Three retractable roofs from Aalta Australia helped a school create an all-weather multipurpose space outdoors for the students and staff.

The Kindergarten to Year 12 Independent School on the Northern Beaches is located in beautiful semi-rural settings and has outdoor spaces for the whole school community to enjoy. A deck measuring 21m x 9.5m, built beside the natural creek allows outdoor ‘classrooms’ to be conducted in addition to community events such as morning teas.

Though the school had a few permanent umbrellas, they did not provide sufficient shade or protection from the rain, making it difficult for the community to use it all year round.

Aalta was commissioned to design, build and install a retractable roof over the area. The brief required Aalta to make sure the new retractable roof would fit in with the natural landscape, be long-lasting and enable the school community to use the space for more functions and in different weather conditions.

Three Papilio retractable roofs from Aalta were installed in this outdoor space, each at 7 metres while a custom made timber frame ensured that the roof worked with the environmental surrounds. Each roof works independently via a multi-channel remote control, giving the school complete flexibility for its use.

Additionally, gas heaters were installed by Aalta to allow the community to enjoy the deck even in the colder months of the year or during evening functions.

Aalta’s retractable roofs have created a wonderfully functional space that can be used in most weather conditions.

Client’s testimonial:

“The addition of our Aalta retractable roof has completely transformed our deck. The versatility and quality of the Aalta system is amazing! It not only looks fantastic, it also allows us to precisely control the balance between sunlight and shade to suit our preference on any given day.” - Head of Operations

Image: The Papilio retractable roofs have allowed the deck to be used for more functions and school activities through the year