Fabric Architecture

EXCLUSIVE SEMINAR: NIGEL BROWNE TO SPEAK @ DANISH CONFERENCE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The Danish Technological Institute (DTI) has invited Nigel Browne, Director & Senior Designer of Fabric Architecture, to lead two seminars at their upcoming conference 20-21 March in Torsdad, Denmark.

With a conference theme of “Rethinking Architecture,” Nigel, will be the headlining presenter speaking on the topic of “Why Fabric as a Building Medium is Growing in Popularity.” In addition, Nigel will be delivering an exclusive RIBA CPD seminar on “How to Design Tensile Fabric Structures”.

“It’s Nigel’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and 31 years’ experience in the tensile fabric industry which attracted the DTI to invite him to speak at the conference. Attendees are looking forward to learning from Nigel - he's an industry leader." Anne Kristine Busch, Project Manager, Senior Consultant, Master of Political Science, DTI

USA: CANOPIES FITTED OVER 735 BOURBON STREET

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture’s Installation Engineers on site in New Orleans, have completed the installation of the flat panel canopies atop an intricate web of steelwork at 735 Bourbon Street.

The new tensile structure offers 1,416 ft2 (132m2) of all-weather protection to the outdoor courtyard.

The sun is shining and the canopies are doing what they do best - providing shade. 735 Bourbon Street Owner and Customers are looking forward to using their new outdoor space - just in time for spring/summer (tourism season).

Maximise Space With Fabric.

"PERFECT PROJECT DELIVERY"

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Starting off the New Year with positive feedback is always great. Today, we are appreciating two letters received from companies we have long-term business relationships with: Bam Construction and Morgan Sindall. Thanks for the comments; we too look forward to working together on more projects in 2013.

“Following the successful completion and handover of Chilton Trinity Technology College, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your site team for the excellent way in which you have organised and managed your element of the project from start to finish, to deliver the project on time and to a high quality, and I look forward to working with you again on future projects.” Andy Sydall of Bam Construction

“We would like to thank you for your assistance with regard to the achievement of Perfect Delivery at Exeter House Special School, Salisbury Wiltshire. Without the continued cooperation and support of supply chain partners such as Fabric Architecture, we could not achieve Perfect Delivery on our projects. We look forward to your continued co-operation.”
Lee Haynes of Morgan Sindall

USA: FABRIC ARCHITECTURE BLENDS WITH HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

We are pleased to share an update on a project we reported about last July: 735 Nightclub & Bar on the famous Bourbon Street in New Orleans is now under construction.

The photo above (sent in by our onsite Senior Technical Advisor), details the intricate steel framework carefully being installed inside the courtyard of the historic building. The canopies are patterned, manufactured and will be installed over the steel structure later this week, creating a very modern covered outdoor space for year round use.

Full Story:

735 is undergoing a dramatic renovation. The historic French Quarter, slow to ever allow modifications to existing buildings, embraced the use of fabric because of its low impact on the environment.

Later this year (just in time for Christmas), Fabric Architecture North America will be installing a bespoke flat panel pitched/hip roof canopy over an existing courtyard. This structure will stand over two stories tall and measure 60 feet x 23.6 feet (18.29m x 7.2m).

Designed by Ehlinger & Associates P.C. Architects, the structure is being engineered in accordance with IBC (International Building Code) and ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers) to withstand 130 mph Hurricane winds prone in this region of America.

The structure will be designed and manufactured with PTFE fabric and will feature a galvanized perimeter gutter system. Galvanizing will minimise the risk of rust in the gutters due to infrequent cleaning or maintenance (given the structure is 2 stories high with limited access).

Ventilation will be incorporated along the top ridge of the canopy to allow humidity to escape, keeping the space below cool.

Installation should prove challenging given the fabric and steel structure will connect to buildings on all sides (appearing to ‘float’ above the courtyard). Bourbon Street access is limited and vulnerability of the surrounding buildings is being carefully considered.

The new canopy (with its steel framework system) will be replacing an existing metal structure. When this structure is complete and lights are installed, 735 will grow greater in popularity as one of the hottest (and soon ‘cooler’) night clubs on Bourbon Street.

IAA RECOGNISES NIGEL BROWNE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Nigel Browne, Senior Designer and founder of Fabric Architecture is recognised for his role as a judge for the 2012 International Achievement Awards in Boston, MA, USA.

Letter of Appreciation:

“Nigel, Thank you for participating in the International Achievement Awards judging for 2012. IFAI is grateful that you volunteered and were willing to share your expertise in selecting the top specialty fabric products in the industry.

As IFAI celebrates its centennial year, we look back at one of the innovators from the 1950’s, William Bird, who is shown on top of an inflated radome. We remember the spirit of innovation in the specialty fabric industry which is demonstrated by the IAA participants each year.

As an IAA judge, we recognize you as being part of the selection process for those who embody skill and innovation. Thank you, again!”

Award Winning Designs:

To date, Fabric Architecture has won nine IAA Awards for excellence and design innovation in the tensile fabric industry over the past three years.

About Nigel:

Nigel founded Fabric Architecture in 1982. With 30 years’ experience in the tensile industry, Nigel has been a key player in the growth of the industry. As a winner of the British Design Award, he uses his talent to successfully lead a synergistic team of Designers & Engineers to deliver beautifully practical tensile structures.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The holidays have come and gone and Fabric Architecture’s offices in the UK, USA and UAE are once again open and ready for business.

Perhaps you have been considering fabric for an internal or external project for the new year; if so here is who to contact for personalised rapid response:

UK: David Oaten: +44 (0)1452 612800, davido@fabarc.co.uk
USA: Wendy Swanson: +1 (561) 768-9950, wendy@fabricarchitecture.com
UAE: Alex Wood: +44 (0) 1452 612800, alexw@fabarc.co.uk

No matter where you are in the world, we’ve got you ‘covered’.

Consider Fabric in 2013.

FABRIC PROVIDES CHARACTER TO OLDER BUILDING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

A dramatic renovation has just been completed on the 33 Kingsway building making it one of the most desirable office spaces in central London. Businesses moving into floors two through six will have access to private balconies with backlit colour changing fabric ceilings – a very contemporary feature, modernising and giving character to the façade of the building.

The Challenge:

In total, 30 integrated exterior fabric ceiling panels were installed on the balconies of the building. Panels measure 1.8m x 1.5m and there are six per floor. Installing the panels was a challenge due to height and access restrictions. Panels were engineered and manufactured to recess into the balcony soffits using the steel support from the building. As part of the installation, panels were each fitted with rows of colour changing LED’s.

The Solution:

The architect’s vision was to use fabric to create a bright, clean and artistic building façade on a historic building. The solution was fabric panels installed under each of the five external balconies. To ensure the fabric would diffuse the colourful LED’s, tests were performed on different materials. The chosen material was Silicone Glass Weave (SGW) fabric. This high end design solution showcases how SGW can be successfully applied to interiors or exteriors.

“We are pleased to once again be partnering with Sturges Architects on our third project to date. It’s inspiring to work with designers that appreciate fabric as an architectural advantage.” Rob Arthur, Fabric Architecture

USA: INTERNAL SAILS TO UPGRADE THE LOOK OF RIVERCHASE GALLERIA

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

With over 1.2M square feet of retail space, Riverchase Galleria is one of the largest shopping malls in the USA. As part of a $60 million redevelopment, internal fabric sails will be installed throughout the Galleria’s glass atriums. The fabric sails will create an upscale look in preparation for the arrival of its new high end contemporary anchor store, Von Maur.

The Challenge:

The Architect’s vision was to create sculptural screens in fabric to reduce solar glare throughout the malls extensive glazed roof. The central food court posed the greatest challenge in developing sails almost 1600 square feet in area hanging 60 – 100 feet up in the huge atrium. Careful design and installation planning was vital to the project’s success.

The Solution:

Fabric sails will be engineered, patterned, manufactured and installed throughout the malls vast central walkway and courtyard. The sails will range in size from 30 feet wide to 70 feet wide. At night, LED lamps will reflect light off of the fabric, allowing the mall to change the fabric colours. Part of the requirement was to help reduce Solar Glare and cooling costs – the PVC coated mesh glass fabric panels are designed to perform, even on bright sunny days.

CANOPIES @ THE LONDON EYE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The EDF Energy London Eye is one of the most popular tourist spots in London, attracting three million visitors each year. The ticket office, off of the Waterloo Millennium Pier, required a permanent canopy to provide all weather protection for guests purchasing tickets. With other canopies in the area of the London Eye, the fabric ‘theme’ was an important design element.

The Challenge:

Because the canopy was being installed over an existing building (ticket office), Fabric Architecture’s in house engineers designed the structure so that it could be connected to the existing steel framework. In addition, it was fully engineered to withstand strong winds from the River Thames. With most projects in London, there is always the challenge of logistics. Our Installation Engineers navigated plant and heavy steel through the area, ensuring a safe installation amongst a crowd of tourists.

The Solution:

Working with a limited budget, Fabric Architecture recommended a Ready to Install Signature Structure called the Hull. The Hull is the perfect entrance canopy for making a dramatic statement, while its modular design allows it to expand infinitely. For this project, we installed two sections measuring 10m x 3m. Canopies were patterned and manufactured with white PVC Coated Polyester, matching other structures in the vicinity. The end result is an elegant, functional, and economical tensile solution.

“From initial contact through to the finished product, I can honestly say we have experienced a very professional co-operation. I would certainly recommend you to clients in the future and will be on the search for future projects where we can work together again.” Will Lucas, Managing Director, Island Marine

MAKING HEADLINES: NEWQUAY STATION GETS A FACELIFT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The Following Article recently appeared on the Network Rails Website. Fabric Architecture is glad to see our new station canopy is making headlines.

£450,000 project sees the former station canopies replaced with a light and airy modern structure and we've also replaced the cracked and worn paving slabs on the concourse with fresh tarmac. New station canopies at Newquay station

Newquay station was used by more than 100,000 passengers last year – up from 40,000 just 10 years ago. Our route managing director for Western, Patrick Hallgate said: “Newquay is a classic holiday destination and more and more people are choosing to get there by train. This work will not only give those visitors a fine first impression of the town but also improve the journeys of people who use the railways of Cornwall day-in day-out.”

As well as the new canopies which cover the café and travel centre and provide shelter in the previously-uncovered centre of the concourse, we've also installed new lighting.

A further £200,000 has been spent relaying the surface of the long platform, complete with tactile paving, ready to welcome the thousands of passengers who travel to Newquay from across the country every year.

Read about our national stations improvement programme.

MAKING HEADLINES IN LEISURE DESIGN & BUILD

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

We are pleased to see that our Bespoke Quad Conic over the new Lakeside North Harbour restaraunt and retail area has been featured in this months issue of Leisure Design & Build.

For the on-line article, click here> For the case study, click here>

ABU DHABI: SUNSHADE CANOPIES ATOP SHISHA BAR

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Overlooking the famous Corniche is Nation Towers. Its trendy roof top Shisha Bar now has a series of engineered fabric shade canopies. Our on-site Project Manager took this skyline picture going up the lift in tower one.

Looking down at the structure, you can see this was a very complicated installation. When the Shisha Bar is complete, this will be a trendy place to meet, relax and take in breath taking views (featuring complimentary shade). View additional images by clicking on the main image above.

Full Story>

ABU DHABI: DRAMATIC FABRIC ENTRANCE CANOPIES

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is pleased to complete another prestigious project in the Middle East. Our Project Manager has just sent in this image from the base of the Al Bahr Towers in Abu Dhabi.

This tower is the UAE flagship project by Aedas Architects and features a pair of bespoke entrance canopies for VIP Staff and Guests. The ‘desert sand’ coloured structures are each made up of two 9.2m triangles offering 90m² of shade to each entrance.

Case Study>

4 INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS IN ONE NIGHT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Debra Drew, Director and Co-owner of Cotswold based Fabric Architecture Limited has just returned from Boston, Massachusetts, USA with a portfolio full of Awards.

Each year, Fabric Architecture attends an industry conference hosted by Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI). 2012 marked the 100th Anniversary of the association. The reception gala proved successful for Fabric Architecture as the company collected four International Awards for Outstanding Achievement.

We won for ‘The Ribbon’ at Salford University (Manchester, UK), ‘Mykonos Grace Hotel’ (Mykonos, Greece), ‘Hallmark Crown Center’ (Kansas City, MO, USA) and ‘Coopers Edge Primary School’ (Gloucestershire, UK).

Coopers Edge Primary is a project that we are particularly proud of because its located one mile from Fabric Architecture’s UK headquarters. The floating fabric canopy covers the schools courtyard linking the community with the school, offering all weather protection for events throughout the year.

As a business, it’s great to be publically acknowledged by leaders in our industry. Bringing home to the UK this many awards really validates the work we are doing and hopefully will continue to inspire people to consider fabric as a building medium for external and internal applications.

ON LOCATION IN BOSTON FOR IFAI

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is Boston for the 100th anniversary of IFAI (Industrial Fabrics Association International). This event is a great opportunity for networking and learning all about the latest trends in building and designing with fabric. It’s also an opportunity to see impressive projects companies from around the globe are doing in our industry.

The conference kicks off tomorrow with an awards ceremony in the evening. Fabric Architecture has been shortlisted for nine awards in various categories (fingers crossed).

The two day event offers plenty of time for one to one meetings. Fabric Architecture’s Managing Director and Co-Owner, Debra Drew, will be joined by our North American Technical Sales Manager, Wendy Swanson. If you have a project in mind or would like to learn more about what we do and how we work, lets schedule a meeting.

For logistics and coordination, please email jasons@fabarc.co.uk

LATEST TREND: CANOPIES ATTRACT SHOPPERS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The BBC recently reported that the “biggest force revolutionising shopping habits is the meteoric rise of Google, Amazon, Apple and Facebook.”

Because we now shop on phones, ask our Twitter friends what they think and compare on Google, shopping centres are losing their customers and wondering ‘how can they bring back shoppers?’ a good question to be asking in a slow economy.

Shopping retail centres like Westfield Stratford City (London), Tioga Town Centre (Florida) and The Shops of Willow Lawn (Virginia) have figured it out. Install a centrally located Iconic Performance Canopy for outdoor events and concerts where everyone can come together and be entertained – then watch the traffic return to the shops.

