Author Archives: Michelle Meacham

Twinfix Operations Director, Paul Greenfield, Celebrates 25 Years of Service

Twinfix recently had the pleasure of celebrating a significant milestone—Paul Greenfield, our Operations Director, reached 25 years with the company. Paul has been at the heart of our operations, overseeing the factory and warehouse to ensure our projects are delivered seamlessly.

To mark the occasion, the Twinfix team gathered to reflect on Paul’s impressive journey, revisiting photos from the past 25 years and sharing stories about his time with the company. The celebration was topped off with cake, laughter, and a true sense of appreciation for all Paul has done.

Paul’s leadership, dedication, and expertise have played a key role in shaping Twinfix into the organisation it is today. We are proud to celebrate this moment with him and look forward to many more years of collaboration and success.

Exciting News: The Latest Issue of Twinfix Connect is Here!

We are delighted to announce that the latest edition of Twinfix Connect, our annual newsletter, is now available! This issue showcases the key highlights of the past year, reflecting on our achievements and innovations.

Inside, you’ll find:

  • Our pioneering solar panel canopy project at Imjin Barracks.
  • Insights into our unwavering commitment to sustainability.
  • How our canopies are transforming spaces across the commercial, education, healthcare, and rail sectors.
  • Details of our recent accreditations and awards, showcasing our dedication to excellence.

…and so much more!

Click here to dive into the full newsletter and explore how Twinfix continues to shape the future of canopy and roof glazing solutions.

 

Case Study: Enhancing Outdoor Dining for Martin Baker Aircraft

When Martin Baker Aircraft embarked on a site upgrade led by Wernick, Twinfix was delighted to contribute to the transformation of their cafeteria facilities by delivering a bespoke, free-standing mono-pitch canopy. Spanning an impressive 61 square metres, this striking structure provides a sheltered outdoor dining area for staff and visitors—a perfect blend of form and function.

Sleek Design Meets Durability
To complement the sleek, contemporary design of the new canteen, we constructed the canopy with a durable aluminium frame finished in anthracite grey (RAL 7016), chosen for its modern, understated aesthetic. At the heart of the canopy is our innovative Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile System, a high-performance roof glazing solution. This system is not only lightweight but also offers exceptional durability, weather resistance, and low-maintenance upkeep—making it ideal for busy environments.

Year-Round Usability
The benefits of such a canopy extend beyond its visual appeal. By creating a protected space outdoors, the structure encourages year-round use of the area, regardless of the weather. Whether enjoying a meal, taking a break, or holding informal meetings, employees and visitors can experience the fresh air without worrying about rain or excessive sun exposure.

A Commitment to Quality and Innovation
This project exemplifies Twinfix’s commitment to delivering tailored solutions that meet both practical needs and design aspirations. We are proud to have played a role in enhancing Martin Baker Aircraft’s facilities and look forward to partnering on similar projects that prioritise quality, durability, and innovative design.

Twinfix Wraps Up a Diverse and Exciting Show Season for 2024

As the curtain falls on our 2024 exhibition season, the Twinfix team is celebrating an incredible year of events across a wide range of industries. We’ve had the privilege of connecting with clients, partners, and industry leaders across all sectors to showcase our innovative canopy and roof glazing solutions.

The season concluded with a fantastic experience at Learning Places Scotland in Glasgow on 19th-20th November, where we engaged with professionals focused on transforming educational infrastructure. This final event rounded off a series of exhibitions that highlighted the versatility and value of our bespoke solutions across multiple sectors.

A Year of Industry Engagement

This year, we extended our reach beyond education to exhibit at events catering to rail infrastructure, modular construction, healthcare, and specifiers. These opportunities have underscored the adaptability of Twinfix solutions, which are designed to meet the unique needs of diverse industries.

