APPLICATION OF PROJECT

Playground canopy

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Wigley Reserve playground structure features an architectural shade canopy, designed to become a functional feature of the play space. The structure is a unique cable net canopy that utilises Gale Pacific Commercial Heavy 430 mesh. The concept behind the design was to provide adequate shade to the children below whilst simultaneously adding to the fun, adventurous spirit of the facility.

The overall design of the park builds upon the existing play space and fitness hub, created to be accessible by all. A fresh and vibrant recreational area integrated within the reserve, drawing on inspiration from the sand dunes that once inhabited the region.

DESIGN / FABRICATION / INSTALLATION BRIEF

Fabritecture was contracted for the design and construction of a cable-net architectural shade canopy covering a playground that was to become part of the Wigley Reserve development. The fabric structure was primarily designed to provide shade to the playground below but was also required to add to the overall ambience of the redevelopment project. The canopy covers approximately 240m².

The painted steel frame supports the cable net structure with Gale Pacific Commercial Heavy 430 shade cloth panels of 1.4 x 1.4 supported within the cable net. The unique shade structure was part of an upgrade in the development of a prominent reserve within Glenelg North, Wigley Reserve, in SA.

STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

The shade canopy was designed to hover over the children’s play space underneath, so had certain height and clearance requirements. Perimetral catenary cables tension the SS cable grid where the individual mesh panels are fixed. The stainless steel cable grid and cable clamps hold the canopy fabric panels.

The cable net shade structure is unique and striking and integrates seamlessly with the play space underneath, whilst providing shade protection to the people below.

MATERIALS

The canopy utilises Gale Pacific Commercial Heavy 430 mesh fabric which is specially developed for large span tensioned fabric structures. The canopy provides shade and coverage to approximately 240 square meters underneath.

FABRICATION

The canopy is architecturally unique, comprising of cable-net support structure, painted steel frame, and 1.4 x 1.4 shade cloth panels supported within the cable net.

COLLABORATION, CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

To install the canopy at Wigley Reserve, the frame was assembled on the ground before being lifted onto 6 posts using a Slew Crane. Cable net is used to achieve tension within the structure. The canopy makes a wonderful addition to the very popular playground and provides an effective sun canopy to protect the children while they play.

COSTS

The Wigley Reserve project is valued at AUD$250k.

COLOUR IMAGES

OTHER INFORMATION - PROJECT CREDITS