Introducing the Motion Series: The Evolution of Bioclimatic Pergolas

Welcome to a new chapter in outdoor living. At James Robertshaw, we're proud to introduce the Motion Series – three beautifully engineered bioclimatic pergolas manufactured right here in the UK at our facility. Representing the perfect fusion of British engineering heritage and modern design innovation, the Motion range delivers weather protection, architectural elegance, and year-round comfort. Whether you're seeking the hands-on simplicity of manual control, the convenience of single-motor automation, or the premium performance of our dual-motor flagship, every Motion pergola is built to exacting standards with rigorous quality control.

From intimate residential gardens to expansive commercial terraces, the Motion Series adapts to your space, your style, and your requirements. Let's explore how each model can transform your outdoor environment.

What makes the Motion Series different?

The Motion range is built on three core principles that set these pergolas apart from standard outdoor structures:

Award-Winning Engineering: The Motion manual pergola has already earned recognition with a Best Design Award, validating the innovative thinking behind the entire series. From the patented manual mechanism to the synchronised dual-motor system, each model showcases engineering solutions that prioritise performance, longevity, and user experience.

True Climate Control: These aren't simply shade structures – they're bioclimatic pergolas designed to actively manage your outdoor environment. Rotating aluminium louvers allow you to control sunlight, shade, ventilation, and shelter with precision. Close them completely during rain for watertight protection, tilt them for filtered shade on sunny afternoons, or open them fully to enjoy clear skies.

Built for Performance: Manufactured right here in the UK at the James Robertshaw facility, every Motion pergola features robust 120×120mm aluminium profiles and hidden drainage systems that channel rainwater discreetly through the posts. As one of very few companies capable of manufacturing bioclimatic pergolas domestically, James Robertshaw brings British engineering excellence and quality control to every single unit. These are pergolas designed to perform reliably, season after season.

Motion: The award-winning manual pergola

Sometimes the best technology is no technology at all. The Motion manual pergola proves that exceptional outdoor living doesn't require motors, electronics, or smart home integration – just intelligent design and precision engineering.

How It Works

At the heart of the Motion lies a patented mechanical rotation mechanism housed discreetly within the vertical aluminium posts. A simple pull-down handle activates this system, allowing you to adjust all louvers simultaneously up to 90°. The mechanism delivers smooth, synchronous movement across the entire roof structure, requiring minimal physical effort whilst providing complete control over light and shade.

Who It's For

The Motion is perfect for homeowners who appreciate hands-on control and want to eliminate ongoing electrical costs and potential technical complications. It's equally suited to commercial venues seeking a low-maintenance yet sophisticated shading solution that enhances their outdoor space without adding complexity.

Choose from freestanding, wall-mounted, or ceiling-mounted configurations, with optional perimeter LED lighting available in Warm White or RGBWW.

Motion X: Smart automation meets sleek design

The Motion X represents the natural evolution of the manual pergola – retaining the clean aesthetic and structural integrity whilst adding the convenience of motorised control and smart home integration.

How It Works

Powered by a Somfy linear actuator, the Motion X allows you to adjust louvers with the touch of a button, through a dedicated remote control, or via integration with smart home systems. The end-point centered rotation system ensures all panels move in perfect synchronisation, delivering superior sealing when closed and consistent shading when partially open.

Who It's For

The Motion X is designed for clients who desire modern convenience without compromising on design integrity. Whether you're a homeowner looking to integrate your pergola into a broader smart home ecosystem, or a commercial property manager needing reliable, automated weather protection for your terrace, the Motion X delivers effortless performance with precise and silent operation.

The automated system allows for quick response to changing weather conditions – programme the louvers to close automatically when rain is detected, or open them to maximise ventilation on warm days.

Motion X Plus: The pinnacle of pergola performance

For those who demand the very best, the Motion X Plus represents the ultimate expression of bioclimatic pergola engineering. This is where innovation meets luxury, delivering measurable improvements in thermal comfort, acoustic performance, and weather protection compared to standard systems.

How It Works

The Motion X Plus is built around a dual synchronised actuator system. The twin-motor configuration ensures uniform panel movement across even the largest installations, maintaining perfect alignment and delivering enhanced sealing when closed. The panels feature double-wall aluminium profiles, injected with polyurethane foam for improved thermal, acoustic, and wind insulation.