  • Rail Events: Our team attended numreous rail exhibitions, where we demonstrated our expertise in creating durable, safe, low-maintenance canopy and glazing systems for railway stations and platforms. Our Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile (NF) roof glazing system, in particular, continues to be a favourite for its safety, durability, and ease of installation.
  • Offsite Expo: Twinfix solutions align perfectly with the principles of modular construction, offering quick-to-install, high-quality canopy systems that integrate seamlessly into prefabricated building designs.
  • Healthcare Estates: We showcased how our canopies provide functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces, ideal for covered walkways, entrances, and areas where patients and staff can benefit from outdoor shelter.
  • Specifier Events: Specifiers appreciated our ability to deliver bespoke, durable solutions that meet stringent project requirements while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a space.
  • Education Shows: Education remains a key focus for Twinfix, and throughout the season, we engaged with educators, architects, and contractors to explore how our canopies create versatile, weather-resistant outdoor spaces that inspire learning and socialisation.

Key Achievements of the 2024 Season

Our presence at such a wide array of exhibitions highlighted the universal appeal of Twinfix solutions, and we’re proud of the milestones we achieved:

  • Diverse Conversations: From rail operators to school administrators, healthcare professionals to architects, we tailored our approach to meet the specific needs of each audience, fostering meaningful discussions about their projects.
  • Showcasing Innovation: Attendees were impressed by our innovative designs, including the versatility and sustainability of our Multi-Link-Panel NF system and our ability to create bespoke canopy solutions.
  • Sharing Success Stories: Across all sectors, we highlighted recent projects that demonstrate how Twinfix transforms outdoor spaces into functional, beautiful environments.
  • Expanding Our Network: Each event was an opportunity to build relationships with professionals, organisations, and industry leaders who share our vision of creating safe, durable, and inspiring spaces.

Looking Forward to 2025

As we reflect on this year’s achievements, we’re already gearing up for an exciting 2025 exhibition season. Our aim remains the same: to provide high-quality, innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients across education, rail, healthcare, modular construction, and beyond.

A huge thank you to everyone who visited our stands this year. Your support and interest drive us to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with canopies and roof glazing solutions. If you missed us at an event or want to discuss your project, we’d love to hear from you—our team is always ready to help bring your vision to life.

Stay tuned for announcements about next year’s exhibitions—we look forward to seeing you in 2025!

Contact Twinfix Today
Reach out to our team to learn more about how we can help transform your outdoor spaces.

Rail North Conference

 

 

Case Study, The Orchards School – Manchester

Earlier this year, Twinfix was approached to help The Orchards School in Stretford to enhance its outdoor learning environment. Catering to children with a variety of learning difficulties, the school sought a custom lean-to canopy that would support its mission of creating an inclusive and stimulating educational setting. The project involved designing, manufacturing, and installing a bespoke canopy to provide a safe and sheltered outdoor space for a range of activities, helping to meet the diverse needs of the students.

The canopy was designed to span 25 metres in length, with a 4.9 metre projection, offering substantial coverage for outdoor learning and play. Crafted from high-quality aluminium and finished in RAL 7016 (anthracite grey), the frame provided both durability and a sleek, modern appearance. To ensure safety while maximising natural light, the canopy incorporated Twinfix’s Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile roofing system glazed with 16mm Opal polycarbonate, this system is designated as ‘non-fragile in accordance to the HSE’s drop test for fragility ACR[M]001:2019.

Safety was a primary concern for The Orchards School, especially given the unique requirements of a Special Educational Needs (SEN) setting. The canopy’s non-fragile roof system significantly reduces risks associated with climbing, a particularly important factor in school environments. The frame’s anti-climb paint adds an additional layer of deterrence, ensuring students are protected from potential hazards. Furthermore, the inclusion of post protectors enhances safety by shielding students from accidental impacts during play, while the integrated guttering system effectively channels rainwater away, keeping the play areas dry and clean even in wet weather.

The benefits of the new canopy extend beyond physical safety; the space serves as a vital area for students’ development. The structure not only provides shelter but also transforms the outdoor space into a dynamic learning environment. By encouraging physical movement and offering a range of sensory experiences, the canopy supports the development of motor skills and overall health. The opportunity to engage with nature and outdoor elements such as natural light, fresh air, and varied textures and sounds enriches the learning experience, especially for students with learning difficulties.

The canopy creates a communal area where students can interact with peers in a less structured setting, fostering social skills and promoting friendships that contribute to a supportive school community. This outdoor space also facilitates experiential learning, allowing teachers to conduct lessons in a stimulating environment. For SEN students who often thrive in hands-on learning situations, the canopy offers a valuable addition to the school’s educational resources.

