AWARD-WINNING OUTDOOR SHADE INSTALLATION TRANSFORMS LEARNING SPACES

Shaderunner® Australia is proud to feature one of its most impactful and award-winning installations to date. The recent project at Immanuel Primary School in Novar Gardens, South Australia, has been officially recognised at the 2025 Awards for Excellence, celebrating innovation and quality in outdoor design.

This project involved the custom design and installation of four large Shaderunner® PRO Retractable Shade Systems to cover the school’s COLA (Covered Outdoor Learning Area). Designed to provide flexible, climate-responsive shade, the systems help create a safe and comfortable environment for students across all seasons.

Each system is powered by a Shade Drive 250 motor, developed by Project Sixty, and includes battery backup to ensure uninterrupted operation even during a power outage. These motors allow smooth and efficient control via RTS remote controllers or fixed wall switches, giving school staff full flexibility to adjust shading as needed throughout the day.

To ensure structural strength and durability, the Shaderunner® PRO systems are equipped with four marine-grade stainless steel running wires per unit and Duratec powder-coated aluminium support tracks, providing long-term resistance to corrosion and wear. The integration of three wind sensors allows the shades to retract automatically in high winds, offering added safety and peace of mind in unpredictable weather.

The fabric used is a 95 percent polyester mesh, designed specifically for Australian outdoor conditions. It blocks up to 95% of harmful UV rays, reduces glare, and resists mildew and environmental damage. The light-filtering properties also help to maintain a bright and pleasant learning space while still offering vital sun protection. The fabric is backed by a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty for long-lasting performance.

Technical Highlights:

• Shaderunner 1 | 7m wide x 16m extension
• Shaderunner 2 & 3 | Twin system at 7m wide x 30m extension
• Shaderunner 4 | 7m wide x 19m extension
• Support tracks | Powder-coated aluminium
• Fabric | 95 percent UV-blocking mesh
• Running wires | 4 per system
• Wind sensors | 3 units for automatic retraction of the shades
• Total covered area | Over 565 sqm

This installation has transformed the way outdoor areas are used at Immanuel Primary School. Previously limited by sun exposure and changing weather, these spaces are now utilised throughout the school year for learning, play, and meal breaks. The retractable nature of the systems allows staff to adapt shade coverage depending on the time of day or season, improving usability and comfort.

Shaderunner® Australia would like to acknowledge the contribution of Project Sixty in supplying the Shade Drive 250 motors, which are a key component of the system’s smooth functionality and reliability.

This award-winning project is a strong example of how modern shade technology can support educational environments. By combining smart design with robust engineering, Shaderunner® continues to lead the way in high-performance shade systems for schools and community spaces.

Visit Shaderunner® Australia at the links below to learn more!