We are in the wet winter season and with the holidays fast approaching, shoppers need dry spaces to move about. They are also looking for entertainment and things to do with their families.

Over the past few years, Fabric Architecture Limited has been seeing a trend with the number of canopy installations at retail centres around the holidays.

Our latest installation at Westfield is a centrally located canopy engineered to hold over 1T of holiday lights and decorations. When Rihanna performs and turns on the holiday lights this month, this covered courtyard will be the place to be. 20,000 people are expected to gather, many of whom will hit the shops and spend money after the performance.

Across the states, Fabric Architecture has installed tensile fabric structures for shopping centres and the results are consistent: tensile structures enhance the shopping experience, adding value and profit, quickly pay for themselves.

If you’re an architect working on a project or a retailer looking to give your centre a new look or a boost to traffic, fabric structures over walkways, entrances and centrally located open spaces are the perfect cost effective solution.

You’ve heard the expression: “build it, they will come” - it’s true. To learn more, give us a call and let’s chat. In the UK: 01452 612800; In the USA: 561- 768-9950

Iconic Canopies Attract Shoppers.

AFTER THE STORM, THERE WAS SHADE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Following a tornado that tore through the community of Sparkbrook in Birmingham, five public and private organisations teamed up to create a £12m landmark Community and Health Centre. Part of the new development included a flexible outdoor space covered with fabric.

Working with One Creative Environment, Fabric Architecture designed a bespoke 8m x 6m Hypar tensile fabric structure with two masts installed on the ground and the balance of the canopy fixed direct to the building.

Fabric Architecture’s in-house engineers were able to eliminate the need for additional support columns by engineering part of the new buildings wall in order to support the loads of the canopy. Fixing to the building allowed us to maximise the covered space, creating an elegant entrance feature.

Thank you to Mansell for their support with the project and for One Creative Environment for entrusting Fabric Architecture with the job.

This project was featured in the November issue of Public Sector Build Journal. For the full story, click here and refer to pages 28-30.

ROOFTOP CANOPY OVER 1440 NY AVENUE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Across the street from the Whitehouse, 1440 NY Avenue now has a brand new bespoke rooftop canopy (indicated by the arrow), installed just in time for election parties. Installing a canopy 12 stories up, was no easy task, but we rose to the challenge.

For more information, click here.

Outstanding project delivery.

THE ARCHITECTURE OF CLOTH, COLOUR & SPACE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is pleased to sponsor an event showcasing new work by textile artists and designers PTOLEMY MANN (the designer of the London 2012 Olympic Stadium Colour Wrap) and ANNA GLASBROOK.

The event will be hosted in the gothic splendor of Gloucester Cathedral 27 October - 31 December. The cathedral will be a dramatic background to the vibrant and colourful textiles of these two inspiring, innovative and successful contemporary artists.

We hope you can join us. For more information, click here.

fabric is art.

NEW CANOPY @ WESTFIELD SHOPPING CENTRE, LONDON

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

A dynamic 300m2 courtyard canopy was installed last week at Westfield Shopping Centre. The bespoke tri-truss framework supporting the structure was designed to hold one tonne of lights and decorations for the approaching holiday season.

This courtyard, will soon be the place to meet up and have a break from shopping with live concerts and outdoor performances throughout the year.

Innovative Tensile Engineering.

KEY DESIGN ELEMENT: RAINWATER MANAGEMENT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Tensile Fabric Structures can help keep you dry, but how will rainwater be managed?

An important design consideration for any tensile fabric structure is rainwater management. Our Design & Build team will work with you to ensure rainwater management is considered without compromising design.

Depending on the design, we will recommend fabric gutters or steel ‘hoppers’ with integrated drainage tubes that can channel water away from the canopy and underground, without damaging soft or hard landscapes.

Smart Thinking: The Bulwell Academy in Nottingham installed eight Inverse Conics to collect rainwater for flushing toilets throughout the school’s campus. Learn more...

Bring us your design ideas, we will help realise your vision.

Stay dry… let it rain.

JUST INSTALLED: FLYING CONIC

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Our latest 'Ready to Install' Signature Structure, the Flying Conic, was just installed at the new Chilton Trinity College.

The 5m x 5m Flying Conic is a unique tensile structure featuring a flying raised conic and is perfect for creating a dramatic outdoor performance space.

Fully engineered... economically priced.

REALISE YOUR VISION: THE D&B PROCESS UNVEILED

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Our Design & Build process is something that has been modified and perfected for over 30 years.

It’s our systems and processes that make realising your vision easy. It’s our likeable and highly trained staff that makes the process enjoyable. It’s our ability to link design and engineering to achieve the perfect required balance that makes the end result iconic and something others will talk about.

Some of the most dynamic projects were the result of a pencil sketched shape on a dinner napkin stained with red wine. As architectural engineers, we know how to realise your vision… and some.

We have a process that’s filled with head spinning jargon – but that’s our job and we love it. Here is a sound byte of how we do what we do, broken down in a few key steps.

Design Consultancy

We listen to your ideas and intentions while discussing the specific requirements of your location. If you have sketches, please share them with us. If not, no problem – we have a design department that can create visualisations and photo montages.

Form Finding

By placing points in space on our intelligent software, we are able to create the shape of your canopy. This allows us to achieve the perfect balance and form the double curvature of the canopy (while eliminating ponding).

Structural Engineering

Our in-house Engineers ensure that our tensile fabric structures are engineered to perform. Every structure is engineered to comply with current Building Design Codes covering all predicted weather conditions in the local region (heavy wind and snow loads).

Finite Element Analysis

Loads are applied on the canopy which in turn determines stress on the structure. These loads and subsequent calculations allow us to recommend the best type of fabric, the size of the structural support system required and the foundations that the structure will be anchored to. All of this guarantees peace of mind to you.

Canopy Patterning

We take 3D shapes of the canopy and flatten them into 2D panels. From here, we are able to cut the fabric in the most efficient way with minimal wastage (reducing cost). Panels are sewn, bonded or welded (using high frequency) then packed for installation (think IKEA flatpack).

Manufacturing

As part of our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint, we source local steel where possible. The specialist manufacture of all of our canopies is a partnership we established 25 years ago and locally based.

Project Management

Our Project Managers are Prince 2 (internationally recognised best practice guidance for effective project management) qualified and handle every logistical detail all the way through to handover. Their job is to ensure the project moves along to programme, to budget and to your complete satisfaction.

Installation

With Zero Health & Safety violations for over 10 years, our expert installation engineers have installed thousands of structures throughout the world. No job is too big or small.

Thinking of designing a bespoke structure? Bring us your thoughts and let’s create! We can be reached on 01452 612800 or on +1 (561) 768-9950.

SUSTAINABLE MOTO EXPO DELIVERS HIGH EXCITEMENT WITH LOW EMISSIONS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

A crowd of over 5,000 motor enthusiasts gathered in Cheltenham this past weekend to see the latest in electric cars and low-emission racecars at the Susainable MotoExpo. Taking center stage was our bright red and yellow Pagoda signature structure canopy. The 5m canopy served as iconic symbol for the event offering protection for the F3 racecar on display under it.

The event was a tremendous success and we are pleased to have been a part of it.

Click on the photo above to see other images of the Pagoda doing what it does best - looking good and offering shade.

SKYLINE VIEWS OF DC UNDER NEW ROOFTOP CANOPY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Just in time for outdoor election campaign events, the Bespoke Barrel Vault canopy on the roof of the 1440 NY Avenue building in Washington, DC, has now been installed.

Click here for the full story.

SUMMER FAYRE @ PARK VIEW SCHOOL

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Park View School in Manchester recently hosted their annual Summer Fayre. Students, parents, faculty and locals gathered for an afternoon of food, fun, classic cars and a symphony of music.

On the lead up to the Fayre, Park View had 3 Signature Structure canopies installed on the campus. Taking centre stage was a bright green Sirocco. This dynamic structure offered much needed shade to the symphony that was performing and for community presentations.

Around the corner from the Sirocco was both a Pow Wow and a Playshade Canopy offering a break from the sunshine and providing a place to listen to music, eat, and view the classic cars.

Park View knows how to maximise their outdoor space by giving its students a place to play and learn – rain or shine, while also proving a space for community events – a Win-Win!

Special thanks to Head Teacher John Tennant for providing us this must see YouTube video on the Summer Fayre.

For other photos, tap the image above.

CALLING ALL ARCHITECTS: LEARN ABOUT DESIGNING WITH FABRIC (INSIDE & OUT)

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

As the only RIBA certified presenter on 'How to Design a Tensile Fabric Structure', we are pleased to offer a second workshop entitled ‘How to Design an Internal Fabric Ceiling System’.

To learn more and book your in-house presentation, please contact David on 01452 612800 or davido@fabarc.co.uk.

Programme details below:

CPD 1: How to Design a Tensile Fabric Structure:

This program covers all the necessary considerations for designing tensile fabric structures enabling an architect to confidently include fabric structures in their project designs.
The presentation lasts one hour and is delivered by a RIBA certified instructor
One hour of CPD Credit offered along with completion certification

CPD 2: How to Design an Internal Fabric Ceiling System

This program covers all the necessary considerations for designing internal fabric ceiling systems, enabling an architect to confidently include fabric ceilings in their project designs.
The presentation lasts one hour and is delivered by a RIBA certified instructor
One hour of CPD Credit offered along with completion certification

MAKING HEADLINES: THE 'ARCHITECTURAL CENTREPIECE' CANOPY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Our latest installation - a Quad Conic Bespoke Canopy at Lakeside North Harbour is making headlines in the local paper.

Chris Matthews of Warings said this about Fabric Architecture's new canopy: "The work at Lakeside North Harbour Business Park is beginning to take shape as the architectural centrepiece consisting of a sweeping fabric canopy was lifted into position by two cranes working in tandem. We are looking forward to seeing the final product, which will be a wonderful area for local businesses."

For the full project brief, click here.

SMOTHER'S PARK IS A STUNNING SUCCESS (KY, USA)

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Smother’s Park, a regeneration project along the Ohio River is now open and everyone agrees, it was worth every penny.

City Commissioner Roger Stanley had this to say about the project: "We had some opportunities to back off on this, back off on that. This is a first class facility. As we were told by Senator [Mitch] McConnell, it is the nicest facility on the Ohio River from Cincinnati to Cairo."

Fabric Architecture is pleased that our 1,456 ft2 bespoke performance canopy has taken center stage in this stunning redevelopment – it really looks beautiful against the backdrop of the Ohio River.

We couldn’t agree more with what local resident Larry Pickett said about the new park: “It's wonderful. It really is wonderful, They got it perfect. I haven't seen anything they could have done any better."

For the full story, click here. For the case study on the tensile structure, click here.

Click on the photo above for other artistic images by AParis99

JUST AWARDED: WESTFIELD SHOPPING CENTRE, STRATFORD

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Adjacent to the new Olympic Park entrance is Chestnut Plaza, a large outdoor plaza at Westfield Shopping Centre. As Europe’s largest Urban Shopping Centre, Westfield saw a need for a contemporary outdoor covered performance space to drive traffic to the area and enhance the boutique shops and fine restaurants.

Having worked with Fabric Architecture on 3 other Westfield sites (White City, Merry Hill, and Royal Victoria Place), Westfield’s knew Fabric Architecture could design and deliver something that would enhance its flagship shopping destination.

The design Westfield chose was similar to the Azure Hypar (a Ready to Install Signature Structure) which was installed last year at Chester Racecourse. Ready to Install structures can be easily modified to accommodate specific spaces or tricky installations. For Chestnut Plaza, the central column was removed in order to maximise the space and allow for foot traffic and crowds to gather with minimal obstruction.

The other main modification is the addition of a dynamic tri-truss framework. Fabric Architecture designed and engineered this framework (using Eurocode) in order for the structure to hold up to 1 tonne of lights and decorations for the holiday season. In addition to extra loads, rainwater management will be integrated to allow water to drain out through the columns into a drainage system beneath the ground.

With Prada around the corner, this structure had to look smart, fashionable and able to stand the test of time. With this in mind, it was designed using marine grade stainless steel cables and fixings and white architectural grade PVC.

This canopy is all about design and coverage and when it is installed mid-October it will offer just under 300m2 of weather protection from the elements for outdoor events and entertainment.

The Above visualisation represents what the structure will look like. Stay tuned for construction photos.

DRAMATIC NEW CANOPY AT LAKESIDE, NORTH HARBOUR, PORTSMOUTH

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Lakeside North Harbour is one of the south's landmark business locations. The first new development on the scheme is a brand new state-of-the-art Porsche Centre. In addition, the campus environment has also been enhanced by a new retail and lifestyle hub with a fabric covered outdoor atrium.

Part of the new development features a bespoke freestanding Quad Conic Tensile Structure. Designed by Architectural firm Thorpe Wheatley, the canopy covers 2 retail and restaurant pavilions in the middle of the business park. Thorpe Wheatley requested a structure that would “make a statement” and this 47m x16m structure does just that.

This new structure was fully engineered with fabrication drawings completed by in-house Fabric Architecture Engineers. Offering 752m2 of coverage, the Quad Conic has an integrated drainage system which directs rainwater away from the structure and the buildings it over sails. Special features include up-lights for night usage and specially designed polycarbonate clear headrings to flood the space with an abundance of natural sunlight.

Taking inspiration from the conic range of ready to install canopies available as Signature Structures, this Quad Conic has a twist, as it's conical headrings zigzag over the retail park, maximising coverage.

Staff and visitors to the UK’s IBM Headquarters, Capita, Babcock, Porsche, and The Southern Co-Operative now have a beautiful all weather covered space to move between buildings as well as a place for alfresco dining.

The addition of the fabric structure was part of Lakeside’s commitment “to provide a welcoming destination for visitors and clients and an excellent quality of working life for staff.”

Click on the photo to see other photos from the installation.

GOING UP: QUAD CONIC @ LAKESIDE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Ever wondered how the fabric 'skin’ of a tensile structure is lifted and installed atop of its steel framework? It's no easy task. This large 47m x 16m Quad Conic Canopy at Lakeside North Harbour in Portsmouth required both a 50 tonne crane and a 30 tonne crane to lift it over the building and into place.

