The Pembury canopy is a bespoke shelter solution developed for a major hospital redevelopment, where architectural presence and technical coordination were equally critical. Designed, manufactured, and installed by Broxap as part of a principal contractor programme, the canopy structures form a defining feature within the hospital estate while providing practical weather protection for patients, visitors, and staff.
Delivered across phased construction works, the project required detailed early-stage surveying and careful integration with the building’s primary steel frame to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout.
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Product Details:
A Bespoke Canopy Design for Healthcare Infrastructure
The Pembury canopy was conceived as a fully bespoke canopy design, tailored to meet the architectural vision and operational requirements of a live healthcare environment. Unlike standard off-the-shelf shelters, each structure was engineered to respond to: • Building interfaces and structural tie-ins • Pedestrian flow and ambulance access routes • Wayfinding considerations • The hospital’s overall aesthetic language
Some of the canopies were designed to connect directly to the main structural steelwork of the hospital building, demanding close collaboration with the wider design and engineering teams.
This level of integration ensures the canopy functions as part of the building fabric rather than as an afterthought.
Phased Construction and Technical Coordination
Due to site restrictions and programmed build stages, the Pembury canopy installation was delivered in two phases, separated by a twelve-month interval. This approach required: • Comprehensive dimensional surveying during the first phase • Accurate recording of structural interfaces • Allowance for construction tolerances • Careful replication of finishes and detailing in the second phase
Such coordination is essential when delivering a canopy for a hospital, where uninterrupted access and operational continuity must be maintained at all times.
The successful alignment between phases demonstrates Broxap’s capability in managing complex public sector infrastructure projects.
Engineered to Interface with Primary Structures
Where a canopy connects to an existing or newly constructed building, structural integrity and detailing are paramount. The Pembury solution incorporated: • Structural steel framework designed to integrate with the main building • Bespoke connection details developed in collaboration with project engineers • Load assessments to account for wind uplift and imposed loads • Consideration of drainage integration and roof junction detailing
These elements ensure that the bespoke shelter performs reliably while preserving the architectural intent of the wider scheme.
A Focal Point Within the Hospital Estate
Beyond providing weather protection, the Pembury canopy was intended to act as a visual anchor within the hospital campus. Its scale and detailing contribute to a strong arrival experience at key entrances and circulation points.
Typical functions include: • Covered pedestrian walkways between departments • Main entrance shelter for patients and visitors • Protection for drop-off and collection zones • Transitional spaces between car parks and buildings
As a canopy for a hospital, it must balance openness and accessibility with robust construction and low maintenance demands.
Materials and Manufacturing Quality
Each Pembury canopy is manufactured in the UK using quality-controlled processes to ensure accuracy and consistency across complex builds. Material specifications are determined by project requirements but typically include: • Structural steelwork fabricated to project-specific dimensions • Protective coatings suitable for exposed external environments • Roofing systems designed for effective water management • Integrated drainage solutions where required
Durable finishes and precise fabrication are particularly important in healthcare settings, where long-term performance and appearance contribute to the overall perception of the estate.
Installation in Live Environments
Hospital sites present unique logistical challenges, including restricted access zones, safeguarding requirements, and tight programme constraints. The Pembury canopy installation strategy accounted for: • Controlled delivery schedules • Minimal disruption to pedestrian and emergency routes • Coordination with other trades • Safe working practices within operational grounds
This approach ensures the shelter can be delivered without compromising day-to-day hospital activity.
Integration with Wider External Works
The Pembury canopy can be incorporated within broader public realm packages, forming part of a coordinated external scheme. It is often specified alongside: • External seating and waiting areas • Cycle parking and covered storage • Bollards and access control measures • Wayfinding signage and lighting columns
This holistic approach supports coherent campus design across healthcare and civic environments.
A Proven Bespoke Shelter for Complex Projects
The Pembury canopy reflects the level of design, engineering, and project management required for large-scale healthcare developments. Its phased delivery, structural integration, and architectural presence demonstrate how a bespoke canopy design can enhance both functionality and identity within a demanding public infrastructure setting.
For architects, contractors, and estates teams seeking a tailored canopy for a hospital or similar high-profile development, the Pembury offers a carefully engineered and professionally delivered solution.
Construction:
Y-shaped elliptical tubular supporting columns
Standing seam roof
Aluminium ‘secret fixed’ shadow soffit system
Bull-nose fascia detail Lighting strip to underside of main canopy
Several smaller glazed canopies, suspended on RHS steel framework
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.
