When Mitsui Fudan America partnered with Johnson Fain Architects to develop Moda Sorrento, their goal was to create more than just another urban high-rise; they wanted a residential community that felt personal, welcoming, and utterly gorgeous. With thoughtfully designed, compact apartment layouts, the team recognized that the building’s shared spaces would need to play a large and important role in delivering that elevated living experience.
At the heart of this vision was the pool deck, imagined as a vibrant extension of the residents’ homes rather than a standard outdoor area. The goal was to design an inviting open-air “living room” where neighbors could unwind, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors in upscale style. To bring that vision to life, the developers turned to Skyco Shading Systems, where our custom cabana structures helped transform the once average poolside into a resort-worthy destination.
Designing for Comfort and Versatility
Skyco’s solution and core contribution to this new space is centered on its low-maintenance, powder-coated aluminum shade structures with interlocking louvered roofs for the poolside cabanas. Our design offered the sleek, modern lines the architects were searching for, complete with the performance and durability necessary for such a high-traffic area.
The motorized louvers allow us to create a versatile outdoor experience where residents can tilt them to filter sunlight, enjoy full shade, or close them completely to form a waterproof ceiling. This last feature is made possible by a discreet, built-in drainage system that channels water down the support columns to prevent pooling and ensure seamless draining. This adaptability means the cabanas can effortlessly serve residents no matter the season or the weather.
To enhance them further, the cabanas were integrated with third-party electrical and smart systems, supporting ceiling fans, dimmable LED lighting, speakers, and optional infrared heaters. Rain sensors activate to automatically close the louvers during storms, while wind sensors raise the shades to prevent the risk of damage in high winds. These intuitive features ensure both safety and convenience without the need to sacrifice style.
Two Cabana Styles, One Seamless Space
Skyco has worked closely with the developers to create two distinct types of cabanas that complement the pool’s layout and help to address various resident needs.
On the street side, larger cabanas function as open-air gathering spaces, each equipped with comfortable couches, ceiling fans, televisions, and a refrigerator, making it the perfect space for hosting friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon by the pool.
Along the pool edge itself, smaller cabanas are built to cater to sunbathers who prefer privacy and flexibility. These cabanas feature motorized shades that can be raised or lowered to enclose individual spaces, or opened up completely to create a larger, shared area for group gatherings.
This carefully thought-out arrangement turned what started as a simple pool deck into a versatile space that supports both intimate relaxation and energetic social events.
Transforming Amenities into an Experience
The impact of the cabana installation at Moda Sorrento goes beyond simple aesthetics. By adding these luxury structures, the development team elevated its outdoor and poolside amenities into a true destination experience, offering residents a sense of exclusivity and comfort that rivals high-end resorts.
The pool area now functions as an inviting communal hub, somewhere residents can unwind after work, entertain friends, or enjoy the outdoors year-round, regardless of the weather. For the developers, this enhanced amenity package not only serves to add value to the property but it also helps Moda Sorrento stand out in a competitive urban rental market.
A Model for Luxury Outdoor Living
The Moda Sorrento project illustrates how these innovative and fully integrated shade solutions can redefine the way residents experience outdoor spaces. With the right design and technology, even a typical pool deck can become a multifunctional “outdoor room” that turns the ordinary into something genuinely special.
At Skyco Shading Systems, our creative team continues to collaborate with architects, developers, and builders to create customized outdoor environments that are as functional as they are stunningly beautiful.
Contact Skyco Shading Systems today and learn how our shade structures can transform and enhance your next residential or commercial project.