Fun Fact: While fabric looks light and airy, it's actually quite heavy and sturdy. If this canopy was flat, it would be strong enough to drive a London Cab across it!

Be sure to click on the photo above to see step by step how this canopy was lifted and installed.

GOOD CLEAN LOW CARBON FUN: GEARING UP FOR THE SUSTAINABLE MOTOEXPO

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is proud to announce our sponsorship of the upcoming Sustainable MotoExpo in Cheltenham 8-9 September.

As part of our sponsorship, Fabric Architecture will provide the iconic main entrance canopy for the MotoExpo. Like the high-tech vehicles being showcased, our ready to install canopy, the Pagoda (winner of the British Design Award), blends functionality and style – a sure showstopper.

Debra Drew, Director of Fabric Architecture said this about the MotoExpo: “We have a passion for sustainable low carbon design and this event is the perfect platform to showcase a canopy that even after 30 years, has been left unchanged. As we will see from the vehicles in the show, when you get it right, sustainable design stands the test of time and doesn’t have to cost the planet.”

Get your motor running and plan on joining us for good ‘clean’ fun on the track in the heart of Cheltenham. Petrolheads be warned: This event is guaranteed to offer high energy excitement, without the smell of petrol.

While you are there, be sure to check out our bright red and yellow star shaped Pagoda.

EVENT ANNOUNCMENT: THE ARCHITECTURE OF FABRIC, COLOUR & SPACE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is pleased to promote an event showcasing the artisic uses of fabric (colour & space) beautifully displayed in the dramatic setting of Gloucester Cathedral.

Venue: Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester GL1 2LX

Date: 27 October – 31 December 2012

PLUS: One Day Symposium Saturday 27 October

Stroud International Textiles will be showcasing new work by textile artists and designers Ptolemy Mann and Anna Glasbrook in a fabulous new exhibition at Gloucester Cathedral.

For more information and to purchase tickets to this extradinary event, click here.

Photo above shows the colour design for the Olympic Stadium by Sophie Smallhorn. Click on the photo to view other images.

A 'GOLDEN' OPPORTUNITY TO LEAVE A LEGACY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Congratulations to Team Great Britain for bringing home 29 Gold Medals! In honour of our athletes, we are offering significant savings on all of our Ready-to-Install tensile fabric structures.

For orders that are placed in August, we will give you 25% off list prices. With 40 designs in over 100 sizes, the choice is all yours.

Much like the Olympic Motto of “Citius, Altius, Fortius”, our standard tensile fabric structures are also Faster (to install), Higher (able to span long and vast spaces up to 250m2+) and Stronger (Engineered to Perform with canopies lasting 30+ years).

Leave your legacy and install a shade structure to encourage outdoor sport – do your part to Inspire a Generation.

Call 01452 612 800 and speak with Chris for details and place your order today to take advantage of this Golden Opportunity. Yes... we can do a Red, White and Blue canopy.

A 'COOL' DESIGN: SHISHA SHADE, ABU DHABI, UAE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is pleased to announce another unique fabric project underway in Abu Dhabi.

Nation Towers is an exemplary addition to the capital’s skyline, located on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche. Nation Towers comprises two towers that have world class facilities including a very trendy Shisha Bar located on the roof of a 4 story adjacent building.

Working alongside the innovative architectural firm WZMH, Fabric Architecture designed a series of fabric panels to cover the outdoor Shisha Bar Seating Area.

The outdoor bar had an existing timber trellis/pergola, but hot UAE sunshine made the space unusable. The challenge was to design and engineer canopies to affix and integrate over the pergola. The design result is a series of hypar shaped panels creating aptly positioned wave shaped canopies.

With this being a coastal location, canopies and fixings were carefully engineered to weather the high winds. Fabric Architecture recommended using a Ferrari 392s PVC coated polyester mesh because of its durability and lifespan.

Fabric and wood combine for a unique space that’s in keeping with the local culture and heritage where canopies and tents were the first forms of shelter in the desert sun.

The canopies will offer much needed shade for the 11.8m x 15m Shisha Bar. No doubt this rooftop terrace will be popular for business meetings and relaxing evenings for guests of the 5 star hotel in the towers.

Thank you to Main Contractor Arabtec for their support with the project and to WZMH for their vision of using fabric over the pergola.

Stay tuned for photos when this project is completed later this month. Click here to view other projects completed in the Middle East.

SIROCCO CANOPY OFFERS SHADE IN SUNNY GEORGIA

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Macon State College, home to the Blue Storm athletic teams, is the largest and fastest growing 4-year college in central Georgia. The campuses Wellness Center is being newly renovated and part of the design features a bold outdoor canopy/focal point in a central courtyard.

Architectural firm SP Design Group specified a ready-to-install tensile fabric structure from Fabric Architecture’s range of Signature Structures. The 22 foot Sirocco has a double curvature Hypar shape that makes a strong architectural statement. This structure’s beautifully engineered curves are accentuated by arched steel masts.

The Sirocco, named after a wind from the Sahara that brings its warmth to Europe, is a permanent all-weather canopy.

We are looking forward to working with General Contractor Parrish Construction Group when this structure is installed later this month.

Where can I get one? The Sirocco is easy to specify and order and can be installed just about anywhere in the world.

Click on the image above to see sample photos of Sirocco structures.

COVERED ROOFTOP TERRACE OFFERS SWEEPING VIEWS OF THE WHITE HOUSE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The 1440 NY Avenue Office Building in Washington DC is undergoing a dramatic renovation – which includes replacing the existing temporary shade canopy on the roof terrace with a more modern and artistic canopy.

Working with architectural firm Lehman Smith McLeish, Fabric Architecture has designed a 3-bay barrel vault structure (click on photo above to see the CAD model) providing all-weather protection to the roof garden.

While the structure’s steel and framework is permanent, the canopy is designed to be removed and stored during the winter months. With this being a rooftop, all elements of the structure have been engineered for 100+mph wind loads (down force and uplift) along with snow loading.

Fabric Architecture is looking forward to working with General Contractor HITT Contracting Inc again. We completed a previous project in Washington with HITT Contracting at IMF (International Monetary Fund) covering their nursery play area with a series of canopies.

Staff and guests of the building will soon be able to take in sweeping views of the white house from the newly covered roof terrace.

Stay tuned for photos when the structure is installed later this month.

Technical:
• Canopy: Sedo Cream
• Dimensions: 20’ x 39’

MATTHEW'S WALK FOR TOPRIDE ACADEMY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

We wanted to shine the spotlight on a young boy who is making a big difference. Fabric Architecture Ltd was invited to speak about our charity work in Kenya (Top Ride Academy) at Milnathort Primary in Scotland earlier this year. Our presentation greatly impacted Matthew Dunn and inspired him to raise over £1650 – not too bad for an 8 year old!

On behalf of Fabric Architecture and Peter Waweru, Head Teacher of Top Ride Academy, we want to say congratulations and thank you to Matthew for his courage, dedication and for being an inspiration.

The following story by Lynn Dunne, details Mathew's 36 mile Trek:

Earlier in the year, Matthew Dunn’s P4 class at Milnathort Primary were told about the school’s fund raising efforts for Top Ride Academy, their partner school in Kenya. Matthew decided he wanted to do his bit and decided to sell his Mushie Monster toys to add to the effort.

Between Matthew and his family it was decided that a sponsored walk might raise a little more - and we thought of a do-able but challenging walk for an eight year old. The plan was made to walk thirty six miles around Rannoch Moor over three days, and seeking sponsors began. And this was the most encouraging part of the process. Friends, relations, parents’ work colleagues and others rallied to the challenge and around £1,650 was donated, and added to the school effort for their Kenyan partner. The total raised by Milnathort Primary School in 2011 /2012 year was just over £4500.

The walk itself was a great success. Matthew, his dad Simon and his Grandpa Allan left Milnathort at 8.30 am on Friday 25th May arriving at Rannoch Station just before 11 am for the start of the walk, a twelve mile trek west across Rannoch Moor, the middle four miles being trackless peat and bog, and taking six hours. It just happened to be the hottest weekend of the year topping 27° each day, but the views were superb.

An early night at Kingshouse Hotel (Glen Coe), allowed a 7 am start the next morning, twelve miles south along the West Highland Way and lunch in the Bridge of Orchy Hotel at noon after a welcome swim in the river. This was by far the easiest of the three legs, though Papa was left well behind on the climb up to Màm Carraigh above Loch Tulla. There is no recognised track back to Rannoch Station so a train journey to Corrour Station and a short trek to Loch Ossian Youth Hostel on Saturday afternoon completed the day.

7 am on a cloudless Sunday morning saw us on the last leg back to Rannoch Station, via a refreshing dip in the Allt Eigheach, to a welcoming party of Mum, wee brother Oliver, auntie and uncle.

Certainly it was a challenge, but not too much. Matthew enjoyed it and it was very worthwhile. He again thanks all who contributed, and he now has another reminder – a ceremonial dance stick from Kenya for his effort, donated by Rob Arthur of Fabric Architecture, who was given the dance stick from the Massai Tribe on a previous visit to Kenya.

CLICK ON PHOTO TO VIEW OTHER PICS FROM MATTEW'S WALK.

UP & RUNNING ON FACEBOOK

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is pleased to announce that we are now up & running on Facebook in the UK and the US. Click on the links to view our Regional Profiles. If you like what you see, 'Like' us and we'll return the support.

JUST AWARDED: SOUTH OCEAN MEDICAL CENTER, NJ, USA

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

South Ocean Medical Center (SOMC) has begun construction of a new state-of-the-art Emergency Center/Department adjacent the existing hospital. Designed by architectural firm, Saphire & Albarran, the impressive new entrance has a ‘seaside theme’ featuring 5 bespoke vertical fabric ‘sails’ across the top of a large polycarbonate ‘surfboard’ canopy.

For the full project brief, CLICK HERE.

ATTENDANCE TOPS 10,000 @ ACP

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

This year’s Art Couture Painswick had a record crowd in excess of 10,000 people. Everyone gathered around the church courtyard and village streets to watch the events unfold and enjoy the entertainment and all that this beautiful Cotswold Village has to offer and more.

Taking front stage at Art Couture Painswick (ACP) is a canopy that was originally designed for the Diamond Jubilee. This structure, called ‘Jubilee’, was recently installed at Buckingham Palace for the Jubilee festivities before making its way to Painswick for Sunday’s event.

At the heart of the event stood the large star shaped white ‘Jubilee’ canopy covering the stage adjacent to the church. The canopy framed the stage and runway for all of the models, musicians and judges, while creating a first class focal point.

We offer special thanks to ACP for inviting us back for our 3rd year now, each year providing a different and unique stage canopy.

POPUP FABRIC DRESS WOWS THE CROWD @ ACP

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

This past Sunday marked the third annual Art Couture Painswick (ACP) Festival. Luckily the rain held out and the event drew in a record number of over 10,000 visitors. The day was filled with live music, food, and of course – fashion!

The winner of ‘Best In Show’ was Kirsten Fletcher in a design she calls ‘The Magician’s Plumage’. This colourful dress is engineered with the technology behind pop up tents. With a pull of a chord, Kirsten’s dress ‘popped’ into this visually stunning choreography of colour and patterns.

We would like to wish all of the winner’s congratulations. And for those that did not win, but had the courage to go on stage – great effort. Everyone that entered the contest showcased their talents with unique, thoughtful and beautiful designs. Fabric Architecture is looking forward to once again sponsoring next year’s event.

TAP on the photo above to see more images from the event.

FRAMED TO PERFECTION

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Heworth Grange Comprehensive, (Gateshead, UK), has been undergoing a multi-million pound refurb and rebuild as part of the BSF (Building Schools for the Future) Programme. The scheme includes a series of Iconic Fabric structures 'framed' within elegant steelwork. In total, 4 structures were installed. CLICK HERE for the full story.

READY FOR THE OLYMPICS: NEW THROWING CENTRE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Team Great Britain’s new Olympic training ground (Throw Centre) for javelin, discus, hammer, & shot-put is now ready. Loughborough University is home to the new bespoke ‘kite’ inspired tensile fabric structure. For the full project brief, CLICK HERE.

Other images can be viewed by clicking on the photo above.

A VIEW TO A THRILL

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Special thanks to architectural firm, Divercity and Fashion Designer, Myto Dramountini, for sending in pictures of our new diamond cut fabric ceiling in the boutique Grace Hotel, Mykonos, Greece. For the full project brief, CLICK HERE.

EVEN THE FISH LOVE THEIR NEW WAVE CANOPY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

NOW OPEN: New Legoland/Sealife Center in Kansas City, Missouri, USA. PLEASE NOTE: No fish were harmed while installing our new bespoke & completely cantilevered Wave Walkway Canopy. For the full project overview, CLICK HERE.

DYNAMIC FABRIC: NEW CANOPY IN NY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

State University of New York (SUNY), Delhi, has just installed a new Mistral fabric canopy for their Early Learning Center. For the full project case study, CLICK HERE.

JUST AWARDED: 735 BOURBON STREET, NEW ORLEANS, USA

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture North America has just been given the green light on a new bespoke courtyard canopy over one of the HOTTEST Nightclubs on Bourbon Street. For the full project brief, CLICK HERE.

ON SITE IN THE USA: NEW SKYLAR FOUNTAIN IS A HIT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

One of our latest Signature Structures, the Skylar Fountain (similar to the one in the photo), has just been installed at Vassar Medical Center in NY, USA. CLICK HERE for the full story and view construction photos sent in by Iphone from our Site Crew.

FAN ENGAGEMENT: HOW ONE FOOTBALL CLUB IS WINNING THE GAME

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Football clubs across the UK are having a tough time enticing fans to their stadium on match days and those that do attend are spending less time on site. Fans personal finances are being squeezed by the credit crunch and their expectations for an overall experience are far greater than what they were even 5 years ago.

Anthony Mahon of FC Business stated that “often stadiums and grounds tend to not get busy up until 20 minutes before kick-off with fans simply turning up for the 90 minutes of football and spending their time at local bars before kick-off.”

One football club in particular has been listening to their fans and taking action.

Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) has been conducting surveys after each 5th game to try and gage what is important to their fans. At the top of the list is having a greater experience pre & post-match. With unpredictable Manchester weather, fans wanted a dry space to eat, be entertained, socialise and watch the game. Fans also wanted to be able to bring their families and feel safe.

