John Paul College Helena
Project Details
Location: Kalgoorlie, WA
Completion Date: January 2016
Size: 14m Helena (151 sqm)
Fabric: PVC - Serge-Ferrari TX30-II
Client: Shade Engineering / John Paul College
Photography: © Shade Engineering
The John Paul College Helena shade structure provides reliable protection for the outdoor amphitheatre at the South Kalgoorlie school. Featuring a waterproof PVC canopy, it ensures shade and weather protection for a large courtyard and seating area, perfect for school gatherings. The saddle-shaped school shade structure design encourages natural airflow, keeping the space cool on hot days.
This project, completed by Shade Engineering, MakMax Australia’s Western Australian representative, is based on the MakMax Helena engineered shade structure. Its distinctive saddle-shaped edge-beam undulates around the perimeter, creating a striking visual with high and low sections.
The Concept
The Materials
MakMax Australia was responsible for the design and fabrication of the Helena, while Shade Engineering expertly handled the installation. A key feature of this unique design is the use of lightweight V-shaped twin steel columns, clustered with a downpipes painted to match the structural steelwork. Three clusters of these columns support the circular edge-beam, blending strength with aesthetic appeal.
Although the undulating edge profile doesn’t support traditional gutters, MakMax incorporated sumps and downpipes at the structure’s lowest points to manage rainfall. A discrete mesh panel, sewn into the edge, directs water into the sumps while maintaining the smooth canopy profile. The canopy itself is crafted from durable Serge Ferrari TX30 Type 2 PVC, ensuring long-lasting performance.
