Blog
Blog
For decades designing an all-weather outdoor space in the UK has meant preparing for one thing above all else: rain.
And with good reason. In the UK we can expect an average of 156 days of rainfall every year (Statista.com). That’s nearly one day in every two! So protection from showers and drizzly conditions is vital for schools, sports facilities, visitor attractions and garden centres alike if they want to make the most of their outdoor areas.
Rain isn’t the only weather we need to protect against
However, this summer has reminded us that all-weather needs to mean exactly that. Successive heatwaves have seen parts of the UK experiencing conditions that have surpassed even those of the legendary summer of 1976.
It’s another reminder that our climate is changing and with it, the way we need to think about outdoor space and design in the future.
Sunshine: something to celebrate and protect from
Sunshine is of course something to celebrate. We’ve all seen our moods boosted by this year’s endless summer. But consistent sunny conditions – especially when they’re this intense – also present challenges.
Leading dermatologists advise that sun protection should be considered whenever the UV index reaches 3 or above – a level frequently exceeded throughout average British summers and exceeded nearly every day this summer.
So, designing for sunny conditions isn’t simply just about providing shade; it’s about creating outdoor environments that are enjoyable, usable and safe during periods of intense sunshine. And that’s where thoughtful canopy design makes all the difference.
Design solutions that rise to multiple challenges
Our exclusive Opal 60 roof membrane has been developed to admit around 60% natural daylight, preserving the bright, uplifting, sunshiny feeling that makes outdoor spaces so enjoyable and uplifting, while also filtering out harmful UV rays. Importantly Opal 60 also softens glare and reduces the intensity of direct sunlight – essential when creating comfortable outdoor learning and dining environments, optimal playing conditions for year-round padel, or inviting browsing areas in garden centres.
Let’s not be lulled into a false sense of security
While this has summer has undoubtedly challenged us to think more about sunshine, we need to remember that it hasn’t rewritten Britain’s climate! Heavy rainfall, strong winds and unpredictable weather remain very much a part of everyday life. In fact, some scientists predict that rainfall on the UK’s stormiest days will increase by 20% due to climate change (carbonbrief.org). So, the lesson isn’t to design for heat instead of rain. It’s to design for both.
Why durability is more vital than ever in uncertain conditions
As our weather becomes increasingly unpredictable and extreme, durability needs to become a primary design consideration. Structures need to be relied on to perform through scorching sunshine, torrential downpours and everything in-between. That’s why we manufacture every one of our structures in-house, using only premium materials, giving us the confidence to back every installation with a market-leading 25-year guarantee.
Future proofing your environments
The biggest design lesson this summer has taught us is that all-weather shouldn’t just mean staying dry. It means being ready for whatever tomorrow’s forecast brings and the future has in store.
If you’re looking to future proof your environments get in touch today to arrange a complimentary site visit.
