
The Engineering
Pillarless Structural Innovation & Weather Protection
Our architectural engineering solves complex site and design challenges, enabling wide-span and cantilevered structures. Pillarless bioclimatic pergolas that maximise usable outdoor space. Designed to withstand extreme wind uplift and heavy snow loads, our structural frameworks deliver permanent stability without compromising on minimalist design or popular features.​
Pillarless, Cantilevered or Wide-Span Structures
Traditional outdoor canopies may rely on restrictive corner pillars or relatively short spans that can break up patio layouts. A fully-loaded ArchitektPavilion is a complete, configurable garden pavilion made from extruded aluminum and allowing for unsupported overhangs or single-span dimensions of up to 8000 x 6000. This can offer integration between indoor living spaces and outdoor entertainment areas.
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> Design freedom: the vertical elements can become part of the architectural composition, rather than simply supporting a standard rectangular roof.
> Variable screening: their positions can be chosen to balance privacy, views, sunlight and openness.
> Individual designs: two pavilions with the same roof dimensions could look substantially different because the vertical elements are arranged differently.
> Integration with the property: the designer can respond to doors, windows, garden views, outdoor kitchens and circulation routes.
> Download: ArchitektPavilion cantilevered bioclimatic pergola SketchUp models or CAD here.
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All of our range, including the KristalPavilion - which uses glass as a feature as well as protection - and PurPavilion, a more conventional design with corner pillars and retractable roof options, include the following:
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> Wind Load Resistance: Engineered to withstand severe regional wind gusts without structural deflection up to 160km/h.
> Concealed Hardware: Heavy-duty structural fixings and anchor points, all are hidden within the framework for a clean finish.
> Modular Integration: For a larger space, we add modules together. Designed to integrate directly with bespoke outdoor gas fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, garden furniture and architectural lighting.
> Options: Lockable, sliding glass doors, motorised fabric sidescreens, sliding shutters, fixed or sliding privacy screens, heating, LED lighting, audio, and connection to home automation via Control 4 and Crestron.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do pillarless pergolas handle heavy rain and snow?
Our pillarless pergolas feature automated louvres that lock tight to form a 100% watertight roof and optionally may be heated. Rainwater is distributed via an integrated perimeter gutter system and channelled down concealed internal drainage routes inside the framework.
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Are they waterproof?
When supplied with sliding glass doors, sliding shutters and/or fixed panels, they are waterproof​​
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Can these large structures be installed on existing patios or terraces?
Yes, subject to structural footings. We collaborate directly with site engineers and architects to calculate loadings and to design concealed concrete pad foundations or baseplates.
Engineering Feature | Design Features | Technical Standard | Practical Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
Pillarless Configurable Design | Allows professionals to create unque styles | Heavy duty extruded aluminium | Eliminates corner posts, opening uninterrupted views across patios and gardens |
Bioclimatic Roof Systems | Rotating or rotating/retactable louvres up to 6000mm in width. Rain & wind sensors | Motorised rotating aluminium louvres, optionally heated, with integrated drainage | Provides adjustable sun shading, watertight rain defence, and automated snow dissipation |
Maximum roof size | Allows wider spans than typical | 8000 span x 6000 louvres | Up to 6000 wide louvres offer design flexibility |
Integrated Drainage | Completely waterproof when supplied with glass sliding doors | Internal guttering & concealed downpipes | Directs rainwater away through internal posts, keeping surrounding living areas dry |
Extrusion profiles, standard four-pillar models | Allows 200 x 200 pillars for an improved appearance | Structural Aluminium Profile | Solid structure allows wider spans and protection against high winds |
Powder coating | Specialist Tiger coating 33 standard RAL colours and custom options | Engineered to resist fading, chalking, and sun damage | Long-term protection against UV fading, weathering, and corrosion |
Loadings, TUV-Sud certification | Maximum protection | 160km/h wind, 300kg/m2 load (TUV-Sud tested) | Resistant to extremes of climate |
Certification | Safety | UKCA/CE certification | Approved to European normes |