BARREL VAULTS
Barrel vaults are one of the most widely used permanent outdoor fabric structures. Their half-cylindrical form creates a smooth, curved canopy that performs well and looks refined. The design delivers strong visual appeal along with practical versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications.
A barrel vault tensile membrane structure pairs the curved, tunnel-like form of a barrel vault with the efficiency of a tensioned fabric system. The arched geometry and lightweight membrane work together to create a durable canopy that can span large areas without internal supports.
This open, airy design makes barrel vaults well suited to walkways, courts, courtyards, and other commercial spaces that benefit from clear, unobstructed coverage.
Barrel vaults enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space while ensuring reliable scheduling. Host events 365 days a year, rain or shine, with complete peace of mind.
Barrel vault tensile structures offer strong design flexibility. They can be tailored to suit project needs while achieving a clean, contemporary or more traditional architectural look.
The design flexibility extends to the choice of materials and finishes. This ensures the structure complements the surrounding environment, creating a cohesive and visually appealing design.
Barrel vaults typically suit rectangular footprints, yet their modular form can be extended to almost any length to support walkway links, long courts, or unusually shaped sites.
This flexibility helps maximise usable space and ensures the structure matches the layout of the area. It is a practical solution for sites that need consistent, uninterrupted coverage.
High-performance tensile membranes provide dependable UV resistance and waterproofing, keeping covered areas cooler, drier and more comfortable throughout the year.
The curved arch naturally channels water away from the canopy and reduces pooling. This efficient runoff makes barrel vaults a reliable option for regions exposed to heavy or frequent rain.
Barrel vault systems use powder-coated steel and robust membrane fabrics designed to perform well under strong sun, high winds and seasonal weather variations.
The lightweight arch form reduces structural stress and helps maintain stability over time. With minimal maintenance requirements, these structures offer long-term value for commercial sites.
The versatility of barrel vault tensile structures makes them suitable for various commercial applications. Here are some of the most common uses.
Barrel vault canopies are ideal for educational institutions. They provide sheltered spaces that protect students from the sun and rain while encouraging outdoor activities.
These structures cover walkways and entrances in commercial complexes, offering a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Barrel vault structures offer great sun protection for children's play areas. Their design ensures these spaces are bright, safe, and welcoming.
These canopies protect vehicles from the elements while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the parking space.
We often design barrel vaults for sports courts, such as basketball and tennis courts. These vaults provide a sheltered playing area that meets competition specifications.
When designing a barrel vault structure, several factors must be considered to ensure the final product meets all project requirements. The choice of materials, for example, will impact the structure’s durability, appearance, and performance. Some options include the following.
Ideal for shade structures, HDPE fabric offers excellent UV protection and durability.
This material blocks 100% UV rays and is completely waterproof, making it perfect for all-weather protection.
Another excellent option is PTFE fabric, which is known for its durability and resistance to environmental factors.
Australian-made steel is known for its strength and design flexibility. All our structural steel comes standard with a raw galvanised finish. For added durability and aesthetic appeal, you can opt for a powder-coated finish in custom or standard colours.
Timber is becoming increasingly popular as a design material in tensile membrane structures. It offers an alternative aesthetic for your barrel vault structure.
We seamlessly deliver best-in-class barrel vaults using our signature
Consult. Design. Construct. method:
First we start by understanding your vision and specific requirements for your Barrel Vault project. We then develop initial concepts tailored to your needs. From there, we present our recommendations, including design concepts, materials, and timelines, ensuring alignment with your goals.
Next, we conduct site surveys and assessments to ensure feasibility. Our team creates detailed plans and 3D models, refining them with your feedback. Once finialised, we seek your approval with comprehensive documentation and cost estimates.
In the Construct phase, we finalise logistical details and coordinate with all stakeholders. Our construction team brings your Barrel Vault project to life, ensuring quality and adherence to timelines and budgets.
Embrace the possibilities and elevate your next commercial project to new heights. Learn more about our customisation options below.
The tensile membrane allows natural light through the day, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and keeping the space bright and comfortable.
For evening use, we can integrate a lighting layout that suits the activity and size of the area. Our team designs systems that provide consistent, safe illumination.
Post pads improve safety by adding a protective layer around columns. They are available in various colours to match the structure’s aesthetic.
Each pad is custom-sized for a secure fit and a neat finish. This simple addition enhances comfort, supports compliance needs, and creates a more user-friendly space.
We can incorporate eaves, gutters, and downpipes into the roof design so the structure handles water efficiently and looks visually cohesive onsite.
Our team connects these systems to existing stormwater networks where possible. This reduces surface runoff, protects surrounding areas, and supports long-term durability.
We can integrate sports equipment such as basketball or netball hoops directly into the structure, eliminating unnecessary posts onsite.
Retractable systems are available for multi-purpose areas. This keeps the space adaptable, reduces clutter, and provides safe, uninterrupted zones during non-sport use.
A PA or AV system can be incorporated to support events, announcements, and presentations within your covered area throughout the year.
Wiring and components are neatly integrated into the steelwork to keep them protected and out of sight. This creates a safer, cleaner, and more professional installation.
Power outlets can be integrated into the steelwork to support equipment, events, and day-to-day use without visible cabling or potential trip hazards.
This addition increases flexibility and convenience for users, enabling broader functionality and making the covered area more practical for a range of activities.
COMMUNITY SPACE
Rhodes Amphitheatre
OUTDOOR LEARNING SPACE
Sydney Grammar School
Losing its tree canopy left Sydney Grammar School without shade. Now a striking new sawtooth structure brings light, protection and year-round play back to the heart of the school.
SPORTS COURT
Galen Catholic College
Learn how Greenline transformed Galen Catholic College with visually stunning and ultra-practical outdoor solutions to deliver a world-class campus experience.
BOWLING GREEN
Narre Warren Bowls Club
Wondering what it’s like to use a bowling green with a PVC Canopy? President Peter Groom says “The main thing that you get with this roof, is the feeling of space. It isn’t hemming you in – and there’s no echo!”
SPORTS COURT
Marist Catholic College Penshurst
Learn how Greenline enabled Marist College to maximise outdoor learning space and deliver year-round sporting activities with barrel vault structures.
Use our project estimator tool to find out. If you’d rather discuss your project together, book a call with us to get started.