Perched on the waterfront in Drummoyne, Ecco Ristorante is a destination for authentic Italian dining, intimate celebrations and corporate gatherings — all framed by expansive views across Sydney Harbour.
Its generous harbourfront deck was always the hero of the venue. But like many exposed waterfront spaces, it was in need of rejuvenation — protection from sun, wind and rain without compromising the view.
That’s where Outdoor Blinds & Awnings (OBA) stepped in.
Project Outcome
This transformation demonstrates how commercial venues can extend trading capacity, improve patron comfort and elevate their brand experience through intelligent outdoor shading solutions.
For hospitality venues seeking a sophisticated retractable roofing solution, OBA delivers fully customised systems designed to suit each unique environment.
The Project Details:
The Vision:
Create a refined, all-weather outdoor dining space that:
- Preserves uninterrupted harbour views
- Provides year-round protection
- Enhances comfort for guests
- Maintains a premium architectural finish
The Solution:
MED Evo – Retractable Fabric Roof System
OBA custom designed, manufactured and installed a MED Evo Retractable Fabric Roof System, transforming the open deck into a flexible, climate-controlled space.
System Size: 7420mm (W) × 7230mm, Fabric: Valmex – Bright White and Frame Powder Coating: Pearl White
6 × Screentex Zip Systems with Head Box
To further enhance protection without enclosing the space permanently, OBA installed six custom motorised Screentex Zip outdoor blinds.
Fabric:
0.75mm Dimensionally Stable Clear PVC
This crystal-clear finish maintains full visibility of Sydney Harbour while protecting guests from wind and driving rain — the perfect balance between openness and comfort.
Motorisation:
Somfy RTS motors with remote control operation
Head Box: 130mm × 150mm, Base Bar: 27mm × 50mm, Side Channels: Spring assist system, Powder Coating: Pearl White
Three supporting posts and integrated tracks ensure structural integrity while keeping the aesthetic clean and architectural.
Why Valmex?
For a waterfront commercial environment, material performance is critical. The selected Valmex architectural PVC fabric is a high-quality membrane specifically engineered for tension roof applications.
This advanced fabric features:
- The fabric’s top coat lacquer, formulated with highly concentrated polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), delivering outstanding cleaning properties — ideal for hospitality environments.
- A special titanium dioxide (TiO₂) protection primer, developed in-house to reinforce the fabric structure.
- A double top-coat system that shields the underlying layers from harsh UV exposure, preventing premature ageing.
- Maintained weldability for structural integrity and long-term performance.
The translucent white finish allows natural daylight to filter through while protecting diners from intense sun and rain — creating a bright yet comfortable dining environment.
For a venue overlooking Sydney Harbour, where exposure to salt air, UV and changing weather conditions is constant, this level of fabric performance ensures longevity without compromising aesthetics.
The Result
The once weather-exposed deck is now a refined, adaptable dining environment.
- Open roof for sunny afternoons
- Closed roof for rain protection
- Clear zip screens for wind control
- Seamless remote operation
- Premium finish throughout
Guests at Ecco can now enjoy waterfront dining in comfort — no matter the conditions — while preserving uninterrupted views of Sydney Harbour.
