2019 Archive : ProjecAshworth

Project Details

Fabric 1

Sundream
Producer: Hiraoka & Co. Ltd.
Supplier: OTHER

Please describe the project specifications

We were contracted to manufacture a 12m long x 1.4m extension waterproof frame to fit underneath an existing pergola. This was on a balcony of a FIFTH floor penthouse apartment! The pergola posts were going to be in the way, so we had to accurately measure the frame for manufacture with cutouts for these posts. The deck was already very narrow and they did not want to lose any of the potential deck area by making the frame within the posts. We also manufactured a gutter which would be retrofitted in two parts, once the main frame was installed. As the frame was 12m long, we welded it in two parts so it would fit in the anodiser’s bath and be easier to maneuver.

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

The customer wanted to be able to use the deck and BBQ all year round. They found it too hot in summer and too wet and cold in winter. With the addition of outdoor blinds they would have a complete room that was useable in all weather. The customer did not want to lose too much light, so they chose a translucent fabric. The customer did not want any penetration of the apartment walls, so the frame and gutter had to be mounted to the existing timber pergola.

What is unique or complex about the project?

Access was the biggest issue on this job, as we could not get the awnings up to site in any way except up the side of the building and over the balcony which was 14m high in the air. As they were only light, we chose to rope them up. The awning was made in two 6m long pieces, and with 3 guys at the top to pull and 2 guys at the bottom to guide it up, we sent up the panels one at a time and a bag of tools.
The balcony itself was narrow and once we got all 5 guys and our stuff on it we were tripping over each other.
We installed the awnings under the customers’ existing pergola. The awning had to have cut outs to go around the pergola posts, and a gutter was retrofitted on the outside of the frame by one of the team members, who was harnessed in, and didn’t look down!

What were the results of the project?

The customer is very happy with their new covered area, they can BBQ anytime and are protected from the rain and the sun, without blocking any of the light into their apartment.

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