Chinese gymnasium features double layer structure

July 1, 2008  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

This landmark gymnasium in the Minhang district of Shanghai provides a sheltered area for a variety of indoor sports. The main membrane is designed with a double layer structure; its upper layer is supported by arch framework and its lower layer is suspended through a top chord. The two ends of the …
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Retractable roof provides flexibility for shopping center

July 1, 2008  |  Awnings & Canopies, Fabric Structures, Projects

The local building codes in Maroussi, Athens, required open “plazas” and “streets” for this shopping center. The client requested a roof from Taiyo Europe that could be retracted to a fully open position within five minutes. Each side is driven by 13 engines along 13 arches of various length…
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Tensile structures blend past and present

July 1, 2008  |  Fabric Structures, Projects

The Chaparral Water Treatment facility in Scottsdale, Ariz., boasts what is believed to be the largest installation of tensile structures of its kind in the area. The delicate engineering and the boldly stated shading system represents the nomadic desert dwellings of the past and the art and technol…
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New materials for architectural innovation

March 1, 2008  |  Awnings & Canopies, Fabric Structures

A fountain of light-filled fabric is the center of The Soft House, one of 15 architectural innovations created for the 2006 Intelligent Living by Design exhibit at Germany’s Vitra Museum. The futuristic vision by Kennedy & Violich Architecture (KVA), Boston, Mass., invites visitors to bask in …
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Anatomy of a fabric structure

January 1, 1970  |  Fabric Structures

By Samuel J. Armijos, AIA The percentage of the overall cost of a fabric structure can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the design, the material chosen, the location and access of the site, the cost of labor and equipment, and the amount of material needed to be shipped. Fabric stru…
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Determining a schedule of values

January 1, 1970  |  Fabric Structures

By Samuel J. Armijos, AIA The best way to understand the cost of a fabric structure is to request a schedule of values (SOV) or a breakdown of the major costs. Design (5-15%) Design development to construction document. Percentage varies depending on design/build vs. plans and specification approach…
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Using the air (apparent)

January 1, 1970  |  Fabric Structures

Inflatable buildings have their own unique advantages, especially portability and easy set-up. By Bruce Wright, AIA Inflatable buildings can have some special requirements-such as air pumps to fill the structural fabric tubes-unlike any other type of structure, but they also have advantages for relo…
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