What was the project brief?
John Taylor Free School in Tatenhill, Staffordshire was searching for two outdoor canopies to expand the covered facilities on its grounds and help students and staff get out in the fresh air in all seasons. The team there wanted a pair of adaptable, impressive structures that would make an impact and transform their space, with a fun but practical design that complemented the other architecture. The shelters also had to be able to live up to their name and protect everyone beneath them from the elements. A&S Landscape had worked with this trust before, so they naturally approached them when considering their second canopy project.

What was the canopy solution?
They talked through the features of several of their models with John Taylor Free School that they felt were best suited to their needs, and they ultimately chose the Maxima Umbrella™. This stunning and dependable product has a wealth of applications and large coverage, so it is ideal for children looking to utilise it in different ways during school days – and in different weather. They built two identical canopies measuring 8000mm X 8000mm, with Slate Grey steelwork and White roofs that conveyed a feeling of simplicity and class, alongside their impressive stature. As this client’s trust had enjoyed a canopy previously installed by them – an outdoor dining area shelter that successfully fit a substantial amount of bench seating under it – the new structures would go even further to show its commitment to improving environments for its whole community.

What was the result of the shelters?
The outdoor canopies have been a popular new feature at John Taylor Free School. They have really lifted the look of the grounds and turned them into somewhere children can enjoy spending time outside in rain or shine. Everyone likes the fun designs of the two matching Maxima Umbrella™ models which also don’t detract too much from the rest of the site, thanks to their straightforward colouring. What’s more, each shelter can be used as anything from a dining canopy to an outdoor classroom shelter, making them helpful in all sorts of situations. They thoroughly enjoyed working with this school and helping them forge ahead with their plans for improvements and encouraging enjoyment of the outdoors.

About the client
John Taylor Free School was the first new school to be built in Staffordshire for a generation, so it is an important part of its community and local people’s lives. It says that it is at the forefront of educational research and delivers success through a ‘coaching for excellence’ model. Also, it is part of the John Taylor Multi-Academy Trust, so it is driven by their vision that education can improve lives – and the world. A&S Landscape felt aligned with these ideals so supplying their products to this customer was both rewarding and a breeze.

John Taylor Free School is situated in Tatenhill, a village in Staffordshire best known for the old World War II airfield RAF Tatenhill, which is still in use for light aircraft as Tatenhill Airfield. Staffordshire has world-class attractions like Alton Towers Resort and amazing scenery like that of the National Forest to offer as a county.

What are the benefits of fabric canopies?
For customers who want excellent shelter solutions, a fabric canopy is an ideal choice. They are straightforward structures that are easy to install and usually are made up of steel or timber posts, supporting a waterproof PVC fabric or shade cloth covering. The fabric can often be easily detached during periods of heavy rain or snow, or so it can be washed and refreshed. Plus, these shelters are highly durable and can withstand many different kinds of weather so that people can experience the outdoors all through the year.

Tensile fabric canopies also come in a wide range of interesting designs which brighten up any space. From elegant shade sails to fun umbrella models, there is something available for any client. They can have many purposes too – from shelters that shield children from the sun in the playground to covers over seating areas. Get in touch today at sales@aandslandscape.com to see more about how you can use these structures to your advantage.

What sectors does A&S Landscape work with?
A&S Landscape supply covered shelter solutions to all sorts of clients from different areas and walks of life. From primary schools and universities to healthcare sites and public attractions, they take great pleasure in helping all their customers find the right products to fix their problems. Call them on 01743 444100 to discuss your canopy needs with the friendly team.