Liking the look of an outdoor dining canopy? But aren’t quite sure which design to go for? Don’t worry, as in this handy dining canopy guide from A&S Landscape, we’ll break down the differences between two of our best-selling dining canopies to help you decide which one is the best fit for your school.
As one of the UK’s leading canopy companies, we know just how annoying overcrowding issues can be, and the frustrations that this might place on your school. All of our school canopies are designed with functionality and safety in mind, so that you can really make the most out of your outdoor space and let pupils thrive!
So, which one is it, a Motiva Vista™ or a Motiva Expanse™? Let’s get into it…
Why do schools need a dining canopy?
Before we begin, it’s probably beneficial to understand what our dining canopies can bring to schools. More than just an extra roof or an empty space, our dining canopies are strategic solutions to capacity issues and student well-being concerns. Here are some reasons (& others you might not have thought about) why you’re probably considering one:
- To avoid overcrowding at lunchtimes
- They’re more cost-effective than a traditional brick extension
- Improved mental health among staff & pupils
- Better concentration and improved attention spans
- A multi-use space, acting as an outdoor classroom as well as a dining space
- Improved social dynamics
With all this in mind, there’s just one thing left to choose – and that’s the outdoor dining canopy for you!
Motiva Vista™ – All you need to know
First up, let’s focus on our ever-so-popular Motiva Vista™ canopy. This is one of the latest designs added to our outdoor dining canopies, boasting a large space underneath a polycarbonate roof that is perfect for additional dining space. Other great features include:
- Solid steel framework built for maximum longevity
- High-quality polycarbonate roofing, available in clear or opal
- A signature Dura-Coat finish, which can be customised to any RAL colour
- Options for a fully enclosed design, with glass side panels and doors available
It’s snow-safe, wind-safe, and keeps pupils well protected from harsh UV rays. It comes ready to build in virtually any dimension you need… Even if you feel as though your project is too big, we take into account nearly every situation.
Why does it stand out against our other designs?
But what makes it unique? Well, compared to our other models, the Motiva Vista™ exclusively offers:
✅ A bright and airy design. Thanks to its polycarbonate roof, it brightens up the space, letting pupils enjoy the natural light reflecting through.
✅ Versatile space. While it’s primarily used as a dining canopy, it can also be used as an outdoor classroom or can even be hired out for external activities.
✅ Seamless design integration. Its contemporary and airy design means it can sit seamlessly next to your other school buildings without looking like an eyesore or out of place.
Interested? To get a quote for the Motiva Vista™, simply request a free proposal.
Motiva Expanse™ – Key features & more
Another design you might be interested in is our Motiva Expanse™ canopy. This is also a fully enclosed canopy which can be tailored with glazing, extra doors, heating, lighting, and flooring! What you’re getting is a permanent, multifunctional space that can be used for dining and beyond. Other features include:
- Solid steel roofing that gives it a more permanent feel
- A straight roof design gives it a clean, sleek look
- Fully enclosed capabilities
- Wide span capabilities, covering larger areas with fewer internal supports
What makes it a top choice?
Compared to the Motiva Vista™, you might choose the Motiva Expanse™ for:
✅ Investing in a room rather than a shelter. The Motiva Expanse™ feels much more like a separate building than just a canopy.
✅ Climate and noise control. Because of its solid roof, the Motiva Expanse™ provides better acoustic control.
✅ Great return on investment. It offers the same square footage as a traditional extension would, but at a lower cost and with much faster installation time!
If you think the Motiva Expanse™ is a firm favourite for your school, get in touch for more information.
So, Motiva Vista™ vs Motiva Expanse™… Which one should you choose?
Deciding between the two can be a tricky decision to make, but essentially, you’ll want to choose what’s right for your school.
Here’s a handy comparison table at a glance:
| Features | Motiva Vista™ | Motiva Expanse™ |
| > Roof type | Polycarbonate | Solid steel |
| > Light levels | Floods the area with natural light, with optional extras | More controlled, with the option of extra lights |
| > Main feel and look | Airy, modern, and more of an indoor/outdoor feel | A robust and permanent feel building |
| > Best for | An outdoor dining space or an outdoor classroom | Additional space & an extra exam hall |
| > Acoustics | Great noise control | Superior noise control |
| > Insulation | Good insulation that is excellent for all year-round dining | Better insulation, thanks to a fully enclosed design |
Improve outdoor eating with the help of A&S Landscape
Hopefully, this outdoor dining canopy guide has made your decision-making that little bit easier. Ultimately, the choice between our Motiva Vista™ and our Motiva Expanse™ comes down to the vision for your space. For a full-on outdoor dining experience, the Motiva Expanse™ is a great high-quality environment and a cost-effective solution to a traditional extension.
For a versatile, more contemporary design, the Motiva Vista™ is also an excellent choice. Here at A&S Landscape, we’ll partner with you to transform your school’s outdoors into a stylish and fully functional space. For nearly 50 years, we’ve worked with schools up and down the country that can truly vouch for their new and improved outdoor spaces.
Ready to transform your outdoor space? Get in touch, and we can tell you more about the specific canopy you’re interested in!
