These clever canopy structures show how this design can be used for a number of different concepts. From designs that cover dog houses to others that provide shelter for people waiting at a bus stop, these canopies are the perfect alternative to all-enclosed spaces.
Canopy structures can also be used for eco-friendly purposes. One solar energy design even harnesses the sun's rays and allows passersby to charge their electrical devices. The designer took inspiration from trees in the Sahara desert and commandeered their canopy-like structure for this solar project. Even though most canopy structures are not completely enclosed, they can still provide excellent protection from the elements. In fact it provides the best of both worlds: users can enjoy the warmth yet still feel some wind on their faces.
32 Clever Canopy Structures
From Tree-Inspired Solar Panels to Arboreal Transit Stops:
Jamie Danielle Munro — Mar 27, 2014 — Eco
33
Moisture-Collecting Plant Canopies
The Water Greenhouse Resourcefully Gathers and Reuses H2O
32
Coffee Cup Canopies
The Portal of Awareness by Rojkind Arquitectos is Full of Movement
31
Fighter Plane-Inspired Canopies
The Stealth Pavilion by Paul Segers is Strong and Masculine
30
Tree-Inspired Solar Panels
Nature by Samuel Wilkinson Uses African Trees for Motivation
29
Protective Cycle Canopies
The Uberhood Bike Umbrella Keeps Cyclists Dry and Safe
28
Grid-Like Wave Canopies
The Lignum Pavilion Shows Off the Modern Uses of Wood in Architecture
27
Bamboo Woven Canopies
The Pulse Pavilion Boasts a Latticed Framework
26
Curvaceous Canopies
The Enignum Canopy Bed Promises Blissful Sleep
25
Green Energy Producing Canopies
Cobra Solar Shades
24
Rope-Knit Canopies
The Netscape Pavilion Takes on a Nautical and Futuristic Form
23
All-Timber Canopy Buildings
The Swatch Headquarters by Shigeru Ban Architects is Rustic
22
Crumpled Paper Canopies
Akihisa Hirata's Bloomberg Pavilion Project is Inspired by Trees
21
Robot-Built Public Canopies
The ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2012 is Inspired by Insect Exoskeletons
20
Spaceship-Like Canopies
The Golden Eye Tram Station by Zechner & Zechner Looks Futuristic
19
Canopied Ceiling Cafes
The Play Pot Restaurant is Inspired by Street Venders
18
Honeycomb Court Canopies
Cubierta Cazuca is Funded by Shakira's Barefoot Foundation
17
Canine Chaise Loungers
This Modern Pet Furniture is Practical and Elegant in its Design
16
Plastic Cup Canopies
BIOS Design Collective Creates Recycled Cup Art
15
Dreamy Light Canopies
The Molo Design 'Cloud Softlight' are Magical
14
Arboreal Transit Stops
The Tree Bus Shelter Emulates a Reliable Natural Form of Refuge
13
Romantic Play Canopies
The Antique Floral Play Canopy is an Enchanting Hide-Away
12
Giant Tarp-Like Canopies
The Fukita Pavilion by Ryue Nishizawa Looks Deceptively Small
11
Contemporary Snow Queen Canopies
Karako Bedroom Interior Harkens to Bygone Boudoirs
10
Glass Grid Canopies
The Smithsonian's Kogod Courtyard Wins Tucker Design Award
9
Hard Top Bike Canopies
Rocketshields
8
City Powering Canopies
The Energy Roof Will Provide Power in Perugia, Italy
7
Coral-Like Subway Canopies
The Donostialdea Metro-Station Entrance by Snohetta is Sculptural
6
Newspaper Canopies
PaperVillain Keeps the Sun Off for Secret Garden Party Festival
5
Peak-A-Boo Glacial Canopies
The Ribbons Open Air Theatre Weaves Through Space
4
Air-Filled Bus Canopies
Vehovar & Jauslin Collaborate with FormTL to Build a Floating Structure
3
Compact Canopies
“Ensombra Parasol” is a Clever Solution for Summertime Shade
2
Vinyl Record Canopies
Serpentine Gallery Pavilion is a Shelter in the Form of a Giant Disc
1
Summertime Resting Canopies
Outdoor Lounge Bed Lets You Sleep in Peace Out in the Open
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