LOCATED IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND, THE PICTURESQUE LITTLE SEAPORT OF YOUGHAL WAS THE FOCUS OF A MAJOR DECISION TAKEN BY THE LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AS REGARDS TRANSFORMING THE EXISTING PARKING LOT INTO A SPECTACULAR MEETING PLACE. IN CONSULTATION WITH MDT'S CREATIVE TEAM, A SPACE OF APPROXIMATELY 450 SQUARE METERS WAS COVERED BY STORM-RESISTANT TULIP UMBRELLAS THAT MEASURE SIX BY SIX METERS.

Due to their freestanding arrangement directly along the coastline, the umbrellas- are exposed to extreme wind. A solid static calculation was necessary as the -umbrellas are placed in open position most of the time. All struts are reinforced and the membrane has been manufactured in a tear-proof way, good for winds at speeds of up to 110 km/h. MDT was responsible for structural calculations as well as all the permissions and licenses. Delivery and installation was handled by MDT’s team of specialists. All masts and spokes are colored white, and form a harmonious whole together with the membranes. By using dual mast pipes, the Youghal umbrellas can handle twice as much water. The water is channeled into the Irish Sea through a newly installed drainage canal.

• Drainage of the space operated by the umbrella
• New installation of square drainage system
• In-ground lighting
• Full-service installation incl. civil engineering work
• Can be used all year round
• Reinforced structure for masts with special heights
• Extremely salt and UV light resistant membranes

Projects MDT overseen from the very beginning tend to produce extremely good results. The remodeling of the existing parking lot in the small seaport town of Youghal quickly became an iconic visual symbol for the town. The 12 umbrellas that measure six by six meters cover the former parking lot and convert it into a meeting place capable of withstanding a wide range of weather -conditions. Local residents have since lovingly nicknamed the area Umbrella Square.

Nothing more to add to this urban architectural intervention? It could not have been better – and this. for everyone involved.

The municipal administration was able to enhance the location’s appeal for tourists and protect its visitors from rain while they go to the weekend market.

During its inauguration, the Director of the Youghal Chamber of Tourism and Development summarized the potential of the -umbrella concept in the following way: “After weeks of construction, we are delighted that we have delivered what is now an amazing piece of architectural design that will hugely enhance the public realm. The umbrellas will of course provide a focal point for festivals and events to develop and expand, extending the season rife with festivals and eventsand therefore generating revenue for the local economy.”

Anchored spotlightsemphasize the gigantic umbrellas, underscoring the solidity of the wind-resistant structures.