This project highlights how thoughtful architectural solutions can make a profound difference in educational environments. By delivering a safe, robust, and visually appealing outdoor space, Twinfix not only enhances the school’s infrastructure but also supports the holistic development of students with learning difficulties.

Twinfix Delivers Bespoke Solar Canopies for Sustainable Army Accommodation at Imjin Barracks

Twinfix was commissioned to design, manufacture, and install two bespoke canopy structures at Imjin Barracks in Gloucester, a key military site housing the Headquarters of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC). As part of a larger initiative to provide modern, sustainable accommodation for Army personnel, Twinfix’s expertise was called upon to create durable and functional canopy solutions that would also contribute to the site’s renewable energy objectives.

The project included the installation of two canopies: a part free-standing, part lean-to, mono-pitch entrance canopy, and a free-standing mono-pitch walkway canopy. Both were designed to enhance functionality and contribute to the Army’s environmental and sustainability goals through the integration of photovoltaic solar panels.

Both canopy structures were constructed using high-quality aluminium, which carried the UKCA mark, ensuring full compliance with UK safety standards and regulations. The aluminium was powder-coated in RAL7016, giving it a robust, long-lasting finish that harmonised with the overall architectural aesthetic of the new building. Squared posts were chosen for both canopies, adding to the structural integrity and sleek appearance of the designs.

For the entrance canopy, Twinfix utilised their Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile system, fitted with 7.5mm laminated clear glass for the roof glazing. This system ensured the structure was highly durable, while also allowing natural light to pass through, creating a bright and welcoming entrance. Additional features such as closure trims, including ridge and fascia, provided a clean, secure finish. The entrance canopy, supported by three squared aluminium posts, measured 7.54 metres in length with a projection of 2.051 metres, offering essential shelter and enhancing the overall appearance of the building’s entryway.

The walkway canopy, spanning 56 metres in length with a projection of 2.7 metres, was constructed using pressed aluminium sheet, powder-coated to match the entrance canopy. The roof, made from 3mm thick polyester powder-coated pressed aluminium, was designed for maximum durability and weather resistance. This structure, which featured one hip and one valley, provided a seamless connection between different parts of the site, offering protection from the elements for personnel moving between buildings.

Both canopies featured integrated aluminium guttering to ensure efficient water drainage and weather protection. Structural calculations were carried out to confirm that the canopies met all necessary performance and safety requirements. .

A key feature of the walkway was the integration of photovoltaic solar panels, which aligned with the wider project’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainability. The solar panels helped reduce the building’s reliance on external energy sources by contributing to its renewable energy generation capacity, supporting the Army’s broader Net Zero Carbon goals.

Twinfix’s involvement in this project exemplifies their ability to deliver high-quality, bespoke canopy solutions that not only meet the practical needs of a modern site but also contribute to its environmental sustainability. The entrance and walkway canopies at Imjin Barracks provide long-lasting protection and shelter, while also enhancing the energy efficiency of the site through their integrated solar technology. This project demonstrates Twinfix’s commitment to innovative design and sustainable construction practices in line with the latest industry standards.

Twinfix Achieves Supply Chain School Gold Accreditation: A Commitment to Sustainability Excellence

We are thrilled to announce that Twinfix has achieved Gold Accreditation from the Supply Chain Sustainability School, a prestigious recognition that highlights our unwavering commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. This milestone demonstrates our dedication to continuously improving our knowledge and practices in the areas of environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

The Supply Chain School is a respected organisation that provides resources and training to help businesses integrate sustainability into their operations. Earning the Gold Accreditation means that we have actively engaged in learning and development initiatives, fostering a deep understanding of sustainability across our team and embedding these principles into our core processes.

At Twinfix, we recognise the importance of operating in an environmentally responsible way, not only within our own organisation but throughout our entire supply chain. This achievement reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions to our clients, particularly in sectors such as education, transport, and retail. By staying ahead in sustainability practices, we ensure that our products and services not only meet but exceed the growing demand for eco-friendly construction and design solutions.