Danny Wilson, Head of Sales and Services at Manchester city said this: “If a club can generate interest in fans arriving at the ground earlier through engaging and fun activities, then there is an argument it can create a safer environment for fans to enter the stadium. One thing that can’t be argued is that getting supporters to a ground earlier will certainly increase the potential for generating increased revenue on match days.”

With a good understanding of their fan’s needs and wants, MCFC built City Square at Etihad Stadium. City Square is a bespoke fan zone area outside the north end of the stadium specifically created to enhance fan’s experience of the game. It’s a place they can watch live interviews, see bands, be entertained, eat, drink & socialise and watch the game. The addition of City Square has led to fans arriving hours before the match and more and more are bringing their families and making a day of it.

City Square & the new Metrolink entrance/exit features a series of waterproof canopies (over 4,000 m2) creating a ‘festival’ type atmosphere. Canopies provide fans with a place to enjoy pre & post-game activities. One may think that creating fan pavilions and fan zones could cost the earth, however this is not the case. Using existing outdoor sidewalks, open spaces, car parks, & entrances can all be easily transformed with tensile fabric structures.

In total, 5 bespoke tensile fabric structures (canopies) were installed by Fabric Architecture Limited as part of the overall development of City Square. Fabric Architecture, known in the industry as experts in creating covered space in and around stadiums has been working in the sports and venues market for over 30 years.

In a recent City fan survey on fan satisfaction, the Premier League placed Manchester City at number one. City Square has everything ‘covered’ – literally. They are changing the game for fan engagement and it’s paying off.

Kevin Costner’s character heard a voice in the film Field of Dreams, saying: “If you build it they will come.” MCFC has proved this to be the case.

To learn more about how tensile fabric structures can create fan zones, adding revenue to your stadium/football club WHILE increasing fan loyalty, please contact us on 01452 612800 or fanzones@fabricarchitecture.com. Be sure to click on the photo to view other images.

Canopies Installed at Etihad Stadium:

OPENING SOON: METROLINK @ ETIHAD STADIUM

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The new Manchester Metrolink stop at Etihad Stadium's City Square is almost ready for fans. Part of the scheme includes a pair of double skin canopies designed, engineered, manufactured and installed by Fabric Architecture Limited.

The 2 canopy structures cover 450sqm and 400sqm respectively and add to the overall ‘fabric’ theme of the Fan Pavilion at City Square – just steps away from the transit stop. In total there are now 5 Fabric Architecture canopies that make up City Square:

Click on the image above to see other pictures of the Metrolink stop.

BRINGING SHADE TO THE USA!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Limited is ‘covering’ America with tensile fabric structures. With a heat wave raging across the states this summer, everyone seems to be looking for shade. Not only can being under a canopy help prevent skin cancer, but canopies can keep you looking and feeling cool.

Think Big:

If you can dream it, we can design & build it. Or perhaps you want something quick and easy… If that’s the case, view our range of easy to specify canopies in the latest range of colours & styles.

‘Green’ is the new Black:

Sourcing local steel has allowed us to reduce the carbon footprint on all of our North American Installations. This means we can pass on savings to you, while also supporting the local economy.

Our pioneering Silicone Glass Weave fabric option is 100% recyclable and even allows photosynthesis to occur under it. Keep your conscious clean and ‘Go Green’ with a canopy.

We’re Everywhere:

If you’re curious if we have installed a structure in your state, view our project directory showcasing the latest American projects (click 'Location' & drop down to United States).

Chat With a Local:

Our West Palm Beach, Florida office is happy to discuss your project: +1 (561) 768-9950

DESIGN LEAD CAR PARK CANOPY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

We are pleased to complete another artistic fabric project in North America. B.L. Harbert International (Birmingham, Alabama) now has a bespoke Hypar car park canopy for their new International Headquarters. View the full project.

A TOWN CENTRE EVOLVES

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

We are pleased to present our latest Design & Build project: a Bespoke 15m x 7.5m Double Hypar at The Malowes shopping centre in Hemel Hempstead town centre. View the Case Study.

ICONIC NEW ENTRANCE CANOPY @ SKEGNESS RESORT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Butlins Skegness Resort on the coast of Lincolnshire has created an iconic new entrance feature in the form of a Double Conic tensile fabric structure.

The addition of the structure is part of an upgrade to improve the overall appearance of the property and traveller’s first experience. Fabric was the building medium of choice, given it is in keeping with the ‘coastal nautical theme’ of the property.

Working with architectural firm Leisure Concepts, the design result is a bespoke version of one of our Signature Structure products, the Double Conic.

This particular structure measures 17m x 7.5m x 3.5m allowing 4 lanes of vehicles to drive underneath the canopy. The new entrance canopy oversails 2 building kiosks serving as ‘drive through’ reception areas. When complete, the Double Conic will feature digital signage (welcoming guests and directing traffic) installed from the framework of the structure.

Let it Rain:

To avoid rainwater falling onto vehicles, a drainage system was factored in allowing water to drain from the perimeter of the structure onto the soft landscaping, away from the entrance.

It’s All in the Detail:

Opting for something more dramatic, special ‘pointed’ headrings with clear polycarb were designed and installed atop the Double Conics. Not only do the headrings look great, but they also allow natural light into the structure.

The Double Conic was patterned and manufactured with architectural grade PVC in white to match the white steel framework and columns. White fabric allows for greater light transmission while offering a clean bright appearance. With the resort located by the sea, steelwork was galvanised to greater withstand the elements.

Get the Look:

Follow this link to see more images, sizes and pictures of the Double Conic Signature Structure. When budgets are tight, using a product is a great way to get the look of something bespoke for a fraction of the price.

We are pleased to complete another project in the Hotel & Leisure Industry and want to thank Leisure Concepts for their vision of using fabric. Click on the photo to see other pics of the structure.

SUMMER SOLSTICE SPECIAL: 20% OFF

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

To celebrate the summer solstice, we are offering 20% off of orders placed by the end of July.

Have Choices:

We offer 40 pre-designed & engineered tensile fabric structures in over 100 sizes. There is a structure for just about every type of space and application:

Walkways
Performance
Entrances
Shelter & Shade
Feature Canopies
Interiors

Stress Free:

In just 12 weeks you could be enjoying a new tensile fabric structure offering all-weather protection from sun & rain.

Start Saving:

Contact 0845 868 7358 or be_inspired@fabricarchitecture.com to discuss your project and take advantage of 20% off your order.

CANOPY LINKS SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The following article was featured in the June Edition of Education Design & Build (page 30).

A covered courtyard known as the ‘Village Square’ is one of the most important features of the new Coopers Edge Primary in Gloucestershire.

The school’s board of Governors was particularly pro-active in the design and development of the scheme and working with architects Roberts Limbrick, underlined the requirement for a light, bright and airy space at the centre of the school where assemblies could be held, students could play all year round and neighbourhood meetings.

A fabric canopy solution as opposed to a solid roof was preferred as the way of achieving a bright internal space. The courtyard’s roof was to look like it was ‘floating’ and not block the flow of walking traffic below. The school did not want any masts touching the ground providing obstructions for wheelchair users. It was further stipulated that the canopy should be affordable to install and offer low maintenance, resist the noise of the rain and avoid the ‘greenhouse effect’ of heating up the space below.

Fabric Architecture delivered the covered solution using its fabric, Silicone Glass Weave (SGW). The low maintenance SGW is practically self-cleaning in the rain, according to Fabric Architecture. It offers up to 40% light transmission in white – allowing plants to photosynthesize underneath. It does not require monitoring or inflation systems using power and remains cool underneath it – blocking harmful UV rays. The fabric is also 100% recyclable, offering the school ‘green credentials’, while lasting 30+ years. The design solution realised is a 500 sqm bespoke canopy that is almost flat in design. This structure has no steel masts touching the ground and is built using SGW. The structural frame of the building through a series of trusses.

Light Exposure

For maximum light exposure, 15 conical head-rings were manufactured using polycarbonate. Each of the conics acts as a lightwell for the area below – flooding it with an abundance of natural sunlight – even on overcast days. The framework is fitted with down lights, up lights, and coloured blue LEDs – during the evening it glows with brilliance. In addition to lights, it was also fitted with integrated speakers for announcements and music.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE: WHY MEMBRANE STRUCTURES ARE GROWING IN IMPORTANCE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The following article was written for the June edition of Architects Datafile (page 63 & 65) by Nigel Browne FSCD, Director of Design & Engineering, Fabric Architecture Limited.

Fabric structures are our oldest form of architecture; they date back to a time when shelters were made of animal skins and branches.

Today, ‘fabric architecture’ encompasses not only sophisticated tensile membrane structures, but also beautiful forms of sculptures. Fabric structures can be constructed independent of geography, used inside or outside, be permanent or temporary, large or small, air-supported or air-inflated, tensioned or draped.

These organic shapes are playing a major role in modern architecture and interior design all over the world, especially because tensile fabric structures are so cost effective. As an indication, a 100 to 300 square metre single skin structure will cost £350/m2. Particularly efficient forms often work out to be less than this, as do many pre-engineered off-the-shelf designs.

Specialist architectural fabrics are used to create lightweight membrane structures. These fabrics are often constructed from woven glass or polymers which are immensely stable and hard wearing. They are resistant to ultraviolet (UV)-light, fire and water. Almost all membranes are now made from materials that can be recycled and have a low carbon footprint.

One of the advantages of fabric as a building medium is its great strength. The ratio between weight and strength is greater than any other standard building material, making it environmentally the most friendly.

Consider a practical example: the weight of 7mm float glass for roof construction is approximately 20kg/m2, a heavy duty membrane is approximately 1kg/m2 and this is without taking into account the enormous steel or aluminium sub-structure required with traditional materials.

Tensile fabric structures are often referred to as “intelligent architecture,” given they provide smooth harmonious illumination with varying levels of light transmission, depending on the fabric. A typical heavy duty membrane will allow 5% transmission - equal to approximately 4,000 LUX (light levels in a typical office light are 600 LUX). A Silicone Coated Glass Fibre membrane will allow up to 40% transmission of light and can be used in an environment where UVA light for photosynthesis of plants is required, blocking out harmful UVB and UVC radiation.

Today’s fabric structures transform areas, floating above space creating very large spans of coverage suitable for amphitheatres, sports stadiums, airports, atriums, and building facades. On a smaller scale, fabric structures transform parks, schools and transportation hubs. Architectural fabric structures require a unique collaboration among Designers, Engineers, Fabricators and Installers. The size and extent of the team depends on the complexity of the project.

Achieving the correct form is crucial. The form of a tensile membrane should ideally be anticlastic with two curvatures running at 90 degrees to each other. When tensioned, this gives the fabric its stability. If the curvature flattens, the force to stabilise the fabric increases.

The form will be the minimal surface area between all the perimeter nodes making the most economical shape in the same fashion a soap film is created. One of the easiest ways to establish a form is to take a wire coat hanger or similar and bend it into a desired perimeter shape. Then dip the frame into a strong mix of washing-up liquid and water. As you extract the wire frame from the soapy water, you will be left with a ‘soap film’ resembling the exact shape of the membrane. This form will be the natural equilibrium shape.

Having established a stable configuration, the structure is analysed under various load cases using large reflection finite element analysis. This is done using powerful software programs that permit the inclusion of tension only membrane elements, as well as cables, struts and beam elements in a three-dimensional computer model. The result is rapid accurate member analysis and sizing.

The characteristics of the fabric and its form will need to be determined to ensure it is suitable for the application. Once the form is decided, it must then be patterned. Patterning is the process of flattening the three-dimensional form so it becomes two-dimensional. Each panel of the pattern can then be cut from the desired fabric. Once cut out, the separate panels will be joined together (sewn, bonded or welded) to create the original three-dimensional form.

During the process of design, it is critical to consider the installation. Very large fields of fabric are generated, which require specialist installation with particular consideration given to the weather. The structure being in tension for stability and resisting snow and wind can develop high loads, which also requires careful consideration.

Fabric architecture now celebrates a time when technical invention and engineering are at one with the arts, where tradition and practice are no longer sufficient to satisfy the demands of architecture and art. Interior applications and tactile façade projects have shown us that fabric structures need not always have double curvature and catenary edges, leaving room for endless shapes and designs.

Advances in the industry are occurring daily. Photovoltaic technology in fabric structures is showing promise, while high pressure air beams that can support snow loads are no longer theoretical concepts. Fabric architecture is truly coming into its own as a building medium.

NEW ECO TESCO FEATURES ICONIC SCULPTURAL SKYLAR CANOPIES

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

As part of a regeneration of the South Bank area, a new Tesco Extra store has just opened. Designed and built using sustainable methods and materials, and utilising a range of techniques that reduce the supermarket's carbon footprint by up to 50% (compared to a store built three years ago), this new store is setting new eco standards.

As part of the scheme, architectural practice Humphrey + Potter designed a unique covered public seating area outside of the store with integrated planters. The highlight of the area is a series of 3 no Signature Structure Skylar Canopies by Fabric Architecture Limited.

Staying true to the eco theme, the Skylar canopies were designed, manufactured and installed using a fabric Fabric Architecture helped pioneer called Silicone Glass Weave (SGW). This fabric is 100% recyclable and lasts 30+ years. In addition to the eco fabric, the canopies were each integrated with LED lighting.

The Skylar’s installed were 3m, 4m and 5m and are perfect for signage and wayfinding. They are both fun, functional and with SGW and LED’s – they are environmentally friendly.

Plants in the planters are attracting bees and butterflies, while the Skylar canopies (offering shade) are attracting shoppers from around the centre - offering them a relaxing place to rest, meet and greet. This type of eco communal space is something we are hoping other Tesco stores will begin to implement.

Be sure to click on the photo above to see images of models Humphrey + Potter developed of the canopies to help create the vision for the space. Also, this link will direct you to a video of the project on Youtube.

We want to offer special thanks to Vinci Construction and Humphrey +Potter, both of whom we have worked with on previous projects. Congratulations to all involved in a great project.

FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN FOR ART COUTURE PAINSWICK STARTS TODAY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is proud to once again sponsor Art Couture Painswick (ACP) by providing the stage canopy for this colourful festival.

