Design Goal C
Integrate the facility- Screened Solutions
Discussion
Screened (or camouflaged) designs have a role to play in reducing the visual effect of antenna system infrastructure, but in reality will only be appropriate for a small number of sites. Screened designs work best in situations where there are particular sensitivities such as heritage and character issues or significant views or vistas. Endless opportunities are available to screen antenna systems and make them look like something else. Literally the imagination is the only restriction. Examples include fake chimneys, palm trees, church crosses and steeples and clock towers. Factors such as cost and the potential trigger of a Development Application can limit the use of screened designs.
Other forms of screening include shrouding tuft antennas and using back and front screening of antennas (refer Design Goal D)
Screening does not necessarily need to be complicated and expensive but can be as simple as installing radio transparent material in front or behind an antenna system to reduce its visual effect by making its profile less visible against the skyline.
Housing used to screen antennas, cabling and equipment cabin.
Installing translucent screening can reduce the visibility of antennas against the skyline.
Where appropriate use creative design solutions to screen antennas. in this example, an additional chimney was created on a heritage building.
Design Opportunity
- Utilize creative screening solutions where appropriate to disguise or camouflage.
- Utilize back or front screening of facilities where appropriate.
- Shroud tuft antennas where possible.
