Company:
Fresco Shades NZ Limited Wairau Valley,

Project Details

Fabric 1

Précontraint 502
Producer: Ferrari S.A.
Supplier: W Wiggins Ltd



Please describe the project specifications

A replacement of an existing structure, this kindergarten project consisting of an angled canopy and side screens over an eco deck. This was a complex design, made and installed under huge time pressure.


What was the purpose of this project? What did the client request?

This kindergarten already had an existing shade structure with a polycarb roof and some very ugly curtains. The owners had decided to tear down the old canopy, replace the deck – with eco deck, revamp the roof and gutter, and modernise the look with a new and larger canopy. The deck was very much an extension of the building, and the brief was for a modern looking sheltered area for the kids to play and keep a lot of toys and learning aids.


What is unique or complex about the project?

There was nothing standard about this project. The shape of the deck meant we had to worry about the change in height at the front, and angles, using laser squares and tape on the deck to mark the outline of the canopy before measuring.
As the deck was composite decking, our posts could not be directly attached to this therefore additional strengthening had to be done under the boards for our posts. Part of the front section of the canopy was designed to follow the angle of the deck and this had to be all worked out using 3D CAD software to get it spot on and foresee any issues that may arise.
Timing was critical – we had very little time to make and install – 7 working days, including special brackets being custom made. Builders working on site were there over Xmas and gave us little time to work on the canopy and get it in place before the kindy opened.


What were the results of the project?

Our client was really happy, he put us under pressure and we were able to perform despite the time pressures and technical issues. We feel we cemented an ongoing relationship – the caretaker has 3 of our canopies at his 2 homes, and has since talked to us about other projects on his list.


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