The event will be held 15 July set in the dramatic backdrop of Painswick, known as ‘The Queen of the Cotswolds.”

To virtually experience ACP and learn more about it, click here to watch a brief video. From there you will see several ways you can get involved.

You may choose from a list of options to support ACP – anything from £5 upwards. In addition, there are several “money can’t buy” opportunities. Everything contributed will go towards making this year’s festival a success. This very secure site uses PayPal, debit and credit cards.

Thank you for your interest - we hope to see you 15 July in Painswick.

DIAMOND JUBILEE FESTIVITIES AS SEEN FROM ABOVE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

A spectacular photo taken from above (via Spitfire) shows the Diamond Jubilee Festivities surrounding Buckingham Palace.

If you click on the photo and look closely along the rear gardens of the Palace, you will see an aerial glimpse of the top of our new Tensile Fabric Structure, appropriately named ‘Jubilee’ (circled in red).

Commissioned for the Diamond Jubilee, this structure is patterned with a series of interconnected 'diamonds', forming the shape of a star from above.

JUST RELEASED: IMAGES OF THE NEW 'JUBILEE' STRUCTURE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Our latest Signature Structure, appropriately named 'Jubilee', was installed at Buckingham Palace for the festivities surrounding this past weekend's Diamond Jubilee.

Click on the image above to see other photos of this beautiful structure seen at the Palace.

JUBILEE COMMISSION BY ROYAL COMMAND

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The following article was featured Tuesday, June 5 in both the Gloucestershire Echo and The Citizen.

An award-winning county company helped bring a sparkle and some shelter to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations at Buckingham Palace.

Fabric Architecture Limited, which employs 30 people at Gloucester Business Park, designs, manufactures and installs tensile structures along with fabric ceilings and fabric sculptural features.

The assistant to the master at the Royal Household heard about the company’s Jubilee Signature Structure and asked for a similar structure for diamond jubilee events.

The 120sqm Jubilee, ‘dressed’ in a royal white PVC fabric canopy; was installed in the palace grounds last week.

A company spokesman said it was an event highlight installed alongside the concert staging area. The structure was able to offer shelter for those fortunate enough to be awarded a ticket to attend this once-in-a-lifetime event.

The canopy was based on the design for the structure used when the Queen opened the Dartford Crossing in 1991.

“As a patriotic gesture, Fabric Architecture donated the Jubilee structure for the Diamond Jubilee,” said a company spokesman. “Later this summer, this structure will be lovingly relocated to Painswick in time for the third annual Art Couture Festival (ACP) on 15 July.

“Painswick will be the stunning backdrop for this international festival, guaranteed to attract designers and artists from all over the world.

"Fabric Architecture is thrilled that we will once again be providing the stage canopy for this colourful event. This year, with an expected 10,000 plus visitors, the Jubilee will take centre stage – direct from Buckingham Palace.

"This is definitely a summer to remember for Great Britain and Fabric Architecture is honoured to ‘cover’ both the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Art Couture – two incredibly memorable events.”

Fabric Architecture Limited works with architects throughout the world to translate concept designs into reality. The company has more than 5,000 installations throughout the UK, Europe, North America and the Middle East.

It has been quite a year for the co-owner of Fabric Architecture, American-born Debra Drew. She won the Diamond Jubilee Woman of the Year award at The Citizen and Gloucestershire Echo’s Women in Business Awards in March.

At the award evening, Debra was described as being a leader with tremendous expertise in taking bespoke designs and packaging them into production.

CATCH THE WAVE: DRAMATIC NEW CANOPY COVERS NEWQUAY STATION

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Newquay Railway Station has been undergoing a major redevelopment. Referred to locally as ‘The Atlantic Coast Line,’ Newquay is an important transport link between the north (Atlantic) & south (English Channel) coasts of Cornwall.

As a popular tourist destination, Network Rail is drastically improving the existing passenger railway facilities to handle the increase in tourism. As part of this improvement, the pair of very dated Victorian metal buildings that once covered the entrance to the station have been replaced with a free-standing modern barrel vaulted fabric canopy.

Fabric Architecture Limited was approached by J Murphy & Sons (on behalf of Network Rail) to design, engineer, manufacture and install a bespoke one of a kind canopy. The canopy design offers a ‘nautical’ feel, completely modernising the existing station.

Working with Aecom, the design result is a 25m x 17m canopy mounted on 8 steel masts. The canopy fully covers the existing entranceway to the station offering dry and shaded space for passengers.

What’s unique about the steel structure is that it is designed to a 120 year life span, adhering to Network Rail Specification. To achieve this goal, Fabric Architecture’s In-house engineers increased steel section sizes and the thickness of the galvanising and paint, allowing it to withstand a coastal environment. In addition, we recommended using a PTFE fabric, a fabric which has a life expectancy of 30+ years.

Each of the 8 columns will be fitted with up-lights allowing the structure to glow with brilliance at night. Fabric dam gutters were welded along the perimeter of the structure channelling water into gutters and downspouts integrated in the steelwork. In addition to lighting, the structure will feature signage for passenger wayfinding.

The new station canopy has added a modern look to the seaside landscape. When it re-opens in the next few months, passengers will experience first-hand the dramatic improvements to the station.

Click on the photo above to view the 'before' picture.

FROM THE PALACE TO PAINSWICK: THE NEW PAGODA DIAMOND TAKES CENTRE STAGE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Limited is proud to announce that our latest structure, the Pagoda Diamond, will be a garden highlight at Buckingham Palace.

Having read about the Pagoda Diamond Signature Structure, the Assistant to the Master at The Royal Household contacted us to see if we could produce a ‘Diamond’ structure for the festivities surrounding the Diamond Jubilee.

The 120sqm Pagoda diamond, ‘dressed’ in a royal white PVC fabric canopy, is being installed this week in the gardens of the Buckingham Palace. The Pagoda Diamond will be an event highlight installed alongside the concert staging area. With sunny skies on the forecast, this structure will offer needed shade to those fortunate enough to be invited to attend this once in a lifetime event.

As a patriotic gesture, Fabric Architecture donated the Pagoda Diamond for the Diamond Jubilee. Later this summer, this structure will be lovingly relocated to Painswick in time for the third annual Art Couture Festival (ACP), 15 July.

Painswick, also known as the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’, will be the stunning backdrop for this international festival, guaranteed to attract designers and artists from all over the world.

Fabric Architecture is thrilled that we will once again be providing the stage canopy for this colorful event. In its inception, the structure of choice was the 5m Pagoda. As the event grew in 2011, ACP required a larger stage structure, the Hoop. This year, with an expected 10,000+ visitors, the Pagoda Diamond will take centre stage – direct from Buckingham Palace.

This is definitely a summer to remember for Great Britain and Fabric Architecture is honoured to ‘cover’ both the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Art Couture – two incredibly memorable events.

The Pagoda family of structures has a bit of ‘royal history’ in that the Pagoda Evo 10m was the canopy used for the Dartford Crossing Opening (1991), where the Queen made an appearance underneath it (as seen in the photo above). We are hopeful that she will once again be seen under a Fabric Architecture structure for her Diamond Jubilee event next week.

WE ARE HIRING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is growing and expanding our Fabric Internals range of products and offerings and are looking for a full time Logisitcs & Fulfillment Manager.

This role would be based at our corporate office in the beautiful Cotswolds region of the UK: GL3 4AG.

Click here for additional information and instructions.

MAKING HEADLINES: FABRIC "RACING FINS" ATTRACT FANS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Magazine Case Study Reprint [May/June 2012]

The world’s largest indoor theme park gives visitors the chance to experience fast and furious fun, Ferrari style. Ferrari World, on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, takes the legendary Italian sports car to new speeds, with a family-friendly attraction offering rides, films, shops, restaurants and lodging, accented in red and steeped in all things Ferrari. The client wanted existing internal walls to mimic an air intake system of the iconic car through a series of fabric “fins.”

Fabric Architecture Ltd., Gloucester, U.K., rose to the occasion by designing and manufacturing 2,063 tensile wall-mounted façade fins to dress up the theme park.

Fins are mounted to every internal wall façade, and each is unique, varying in size from 5m to 20m in length. The fins are constructed from extruded aluminium clad in tensioned silicone glass weave fabric (an estimated 45,000m2). The glass weave fabric allows 40% light transmission, allowing the fins to reflect and transmit LED lights and video. The fin array follows the curvature of all internal buildings, conceals building utilities, reduces noise and commands considerable attention from visitors.

Special thanks to Bruce N. Wright, Editor of Fabric Architecture Magazine for publishing the article.

CATCHING THE OLYMPIC SPIRIT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Yesterday, 129 inspirational Torchbearers carried the Olympic Flame 140 miles from Bristol to Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.

Part of the Torch Relay included a segment through the beautiful Cotswold Village of Brockworth, home to Fabric Architecture Limited.

Director, Debra Drew, said "this is a once in a lifetime opportunity" and encouraged staff to leave work early to experience the magic and ‘catch the Olympic Spirit’ first-hand.

Fabric Architecture has a passion for the Olympic Games. We installed 75 Pagoda Information Stations for the 1996 Centennial Olympics in Atlanta and 32 Pagoda Evo structures for the 2000 Millennium Cultural Olympiad in Sydney.

Our latest Olympic installations include a Bandshell entrance canopy for the London Olympic /Paralympic Sailing Event at Portland Marina and a bespoke, free standing canopy over the new javelin/discuss/hammer/shot-put throw area at Loughborough University (Training Ground for Team Great Britain).

Local Inspiration: Chloe Walker, age 13, from Gloucestershire, was nominated by Cheltenham Borough Council through the LOCOG campaign. Despite having cerebral palsy, Chloe carried the Flame into Cheltenham with pride. She is someone who makes the most of every experience she has within and beyond school – inspiring everyone around her.

The Torch Relay will be within an hour of 95% of the people of the UK on its way to London for the Opening Ceremony. We hope you have an opportunity to experience it first-hand.

Be sure to CLICK on the large PHOTO above to see the rest of the pictures taken from our exciting day out.

JUST AWARDED: ACOUSTIC FABRIC FINS @ HEATHROW T2B

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Balfour Betty has just awarded Fabric Architecture Limited a new project at Heathrow Airport.

Phase II of Terminal 2B is being designed with travellers in mind. To help deliver a modern, bright and state-of-the art terminal, Fabric Architecture has designed a series of bespoke floating acoustic fabric fins with integral lighting.

Fabric fins will be connected to steel beams suspended from the ceiling, forming the terminal shell of the new building.

Between the beams is a series of hidden glass skylights to flood the terminal with natural light. Fabric fins will act as light diffusers as well as improving the acoustics of the vast space. The acoustically rated tensile fabric will offer significant noise reduction. In addition, each fabric fin will have LED lights integrated, allowing fins to become a light source during the evening or on cloudy days.

BAA Chief Executive Colin Matthews said: “the new terminal puts us within touching distance of a future where Heathrow has some of the best passenger facilities in Europe.” When this terminal opens in 2014, it will transform passenger’s experience of Heathrow Airport.

Fabric fins were first seen at Ferrari World, Yas Island, where Fabric Architecture installed over 2,000 bespoke acoustic rated fabric fins on the wall façade of internal buildings around the 86,000 m2 plaza level.

The benefit of using fabric as an internal building medium includes:

•   Lightweight and cost effective
•   Fire rated to class 0
•   Bomb-blast approved material
•   Maintenance free
•   Acoustic performance
•   Light refraction and luminosity
•   Rapid installation
•   Minimal disruption

Having completed 15,000 m2 of tensile fabric and aluminium framed ceiling panels at Dublin T2, Balfour Beatty was confident in our ability to deliver the Heathrow project.

We are pleased to receive comments from David Shorey of Balfour Beatty regarding the tender process. He said: “We recognise the high quality of your response, the investment in time and resources, and the personal commitment required to support your response.”

Stay tuned for updates and images as the project progresses.

Running for a Good Cause

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

On Sunday, 20 May, two teams from Fabric Architecture Limited joined over 11,000 runners at the Run for Bristol 10K race to raise money for charity.

Team Run for Cover (Chris Dring, Pete Iliffe, Julian Purse & Tom Langhorn) and Team Inspired by Nature (David Oaten, Matthew Chapman, Alex Wood) raised a combined total of over £500 for The Drew & Browne Charitable Trust. This charity provides educational opportunities for girls in Kenya, as well as building schools and fresh water wells for local Maasai families to enjoy.

Congratulations to both teams for a really good effort!

Man City Fans Gather to Celebrate!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Outside Manchester City's stadium, fan’s gather with joy and disbelief to celebrate a victory that has been a 44-year wait.

A few great quotes to share:

"Never in my life did I think I would see that. I thought I was going to my grave and never see them win. I have never seen so many grown men cry, on the streets, it’s just unbelievable," said a fan.

"I thought we had lost it, I really did, it was so nerve racking, but the celebrations after it made it so much more glorious because it was so close, it was wonderful," added another City faithful.

Fans use the new fabric covered Fan Pavilions (by Fabric Architecture) outside Etihad Stadium to celebrate into the night.

Congratulations Man City to a game well played – this level of performance is inspirational.

LATEST TREND: REFURBISHMENT IN EDUCATION

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

If you have been following the school buildings market, then you will have seen the ups & downs of funding programmes launched & scrapped.

Throughout the peaks & troughs, there has been a steady trend towards refurbishment – bringing new life to existing buildings, while better utilising existing space.

While refurbishment was a significant part of the Building Schools for the Future Programme (BSF), it will be an even greater part of the new Priority Schools Building Programme (PSBP).

The pattern of school building activity will switch from replacing the worst performing schools academically in the poorest areas to the schools with the worst buildings. The new PSBP is set to rebuild 300 of the worst schools – around 100 will be rebuilt a year, with an average budget of £20m per school.

One way Architects can increase Gross Internal Floor Area (GIFA) is by moving walkways and classrooms to the great outdoors and covering them with fabric. Tensile structures are the perfect solution to maximising outdoor space, making older buildings look modern and new again.

With over 30 years of experience in the Education Sector, Fabric Architecture Limited has become industry experts in designing, engineering, manufacturing and installing tensile fabric structures to be used to cover: walkways, dining areas, entrances, outdoor classrooms, & performance areas.