We are proud to be among the select group of businesses recognised by the Supply Chain School and look forward to continuing our journey towards even greater sustainability achievements. This accreditation is just one step in our ongoing commitment to building a greener future.

For more information, visit Supply Chain Sustainability School.

company-badge - Gold

Twinfix Gears Up for a Series of Exciting Exhibitions Across Key Sectors!

We are delighted to announce that Twinfix will be attending numerous exhibitions in the coming months, showcasing our range of innovative canopies and shelters designed for various industries. These events offer a great opportunity to demonstrate how our solutions can enhance outdoor spaces in education, healthcare, modular construction, and beyond.

Here’s where you can find us:

Offsite Expo – Coventry Arena | 17th-18th September | Stand Z05

At Offsite Expo, we will be presenting our canopies for modular buildings, which are engineered to support offsite construction projects. Our systems offer a perfect blend of aesthetics, durability, and ease of installation, making them an ideal choice for modern modular developments. If you’re involved in offsite construction, our canopies provide the flexibility to meet your design and functional needs.

Building & Construction Summit – London | 8th-9th October

At the Building & Construction Summit, we will network with industry leaders to explore how our canopies and shelters can drive innovation across various construction projects. With sustainability and longevity at the core of our designs, we provide solutions that meet the evolving needs of the construction industry.

Education Estates – Manchester Conference Centre | 15th-16th October | Stand C17

As specialists in providing outdoor solutions for schools and universities, we’re excited to exhibit at Education Estates. Our canopies and shelters for educational settings create safe, weather-protected spaces that can be used year-round. From playgrounds to walkways, our robust systems help enhance learning environments by encouraging outdoor activities while ensuring the wellbeing of students and staff.

Healthcare Estates – Manchester Conference Centre | 15th-16th October | Stand H17

At Healthcare Estates, Twinfix will be showcasing our canopies and shelters for healthcare establishments. These products are designed with patient and visitor comfort in mind, providing sheltered outdoor spaces that promote relaxation and wellbeing. Our canopies are also ideal for staff break areas, outdoor waiting zones, and walkways, ensuring that healthcare settings remain functional and welcoming throughout the year.

Learning Places Scotland – Scottish Event Campus | 19th-20th November | Stand 209

We are thrilled to return to Learning Places Scotland to discuss our innovative canopies for schools and other educational establishments. Our solutions help create secure and adaptable outdoor spaces, perfect for enhancing the learning environment. From covered outdoor classrooms to walkways and covered outdoor eating areas, our canopies offer practical, long-lasting options for schools looking to make the most of their outdoor spaces.

We invite all attendees to visit us at these exhibitions to learn more about our products and discuss how Twinfix can support your upcoming projects. Our expert team will be on hand to answer questions and provide insights into our wide range of canopy solutions, which are tailored to meet the specific needs of each sector.

We look forward to seeing you there!

For more information about our products or to schedule a meeting during any of the events, please feel free to contact us.

 

