Client: The Wolseley Group, Contractor: WFC Contracts, Project Management: PSE Associates, Architects: Brady Williams, Interior Design: Fabled Studio.

Andy Thornton has manufactured and sourced contract furniture for nearly 50 years. They are a leading manufacturer of high-quality architectural metalwork and have a furniture showroom with extensive workshops and finishing facilities in West Yorkshire.  

Formed in 1975, the original Andy Thornton vision was a one-stop-shop for pub furniture but the company frequently delivers a wide range of hospitality projects including restaurants like Manzi’s in London.

Manzi's is a relaxed, all-day seafood and fish restaurant nestled between Greek and Frith Street in the heart of London's vibrant Soho district. Its ethos is to be relaxed, accessible and fun.

Manzi's Seafood Restaurant sought to maximise the potential of its outdoor space with a purposeful addition—an engineered metalwork restaurant canopy.

Andy Thornton crafted a 42-metre-long structure with precision, structural integrity, and adherence to project deadlines. The result is a spectacular blue canopy that elevates the outdoor area to match the opulent interiors just beyond the double doors.


Engineering Precision: Andy Thornton's in-house drafts people crafted detailed AutoCAD 2D drawings, laying the groundwork for the project.

Structural Calculations: The engineering team prioritised functionality, conducting thorough structural calculations to ensure the canopy's resilience. Load-bearing capacities and environmental considerations took precedence, resulting in a structure built to withstand the elements.

Fixings Pull Out Test: Quality assurance was paramount. Fixtures underwent a practical pull-out test, guaranteeing their strength and consistency. This step was to confirm the reliability of the engineering, assuring clients of a structurally sound and dependable canopy.

Project Management Excellence: Managed by the Andy Thornton Metalwork Department, the project unfolded seamlessly under a pragmatic approach to project management. The focus was on execution efficiency, ensuring that the project progressed from fabrication to installation with minimal complications, meeting the client's deadline without compromise.

Workshop Fabrication: Crafted in the workshops of Andy Thornton in West Yorkshire, experienced metalworkers meticulously fashioned mild steel into this remarkable 42-meter-long canopy. Throughout the process, strict adherence to technical drawings ensured precision and excellence in every detail.

Cantilever Innovation: The choice of a cantilever canopy structure with wall tie rods was deliberate, driven by a commitment to practicality. This engineering solution eliminated the need for columns, prioritising both space maximisation and a clean, unobstructed aesthetic. (To learn more about pros and cons of different canopy styles including lean-to structure, walkways and freestanding canopies read the Andy Thornton Canopy Design Guide here).

Sea Blue Polyester Powder Coating: The finishing touches— bright blue polyester powder coating with polycarbonate Georgian wire roof window lights are the perfect combination of form and function. The result is a canopy that doesn't just look impressive; it's built to last.

Efficient Installation: The installation phase was a testament to efficiency. In just 11 days, a team of 5 professionals seamlessly integrated the 42-metre-long canopy. The decision for one consolidated delivery further emphasized practicality, minimising disruptions during installation.

Learn more about types of canopies for restaurants, hotels and pubs in the Andy Thornton Canopy Design Guide.