Canopy Design Ideas

Canopies have many goals - to invite, advertise, stimulate, and protect. Here are some general uses of the canopy

Canopies outside shops, restaurants, hotels and pubs not only have the ability to create great entrances, but can also be your brand's signature. Awning green outside Harrods for example, is a building trademark. Designed in store colors, the canopy is the core of Harrods.

The concept of advertising on awnings is not limited to names of shops, restaurants and hotels. In restaurants and bars especially, the owners will often advertise brands of alcohol or other products. This is a form of outdoor advertising, it does not have to be expensive and very effective.

Sometimes it's a privilege to see some really cool and creative canopies. One example is the inflatable roof canopy. The Dutch collective known as Overtreders W. built an inflatable canopy nicknamed The Roof That Goes Up in Smoke. It is an illuminated cushion that sits on a wooden pole and is inflated by a wood stove. A picnic table sits underneath where guests can enjoy a meal or a drink outdoors.

Among their architectural goals is building something sustainable. Inspired by palm trees, the roof is made of a canopy that protects from the sun while generating renewable energy. Physical design though it actually looks like a palm tree, or a bird with its wings spread.

There is an opportunity to reopen the space for the public. A competition is held on what to do with the new space and more than 130 entries are submitted.

Having a shady area on a school campus is not just a great idea, it's a necessity. It is very common for schools to have a canopy that extends from the side of the building. It is also useful to keep buildings cool in hot summer months without having to waste too much energy to keep the air conditioning on.

Of course, landscape architects could go a step further and build a free shelter in place. This is a great thing to do an outdoor class or organize an outdoor event.