Covered outdoor learning areas
Encourage natural play and
sporting activity with a covered
outdoor learning area.
Our outdoor shade and shelter structures are typically designed for full protection from extreme weather conditions structures are manufactured of the highest quality to ensure longevity and protection.
Transform your outdoor space with
these common applications.
Covered Outdoor Learning Areas or COLAs are usually constructed for multipurpose applications and can be used for many recreational activities such as sports, events and assemblies. We design structures to create vibrant and safe outdoor spaces for outdoor play and exercise, we strive to offer structures that encourage active play and independent learning.
Schools
- School playground covers
- Netball/basketball covers
- Assembly area
- School gymnasiums
Local government
- Sporting complexes
- Bowing green covers
- Covered walkways
- Tennis courts
Recreation
- Sports covers
- Courtyards
- Playground & communal covers
- Outdoor shelters
We’ve got you covered for all sporting activities...
Why partner with Spanlift Commercial.
Strong on values
Everything we do is underpinned by our strong value system and our dedication to providing quality service.
In-house manufacturing
End-to-end project management
Open & honest communication
We’re big on keeping you updated, honest transparent communication is a big part of how we do business.
Quality assurance
Internationally recognised for risk prevention and maximisation in all areas of quality, safety & environment via ISO international standards.
Best business practice
As part of our business code of ethics, we follow the National Construction Codes (NCC) and the Building code of Australia (BCA).
Covered outdoor learning areas.
Over the years we have built many substantial covered outdoor learning areas for sporting and recreational facilities for schools, colleges, councils, sporting clubs and government bodies. We have extensive experience in transforming empty spaces into structures designed to develop sporting interests and physical activity.
Mid North Christian College
Port Pirie
Covered outdoor learning area
1188m2
The project
The client wanted to create a space that could be flexible. Enough so that the Covered Outdoor Leaning Areas would allow for two basketball courts with a curved roof plus create a separate space to store sports equipment.
What we delivered
- Curved roof with skylight sheeting installed with safety mesh for natural light
- Round columns to eliminate climbing and hazards
- 3m x 6.6m fully enclosed sports shed with roller door openings
- Customised college logo branding
St Joseph’s
Port Lincoln
Covered outdoor learning area
720m2
The project
Utilising an existing basketball court, this school invested in a COLA to provide a shaded area for their students. The construction process preserved the existing court surface & fencing. Built during the school term, our team worked with the school to minimize disruption to the school & the parents.
What we delivered
- Constructed during school term
- No wall brace design
- Skylight sheeting to each bay
- Round columns
Satellite City BMX
Parlmeston NT
Sporting complex
7140m2
The project
The client wanted a clear-span open building, to facilitate BMX sporting events. It needed to be designed to maximise ventilation in tropical climates. Composed of the largest roof covering of BMX in Australia overlooking the Marlow Recreation Reserve.
What we delivered
- 70m span with 22m high apex, capacity to accommodate a 747 jumbo jet
- Designed for maximum sun protection, engineered for cyclonic regions
- 10m bays to achieve optimal ventilation and light
- Webbed column for easy viewing of track area
Encounter Lutheran College
Victor Harbor
Basketball cover
1440m2
The project
The requirements of this project were to provide a cover outdoor basketball cover built within the specified dimensions. Safety was a major requirement we therefore designed round columns that were padded and stadium lighting with a half round gutter system.
What we delivered
- Padded round columns and stadium lighting installed
- Colourbond blue scope iron corrugated roofing
- Roof only structure, gable in-fill on both ends
- High capacity half round gutter systems
Design considerations for covered outdoor learning areas.
Many of our covered outdoor learning area (COLA) structures are designed for optimal safety, natural light and movement. Full consideration is given to ensuring the space is practical and purpose built to enjoy in all weather conditions.
Important features to consider in the design process:
- Round columns to eliminate sharp hard edges and improve safety
- Seating considerations for spectator sports
- Maximum structural height
- Wheelchair access
- Post padding if required for additional safety
- Clear span options of up to 60m
- Designed cantilevered to remove obstacles in the viewing direction
- Provides space sponsorship signage
- Natural and artificial lighting
Features customised
for enjoyment.
Transform your outdoor space and make your learning environment so much more inviting and efficient. With Intelligent design, we construct a space that can be used for a variety of different applications. Added features can add more value and make the structure a lot more versatile.
Side
skirts
For better protection from sun and rain side skirts give better protection from the elements.
Retractable
sporting equipment
Basketball hoops can be retractable for more useable flexibility.
PA
systems
Communicate special announcements and events with your students with built-in PA systems.
Surveillance
cameras
Allow you to keep an eye on your structure and protect it from vandalism or theft.
Manufactured for Australian conditions. Designed for international excellence.
ISO – International Organisation for Standardisation. International standards that ensure the services we provide you are safe, reliable and are of high quality. With ethical and sustainable business practices, we can govern our business systems more efficiently, reducing your risk and increasing our quality standards.
Custom engineered structural steel sheds for all educational needs.
Site management &
full transparency.
Harnessing over 15 years of specialised expertise, Spanlift delivers industry-leading structural solutions in agricultural and commercial construction.
ISO
certified.
ISO certification guarantees you are dealing with a quality certified company. Our certifications cover quality, OH&S and environmental impact.
Project
management.
Our project management system software ensures your project is highly visible at every stage. Each project is assigned a unique ID number and is monitored through every process from initial order to handover.
3D drafting
& technology.
Your shed is designed with state-of-the-art 3D modeling software, real-world scale. Using the latest VR (virtual reality) and leading edge software ensures seamless construction.
Innovative designs
& engineering.
You’re working with a team of innovators, leveraging decades of industry experience and thousands of completed projects. Fully engineered projects, creating a customised solution for your operations.
Built
to last.
Structural integrity and durability are at the heart of what we do. Using 100% Australian-made steel, hot dipped galvanised, to protect against corrosion and providing outstanding abrasion resistance.
Safe, durable outdoor structures designed
for full protection and playful learning.
Our building consultants will explore the endless possibilities when it comes to designing your outdoor space.
Streamlined process ensuring a smooth journey from concept to completion.
At Spanlift, it’s important for us to fully understand what you want to create and how we can add value. We do this by exploring all options and aspects of your project, we provide you with ideas and options you may not have considered.
As a result, we give you a comprehensive, tailor-made solution that fully comprehends what your vision is and provides you with what you need. Over the years we have refined our process that alleviates all the hassle, so you don’t need to worry.
We go the extra mile, because your journey is important to us.
Frequently asked questions.
Any questions you may have our building consultants will be more than happy to assist you.
Yes, the main designs are curved and angled roof designs. Covered Outdoor Learning Areas can be flexible by design, primarily they are designed for drainage, weathering and protection.
When we design Covered Outdoor Learning Areas, ample room between the edge of the court or playing surface and the structure shoulda be allowed for protection around columns near any playing surface is usually recommended.
There is no standard size for school gymnasiums but there are standard size courts and playing surfaces. The structure will depend on how many and what type of courts are being covered as well as any other facilities that may be required. i.e. change rooms and bathroom facilities, viewing stands, offices, and storage, etc.
Yes, but is a case-by-case scenario to ensure no existing services such as power, water, and sewer, which can conflict with footing location of the COLA structure.
Proudly collaborating with industry leaders.
Stay Informed with the latest industry news.
If you’d like to keep up to date with recent shed projects and on what’s happening in the world of Spanlift, subscribe below.
