Our clients required a shading solution for their 13th floor penthouse apartment. The shading solution was not only required for their west facing balcony which was unusable during summer but also to provide additional protection from the sun to the living spaces which were surrounded by glass. After careful assessment and consultation with engineers two retractable folding arm awnings were chosen with upgraded arm and tilting mechanisms to withstand the extra wind loadings expected for the location. The Soltex team ensured all mounting of the outdoor awnings complied with strict corporate by-laws. To mount one of the awnings installed above the balcony doors, glass had to be removed and a polycarbonate sheeting machine-cut and reglazed by a glazing team around the spacers. In addition, they coordinated a rope-access team to lift the folding arm awnings which are over 8m wide up to the 13th floor as no crane access could be achieved.

When retracted in winter the outdoor awnings fit seamlessly into the building’s façade with colour matched powder coating. When extended the awnings provide 95% UV reduction whilst still allowing light to penetrate. They also provide added privacy and wind reduction to increase the usability of the outdoor living space. Everyone involved in this project was ecstatic with the final result.