2022
St Crispin’s School
Client
St Crispin’s School
Location
Edinburgh
Contractor
McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd
Client
St Crispin’s School
Location
Edinburgh
Contractor
McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd
Delivering a canopy system for flexible outdoor learning
We designed and installed a series of tensile fabric canopies at St Crispin’s School, creating sheltered, adaptable spaces that support outdoor learning, play and social interaction.
Expanding Usable Space Beyond the Classroom
St Crispin’s School required additional outdoor space that could be used consistently throughout the year. The brief focused on improving playground usability, providing shade, shelter and defined areas for learning and social activity.
The solution needed to be practical, cost-effective and visually engaging, enhancing the school environment without introducing unnecessary complexity. It also needed to support multiple uses, from informal play to structured outdoor learning and events.
A Simple Canopy System
The Mendip 4P 400 is a popular multi-functional canopy from our pre-designed range fabric canopy range. It was the most appropriate structure for the project as they are perfectly suited for providing play shade, shelter and covered seating with an elegant yet simple design.
The use of colour adds a playful, engaging quality to the space, helping to define different areas within the playground while reinforcing a sense of identity across the site.
A More Usable School Environment
The completed canopy scheme has transformed the school’s outdoor areas, creating sheltered spaces that can be used throughout the year. The structures support a wide range of activities, from outdoor learning and group work to play and social interaction.
By extending the usability of the playground, the project provides lasting value for both students and staff, demonstrating how simple, well-considered additions to spaces can unlock underused space.