At Fabric Architecture, we have recently seen an increase in schools moving their internal walkways and corridors outside, increasing their classroom size inside. In addition, we have been using walkway canopies as Brise Soleil in order to reduce the need for air-conditioning systems that are expensive to add to existing buildings.

Old School/New School... Iconic entrance canopies can literally transform existing buildings. The modern elegant lines of tensile fabric structures enhance older school architecture, costing a fraction of the price of new buildings and additions.

Refurb opportunities are expected to grow in the education market, especially if the attachment to the traditional school environment (possibly inspired by Harry Potter) continues around the world.

If you’re an Architect designing a school refurbishment, an End User considering how to best use your space or a Main Contractor considering building materials and options, please contact one of our consultants to learn how fabric as a building medium can best work for you 01452 612 800.

DEBRA DREW WINS DIAMOND-JUBILEE WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Congratulations to Debra Drew for last Thursday night’s Victory at The Citizen and Gloucester’s Woman of the Year Award.

American-born Debra Drew won the the Diamond Jubilee Woman of the Year Award last night at The Citizen and Gloucestershire Echo’s Women in Business Awards in association with Coutts.

Debra, who moved to the UK from North Carolina 12 years ago, is director and co-owner of Brockworth-based Fabric Architecture Ltd which specialises in the manufacture and installation of tensile fabric structures for applications such as performance areas and canopies.

Debra was described as a great leader who has tremendous expertise in taking bespoke designs and packaging into production and despite the recession Fabric Architecture has grown with offices in North America and the Middle East and over 5,000 installations throughout the world.

She was presented with her Women of the Year Award at the glittering Women in Business Awards presentation dinner at The Centaur at Cheltenham racecourse last night attended by more than 270 of Gloucestershire’s leading businesswomen.

After being presented with her award by Charlie Ellison of award sponsors Coutts, Debra said: “I am delighted. It is recognition from other women in the county which is so powerful.

“We (the company) really encourage entrepreneural thought from everyone. It is a very driven company and we are all very passionate about design and new cultures. We love going to new countries.”

There were eight awards presented at the event which was hosted by Gloucestershire Media’s managing director Sarah Pullen who praised the spirit of the county’s businesswomen.

“We are now in our third year of recognising hard working women in business in the county,” she said. “This is down to you and you alone for your tremendous support to us in our quest to support and highlight women in business.

“At a time when there is so much doom and gloom in the national press about the economy, it’s more important than ever that we celebrate our local success stories.

“I am absolutely overwhelmed by the enormous energy, talent and innovation of our finalists. The entries were really outstanding. We have so much talent in Gloucestershire you should all be proud. And our newspapers are proud to support the Women in Business awards.”

She also thanked the sponsors, Coutts who were title sponsors, Cheltenhan Racecourse Conference and Events, Gloucestershire Chamber of Commerce, Gloucester Quays and Harrison Clark.

Award winners

Mentor of the Year: Angie Petkovic, APT Marketing and PR, Cheltenham

Rising Star of the Year Award: Olivia Hutchins, Green Car Depollution, Tewkesbury

New Business of the Year Award: Green Car Depollution

Women in the Workplace Award: Claire Stringer, Gooseberry Bush Day Nursery, Kemble

Contribution to the Community Award: Denise Leighton, Merry Den Care, Cinderford

Award for Innovation: Kate Green, National Star Centre, Ullenwood, Cheltenham

Business of the Year: Aeolus Power (Wind-Energy) Ltd, Pilning

The Diamond Jubilee Award-Woman of the Year: Debra Drew, Fabric Architecture Ltd, Brockworth

WHO'S DESIGNING THE FUTURE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Directors, Debra Drew and Nigel Browne, will be participating in the inaugural Cheltenham Design Festival 20-22 April. This event is bringing together creative thinkers to explore the future of design by debating the following question: “Who’s designing the future?”

The 3-day event is packed full of interesting sessions by world class designers. Be sure to check out their website for schedule and ticket information: www.cheltenhamdesignfestival.com

MEDIA LAB SCULPTURE: HEAD OF THE CLASS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The University of Salford in Manchester, England, located its new learning center for media students near six national British Broadcasting Company (BBC) departments and “hundreds of independent creative, digital and media organizations.” Wrapped around and rising above the modern MediaCityUK Living Lab’s two-level atrium is a floating lightweight fabric sculpture, Ribbon, symbolizing the way media communication connects the world. Fabric Architecture Ltd., Gloucestershire, England, designed, manufactured and installed the three-dimensional Ribbon, which is more than 70 feet long and dominates the entrance to the Lab’s state-of-the-art digital and broadcast studios.

The ArchiClad patented modular framing system that Fabric Architecture used in Dublin Airport’s Terminal 2 gives the Ribbon its curves and twists. Three sections composed of 23 individual frames were bolted together in a rotating configuration and wrapped in white, lightweight tensioned fabric. The sculpture, wired through the suspended ceiling with slender, nearly invisible stainless steel cables, appears to be floating in air and leading students into their new media careers.

Online version can be found HERE

MAKING HEADLINES: FLEXIBLE FABRIC CEILING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The bepoke fabric ceiling at the luxurious Mykonos Grace Hotel in Greece has once again made headlines. Full story below:

THE BRIEF for Fabric Architecture's Fabric Interiors Group at the Mykonos Grace hotel was to design and install a bespoke backlit suspended tensile fabric ceiling in the hotel's intimate poolside restaurant as part of a dramatic renovation.

The hotel, on the Island of Mykonos, Greece, was listed as one of the World's Best Hotels in Conde Nast (2007).

The project was a joint collaboration with architect/fashion designer, Myrto Dramountani and London/Athens-based architectural firm Divercity.

The inspiration for the fabric ceiling, says Dramountani, was the bottom of the sea, the materials that are found in the sea and the light created in the water through fish nets.

"Fabric is not a material that is traditionally used in architecture. I chose it because fabric does not limit inspiration and its flexibility allows it to work well as a ceiling and a feature. The ideas of using laser-cut fabric for a ceiling reflects the lightness and freedom that we all want to feel when indoors," she says.

The design solution is a series of three unique suspended ceiling panels measuring: two at 3m x 3.5m and one at 4.5m x 1m. Each panel has more than 3,000 small right angles cut out (with high tech diamond blades). Each right angle measures 50mm x 50mm. Squares are cut 20mm apart to create a waffle-type pattern.

With this many cuts into the fabric, selecting the right fabric was important. Silicone Glass Weave fabric, which retains its shape and integrity under tension, even with the multitude of cuts, was used for the project. The fabric is fully recyclable and offers up to 40 per cent light transmission.

The three fabric panels were placed into lightweight metal frames and suspended using a series of aluminium cables.

CONGRATULATIONS TO DEBRA DREW

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture's Managing Director, Debra Drew, has been selected as one of the finalists for the Citizen and Gloucestershire Echo Women in Business Awards. We wish all of the finalists the best of luck. Stay tuned until 29 March when the winners are announced.

WATER AT LAST!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Our friends of the Masai Mara Tribe in Kenya, Africa now have access to clean potable water. As part of our corporate social responsibility strategy, Fabric Architecture Limited donated the funds to install a new well last year. We are very pleased to receive pictures (via smart phone) of the well – up and flowing.

After one of the hardest drought’s in Kenya’s history last year, most of the tribes cattle died. The cattle were their source of livelihood and now they are looking to cultivate the land. The new well water will be used to irrigate corn crops and other veg that they will be growing in the hot African sun.

Fab Arc Hosts German Exchange Student

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Through a programme initiated by Gloucestershire First, Fabric Architecture was pleased to have on staff an international exchange student from Hannover, Germany.

Katharina Elster worked with us as part of a work experience programme hosted by her University, The Hannah Arendt School. The Leonardo da Vinci Mobility Project matches students with work placement opportunities in different countries. It is designed to train students in both the English language and hands on work experience.

During her work placement at Fabric Architecture, Katharina made sales support calls to our clients and created a very complex and thorough database for a local event we work with called Wearable Arts Painswick (WAP)

Katharina’s ability to quickly pick up the phone with confidence added enormous value to our clients, while her research and Excel skills allowed her to build a database that will be used to grow the WAP Event.

In a short period of just two weeks, Katharina was immersed in both the English Culture and also Fabric Architecture’s corporate culture. When asked about her experience, she said she enjoyed it, learned a lot and thought the English were very friendly and nice.

By having an International Work Placement student at Fabric Architecture, an English student will now receive the same opportunity in May 2012 by working in Hannover. It’s a win-win programme for everyone. We really appreciated the opportunity Glos First created for us and were thankful for the hard work and good effort put in by Katharina. We will miss her lovely smile and enthusiasm.

‘VISUALISE’ FABRIC ON YOUR PROJECT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Limited’s Design & Build team offers a ‘Visualise It’ Service. We listen to Architects and End Users to help them realise their vision when using fabric as a building medium.

The visualisation above represents what one architect in Florida had in mind: a Bespoke Quad Conic featuring Glulam Masts and cable rods anchoring the structure. This is a very nautical design located on the coast in West Palm Beach. This particular structure will offer an abundance of shade and dry space for events and recreation. Hiring it out is one way to have the structure pay for itself.

At Fabric Architecture, we hold fabric to be the 5th Building medium (wood, stone, steel, glass & fabric). Using fabric to create covered outside space is a beautiful alternative to traditional buildings or sheds. Fabric creates architecturally stunning shapes and structures that are beautifully practical and permanent (lasting 30 + years).

Please contact our Design & Build team so we may help you visualise fabric on your project. Should you wish to take your concept all the way through to completion, we offer a full turn-key service: Engineering, Manufacture, Installation.

STADIA & ARENA CONFERENCE, BORDEAUX 13-15 JUNE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Limited will be exhibiting at the upcoming Stadia & Arena Exhibition and conference in Bordeaux 13-15 June. Now in its 14th year, this is Europe’s leading event for the entertainment and sports venue industry.

Having completed several prestigious sporting event/venue projects for Etihad Stadium/Manchester City Football Club, Aintree Racecourse, Gateshead International Stadium, & The Bowl Stadium, this is a market we are passionate about and actively pursuing.

Using Fabric as a building medium to create fan zones, food and beverage spaces and merchandising/information stations is an excellent way to increase revenue while improving the fans overall experience.

Fabric has a light footprint and offers a high impact both in being beautifully aesthetical but also creating ample shaded and dry areas for fans – not to mention a ‘Wow’ factor and sense of arrival.

Fabric Architecture will be exhibiting on Stand 35.

If you would like to pre-book a meeting at the conference, please contact Jason@fabarc.co.uk or

+44 (0) 1452 612 800.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE JOINS THE BRITISH AVIATION GROUP (BAG)

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Limited has now joined the likes of other Architects and Specialist Subcontractors by becoming members of the British Aviation Group (BAG).

BAG is the leading representative body for UK companies involved in the Airport and Aviation Development Sector. Having completed several airport projects including Dublin Terminal 2, Heathrow Terminal 2 and 5, Gatwick, Glasgow and Jersey, Fabric Architecture saw BAG as the perfect organisation to share resources, information and leads.

BAG’s current membership includes over 200 companies.

AWARD WINNING FABRIC CEILING SYSTEMS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architectures’ new Fabric Ceiling in Dublin Airport has once again made headlines. Interior Design Today showcases the project in their January/February edition under Product Innovations.

For the full story click here.

To read the project profile and download the case study, click here.

FLYING OFF THE SHELVES:

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The Head Teacher at the new state of the art Denton Community College in Manchester wanted to create a covered amphitheatre for outdoor school performances. The amphitheatre, located in an internal courtyard, has an adjacent building cladded in bright green - the perfect backdrop for the stage.

Having seen the range of new Signature Structure performance canopies, Denton College decided on a pair of matching 5m x 5m Flying Conics. The Flying Conic is a new product in the range of ready to install tensile structures. This product is a unique design featuring a flying raised conic on one side – it’s fun, functional, and unique - adding a wow factor to the space.

Special thanks to Carillion for their support with the project.

MAKING HEADLINES: ‘THE RIBBON’ AT MEDIACITY, UK

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The new internal 3D sculptural fabric structure, also known as The Ribbon, is once again making headlines. American publication Fabric Architecture Magazine has highlighted the project in their January/February Issue. Please click on the image above to read the featured article.

The Ribbon uses a patented internal tensioned structure framing system called ArchiClad. Read more…

WORLD’S LARGEST PRODUCT RANGE!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

NEW for 2012 – Fabric Architecture Ltd has increased our Signature Structure range of ready-to-install tensile structures from 20 to 40 offerings in over 100 sizes in what we believe is the ‘World’s Largest Tensile Product Range.’

We are pleased to launch a new Product Website showcasing the latest models, colour options, sizes and applications. Have a look…

MODERN DESIGN: THE 'RIBBON' IN THE NEW LIVING LAB @ MEDIACITY, UK

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture has recently completed a new internal project at the University of Salford, MediaCity UK. The ‘Ribbon’ as it is known, is a modern three dimensional iconic sculptural piece of art. It’s a lightweight tensioned structure which utilises Fabric Architecture’s ArchiClad patented framing system pioneered for Dublin Airport’s new Terminal 2 and featured in Ferrari World, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Despite its large size, the Ribbon appears to float throughout the entrance of the building. Perfect for light reflectivity, wayfinding, and acoustics, the Ribbon is easy to maintain and is catching the attention of all the media visiting the new Living Lab.

A case study showcasing this unique project is now available for immediate review and download.

This project was featured in the recent edition of Education Design & Build (EDB) Magazine.

TOP WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2011

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Congratulations to Fabric Architecture’s Managing Director, Debra Drew, who was selected as one of the Top Performing Cotswold Women In Business for 2011.

Debra Drew is Managing Director & co-owner of Fabric Architecture Ltd - a design house specialising in the design, engineering, manufacture and installation of tensile fabric structures since 1982. Debra’s primary focus is to grow the company’s presence throughout the UK, Europe, North America, and the UAE with innovative designs and beautifully practical products.

