Brewery Yard Umbrellas
Project Details
Location: Chippendale, NSW
Completion Date: October 2025
Size: 8 x Centra CS40 Umbrellas
Fabric: PVC - Serge Ferrari 502 (Concrete)
Client: Brewery Yard Unit Trust / OzSun
Photography: © OzSun
The design and installation of the Brewery Yard Umbrellas formed part of the major redevelopment of the historic Brewery Yard, a significant central-Sydney site with a history dating back to the former Kent Brewery.
The redevelopment transformed the site into a contemporary commercial, hospitality and retail precinct, while retaining and celebrating the character of its historic industrial buildings. At the centre of the complex, Brewery Yard provides a vibrant setting for outdoor dining and hospitality.
MakMax was engaged to develop a shade and weather protection solution that would complement the architectural vision while creating a comfortable, functional space for al fresco dining.
The Brief
Working closely with the project developers and architects, MakMax explored a number of design options for the Brewery Yard dining area. These included a bespoke custom structure and linked modular shade structures, before the final solution was developed using a series of interconnected Centra CS40 Architectural Umbrellas.
Eight CS40 umbrellas were arranged in a U-shaped configuration to create a covered dining area. The design was developed to provide more than overhead shade, incorporating connecting infill panels, aluminium guttering and roll-down blinds to provide additional protection from rain and wind.
The umbrella structures were also engineered with increased height, creating a more open and spacious environment beneath the canopy while allowing space for the installation of heating and lighting equipment.
The Concept
The Materials
The eight Centra CS40 Architectural Umbrellas feature engineered steel frames designed and manufactured to suit the requirements of the site and overall configuration.
The umbrellas are clad in Serge Ferrari Soltis 502 PVC fabric in the ‘Concrete’ colour selected by the client. The contemporary neutral finish complements the surrounding architecture and provides a cohesive visual connection between the new dining area and the historic buildings.
Connecting infill panels and aluminium guttering form an integrated part of the overall system, directing rainwater towards the perimeter of the dining area. Roll-down blinds provide additional flexibility, allowing the space to be enclosed when increased protection from wind and rain is required.
The Result
The Brewery Yard Umbrellas create a distinctive outdoor dining environment that combines architectural form with practical weather protection.
The interconnected Centra Architectural Umbrellas provide a generous covered area while retaining an open, contemporary feel beneath the structures. Integrated guttering, infill panels and roll-down blinds extend the functionality of the dining area, helping the space remain comfortable as weather conditions change.
The result is a modern architectural umbrella solution that complements the transformation of Brewery Yard, providing a practical and visually cohesive addition to this historic Chippendale precinct.
