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Kinetic Architecture Solutions – Retractable Roofs

SCX has developed and delivered a series of robust, reliable, and efficient retractable roof systems, tailored to each scenario’s specific requirements

The investment in building a new venue - or upgrading existing ones - can be significant. A challenge lies in finding ways to make every square foot work hard in as wide a range of situations and conditions as possible. When architects are exploring their options, the prospect of kinetic architecture - buildings that move - can open up new commercial possibilities and help venue owners deliver a quicker return.

In addition, limitations on space, post-Covid attitudes to health, new construction technologies, and refined customer needs means that demand for multi-use venues has never been higher.

The Solution

Embracing a retractable roof is one of the most dramatic and versatile routes to achieving a multi-use venue. They add flexibility and a sense of something special to any space.

SCX Special Projects has a pioneering track record in designing, manufacturing, testing, and commissioning bespoke retractable roofs of all sizes. Each of these complex structures is a significant mechanical handling project, meticulously designed to deliver precise kinetic motion.

Fit for purpose

Each retractable roof is designed and engineered to each venue’s specific dimensions and characteristics
A roof may be designed to deliver a specific benefit, such as the roof on the Qatar Fan Zone which needed to be easily deconstructed and reconstructed in different locations
SCX combines its mechanical and electrical engineering with controls and safety expertise to deliver innovative, yet highly reliable, roof systems

Transforming areas

Underutilised space, both outdoor and indoor can be transformed into multi-use venues, maximising flexibility and commercial opportunities
Retracting a roof over an indoor space delivers fair weather, an open air feel, and the benefits of improved ventilation
In contrast, covering an outdoor space with a retractable roof helps to minimise the impact that the weather has on events - be that rain or sun

Wimbledon court roofs

SCX Special Projects designed, engineered, and installed the two retractable roofs over Wimbledon’s Centre Court, and No.1 Court, these concertina-style folding roofs are comprised of trusses that span the full width of the Courts and support lighting and ventilation equipment.

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Additional capabilities

A retractable roof can also serve as a highly versatile location to affix ancillary or temporary equipment such as lighting or sound systems
Independent control of individual roof elements can also enable partial deployment functionality such as Wimbledon’s sunshade mode, keeping direct sunlight off the Royal Box
Integration with HVAC systems for climate control is another popular function, helping to maintain a comfortable environment

Maintenance and servicing

SCX provides mechanical and electrical maintenance and servicing to ensure that our retractable roof projects remain safe and dependable throughout their working lives
For larger projects, a full testing routine will be undertaken prior to major events to ensure that all systems are functional and ready for anything
Redundancy is built-in to many critical parts of the structure to ensure that any complication will not cause disruption

Camden Market

This structure, located in the stables area of Camden market has operated as a restaurant and now serves as a conference centre. SCX delivered a cost-effective power and control solution for a retractable section of the building’s roof.

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OpenAire

SCX has partnered with OpenAire, the world’s premier designer, manufacturer, and installer of custom aluminium retractable roof enclosures
The partnership combines expertise in transforming stylish indoor spaces into airy outdoor venues
Elements such as retractable roofs, skylights, and bi-folding doors blend with industry-leading control and automation to deliver moving structures that operate at the push of a button

Let's talk more about retractable roofs

SCX Special Projects has earned a reputation for engineering, building and installing some of the most advanced kinetic systems that allow you to realise your most adventurous ideas, while at the same time providing a hugely dependable overall solution.

Talk to us today to find out more.

Call us on +44 114 262 6199, email us at info@scx.co.uk, or complete the contact form below and we'll be in touch.

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