Fabric Architecture’s turnover for 2010/2011 was £5.7 million and they employ 30 staff, all of whom live in the Cotswolds. Debra is committed to the environment and she is particularly proud of a unique partnership she pioneered with local charity Children’s Scrapstore. Now, 100% of the fabric off cuts from the hundreds of structures installed annually is donated to schools for art projects. Debra is actively involved with the Chamber of Commerce, UKTI and the Wearable Arts Painswick Festival, has a passion for personal development and training. Her multi-level mentoring programme has allowed staff to increase results while boosting morale. Fabric Architecture is on the forefront of design & engineering and their patented Pagoda System was winner of the British Design Award.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE WINS FOUR INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARDS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture, Gloucestershire, UK, was recognized with four 2011 International Achievement Awards (IAA) for design excellence in specialty fabrics applications. The ceremony took place at the IFAI Expo Americas 2011 at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Md. on October 25.

Fabric Architecture received the following awards:

•Outstanding Achievement Award for its Manchester City Football Stadium ‘Xtage’ project. The project was recognized in the competition’s Tensile Structures, Under 600 Square Meters category.

•Outstanding Achievement Award for its Manchester City Football Club Fan Pavilion project. The project was recognized in the competition’s Free-Standing Structures, More than 112 Square Meters category.

•Award of Excellence for its Dogs Trust Landmark Centre, Scotland project. The project was recognized in the competition’s Multiple Modular Structures category.

•Award of Excellence for its Dublin Airport Terminal 2 project. The project was recognized in the competition’s Commercial Interiors category.

The annual IFAI Expo Americas is the largest specialty fabrics trade show in the Americas, and for more than six decades, IFAI has recognized excellence in design and innovation, highlighting truly spectacular work in the specialty fabrics industry.

Entrants were encouraged to submit projects and compete in 35 categories in this 64th competition. In all, IFAI received 385 entries from 16 countries. Entries were judged by industry experts, editors, architects, educators and design professionals, who were selected for their knowledge in a particular field of study or product area. Winners were selected based on complexity, design, workmanship, uniqueness and function.

IFAI encourages specialty fabric projects of all sizes and type. The goal of IFAI is to promote awareness of the specialty fabrics used in thousands of products and applications. All entries receive prominent recognition at IFAI Expo Americas. Entrants receive additional publicity through coverage in IFAI magazines, as well as press releases distributed to media professionals.

TOP RIDE ACADEMY IN KENYA REACHES NEW HEIGHTS!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

As part of our corporate philanthropy, Fabric Architecture is proud to continue to contribute to Top Ride Academy (TRA) in Kenya. Top Ride is a school close to our hearts and over the past four years, we have raised over £50,000.

A percentage of sales from our Signature Structures range along with a percentage from maintenance packages sold are sent direct to the Academy. In addition, staff have been making their own personal contributions and involving their local communities and schools to offer support.

Milnathorpe School in Kinross, Scotland has twined with TRA – exchanging letters among students and arranging money raising schemes including: Talent Shows, Small Change Collection day, Non-Uniform Day, Run a Stall, Sponsored Event, Wear Your Pyjamas to Work Day, and Guess How Many Sweets In Jar.

Our latest donation has allowed Top Ride to add four new classrooms on a new second level of the main building.

Below is a brief history of our involvement and how indirect contributions from sales have allowed us to make a big impact in a short period of time.

2008: Personal visits with Company Directors and Headmaster, Peter Waweru; financial contribution to build the ground floor of the new school building; continued sponsorship of several girls’ TRA tuitions

2009: A corporate trip with eight staff visited TRA to install a bespoke 12.5 meter shade canopy known as The Pinwheel (shown in photo). This structure features overlapping canopies in red, blue and green and offers the only shade on the schools hot desert-like landscape. Continued sponsorship of several girls’ TRA tuitions.

2010: Financial contribution to build the first floor of the new school building and add landscaping; continued sponsorship of several girls’ TRA tuitions; visits by six staff to organise classroom painting and well received sports day; building local wells.

2011: Financial contribution to build the second floor of the new school building. Support with supplies to help TRA/and the local community get through one of the worst droughts in over 100 years. Continued sponsorship of several girls’ TRA tuitions.

We are looking forward to another staff trip in 2012 and continuing to make a difference... one child at a time.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE TO ATTEND THE EDUCATION BUILDING FORUM

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture have been invited to once again participate in the upcoming education building forum (ebf) at the Forest of Arden, Warwickshire on the 19th & 20th October. This event will bring together 150 leading architects, contractors, consultants, school leaders, manufacturers and suppliers over two packed days of pre-arranged business meetings, informal networking opportunities, and keynote sessions.

The ebf is the leading networking event for buyers and suppliers involved in design and build of education facilities, and provides the perfect platform for companies to network with leading personnel at the forefront of this ever changing market.

Alex Wood, Sales Manager for Fabric Architectures’ Bespoke/Design and Build team along with Chris Dring, Sales Manager for Signature Structures (a range of over 40 easy to specify ‘off the shelf’ tensile product solutions) will be attending the two day event.

If you haven’t booked your place at the ebf, please do. Having participated in 2010, we found the event extremely valuable.

CASE STUDY AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE DOWNLOAD: THE BOWL STADIUM

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Follow this link to read about the new Bowl Stadium on the Isle of Man. It was completed just in time for the Youth Commonwealth Games.

HOT OFF THE PRESS: NEW FABRIC INTERIORS BROCHURE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The new Fabric Interiors brochure is now available for download. If you are an Architect, Interior Designer or an end user thinking of installing a metal, plaster or traditional acoustic tile ceiling – think again.

Fabric, the 5th building medium, creates high performance ceilings to enthral and delight. Fabric is a low cost, design lead solution that creates elegant ceilings for a variety of applications including: Airports, Hospitals, Hotels, Offices and Entertainment Venues.

THE METROLINK CANOPIES GLOW WITH BRILLIANCE:

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

‘Twin Skin’ Walkway Canopies at the new MetroLink stop outside of the Etihad stadium in Manchester are nearing completion. The photos show the structures lit up at night. The twin skin design allowed LED lights to be installed in the space between the upper and lower canopies. Having two layers of fabric is an alternative to ETFE foils.

Benefits to designing/building with twin skin Silicone Glass Weave fabric (SGW) versus

EFTE Foils:

Cost:

It’s less expensive given you don’t have to have the air-pressure monitoring system running 24-7

Temperature:

It’s cooler for people underneath the canopies, given the twin skin canopies do not create a ‘green-house’ effect like ETFE foils

Maintenance:

Birds tend to peck at EFTE foils because they see their reflection. The twin skin system requires little maintenance – an annual cleaning with hot soapy water keeps the fabric looking new and shiny

Design:

The ETFE Foil system requires additional steelwork for support. The additional steelwork increases the cost and makes the structure look heavy and bulky. The Twin Skin SGW system looks lightweight because it uses less steel.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE NORTH AMERICA TO ATTEND ARC INTERIORS FORUM

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Arc Interiors is the leading Interior Architects Forum held in the USA. The event is scheduled for 29 September – 2 October in Bonita Springs, Florida.

Fabric Architecture is pleased to be invited to participate in what is said to be THE networking event of the year for Interior Architects, Interior Design Principles and Innovative Suppliers.

Anyone wanting further information on attending, please follow this link. We look forward to four days and three nights of power networking amongst like minded professionals.

MAKING HEADLINES: INTERIOR DESIGN TODAY FEATURES FABRIC INTERIORS' LATEST PROJECT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Interiors' latest installation in Greece as featured in this month's issue of Interior Design Today under Industry News. The story is listed below:

Fabric Architecture’s Fabric Interiors Group has just completed a very unique fabric ceiling installation in Mykonos Grace, a luxury Boutique Hotel on the Island of Mykonos, Greece. This project was a joint collaboration with Architect/Fashion Designer, Myrto Dramountani and architectural firm Divercity.

The brief was to design & install a bespoke backlit suspended tensile fabric ceiling with thousands of tiny ‘cuts’ to allow air flow and light transmission as part of dramatic renovation.

Ms Dramountani stated “I chose fabric as a building medium because it does not limit inspiration and its flexibility allows it to work well as a ceiling and a feature - it gives you the feeling that there is no limit.” Selecting the right fabric was important. Fabric Architecture recommended Silicone Glass Weave. SGW is environmentally friendly, 100% recyclable and it offers up to 40% light transmission, making it the perfect canvas to realize the designers’ vision.

THE BOWL STADIUM, ISLE OF MAN, HOSTS THE YOUTH COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Yesterday marked the final day of competition at the 2011 Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) where England overtook Australia on the overall Gold Medal table, finishing with 37 Gold medals across the seven sports to Australia’s 29.

The Bowl Stadium underwent a multi-million pound regeneration over the past 2 years to prepare for CYG. Because of Fabric Architecture’s experience in designing, engineering and installing canopies at stadiums (Gateshead International and Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium) we were asked to cover all the 3,000 seats at the Bowl. The end result is a beautiful stadium and venue to host an abundance of events for the Isle of Man year round, rain or shine.

Check This Out: One thing of particular interest for architects and contractors is the stadium canopy’s integrated drainage system. This innovative system ensures fans stay dry and water is channeled off and away from spectator seating. It was put to the test as the stadium was pounded with rain at the weekend. Luckily our photographer brought some needed sunshine to the Opening Ceremonies.

Click on the photo for additional images of the new stadium canopy and the innovative drainage system.

DESIGN & BUILD PROGRESS UPDATE: ETIHAD STADIUM

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The ‘Twin Skin’ Manchester Metrolink canopies, located at the entrance of the newly named Etihad Stadium, are now underway. Etihad Stadium is home to Manchester City FC.

The steelwork is complete and the first layer of fabric has been tensioned and installed over the top framework forming a barrel shape. One can notice from the pictures that there is a mirrored steel framework arching over the top with identical framework arching below. The framework below will also be wrapped and tensioned in fabric creating the twin skin effect.

One of the images shows a section complete with both layers of fabric. Inside the fabric ‘pocket’ is lighting bars. With the upper and lower fabric in place and the lights on, this structure will glow with radiance.

In total there will be 2 no. Metrolink walkway canopies. Both canopies are close in proximity to the other 3 no. canopies already installed creating Etihad stadium’s Fan Pavilion – a space designed to give fans a greater experience pre and post game, rain or shine.

Stay tuned for professional pictures when the structures and ground works are completed in the next month.

DESIGN & BUILD PROGRESS UPDATE: COOPERS EDGE SCHOOL

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

It was late March when we last reported on the bespoke canopies in the design and development phase at neighboring Coopers Edge Primary School.

Fabric Architecture's Installations Engineers are now on-site installing the courtyard canopies. Two of the four canopies are installed and being tensioned, although the unique clear ‘conic’ head rings have not yet been affixed.

In viewing the pictures, one gets an idea just how much light will pass through the canopies – even on a rainy day (like when these were taken). Also, these are large canopies and the sense of scale is apparent seeing the Installer popping his head through the ‘conic’ hole.

Click here for the project profile

Click on the photo to see additional installation pictures. Stay tuned for completion pictures when the school is ready later this year.

SHADE: THE GREAT KIDS' COVER UP

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

On a recent trip to the USA, I came across this article on the importance of Shade. Shade helps reduce the risk of skin cancer and it promotes children being active, reducing obesity. This article was taken from the 30 June 2011 print copy of USA Today. Because the text is hard to read, the article has been typed below:

Shade Provides Playground Relief Whilst Protecting Against Health Risks. There just isn't enough of it.

Kids flocked to two redesigned New York City playgrounds last year to check out the shiny stainless-steel climbing domes. But they reacted with more than squeals of delight. On sunny days, the climbing domes quickly got hotter than a frying pan. Children scalded their hands, which prompted park officials to install a tent over the dome in Union Square and to remove the domes in Brooklyn Bridge Park.

The uproar highlights a problem that makes many parents as hot as a metal slide: a lack of shade at most of the places that children spend their summers. At stake is far more than playtime comfort. Though children have always dealt with the summer sun, research now shows a growing risk of the most serious form of skin cancer. And sun exposure is greatest during childhood.

Shade does more than protect children's skin. A growing number of advocates say it may also help children to become more active.

At a time when one-third of children are obese or overweight, a movement is growing to provide more shade at playgrounds, parks and pools, both to reduce future cancer risk and promote exercise, says Richard Louv, co-founder of the Children & Nature Network, a non-profit organization that encourages kids to get outside. 'It's been right under the surface, but the momentum has been increasing," says Colleen Doyle of the American Cancer Society. "To really boost a movement like this, it's going to take parents speaking up."

Across the USA, communities are working to make school play areas greener, with more trees, shrubs and natural shade, Louv says. In Northern California, a grass-roots group called Canopy is planting 1,000 trees over the next four years at inner-city schools in East Palo Alto, says development director Elliot Wright. He was able to enlist corporate giants such as Microsoft, Yahoo and REI to donate money and labor for a project in which volunteers planted 200 trees at schools.

"You go to a playground where there is no shade, and you just can't be out there on a hot day," says Sid Espinosa, director of citizenship and Microsoft and mayor of Palo Alto. "It's not good for your health." One bad sunburn carries risks.

Most people get the bulk of their sun exposure in childhood, says Patricia Witman, a mother of four and chief of dermatology at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun also can contribute to cataracts. Even one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can double the risk of developing melanoma later in life, says the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Several studies show that melanoma rates are rising in young adults. And a 2005 study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that melanoma rates in people under 20 rose 3% a year between 1973 and 2001.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN WITH THE SIGNATURE STRUCTURE TEAM

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

With the recent launch of the new and expanded range of over 40 Signature Structure products and UK Summer Hols, the SS team is moving fast to keep up with all of the installations across the UK.

Project Manager Leslie Barton said "August is always a popular time for installations at schools because of summer holidays. It's our busiest month requiring multiple installation teams running simultaneously to meet the heavy demand."

Asked how Leslie was handling the workload - she said with a smile, "Even with the record number of live jobs, everything is going smoothly, I have great teams and tea helps me Keep Calm and Carry On."

Last week The SS Vans and Crew could be spotted in:

• Sheffield, installing a 5m Sirocco @ St. Theresa School

• Sheffield, installing a 5x3m Hull & Fort @ Abbey Lane School

• Bradford, installing 2 no. 11x8m Double Conics @ Laisterdyke Business and Enterprise College

• Hitchin, installing 8 no. Pow Wows @ Roecroft Lower School

Already this week the Signature Structure Teams are off far and wide including Cardiff, Winchester and Ashton Under Lyne. Have you spotted the Big Green Van in your neighbourhood? If so, give us a call - we have a special offer for you.