Elevating Canopy Design with our innovative Alu-Link-Panel Roofing System

In the realm of outdoor shelters and canopies, durability, aesthetics, and sustainability are paramount. Architects and designers seek roofing solutions that not only provide reliable protection but also enhance the overall look and feel of the space. This is where our Alu-Link-Panel roofing system shines, blending the exceptional qualities of aluminium with innovative design to deliver a roofing solution that exceeds expectations.
Harnessing the Benefits of Aluminium
Aluminium, renowned for its lightweight yet robust properties, serves as the foundation of the Twinfix Alu-Link-Panel system. This material offers several advantages that are essential for modern construction projects:
  • Exceptional Strength: The Alu-Link-Panel system is constructed from solid aluminium panels, providing unparalleled strength and durability. This ensures that the canopy can withstand high winds, heavy snow loads, and other environmental stresses, offering reliable protection year-round.
  • Seamless Integration: One of the key features of the Alu-Link-Panel system is its seamless integration with supporting structures. The panels are securely fixed using a concealed fixing system, resulting in a sleek and seamless appearance. This innovative fixing method eliminates the need for visible fasteners, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the canopy.
  • Customisable Design: With Twinfix’s Alu-Link-Panel system, designers have the flexibility to create bespoke canopy designs to suit specific project requirements. Panel sizes, shapes, and finishes can be customised to achieve the desired look and performance, allowing for endless design possibilities.
  • Low Maintenance: Aluminium’s resistance to corrosion and weathering means that structures made with the Alu-Link-Panel system require minimal maintenance. The smooth surface of the panels is easy to clean and resistant to staining, ensuring long-lasting performance with minimal upkeep. This not only saves time and resources but also contributes to the longevity of the structure.
Embracing Sustainability
In addition to its practical benefits, aluminium is also an environmentally friendly choice for construction projects. Its recyclability ensures that aluminium products can be repurposed at the end of their lifecycle, reducing the demand for virgin materials and minimising environmental impact. By choosing Twinfix’s Alu-Link-Panel system, architects and designers can contribute to sustainable building practices while creating functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.
The Alu-Link-Panel roofing system combines the exceptional qualities of aluminium with innovative design to elevate canopy design to new heights. With its lightweight strength, durability, versatility, and sustainability, aluminium emerges as the material of choice for modern construction projects. Whether for schools, retail spaces, or transportation hubs, the Alu-Link-Panel system offers a reliable and stylish solution for outdoor shelters and canopies. Choose Twinfix for your next project and experience the difference in canopy design excellence.

The Benefits and Trends in Canopy Design for Modern Architecture

In recent years, the architectural landscape has seen a significant shift towards embracing more sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing designs. Canopies have emerged as a key component in this evolution, providing architects and specifiers with versatile solutions to enhance outdoor spaces. Whether for educational institutions, commercial properties, or public areas, canopies offer a multitude of benefits that go beyond simple weather protection.

One of the primary advantages of canopies is their ability to transform and enhance outdoor areas. By offering shelter from the elements, canopies make these spaces more accessible and usable throughout the year. This is particularly beneficial for schools, where canopies can create safe and comfortable areas for students to play and learn outdoors, regardless of the weather conditions. In retail or dining environments, canopies can extend the usable space, providing customers with a pleasant outdoor experience while shielding them from rain or excessive sunlight.

Beyond their functional benefits, canopies also play a vital role in the visual identity of a building. With a wide range of design options available, including various materials, colours, and shapes, canopies can be customised to complement the architectural style of any structure. This customisation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a building but also offers an opportunity for branding, allowing businesses or institutions to create a distinctive look that stands out.

Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration in architectural design, and canopies are recognised for their eco-friendly attributes. Many canopies are constructed from materials such as polycarbonate or recycled aluminium, which are not only durable but also have a lower environmental impact. Additionally, canopies can be designed to optimise natural lighting and ventilation, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning and thus promoting energy efficiency.

The use of innovative materials and technologies is another trend shaping canopy design. Polycarbonate glazing, for instance, offers excellent durability and UV protection while being lightweight and easy to install. This material also provides superb light transmission, making it ideal for spaces that benefit from natural light. Furthermore, the integration of smart technologies, such as solar panels is becoming more prevalent, enabling canopies to contribute to energy savings and environmental monitoring.

Customisation and modular design are also on the rise, providing flexibility and ease of installation. Modular canopy systems can be prefabricated and assembled on-site, minimising construction time and disruption. This approach also allows for easy expansion or modification, making it a practical choice for evolving businesses or institutions. Customisation options, from the shape and size to the colour and material, enable architects to tailor canopies to meet specific aesthetic and functional needs.

As urban areas become increasingly densely populated, the integration of canopies into urban and landscape design is gaining importance. Canopies can provide essential shade in public parks, walkways, and recreational areas, enhancing the comfort and usability of these spaces. In urban settings, canopies can also contribute to the visual cohesion of the streetscape, creating a more inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Canopies are a versatile and valuable addition to modern architectural projects. They offer a range of benefits, from enhancing outdoor spaces and improving energy efficiency to providing aesthetic and branding opportunities. As trends in sustainable and innovative design continue to evolve, canopies will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of architecture.

Architects and specifiers looking to incorporate canopies into their projects should consider the latest materials, technologies, and design trends to create functional and visually striking spaces. Stay ahead of the curve and ensure your designs are both innovative and practical with the latest in canopy solutions from Twinfix.