The high-pressure closing function is the signature feature. As louvers rotate to their closed position, the linear actuators deliver firm, uniform pressure, creating an enhanced seal. Combined with the insulated panel construction, this provides genuine protection against condensation, draughts, and heat loss.

Who It's For

The Motion X Plus is designed for discerning clients at luxury residential properties and premium hospitality venues. If your outdoor space is exposed to harsh weather, or if you want to extend usability into cooler months, this is the system that delivers. With panel rotation extending to 120° (compared to 90° on other models), you gain finer control over light, shade, and ventilation.

Choosing your Motion Pergola: Which model is right for you?

Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

Choose Motion if: You appreciate simplicity, want to eliminate electrical components, and prefer hands-on control over your outdoor environment. Ideal for residential gardens and venues seeking reliable, low-maintenance weather protection.

Choose Motion X if: You want the convenience of motorisation with smart home integration. Perfect for homeowners building connected outdoor spaces or commercial properties needing reliable automated shading.

Choose Motion X Plus if: You demand superior thermal comfort, acoustic performance, and weather sealing. Ideal for luxury properties, exposed locations, or anyone wanting extended seasonal outdoor living capability.

Shared Excellence: What every Motion Pergola offers

Regardless of which model you choose, every Motion pergola includes:

• Available Sizes: Four standard configurations - 3×3m, 4×3m, 4×4m, and 4×5m
• UK Manufactured: Built at the James Robertshaw facility - one of very few companies manufacturing bioclimatic pergolas in Britain
• Robust Construction: 120×120mm aluminium profiles manufactured in Europe
• Hidden Drainage: Integrated channels keep outdoor spaces dry without compromising clean lines
• Flexible Installation: Freestanding, wall-mounted, or ceiling-mounted configurations to suit any space
• Modular Design: Multiple units can be linked seamlessly for larger coverage areas
• Optional Lighting: Perimeter LED lighting in Warm White or RGBWW extends evening usability
• Professional Installation: Expert fitting by James Robertshaw's experienced technicians
• 160 Years of Heritage: Every Motion pergola benefits from James Robertshaw's manufacturing expertise dating back to 1860

Customisation & Finish options

The Motion Series is available in three colour finishes:

• PL9005
• PL7043
• PL9002

Additional customisation options include perimeter lighting colour (Warm White or RGBWW) and remote control selection (Situo 1 or Situo 5 RTS/IO for motorised models).

Why James Robertshaw?

Choosing a pergola is a significant investment in your property and lifestyle. Here's why customers trust James Robertshaw for their outdoor living solutions:

• UK Manufacturing: One of very few companies manufacturing bioclimatic pergolas domestically, ensuring superior quality control and supporting British craftsmanship
• Bespoke Manufacturing: Every pergola is tailored to your exact specifications and requirements
• European Quality: Built to exacting standards using premium materials designed for longevity
• Technical Innovation: From patented mechanisms to advanced insulation systems
• Expert Installation: Our professional team handles everything from site survey through commissioning
• Long-Term Support: Comprehensive aftercare and maintenance guidance
• 160-Year Heritage: Since 1860, James Robertshaw has been synonymous with quality British craftsmanship

Transform your outdoor space with the Motion Series

The Motion range represents a fundamental shift in what's possible with outdoor living. These aren't simple shade structures – they're precision-engineered bioclimatic pergolas designed to create comfortable, usable outdoor spaces regardless of weather conditions.

Whether you're drawn to the elegant simplicity of manual control, the convenience of smart automation, or the premium performance of our flagship dual-motor system, there's a Motion pergola engineered specifically for your needs.

Ready to experience the difference award-winning design and British engineering can make?

Contact the James Robertshaw team today to discuss your requirements and discover which Motion pergola is perfect for your outdoor space.

For further inspiration and expert guidance, explore our other resources:

• Pergola Ideas: Discover innovative concepts showcasing outdoor potential
• Pergola Design Ideas for Outdoor Spaces: Explore creative designs with real-world examples
• Pergola Roof Ideas: Learn about the latest trends in bioclimatic roofing