The importance of creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces continues to grow, and architectural innovations play a vital role in transforming commercial buildings and educational institutions. Verandas have long been associated with residential buildings, providing a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. However, the versatility and benefits of these verandas makes them an ideal addition to commercial buildings and schools and have made them immensely popular. Whether it is an office space, a retail establishment, or an educational institution, the integration of a glass or polycarbonate veranda can elevate the overall design, adding a unique touch of elegance, creating an inviting and conducive environment for occupants, and enhancing the building’s functionality. Here, we will explore the various advantages of incorporating verandas into commercial buildings and schools, highlighting their transformative impact with our recent installation at the Co-Op’s Little Pioneers as a case study.
The first impression plays a crucial role in any commercial setting. Verandas offer a unique opportunity to enhance the visual appeal of the building and create a unique brand identity for businesses and educational institutions. They effortlessly add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the building, creating a distinctive look that sets them apart from the others, enhancing its architectural features and the outdoor aesthetic. Whether it is a modern, glass encased veranda, a traditional open-concept structure, or a stylish louvred or retractable system, a well-designed veranda can instantly capture the attention of any visitors, leaving them with a lasting impression of your business or school. At their Lanesfield site, Co-Op’s Little Pioneers was careful to incorporate the choice of bronze polycarbonate and the anthracite grey aluminium frame into the building’s overall aesthetic.
Commercial buildings, schools, and nurseries must all withstand the unpredictable UK weather. The frames are all powder-coated aluminium, providing a robust and long-lasting finish that will not rust or weather, maintaining its structural integrity and visual appeal, even when confronted with the more extreme weather conditions, including rain, UV rays, and harsh temperature fluctuations. The 8.8mm laminate glass and 16mm triple-wall polycarbonate used in our roof systems matches the aluminium in its durability, shielding users from rain, snow, and harmful UV rays, allowing them to be used and enjoyed year-round. For their Lanesfield site, the Co-Op selected our bronze polycarbonate. Its high durability and shatterproof nature ensures the children’s safety, offering protection from the elements and UV rays, while still being capable of withstanding the rigours of playtime and everyday activities. These elements make it an ideal choice for outdoors classrooms and play areas.
In today’s world, energy efficiency is a crucial consideration for commercial buildings and schools. Our polycarbonate and glass verandas contribute to reducing their energy consumption by harnessing the power of natural light. Polycarbonate and glass both allow an abundance of natural light to enter the veranda. For Lanesfield, the bronze polycarbonate material filters the light to create a soft, diffused ambiance. In commercial settings, it creates a bright, inviting environment for customers, employees, and visitors, improving their overall experience. It is proven to enhance productivity and boost mood, while also reducing their dependence on artificial lighting during the day, lowering their energy usage and significantly reducing their utility costs. Additionally, verandas can be further customised with energy-efficient features, such as LED lights, enhancing their sustainability.
Schools and commercial buildings share the twin challenges of space optimisation and flexibility. Our verandas provide an excellent solution to these issues, expanding the usable area and creating some additional, multifunctional space. They can be used as outdoor seating areas for commercial buildings, cafes, and restaurants, where employees can enjoy their breaks in a relaxed environment. In schools and educational institutions, these can serve as outdoor classrooms, enabling students to experience the benefits of nature while engaging with their studies. Outdoor educational spaces can include seating, whiteboards, and multimedia equipment, allowing educators to conduct lessons in a stimulating and wholesome environment. Furthermore, verandas in schools can be used as play areas during their breaks, encouraging physical activity and social interaction among students. The integration of verandas into educational institutions creates an inclusive and holistic learning environment, fostering creativity, imagination, and a love for the outdoors.
Verandas have evolved from being merely a residential feature into a valuable addition to commercial buildings and schools. By incorporating verandas, these establishments can enhance their aesthetic appeal, optimise their available space, and create functional, versatile environments. The use of these verandas also promotes the integration of natural lighting, improving well-being and reducing energy consumption. Moreover, schools and educational institutions like Lanesfield can leverage verandas as outdoor educational spaces, enriching the learning experience for students and nurturing a connection with nature. When it comes to commercial buildings and schools, verandas offer endless possibilities for transformation and information. Investing in the integration of verandas can bring great benefits, creating welcoming spaces that leave a lasting impression on occupants and visitors alike.
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To find our more about Co-Op’s Little Pioneers, please see their website: https://www.littlepioneers.coop/.
Got questions? Here are a few of our most frequently asked!
Why are verandas beneficial for commercial buildings and schools?
Verandas offer both aesthetic and functional benefits, providing an inviting and visually appealing space while enhancing the building’s architectural features. They create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas, giving commercial buildings a unique identity and schools a versatile space that fosters creativity and social interaction.
How do verandas improve the energy efficiency of a building?
By allowing natural light to flood in, verandas reduce the need for artificial lighting, lowering energy consumption and costs. Polycarbonate and glass verandas filter sunlight, creating a comfortable, naturally lit space that can enhance productivity and mood for employees and students alike.
What materials are used in these verandas, and how do they withstand the weather?
Our verandas are constructed from powder-coated aluminium frames, which resist rust and weather damage. Roofs are made from durable 8.8mm laminated glass or 16mm triple-wall polycarbonate, both of which offer long-lasting protection against rain, snow, and UV rays, making them suitable for year-round use.
Can verandas be customised to fit the design of a specific building?
Yes, verandas are fully customisable. With a choice of materials, colours, and finishes, they can be tailored to match the aesthetic of any building, whether modern or traditional. For example, Co-Op’s Little Pioneers selected a bronze polycarbonate roof and anthracite grey frame to complement their site’s design.
What are the potential uses of verandas in educational institutions?
Verandas in schools serve as outdoor classrooms, providing a stimulating learning environment where students can benefit from fresh air and natural surroundings. They can also be used as play areas during breaks, encouraging physical activity and social interaction, which fosters creativity and overall well-being.
How do verandas contribute to an organisation's sustainability goals?
Incorporating verandas promotes energy efficiency through the use of natural lighting and can include energy-efficient features, such as LED lighting. By reducing reliance on artificial lighting, verandas contribute to lower energy usage, supporting a building’s sustainability efforts and reducing its carbon footprint.