Breezefree were approached by award winning designers Paul Danson Imagineering to provide overhead protective cover for the front terrace of their recent new build, The Oast House, a building with very distinctive architecture, in a notoriously windswept location.

The Oast House, based on an original Kentish design and built from naturally distressed reclaimed materials, radiates charm and warmth whilst making a strong statement about sustainability and recycling.

“I needed some really strong alfresco kit for our recently completed project The Oast House, which opened in October as the first pub in Living Ventures’ portfolio. I was looking for an innovative and resourceful company to dress the outside and approached Breezefree, as they are regarded highly in the hospitality sector. Simon Cotton, Development Director, met me on site.”.

“Paul presented us with a real challenge,” said Simon. “Finding a solution which would complement the façade as well as the sustainability of the building, led to an in-depth discussion in which we evaluated a variety of options before Paul settled on our storm force resistant Bambusa Wooden Parasols, which offer unrivalled sustainability and a unique 3 year warranty”.

Bambusa, a genus of the Bamboo family, is amongst the world’s fastest growing plants.  Harvested annually on managed plantations and achieving complete sustainably in approximately four years, Bambusa has superior sustainability when compared to traditional tropical hardwoods that can take decades longer to mature.

In addition to its durability and high strength, Bambusa swift growth rate means it absorbs large amounts of the abundant greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide.  It also provides some of the world’s poorest people with sustainable incomes whilst discouraging illegal logging, deforestation and the depletion of indigenous eco-systems.

“I was impressed with Simon’s knowledgeable advice and felt that six Bambusa umbrellas would give the Oast House a fun, Alpine chalet twist, as well as reflecting the sustainable nature of the project’s construction.

They look great and work very well in this particularly windy location.  Since their timely installation we’ve had some really stormy weather and the umbrellas are working a treat in these conditions.

I look forward to working with Simon and his efficient team again.  They delivered a first class service, with durable products, that perform as promised and at a good price.  I would not hesitate to recommend Breezefree to others.”

Paul Danson, Paul Danson Imagineering, Quay House, Quay Street, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3JE

Following strong performance during the winter in some ferocious weather, Living Ventures have ordered a further 15 Bambusa parasols.