Exploring the Versatility of Aluminum Canopies

Aluminum canopies are excellent choices for architects and builders who want their designs and buildings to have elevated style and sophistication without sacrificing durability.

Architects can get custom aluminum canopies expertly crafted in a range of sizes, colors and finishes. Whether it’s for a modern, streamlined office building or a local shop that wants to evoke the warmth and personality of traditional stores, aluminum canopies are the perfect solution.

Benefits of Aluminum Canopies For Commercial Projects

When it comes to aluminum canopies, architects and builders will find that their advantages span from aesthetics to functionality to affordability, making them a high-performing solution to consider for commercial exterior projects.  

Boosts Curb Appeal

Adding an aluminum awning makes businesses more inviting and can add character to the otherwise mundane exterior. Because aluminum canopies are highly customizable, businesses with distinct brand identities can have custom awnings or canopies created with their notable brand colors and logos. This instantly lets customers or clients know that the business is part of a specific brand and adds personalization to the building.

Increases Functionality and Safety 

Aside from their aesthetic applications, aluminum canopies also offer practicality. They provide stylish shelter for doorways and walkways, protecting anyone entering or exiting a business from the weather. They also help guide clients or customers toward the entrance, giving them a clear path to follow.

Offers Cost Efficiency

Architects that choose aluminum canopies don’t have to sacrifice style and design for affordability. Aluminum’s inherent flexibility allows for various shapes and finishes, making style affordable for architects who must be careful of the bottom line. 

Outperforms Steel and Glass Canopies

Aluminum is the best material for building canopies because it’s easy to customize, lightweight, resistant to rust and corrosion and easy to maintain. They only need occasional washing with soap and water.

While steel and glass are also options for fabricating canopies, they’re not the best choice of material for most projects. Steel is heavier than aluminum, so it requires much more structure to keep it in place safely. It’s also harder to prefabricate — it must be fabricated on-site, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Steel is also more difficult to maintain than aluminum. It frequently needs repainting and should be checked regularly for rust. 

Like steel, glass is an expensive option for awnings or canopies. It must be custom-made and requires a lot of maintenance. This is why most architects prefer to incorporate aluminum canopies into their work.

Architectural Styles and Design Considerations 

​​

Although utility, durability and safety are important considerations for architects and builders when planning a project design, aesthetic considerations are also important. 

The versatility of aluminum canopies allows architects and builders to incorporate their unique design sensibilities into their buildings.

Integrating With Modern Architecture

Aluminum canopies are practical enough to work with modern architectural styles without making the buildings look cold, boring or like every other building on the street. Their sleek, minimalist look aligns perfectly with modern design’s clean lines and pragmatic finishes. 

Examples of minimalist designs incorporating aluminum canopies can be found in many commercial and institutional projects like:

• Modern Office Buildings: Many modern office buildings incorporate cantilevered aluminum canopies over their entrances.
• Restaurants: Aluminum canopies can be utilized to create inviting outdoor dining spaces that are protected from the elements.
• High-End Retail Establishments: Aluminum canopies are used in high-end retail establishments to create visually striking entrances that attract customers and convey a sense of sophistication.
• Public Markets or Buildings: In public markets or buildings with many retail spaces, aluminum canopies can differentiate separate spaces by using color and design. This creates unique zones while maintaining an overall aesthetic that contributes to the building’s look and feel.
• Transportation Hubs: Another notable application is in public spaces such as transportation hubs like airports and bus stops, where aluminum canopies provide shelter, wayfinding and a contemporary architectural statement.
• Educational Institutions: At schools and universities, aluminum canopies over walkways and common areas offer students and staff protection from the elements while contributing to the modern, cohesive look of the campus.

Integrating With Traditional Design Elements 

Aluminum canopies aren’t just valuable additions to buildings with a modern aesthetic. By pairing modern materials with traditional styles, aluminum canopies provide durability and low maintenance benefits while maintaining the charm and warmth of rustic design​.

For example, buildings in a town’s historic district may need to incorporate design elements from particular architectural movements, such as the Arts and Crafts period, to secure building permits and to fit into the local surroundings. Aluminum canopies have the capability to meet those design requirements, effortlessly blending historical elements with modern touches for the perfect design.

Explore Versatile Aluminum Canopies With Mapes

​​

Aluminum canopies from Mapes offer practical benefits in commercial and architectural settings. Their robust construction and resistance to corrosion ensure long-lasting durability and minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for diverse climates and applications. 

With Mapes, you’ll find the best aluminum canopies on the market. Mapes’ industry experts have years of experience and can help you choose the perfect solution for your next project, including customizable one-of-a-kind canopies.

If you want to incorporate aluminum canopies into your next design project, contact Mapes for a free quote.