Why Every Business Needs a Quality Smoking Shelter
With UK laws having banned smoking inside public and commercial buildings, providing outdoor smoking shelters has become essential for businesses, especially those with staff or visitors who smoke. Whether you manage a workplace, retail site or commercial property, a well-placed and regulation-compliant smoking shelter improves site professionalism, reduces litter, and shows consideration for smokers and non-smokers alike.
At Tamstar, we supply commercial smoking shelters UK wide that combine functionality with visual appeal, ensuring you meet legal obligations while creating a tidy, protected area for smoking.
What to Consider in a Smoking Shelter Design
Choosing the right smoking shelter for businesses isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about compliance, comfort, durability, and long-term value. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Location & Positioning
- Place the free standing shelter away from entrances, windows, and HVAC intakes (typically at least 1.5 metres).
- Ensure good lighting and visibility for safety.
- Consider wind direction and natural shelter provided by buildings or landscaping.
2. Weather Protection
- Look for shelters with robust roofing (e.g., polycarbonate or steel) that protect against rain and UV rays.
- Side panels or screens provide extra shielding in windy or exposed sites.
3. Durable, Low Maintenance Materials
- Galvanised or powder-coated steel frames resist rust and wear.
- Polycarbonate panels offer high impact resistance, low maintenance, and transparency for clear visibility.
- Anti-corrosion finishes prolong lifespan and reduce upkeep.
4. Accessibility & DDA Compliance
- Workplace smoking shelters should be accessible to all, including wheelchair users.
- Tamstar offers DDA compliant shelters with level access and clear manoeuvring space.
5. Seating & Comfort
- Optional seating provides comfort for staff during breaks.
- Lean bars or benches can be integrated while maintaining open space.
Top 5 Smoking Shelter Design Ideas for Businesses
Whether you’re upgrading an old shelter or installing one for the first time, here are five practical and popular smoking shelter design ideas for UK commercial sites:
1. Arched / Curved Roof Smoking Shelter
Best for: Offices, retail parks, industrial sites
Features:
- Sleek curved roof for rain runoff
- Full polycarbonate panels for weather protection
- Available in multiple sizes and colours
- Option to add bench seating
2. Wall-Mounted Smoking Shelter
Best for: Businesses with limited outdoor space
Features:
- Mounts directly to an exterior wall with suitable cladding, ideally brick or breeze block
- Reduces footprint without compromising shelter
- Cost-effective and easy to install
- Ideal for alleyways or narrow walkways
3. Open-Front Modular Shelter
Best for: Public sector organisations, healthcare sites
Features:
- Fully modular and customisable
- Front open design for easy access
- Powder-coated steel frame with choice of roof materials
- Can be extended or reconfigured over time
4. Timber Framed Eco Shelter
Best for: Schools, nature parks, or eco-conscious firms
Features:
- FSC-certified timber frame
- Blends naturally with surroundings
- Optional green roof or solar lighting
- Weatherproof wood treatment for longevity
5. Fully Enclosed Glass Panel Shelter
Best for: Luxury developments, high traffic commercial sites
Features:
- Enclosed on three or four sides with clear glass or polycarbonate
- High-end look with minimal branding
- Excellent wind protection and visibility
- Ideal for client facing or prestige environments
Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf Smoking Shelters
At Tamstar, we offer both off-the-shelf designs and custom bespoke smoking shelters to meet unique site requirements.
Custom Smoking Shelter Benefits:
- Tailored to site dimensions, branding, or accessibility needs
- Choose your preferred materials, colours, and features
- Integrate lighting, bins, signage, and security elements
When to Go Off the Shelf:
- Budget or time constraints
- Straightforward installations
- Need a fast, compliant solution
Whether you’re planning a quick installation or a bespoke architectural feature, our team can guide you on the best solution.
UK Smoking Shelter Regulations: What You Need to Know
Before you buy a smoking shelter, make sure it meets legal requirements under the Health Act 2006 and associated guidelines. Here’s a quick summary:
- Shelter Design Must Be No More Than 50% Enclosed
To legally qualify as a smoking shelter, at least half of the shelter’s sides must be open to the air. - Positioning
Place at least 1.5 metres away from building entrances, exits, and windows to reduce smoke drift. - No Smoking Indoors
Shelters must not be enclosed enough to be considered a “building” under smoke-free legislation. - Signage
Display clear smoking area signs to distinguish zones and inform users. - Waste Management
Provide cigarette bins to reduce litter and comply with local council cleanliness standards.
Tamstar’s designs are built with UK smoking shelter regulations in mind, so you can rest assured your installation is legally compliant.
Why Choose Tamstar for Outdoor Smoking Shelters?
With over a decade of experience in supplying outdoor workplace infrastructure, Tamstar smoking shelters stand out for their:
✅ Built-to-Last Quality – Galvanised and powder-coated frames, UV-resistant panels, and low-maintenance construction.
✅ Customisation Options – Tailor your shelter to fit your branding, environment, or layout.
✅ Nationwide Delivery & Installation – Serving businesses across the UK with prompt service and installation support.
✅ Expert Advice – Our experienced team helps guide you from design to delivery.
✅ Comprehensive Range – From compact shelters to large modular units, find what suits your site.
Ready to Enhance Your Workplace with a Smoking Shelter?
Don’t leave your outdoor spaces unprotected or non-compliant. Whether you’re upgrading an old shelter or planning a new build, Tamstar’s smoking shelter for businesses provides the perfect balance of practicality, compliance, and design.
🔍 Browse our full range of smoking shelters here
📞 Or request a custom quote tailored to your site today
Tamstar – Durable, compliant, and cost-effective solutions for every UK workplace.