Schirmdächer

Schirmdächer, or umbrella roofs, describe a family of roof forms in which a canopy is carried by a central support, and radial ribs or beams extend outward to form a broad, shallow surface. The plan is typically circular or polygonal, with a pronounced overhang that shades the space beneath. The silhouette resembles an opened umbrella.

Design and construction characteristics include a radial framework that may use timber, steel, or reinforced concrete. Radial rafters or ribs converge at a central hub and are tied to a ring beam or outer edge. The roofing surface can be metal, membrane, glass, tile, or timber, often chosen for a light, expansive look. Drainage systems usually direct water to either a central column or an outer gutter, depending on the geometry.

Function and advantages: Schirmdächer provide shelter from rain and sun while preserving openness and airflow. The wide overhang protects façades and outdoor spaces, and the canopy can admit natural light when translucent materials are used. The form supports large spans with relatively few vertical supports, creating unobstructed interiors.

Applications: They appear in pavilions, public squares, transportation facilities such as stations and terminals, market halls, stadiums, and carport structures. In contemporary architecture, umbrella roofs are valued for their expressive, lightweight character and ability to cover large areas with a single, coherent canopy.

History and variants: The term arises in German architectural discourse to describe umbrella-like canopies across various scales. Variants differ in central support details, curvature, and roofing materials, reflecting local climate, construction technology, and aesthetic goals.

See also: umbrella roof; pavilion design; tensile or shell structures.