The roof terrace at this iconic London venue has been enhanced by Breezefree’s installation of retractable louvred roofs, creating a unique alfresco space.
The project involved designing and installing innovative louvred roof structures on the casino's roof terrace, transforming the space into an all-weather, year-round destination for the venue’s visitors. This bustling alfresco area, known for its vibrant bar serving an array of cocktails and food, now offers an unparalleled blend of comfort, style, and functionality thanks to Breezefree’s innovative louvred roofs.
The installation comprises five louvred roof modules, each equipped with motorized louvres which can tilt from a flat, closed position, creating a fully weatherproof roof, to a variety of angles for optimal versatility. For maximum openness, the louvres can also retract and stack at one end, providing an open-air experience. To accommodate the irregular shape of the area above the bar, we also installed a fixed louvred roof that complements the retractable modules, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic while maximizing the utility of the terrace.
Designing and installing the louvred roof structures at The Hippodrome Casino presented several challenges. Initially we had to design and manufacture off plan, as there was no space or existing structures to survey at the time of an order being placed. Despite this, we needed to coordinate and collaborate with the client’s other contractors to ensure that we could subsequently fit our frames to their structures.
Located in the heart of Leicester Square, one of London's busiest tourist attractions, the logistical hurdles were significant. Breezefree had to navigate the complexities of transporting materials and equipment through busy streets and then vertically up six floors by crane to the roof terrace.
Our installation was also carried out with other contractors present who were fitting out the hospitality space. Coordinating with these teams while ensuring that Breezefree’s work did not interfere with or delay other construction activities required meticulous planning and flexibility.
The louvred roofs incorporate several other features designed to enhance the roof terrace experience at The Hippodrome Casino:
The entire system is operated by remote control, offering ease of use and seamless adjustment to suit changing weather conditions or the ambiance of the evening.
In addition, we designed, fabricated and installed a bespoke octagonal hard canopy which was designed to cover the spiral staircase. It abuts the louvred roof structure and has been designed to complement the louvred roof structures by mimicking the louvred look on the underside, for a fully integrated look.
Beyond the roof terrace, Breezefree has also supplied The Hippodrome Casino with custom-printed barrier screens for use on the ground floor. These barriers, composed of 316 Stainless steel posts and bases and high-quality canvas, serve both promotional and queue-management purposes. The screens are a testament to Breezefree’s commitment to providing bespoke solutions that meet the specific needs of their clients.
Recognizing the value of ongoing support, The Hippodrome Casino has also signed up for Breezefree’s regular servicing and maintenance contract. This ensures that the louvred roof structures are always in peak condition, providing reliable and consistent service to the venue and its patrons. Breezefree’s expert team carries out routine inspections and maintenance, offering The Hippodrome Casino peace of mind and the assurance that their investment is well protected.
The roof terrace at The Hippodrome Casino is now a standout feature of the venue. The adjustable louvred roofs and their multiple features mean that patrons can enjoy the space exactly as they prefer, whether under the stars or in the shade. The space is now an open-air oasis far removed from the hustle and bustle of the West End streets below. This tranquil, yet vibrant, space is the perfect retreat for those in the know, providing a unique blend of comfort, style, and functionality. Thanks to Breezefree’s innovative louvred roof structures, The Hippodrome Casino can now offer its patrons an unparalleled alfresco experience, whatever the weather.
