Along with the client, Shade Engineering decided to use large, central column structures to minimize the number of columns while providing the best coverage. Natural Shade coverage provided by the adjacent buildings was taken into account when designing the layout of the umbrellas. Figure 1 below shows the variation in shade to the quadrangle area throughout the year. The area known as "Pod 1" was under full sun all year round while Pods 2 and 3 received some shade during the winter months. It was for this reason a Monaco umbrella was used in "Pod 1" to provide maximum coverage.
Scott Kelly of Shade Engineering recommended Centra hexagonal shaped umbrellas early in the quoting process, the rational being that the hexagonal shape fit seamlessly with the quadrangle architecture. Figure 2 shows the quadrangle area with the proposed placement of the umbrellas.
Decision makers at Melville State High School are very pleased with the outcome and services provided. The layout along with the simplistic design of the MakMax Centra range meant competitor's products and service could not compete.
