Adelaide Aquatic Centre Shade Structures
Project Details
Location: North Adelaide, SA
Completion Date: January 2026
Size: 300 sqm
Fabric: PVC - Hiraoka 106T (Sand)
Client: JPE Design Studio / Sarah Constructions
Photography: © Tom Rowe
The Adelaide Aquatic Centre Shade Structures form a striking feature within the redeveloped aquatic precinct, combining functional sun protection with architecture-inspired design. Located above the lagoon pool area, the two circular shade structures provide comfortable shelter for visitors while complementing the flowing forms and curved geometry found throughout the centre.
Designed and delivered by MakMax Australia, the project showcases the flexibility of the Helena Modular Shade Structure range. The two overlapping engineered shade structures blend seamlessly with the surrounding buildings and landscape, creating a distinctive visual landmark while enhancing the usability of the pool area throughout the year.
The Brief
The project team sought a shade solution that would feel like a natural extension of the aquatic centre’s architectural language. Curved forms, circular shapes, and soft flowing lines are recurring themes throughout the development, and the shade structures needed to reflect these design principles while providing effective coverage over the lagoon pool.
The circular form of the Helena Modular Shade Structure made it an ideal starting point for the design. MakMax developed a solution featuring two large overlapping structures measuring 11 metres and 16 metres in diameter. Their sculptural, wave-like appearance complements the surrounding architecture while delivering substantial shade coverage across key areas of the lagoon pool.
Each structure is supported by three Y-shaped perimeter columns, keeping the area below open and unobstructed. By carefully overlapping the canopies, the design maximises usable shade without the need for additional support columns, creating a more inviting and flexible space for visitors.
The Materials
The Adelaide Aquatic Centre shade structures utilise a premium quality Hiraoka 106T PVC membrane in a sand colour selected to complement the aquatic centre’s landscape and architectural palette.
A key advantage of the Helena Modular Shade Structure system is its ability to combine standardised design principles with customised forms. For this project, the membranes were shaped into a flowing double-curved profile, creating the distinctive appearance that ties the structures visually to the broader development.
The premium quality membrane material allows soft, filtered natural light to enter the space while reducing direct sun exposure. This helps maintain a bright and welcoming environment around the lagoon pool while improving visitor comfort.
The tensile membrane canopy form also provides practical performance benefits, encouraging effective water runoff and maintaining the tension required for long-term durability in a demanding outdoor environment.
The Result
The completed Adelaide Aquatic Centre shade structures demonstrate how a modular shade solution can be adapted to create a highly customised architectural outcome. While based on the Helena Modular Shade Structure range, the finished canopies were tailored to suit the unique character of the Adelaide Aquatic Centre and its surrounding landscape.
The overlapping circular canopies provide extensive shade coverage while preserving an open and spacious feel beneath. Their flowing form reflects the curves of the main aquatic centre buildings, helping the structures feel fully integrated into the overall design.
The result is a pair of visually distinctive engineered shade structures that deliver practical sun protection, architectural character, and a premium visitor experience. As both a functional amenity and a design feature, the tensile membrane canopy structures contribute significantly to the appeal and usability of one of Adelaide’s premier aquatic destinations.
