Melbourne Park Eastern Courts Spectator Shade
Project Details
Location: Melbourne Park, VIC
Completion Date: December 2024
Size: 250 sqm per structure (500 sqm)
Fabric: PVC - Mehler FR900N
Client: Tennis Australia | Melbourne & Olympic Parks
Photography: © Tennis Australia
MakMax Australia collaborated with Tennis Australia to design and construct two large public shade structures over the spectator decks at Melbourne Park Eastern Courts (Courts 16 and 17).
These twin-column inverted conical shade structures, based on the MakMax St Tropez modular shade structure design, provide 250 sqm of shade per structure, offering premium spectator shade for visitors enjoying the Australian Open and other tennis events.
The Brief
Spectator comfort is a top priority for Tennis Australia, particularly during the Australian Open, when summer temperatures can soar. As part of their ongoing upgrades to the annual Grand Slam tournament, the organisation planned to introduce two large, tiered viewing platforms for the 2025 tournament – complete with a bar and merchandise shop – beside Courts 16 and 17. They required a large-scale shade solution that would provide protection from both the sun and rain while maintaining clear sightlines to the courts. Additionally, the shade structures needed to be fully demountable, allowing them to be removed and stored between tournaments.
The Concept
MakMax proposed a customised design based on the St Tropez modular shade structure, featuring inverted conical canopies supported by twin steel columns.
This design was chosen for its minimal footprint, ensuring it wouldn’t obstruct views, while also allowing for seamless rainwater drainage through the integrated downpipes in the columns. The smooth ceiling finish beneath the structure provided a sleek and modern look, complementing the contemporary aesthetics of Melbourne Park.
The Materials
To meet the structural, aesthetic, and functional requirements of the project, MakMax utilised high-quality materials:
- Steel Structure: Multi-layer architectural painted steel twin columns with integrated rainwater downpipes.
- Canopy Support: Painted steel support arms positioned above the fabric, creating a clean, streamlined appearance beneath the structure.
- Membrane Fabric: Each canopy was fabricated from Mehler FR900N architectural PVC, designed as a single-membrane piece for durability and a sleek visual finish.
The Result
Originally designed as temporary tournament infrastructure, the spectator shade structures exceeded expectations. Tennis Australia and the management team at Melbourne Park were impressed with the performance and aesthetic of the design and they opted to leave them installed year-round.
Now set to be a permanent feature of Melbourne Park, these public shade structures provide ongoing spectator comfort for local residents, tennis fans, and visitors alike.
