Perfect shading for London's weather moods

In the centre of London's bustling Victoria district, the Nova Victoria project impressively demonstrates how modern urban development and high-quality outdoor design can merge into a harmonious whole. In order to make the central Nova Place food court usable all year round, regardless of the weather, a customised shading concept was developed over a planning phase lasting several years, taking into account the particular climatic challenges of the British metropolis.

A total of 99 motorised markilux 1600 semi-cassette awnings were chosen, which were specially mounted on sturdy steel frames to provide safe protection even at wind speeds of up to 37 km/h. This robust design and the back-to-back fixture in pairs created large canopies that almost double the usable outdoor space of the more than 20 local restaurants. Despite the standardised technical structure, design individuality was retained, as each operator was able to choose a design to suit their own brand concept from a variety of over 200 fabric options. Complemented by integrated LED lighting and powerful infrared radiant heaters, the area is transformed into an inviting, urban meeting place even on cool evenings.

Logistical precision

The precisely coordinated just-in-time delivery and the close cooperation between markilux UK, the specialist dealers and the local restaurateurs enabled a smooth installation in a very confined space. The result is a lively neighbourhood in which architecture does not end at the edge of the building, but instead makes the public space between the buildings a tangible experience for visitors and residents alike with the utmost care and technical perfection.

Added value and advantages of the sun shading solution

Utilising space regardless of the weather: maximum profitability at any time of year

The unpredictable nature of London's weather presented the restaurateurs at Nova Place with the challenge that Patios often remained unoccupied when it was raining or windy. By installing the robust markilux awning systems, a weather-independent zone was created that offers guests safe protection even in wind speeds of up to 37 km/h. This increase in usable outdoor space is directly reflected in the economic operation, as the seating capacity has almost doubled and the season has been significantly extended.

Design diversity in the system: uniform appearance with maximum individuality

The architectural concept of Nova Victoria required a balance between a harmonious overall appearance of the neighbourhood and the individual identity of the more than 20 different restaurants. While the uniformly used technology of the markilux 1600 ensures a clear, high-quality structure, the choice of over 200 fabric variants allowed each operator to create a customised design. In this way, the awnings blend in perfectly with the respective colour and design concepts without disturbing the aesthetic tranquillity of the space.

Urban quality of stay: atmosphere through light and warmth

Good architecture does not end at the façade, but creates spaces where people feel comfortable even after sunset or in cooler temperatures. The integration of LED lighting and infrared radiant heaters directly into the awning system transforms Nova Place into a warm, inviting meeting place in the evening. This combination of technical functionality and atmospheric design increases the time visitors spend in the square and turns it into a lively centre of urban life.

Technical precision and smart convenience: reliability in continuous operation

In a busy catering space like Nova Place, the technology in the background must function smoothly so as not to disrupt daily operations. The chosen motorised solution can be conveniently controlled via radio remote controls or modern smart home systems, while the particularly robust drives are designed for low-maintenance use. This technical reliability ensures that staff can concentrate fully on serving guests, while the solar protection reacts flexibly to any weather situation.