● Overview
The existing pergola beside the Bio-room on Matiu Somes Island had been removed, while alterations to the nearby wharf created space for a larger replacement canopy. The exposed coastal location also meant the new structure had to perform under high wind loads.

● Issue
DTCE designed the new timber canopy, including the glulam posts, beam, rafters and their connections to the existing building and concrete slab. We also reviewed the existing Bio-room bracing to confirm it could support the additional canopy loads.

● Solution
The new canopy was designed as a lightweight glulam structure with translucent roofing. Site-specific wind loading was assessed, and the new posts were fixed back to the existing slab while the canopy tied into the existing Bio-room structure. The existing east bracing frame was checked and confirmed to have sufficient capacity for the additional load.

● Result
The new canopy provides a larger, more practical covered area beside the wharf while working with the existing Bio-room structure and the island’s exposed conditions. The design also minimised unnecessary strengthening by making use of the capacity already available in the existing building.