Ingenious glazing design for New Zealand’s Full Time Sports Bar

Located in Kingsland, Auckland, the venue aims to set a new standard for sports entertainment and dining with its architectural glass design and welcoming atmosphere catering to fans and patrons alike.

The Full Time Sports Bar and Eatery project draws on the expertise of Universal Glazing Systems (UGS) and Dynamic Outdoor Solutions to create a sophisticated, adaptable outdoor area for patrons to enjoy. Universal Glazing Systems Business Manager, Mike Dilloway remarks, “The goal was not only to create a dynamic and adaptable environment but also ensure the outdoor area drew attention to the central walkway and the beautifully crafted archways leading to the venue.”

“For this, we focused on mono filtrate roofs, primarily using our ClearSpan system. This roofing system provides the versatility and durability required for commercial projects, with an impressive spanning of up to six metres in length and customisable to any width.”

A glass roofing system designed for New Zealand architecture

New Zealand manufacturer Universal Glazing Systems (UGS) began as an offshoot of a greenhouse business by two brothers in Auckland. Their initial project—a long-run roof for a café—spurred them to develop the ClearSpan system, which is now a staple in UGS’s offerings. 

For the Full Time Sports Bar project, UGS's solution with ClearSpan was complemented by a louvred roof. “Louvers are popular but expensive,” Mike notes. “With ClearSpan, we can create a permanent light-filtering cover that’s half the price.” The result is a cost-effective yet luxurious roofing setup, allowing patrons to blend sunlight and shade while maintaining the bar's sleek aesthetics.

The new venue required extensive structural adjustments to support the ClearSpan system. Mike explains that they bolted posts into existing beams and added a central bearer to account for Auckland’s often windy conditions, ensuring stability over the six-metre span. The roofing also incorporates UV-protective panels, providing 99 per cent UV blockage, even on the clear panels. “Patrons will not get too hot or sunburned,” he says.

Dynamic Outdoor Solutions was instrumental in implementing UGS’s design, particularly with the retractable roof systems. Jacob from Dynamic Outdoor Solutions highlights the collaboration: "The UGS ClearSpan system with grey-tinted polycarbonate panels was the perfect product to achieve this while integrating beautifully with the retractable roofs.” The result is a visually seamless and functional roofing design that adapts to New Zealand’s varying weather, making it an ideal feature for hospitality venues.

Mike sees Full Time as a flagship project that showcases the advantages of their systems in public spaces like bars and cafés. "We wanted our system to be showcased in a hospitality venue so our potential clients can see and experience our glazing and roofs in public spaces," he explains. “Our system combines aesthetic appeal with the practicality required for these high-traffic outdoor entertainment areas and creates environments that enhance customer experience.”

The ClearSpan roof system is an essential element of the venue’s ambience, allowing natural light to filter through grey-tinted panels. “The tinting provides a light-filtering effect similar to sunglasses, reducing heat while maintaining visibility, making it a comfortable outdoor space for patrons in all weather,” says Mike.