Creating a More Versatile Outdoor Living Space Without Replacing the Existing Structure

A quality timber garden pavilion is designed to be enjoyed throughout the warmer months, but open-sided structures can often become exposed to wind, rain and low evening sun. This project in Barnsley demonstrates how three motorised retractable screens can transform an existing pavilion into a far more comfortable and flexible outdoor living space while preserving its original character.

Project Specifications

  • Location: Barnsley 
  • Stucture: Existing timber garden pavilion

Features:

  • Three motorised retractable screens
  • Retrofitted to an existing timber pavilion
  • Contemporary anthracite aluminium cassettes and side guides
  • Independent operation of each screen
  • Wind protection
  • Additional privacy
  • Shelter from low sun and light rain
  • Seamless integration with the existing structure

Service Provided:

  • Survey  
  • Design
  • Supply
  • Installation

How We Met the Brief

The client already had a beautifully built timber pavilion that provided a fantastic outdoor seating area for relaxing and entertaining. However, the open front left the space exposed to changing weather, meaning it wasn’t always comfortable to use.

Rather than recommending a completely new structure, we retrofitted three motorised retractable screens that blend neatly into the existing timber framework. The anthracite aluminium housings complement both the roofline and surrounding finishes, maintaining the pavilion’s clean, contemporary appearance.

Each screen operates independently, giving the client complete flexibility to enclose one side, two sides or the entire front depending on the weather, the direction of the sun or the level of privacy required. When not needed, the screens disappear discreetly into their cassettes, leaving the pavilion looking exactly as it did before the installation.

The Result

This simple retrofit has significantly increased the usability of the existing garden pavilion, allowing it to be enjoyed in a much wider range of weather conditions.

By adding retractable screens rather than replacing the structure, the client has protected their original investment while creating a more comfortable outdoor room that can be enjoyed from early spring through to late autumn.

This project is another excellent example of how existing gazebos, timber pavilions and garden buildings can be upgraded with modern screening systems, delivering many of the benefits of a new pergola at a fraction of the cost and disruption.

Why Choose Rase Outdoor Living?

At Rase Outdoor Living, we specialise in complete outdoor transformations — from initial groundwork to bespoke pergola design and installation. We create spaces that are both beautiful and built to last.