Public space shade structure Plaza

Description
The Plaza Shades is a modular shading system engineered to shape and activate public plazas and urban outdoor spaces. The demountable framework provides sheltered zones for seating, events and pedestrian flows while allowing flexible layouts adapted to site-specific placemaking needs. The primary frame is composed of steel columns and slats (Corten steel, galvanised or powder-coated) connected by hot-dip galvanised junctions. Roof and infill areas can accommodate solar panels, translucent panels or planting-support panels; horizontal and vertical wind bracing increase structural stability.

Key features

• Modular system with configurable layout and linked modules
• Columns and slats available in Corten steel, galvanised steel or powder-coated steel (RAL)
• Hot-dip galvanised junctions for durable connections
• Shading infill options: expanded metal or recyclable 3D‑printed plastic
• Roof options: customer-supplied solar panels, translucent plastic or glass panels
• Optional LED spotlights integrated into columns for lighting of public areas
• Designed for placemaking and multi-use public spaces

Materials information

• Galvanised steel: silver-grey appearance with zinc flakes; slightly textured; will dull within 1–6 months; expected lifespan ≈ 50 years; maintenance: none
• Powder-coated finish: smooth RAL-coloured coating applicable to steel/aluminium/Corten/galvanised steel; expected lifespan ≈ 10 years; recyclable
• Corten steel: weathering steel with warm red-brown patina; rough texture; forms protective oxide layer in 1–3 years; expected lifespan ≈ 50 years; recyclable

Technical specifications

• Module footprint: 300 × 300 cm (standard module)
• Standard clearance height to bottom edge of roof: 300 cm
• Optional second-level roof: clearance height 485 cm
• Columns and slats materials: Corten, galvanised or powder-coated steel (RAL)
• Shading infill: expanded metal or 3D‑printed recycled plastic; optional translucent panels or solar panels on roof areas
• Structural reinforcement: horizontal and vertical wind bracing
• Connections: hot-dip galvanised junctions
• Lighting: optional LED spotlights integrated in columns
• Modularity: modules can be linked and arranged in multiple configurations to fit site and programming needs
• Example sizes from configurator: heights 335 cm (standard) and 485 cm (second level); example module lengths: 300, 600, 900, 920, 1220 cm; example width: 620 cm