Maximise small outdoor living spaces with the right canopy

Choosing the right canopy design for your project

According to Grant Stewart from Archgola, the starting point for designing a canopy is to determine the amount of sunlight and warmth required in the space. Roof types can range from transparent products to the signature corrugated styles offered by Archgola, each with specific properties that cater to different light and heat control levels.

Stewart advises, “When considering a canopy, an important discussion point to have with the client is how they intend to use the area. An Archgola canopy creates a covered outdoor room or living area rather than a sealed space like a conservatory. However, flashings can be installed in certain situations for added protection,” he adds.

When asked whether or not to align the canopy roof with the angle of the roof, Stewart remarks, “With a custom-designed structure, the fall of the canopy roof can often be aligned with the house roof, which offers that desirable seamless look.”

“There will be a fall of at least five degrees to allow for water flow,” he adds.

Being locally owned, Archgola canopies are designed with New Zealand's climate in mind. Since its inception in 1998, Archgola has become the ideal choice for canopies and shade solutions for architectural projects. Its purpose-built facility on Auckland’s North Shore allows complete control over production quality.

When it comes to adding outdoor blinds to the pergola, Stewart recommends that this should be decided on before the structure is designed and built: “When covering a U-shaped space, the typical design will attach to the soffit at the back of the space and cover towards the house end,” he says. “This results in having posts installed at the end of the canopy, which enables the inclusion of outdoor blinds for added weather protection or privacy.”

“Alternatively, you can attach to one side of the house and cover across the space, avoiding the need for posts,” Stewart adds.

Tips on selecting outdoor blinds and frames

When designing an outdoor area, selecting mesh blinds can significantly enhance comfort by reducing glare, providing privacy and allowing natural breezes. Options include clear or mesh blinds in a range of colours, such as whites, greys, and blacks, offering both style and functionality to the outdoor space.

Archgola’s commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of its meticulous manufacturing process. Each Archgola canopy is constructed using only quality materials, which are compliant with New Zealand's stringent building codes. The galvanised steel frames, developed in partnership with New Zealand’s leading industrial tube manufacturer, Industrial Tube, are durable and robust. The powder-coated frames offer additional protection and a premium finish in nearly any colour, including bright options for high visibility.

The Dulux Protexture powdercoat solution provides an excellent easy care finish, Stewart remarks, which is less inclined to mark than traditional powdercoat surfaces.

Archgola offers roofing materials in a variety of transparent flat polycarbonate, greca, web glass, and colour steel options, depending on the desired warmth and light transfer. Clever flashings and guttering systems make the canopies as watertight as possible.

How long does it take to build a pergola?

The installation process is streamlined, typically taking just one day, unless the project is exceptionally large. The entire process, from design to installation, is completed within six to eight weeks. Archgola's licensed installers manage all engineering and council consent requirements, making it easy to create weather-protected zones for homes, businesses, and other outdoor spaces.

Archgola also offers outdoor curtains and blinds for added weather protection. Both Ziptrak and Archgola’s Ezi Guide system, featuring mesh or transparent PVC blinds, are a durable solution suitable for residential and commercial applications.

What sets the company apart is not just the quality of its products but the comprehensive support provided throughout the project. The team is experienced in navigating local building codes and environmental conditions, ensuring that each project meets all necessary requirements.

Whether you're looking to create a shaded retreat for your home or a sheltered area for your next project, Archgola’s custom-designed canopies and blinds offer an attractive, durable and adaptable solution to enhance the outdoor living experience. With over two decades of experience, Archgola remains the trusted choice for outdoor shade and shelter solutions across New Zealand.

Contact the Archgola team on ArchiPro today for assistance with your next project.