Revamping Ridgeway’s Outdoor Space
Where It Started
Tucked along a well-trodden high street, The Café at Ridgeway had become a favourite for locals. Part of its charm was the outdoor seating - a space that felt like an extension of the café itself. But as the push for alfresco dining grew, the team saw a problem they couldn’t ignore.
Long afternoons saw the space turn into a heat trap. Guests would shift uncomfortably in their chairs, or worse, head inside. And when the skies turned grey, the tables sat empty. The café needed something simple. Something effective. And crucially, something that wouldn’t stick out.
They wanted a solution that looked like it belonged there.
If you're facing a similar challenge, get in touch with Signs Express Cardiff today to transform your outdoor space.
What They Needed
The team wasn’t after a full redesign, just a practical way to keep the space welcoming, no matter the weather. Awnings felt like the right idea, but only if they were reliable and easy for staff to manage.
They didn’t want anything fiddly or time-consuming to maintain. It had to work, day in and day out, without becoming yet another task during a busy lunch service.
Our Approach
After taking a proper look at the site and walking through the café’s daily routine, we recommended installing a pair of folding arm awnings. Simple to use, durable and importantly, designed to complement the building’s style rather than distract from it.
Each awning was motorised for ease and came with a manual override. Wind sensors meant they’d retract automatically if the breeze picked up. No need for staff to scramble.
The fabric we used blocks out harsh UV rays while still letting the space feel open and airy. And to keep things cohesive, we powder-coated the aluminium frame to match the café’s existing trim.
We added integrated LED lighting to the arms - subtle, but perfect for those evening hours when the café stays open a little longer. As for installation, we worked around quieter periods to avoid getting in the way.
What Changed?
From day one, the space felt different. Guests started using the outdoor tables more regularly, even when the weather wasn’t ideal. Staff no longer had to second-guess whether to set up outside or drag umbrellas across the terrace.
The changes brought real benefits. Outdoor seating is now used consistently, even in cooler or drizzlier months. The café’s team has more flexibility during service, and customers enjoy greater comfort no matter the forecast. Inside, the reduced glare and heat have improved the environment, too. Visually, the new setup adds polish from the street, giving the whole front of the business a more refined, ready-for-anything feels.
Conclusion
This project showcases how custom folding arm awnings can enhance both comfort and visual appeal in a hospitality setting, making the most of your outdoor space. For The Café at Ridgeway, the result is a beautifully shaded, functional, and inviting outdoor dining space that adds lasting value to their business.
Customer Testimonial
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We couldn’t be happier with the new awnings. They’ve completely changed the way we use our outdoor area. Customers now sit outside even on hot or drizzly days, and the space looks fantastic. The installation team was professional, tidy, and worked around our trading hours with no fuss. It’s been a great investment for our business.” - Owner, The Café at Ridgeway
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