The atrium canopy provides a versatile roofing solution for courtyard, quadrangle, and entrance applications, transforming open external areas into sheltered, light-filled environments. Originally developed to span three separate courtyard spaces totalling over 1,800m², this system demonstrates how engineered timber and steel can be combined to create large-scale covered areas without compromising natural daylight.
Suitable for education, healthcare, and commercial developments, the atrium canopy enhances the usability of exterior spaces while maintaining architectural coherence.
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Product Details:
Designed to Span Large Courtyard Areas
The atrium canopy was conceived as a cost-effective means of covering substantial roof openings across multiple internal courtyards. By introducing a permanent roof structure, previously exposed areas can be repurposed for circulation, informal gatherings, or sheltered breakout spaces.
Typical applications include: • School and college quadrangles • Hospital courtyards • University campuses • Commercial office atriums • Civic and community buildings
By enclosing these areas at roof level while retaining open sides, the canopy creates a protected microclimate that supports year-round use.
Engineered Structure with Glulam and Steel
The structural composition of the atrium canopy combines glulam beams with a supporting steel framework, delivering strength across wide spans.
Structural Elements • Glu-lam beams spanning the length of roof openings • Integrated structural steel framework • Carefully detailed connection points • Engineered load-bearing design for large-scale coverage
The use of engineered timber introduces warmth and architectural interest, while steel components provide the necessary rigidity and stability for substantial spans.
As a specialist canopy manufacturer UK, Broxap ensures all elements are fabricated to precise tolerances to support efficient on-site assembly and long-term performance.
Polycarbonate Roofing System
The canopy features a non-fragile, structural polycarbonate roofing system designed to allow high levels of light transmission while providing reliable weather protection.
Benefits of the roofing specification include: • Excellent natural daylight penetration • Reduced need for artificial lighting during daytime hours • Impact-resistant performance • Suitability for large uninterrupted spans
Where project requirements demand alternative aesthetics, configurations can be developed towards a glass atrium canopy appearance, depending on specification and performance criteria.
Flexible Use as an Entrance Canopy
In addition to covering courtyards, the atrium system can be configured in cantilevered form to function as a substantial entrance canopy. This approach is particularly effective for: • Main school or university entrances • Hospital drop-off zones • Corporate reception areas • Public building forecourts
The same structural principles apply, delivering robust shelter while maintaining a visually open and welcoming frontage.
A Bespoke Canopy Solution
Each atrium canopy is designed in response to the specific geometry and structural constraints of the project. As a fully bespoke canopy, it can be tailored to: • Irregular courtyard dimensions • Existing building interfaces • Drainage and water management requirements • Integration with façade systems
Early-stage collaboration with architects and structural engineers ensures compatibility with surrounding structures and compliance with relevant building standards.
Durability and Long-Term Performance
When covering large areas, durability and lifecycle value are critical. The atrium canopy is engineered to perform reliably in exposed UK conditions through: • Treated glulam timber for external use • Protective coatings to steel elements • Non-fragile roofing systems designed for maintenance safety • Considered detailing to manage rainwater runoff
These measures support reduced maintenance demands and sustained structural integrity over time.
Installation and Project Delivery
Manufactured in the UK, the atrium canopy is delivered with comprehensive installation services across the UK and Ireland. Large-scale courtyard installations require careful sequencing and coordination with other trades, particularly where works are undertaken within operational education or healthcare environments.
Broxap’s experience in delivering complex canopy structures ensures accurate alignment, secure fixing, and efficient programme management.
Integration Within Wider External Works
The atrium canopy can be incorporated into broader public realm strategies. It is often specified alongside: • External seating and breakout furniture • Cycle parking facilities • Wayfinding signage • Landscaping and boundary treatments
This coordinated approach maximises the functionality of newly sheltered spaces and supports cohesive site design.
Enhancing External Spaces Through Structural Shelter
The atrium canopy transforms open courtyards and entrances into usable, weather-protected environments without sacrificing natural light. Combining engineered timber, steel framing, and high-performance roofing, it provides a robust and adaptable solution for large-scale developments.
For architects and specifiers seeking a structurally confident yet visually sympathetic canopy, the atrium system offers a practical and carefully engineered approach to covering substantial external areas.
Integrated guttering and downpipes into school roof drainage system
Watertight “Capex” glazing bar capping system
Delivery Message
Broxap offer a standard carriage service for all products, this usually takes between 3-28 days as lead times vary on specific products and quantities.
Originally specified to be ETFE pillowtype atrium covers, the main contractor, Lend Lease, approached Broxap to provide a cost effective solution to covering three individual quadrangle/courtyard areas, totalling over 1,800m2...
Part of an £18m new building at the St. Albans Academy in Birmingham, this project involved creating a large abstract design roof, that spanned two buildings, which introducing light and complimented the other architectural design, as well as creating and installing a unique balustrade system...
