Loughborough University, Covered Seating Canopy

Navigate Portfolio

Creating Attractive, All-Weather Outdoor Space

Project: Loughborough University, Covered Seating Canopy
Description: Creating Attractive, All-Weather Outdoor Space
Client: Loughborough University
Location: Loughborough
Applications: Playground Dining Meeting Point Sunshade Canopy Centrepiece
Ref: 2398

Get A Quote

Loughborough University approached Tensile Fabric Ltd to design and install two tensile fabric canopy structures at its Creative Arts Centre, creating attractive, covered seating areas to support outdoor dining and social use throughout the year.

The first installation features our Virgo tensile fabric canopy, a pre-designed structure that proved particularly well suited to the existing site. Its carefully considered design allows the supporting legs to be positioned away from existing building foundations, making it an effective solution for retrofit applications where space and existing structures need to be taken into account.

The Virgo canopy also provides a generous area of weather protection while requiring relatively small foundations. This helps to reduce groundworks, minimise disruption and simplify installation – important considerations when working within an operational university environment.

Durable, low-maintenance and designed to withstand the UK climate, this type of commercial outdoor canopy is ideal for universities, schools, hospitality venues and other environments looking to make greater use of outdoor space throughout the year.

Bespoke Design for Existing Buildings

Alongside the standard Virgo structure, Tensile Fabric Ltd designed and installed a bespoke tensile fabric canopy specifically to integrate with the existing Creative Arts Centre building.

The custom-designed structure demonstrates our ability to develop tailored fabric canopy solutions where a standard product cannot fully meet the requirements of the site. Designed around the existing building and its constraints, the canopy provides effective all-weather coverage while creating a cohesive addition to the surrounding architecture.

Together, the two installations demonstrate how engineered tensile fabric structures can transform underused external areas into attractive, functional spaces, while offering practical installation and long-term performance.

Go To Bespoke Exterior Portfolio