Pavilion features modern ETFE canopy

March 1, 2010  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

The “Norway powered by nature” exhibit at the World Expo 2010 Shanghai China will showcase Norwegian woods in the Nanpu Bridge–Lupu Bridge area in the crowded center of one of China’s largest cities. The pavilion, supported by 15 tree-like structures made of renewable wood an…
Read More
Athletic coverage in Canada

March 1, 2010  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

The Talisman Centre for Sport and Wellness, a full-service Calgary, Alberta, Canada, athletic facility hosting Olympic-caliber competitors, will upgrade its 1983 fabric roof by installing a material with five times the insulating value. Birdair Inc., Amherst, N.Y., began work on the 162,000-square-f…
Read More
Unusual bamboo and fabric structure offers design advantages

February 19, 2010  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

Careful attention to joinery and geometry brings a work of art (and a functional pedestrian bridge) to a busy intersection in Colombia This unusual fabric and bamboo structure has several sustainable design advantages going for it, starting with the design of the intersection it crosses. The interse…
Read More
Tensioned fabric sculpture on display in Sydney

January 1, 2010  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

The Eora aborigines viewed the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 from the current location of the Sydney Customs House, Sydney, Australia, which has served as a gateway to people and goods entering the country since 1844. Now this historic building hosts events and exhibitions, including a five-sto…
Read More
Multi-functional structures aid agricultural producers

January 1, 2010  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

Cattle need fresh air, sunlight and protection from cold, damp conditions. ClearSpan Fabric Structures International, South Windsor, Conn., offers a range of custom-designed arched, fabric-covered shelters that can accommodate animal pens, stalls, nurseries or seclusion areas, designed from 25 to 20…
Read More
Urban zoo benefits from steel mesh roof

January 1, 2010  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

A major urban center on a busy harbor may be a unique location for a zoo, but Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia, established Wildlife World to attract both animal lovers and architectural students alike. The urban zoo’s tensioned stainless steel mesh roof draws visitors’ attention, al…
Read More
LSA becomes Fabric Structures Association

December 1, 2009  |  Fabric Structures, Industry News

The Lightweight Structures Association, Roseville, Minn., a division of the Industrial Fabrics Association International, changed its name and identity in October and is now the Fabric Structures Association (FSA). The new name more clearly defines the FSA membership, creates a closer tie to the off…
Read More
UFS expands and re-brands

November 6, 2009  |  Fabric Structures, Industry News

Universal Fabric Structures (UFS) has announced the launch of its new custom architectural division, Fabritecture. UFS’s goal is for Fabritecture to set a new benchmark in fabric structure design and construction, providing solutions for developers, builders, governments and private contractor…
Read More
Drawing on expertise

November 1, 2009  |  Fabric Structures, Features, Projects

Engineers help to ensure the practicality, safety and success of fabric structures. By Janice Kleinschmidt In May, consulting architect Nicholas Goldsmith, FAIA, received a call for help with a tent for the July 4 Coney Island Festival and Flea Market. “A client who purchased a rental tent sys…
Read More
Suzhou sky canopy features multimedia projection surfaces

November 1, 2009  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

In Suzhou, China, Harmony Times Square, next to Suzhou Industrial Park Jinji Lake, is a new landmark for the city, including office buildings, retail streets, riverfront cafes and a state-of-the-art shopping mall. Its urban design and open canal-side streetscape create a cultural center for the city…
Read More