, parks and garden centres, we are proud to use our experience as canopy and shelter specialists to offer all clients their ideal products. Give us a call today on 01743 444100 or email us at [email protected] to find out more about us.