MAKING HEADLINES: THE BOWL STADIUM ON THE ISLE OF MAN IS READY FOR YCG

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Last December, Fabric Architecture reported on the progress of the canopies at the newly renovated Bowl Stadium where we installed over 1,000 sqm of bespoke stadium seating canopies and an entrance canopy. We are proud to announce the stadium is ready for the 7 September Youth Commonwealth Games. Stay tuned for exciting Opening Ceremony and Games time photos.

Below is a feature story from the home page of the Isle of Man News website:

The story of the transformation of the bowl into a 3000 seat national stadium was, in the spirit of the Commonwealth Youth games, a race against time and challenges.

The £3m needed to carry out the project was agreed by Tywnald in its final sitting before the summer break last year. Funding the cost of the project had been a source of controversy, with fears that the plan would have to be scrapped altogether after Douglas Corporation pulled out of a deal to pay half the cost, claiming the scheme was 'desirable but not essential'.

But the government decided to push ahead with the scheme without assistance from the corporation. It was officially handed over by the contractors to the government on Friday May 20th this year, just in time for it to be used that afternoon for the closing ceremony of Manx Youth Games.

Community Culture and Leisure Minister David Cretney has said the stadium will undoubtedly be the jewel in the Island's sporting crown come September's Commonwealth Youth Games.

INSPIRATIONAL TENSILE FABRIC CEILING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

This story was recently featured on IDNews.co.uk: Britain’s favourite site for Interior Design Professionals. Click here for the online version.

"Fabric Architecture’s Fabric Interiors Group has just completed a very unique fabric ceiling installation in Mykonos Grace, a luxury Boutique Hotel on the Island of Mykonos, Greece. This project was a joint collaboration with Architect/Fashion Designer, Myrto Dramountani and architectural firm Divercity.

The brief was to design & install a bespoke backlit suspended tensile fabric ceiling with thousands of tiny ‘cuts’ to allow air flow and light transmission as part of dramatic renovation. Ms Dramountani stated “I chose fabric as a building medium because it does not limit inspiration and its flexibility allows it to work well as a ceiling and a feature - it gives you the feeling that there is no limit.” Selecting the right fabric was important.

Fabric Architecture recommended Silicone Glass Weave. SGW is environmentally friendly, 100% recyclable and it offers up to 40% light transmission, making it the perfect canvas to realize the designers’ vision."

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE SPONSORS WEARABLE ART FESTIVAL: PAINSWICK, UK

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

For the second year running, Fabric Architecture proudly sponsors the annual Wearable Arts Fashion Show/Festival in Painswick, known to locals as the “Queen of the Cotswolds”.

Chris Mercer, Founder of Wearable Art Painwick, describes the event as: “a competition where the worlds of art and fashion meld together with the catalysts of inspiration, creatively and craftsmanship, to produce fantastic creations.”

Last year, Fabric Architecture installed a 5m Pagoda over the runway to offer shade, rain protection (just in case) and a focal point. With the festival doubling in size, we decided to offer a much larger structure.

The structure that ticked all of the boxes for event organisers was the Hoop. New to the Signature Structure product range, the Hoop is designed on a square footprint offering enormous free span space (10m x 10m) – It’s the ultimate performance shelter and made the perfect ‘runway canopy.’

This year’s festival was a tremendous success and everyone loved the Hoop – including Keith Allen who introduced the acts as they arrived at St Mary’s Church for a fabulous day of sun, food, fashion and of course Shade.

Now that the festival has come and gone, you may be wondering what happened to the Hoop that was temporarily installed in the church courtyard? It is being permanently installed at St Peters School in Cardiff in 2 weeks. Stay tuned for photos.

Join us next year for Wearable Art Painswick, 15 July.

Click the above image to see more pictures.

HOT OFF THE PRESS: THE 'BIG GREEN BOOK'

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

We are pleased to bring to the market an exciting new product catalogue with the largest range of ready to install tensile fabric structures in the industry today.

Not only have we doubled our product range, we now bring a world of colour to our affordable and beautiful structures. But it doesn't end there, using the latest high performance fabrics means that all the fabrics used in our tensile structures are recyclable too! With over 40 unique designs, you can quickly find a structure to fit any application or need.

New to the Signature Structure Range is Evo - products evolved from award winning Design & Build solutions covering larger areas.

The Big Green Book will inspire creativity, spark ideas and hopefully make you smile, as it’s chocked full of interesting images, factoids, quotes and of course, plenty of Structures.

No matter what you want to do under a Signature Structure, we have you covered: Meet, Relax, Study, Dream, Dance, Learn, Entertain, Enjoy...

Award Winning Designs, fully engineered for all predicted weather conditions.

To be the first to have a flip through the catalogue, click on this link.

DESIGNING AN ICONIC ROOF TOP CANOPY IN KUWAIT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture Middle East (FAME) was approached by Page Southerland Page Architects in the USA to work with them on a unique project in Kuwait.

Through Page Southerland, Kuwait University is doing a feasibility study as they look to build a new Faculty Club. They want their Club to ‘Make a Statement’. FAME has been hired to design a bespoke canopy over the top of a two story ‘box’ building. The canopy’s primary function is aesthetic – adding a dramatic effect to the club - making it iconic from any direction.

Page Southerland had an overall scheme they wanted to work towards and it was Fabric Architecture’s experience in building large bespoke structures that allowed us to quickly evaluate the concept design and develop practical solutions that could be built safely and within budget.

FAME has integrated two different tensile fabric design elements inspired from well known International Projects:

The Main Roof Canopy – Conic shape, inspired by the Triple Conic at Aintree Racecourse

Corner Kites – Hypar shape, inspired by the 40 foot Skylar Fountain in Pensacola

The scope of works specified for over 2,700 sqm of PTFE coated glass fabric with the centre of the structure left open over the glass atrium on the roof. This will allow natural sunlight to pass through the structure down to the ground floor of the building. While mostly used as decoration, the canopies will serve as solar reduction to the abundance of glass and it will cover a VIP outdoor rooftop terrace.

Page Southerland was pleased to learn that in addition to being a supplier of Tensile Fabric Structures, Fabric Architecture offers a wide range of design and engineering services:

• Design Consultancy
• Form Finding
• Finite Element Analysis
• Structural Engineering
• Canopy Patterning

Images above represent what FAME is proposing for the new Faculty Club. Watch the blog for further information as this exciting project progresses.

UPDATE: MANCHESTER METRO @ MANCHESTER CITY STADIUM

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The Manchester City Stadium has been undergoing a re-vamp to improve the fan experience. Last year, Fabric Architecture installed 2 no. Bespoke Walkway Canopies and 1 no Bespoke Stage Canopy creating a covered outdoor Fan Pavilion for food & beverage along with entertainment space.

The 3 structures made a dramatic difference to the look and feel of the area and have given fans a place to go to pre-and post game, rain or shine. Now that the Fan Pavilion is complete we are improving fan’s ability to enter the pavilion from the Manchester Metro Link with a series of unique walkway canopies.

On 5 November, we announced the news on the upcoming Metro Link canopies (click here for the story). The project is now underway. Steelwork for the two structures was installed last week and the fabric will be wrapping the double framed walkway in about 3 weeks.

Fast Facts:

• Dimensions: 45M x 10M and 40M x 10M.
• Columns are 5M tall
• The oval is 2.5M at its widest
• The structure will be wrapped in Silicone Coated glass on top and underneath
• Lighting will be integrated featuring down-lighters on the columns to light below and strip lights
inside to light the structure – making it glow

The addition of the 2 Metro Walkway Canopies will tie in the look of the Metro with the Stadium, making the area feel bright, safe, welcoming and most importantly - dry. The photos show the current progress. Stay tuned for updates when the Silicone Coated Glass Fabric is installed in July.

MAKING HEADLINES: SNOWHILL HOMELESS CENTRE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture's Bespoke Conic Structure, installed on top of the Snowhill Homeless Centre in Birmingham, was just featured in the June edition of the Speciality Fabrics Review magazine.

Click here to learn more about the Snowhill Project.

FROM THE RUNWAY TO THE CEILING: WHERE FASHION, FUNCTION & FABRIC COME TOGETHER

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture’s Fabric Interiors Group has just completed a very unique ceiling installation in a Luxury Boutique Hotel (Mykonos Grace) on the Island of Mykonos, Greece.

Mykonos Grace was listed as one of the World’s Best Hotels in Conde Nast (2007) and winner of the European Design Award’s Hotel Design of the Year (2007).

This project was a joint collaboration with internationally recognised Architect/Fashion Designer, Myrto Dramountani and London/Athens based architectural firm Divercity.

Project Brief:

The project brief was to design and install a design led tensile fabric suspended ceiling in the intimate poolside Grace Restaurant. The ocean breeze should be able to “blow through the ceiling creating ‘graceful’ movements.” Light transmission through the fabric was important, given it is lit.

The Inspiration:

When asked about the vision for the ceiling, Ms. Dramountani said: “The inspiration was the bottom of the sea, the materials that we find in the sea and the light that is created in the water through fish nets. The ceiling was inspired from my latest collection which was presented during the Athens fashion week (as shown). The inspiration for the collection was fabric itself, digital design programs, laser techniques, architectural 3d effects and texture.”

The Design Solution:

The design team at Fabric Architecture created a mock up panel (shown) to ensure what we thought was possible, could actually be achieved.

The design solution is a series of three unique suspended ceiling panels measuring: 2no 3m x 3.5m and 1 no 4.5m x 1m. Each panel has over 3,000 small right angles cut out (with high tech diamond blades). Each right angle measures 50mm x 50mm. Squares are cut 20mm a part as to create a waffle type pattern. The patterning and cutting was very meticulous and the result is absolutely beautiful.

The Fabric:

With this many cuts into the fabric, selecting the right fabric was important. Fabric Architecture recommended a fabric that we helped pioneer called Silicone Glass Weave (SGW). The SGW fabric retains its shape and integrity under tension, even with the multitude of ‘cuts’.

SGW is environmentally friendly, 100% recyclable and it offers up to 40% light transmission. It’s fire retardant and easy to maintain. SGW provided the perfect canvas to realize the designers’ vision.

The Installation:

The three fabric panels were placed into lightweight metal frames and were suspended using a series of aluminium cables. Installation was very easy, making the system cost effective for the client.

Our Portfolio:

Fabric Interiors already has an impressive international portfolio including Dublin Terminal 2 and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. We are thrilled to complete our first installation in Greece and equally excited to have developed a unique aesthetic ceiling option which we can now take to the market.

Stay tuned for professional photos.

A GRAND DESIGN: 7,000 SQM OF CANOPIES AT HUDARIYAT BEACH RESORT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The Government of Abu Dhabi has a vision for 2030: To put Abu Dhabi on the map as ‘the place’ to go in the Middle East for culture and tourism. With the population estimated to hit 3million (by 2030), they are already planning the infrastructure to support such a massive population growth.

The development of Hudariyat Bateen Beach, located on the south western coast of Abu Dhabi, is part of this plan.

Architects Broadway Maylan, through the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), approached Fabric Architecture Middle East (FAME) to design over 7,000 sqm of tensile fabric and shade structures for this new beach resort. This is a major project with a hotel, leisure facility, retail, restaurants all set along a new man-made beach.

Working with Broadway Maylan, Fabric Architecture Middle East has created five areas where several different styles of canopies will go. They are:

•    Beach front/leisure area
•    The Peninsula Restaurant
•    Plaza play areas
•    Food and beverage zones
•    Drop off areas

With average summer temperatures of over 40ºC, all structures will be made of shade and mesh PVC to help keep areas cool.

Also involved in the project is the engineering firm Halcrow, with whom we have worked with on several other projects.

Watch this space for more information as the project moves forward. Attached visualisations detail how the canopies will look in situ in the different areas.

SUSTAINABILITY IN SCHOOLS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

There are many ways a Tensile Fabric Structure can add to a Schools Sustainability Strategy. Some of the ways our canopies are allowing schools to ‘GO GREEN’ and make a difference is by:

• Installing either a Pagoda Signature Structure or an Inverse Conic Signature Structure

         - both with water harvesting capabilities
    •    Using a recyclable eco fabric - Silicone Coated Glass
    •    Wind turbines mounted on Masts
    •    Photovoltaics embedded on the fabrics
    •    Installing Skylar Streetlights with LED’s
    •    Solar Reduction through shading – both internal and external

The Bulwell Academy in Nottingham is our latest school committed to Sustainability. Last year Fabric Architecture installed eight of the UK’s largest Inverse Conic Tensile Fabric Structures over the courtyard.

These gigantic ‘funnels’ were designed to harvest rain water and channel it down the masts into catchment tanks. Water is then pumped throughout the buildings to flush toilets. This is a win-win for the Academy - great looking canopies that are actively saving them money.

Don’t take our word for it:

At close to the one year anniversary of the canopy installation, we ask Graham Roberts, Principal of The Bulwell Academy to share with us his thoughts on the impact the Inverse Conics have made on the school:

“The canopies have added an extra dimension to the design of our new academy building here at Bulwell. The courtyard that they cover is the main movement area for staff and students between lessons and the canopies provide shelter from any inclement weather but at the same time allowing air and light into the space.

When we first discussed covering the courtyard I imagined a huge marquee type effect but the canopies are something completely different, providing a real ‘wow’ factor when visitors first walk in. We have even used the space to house camps for our partner primary schools and this was incredibly successful.

Add to all of this the fact that the canopies collect rain water which feeds our toilet flushing system as part of our sustainability strategy you can understand why we are delighted with them.”

For more information on Going Green with a Signature Structure, please contact our in house Eco Warrior: Chris Dring on +44 (0)845 868 4288

MAKING HEADLINES: DUBLIN AIRPORT'S TENSILE FABRIC MESH CEILING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The following article was featured in the May/June edition of the industry leading Fabric Architecture magazine.

Click here to read more about how Fabric Architecture installed 26, 000 sqm of fabric throughout the new Dublin Terminal.

URBAN LIVING AT ITS FINEST

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Woodfield Elizabeth Square is a brand new upscale apartment complex located in Charlotte, North Carolina USA.

Local architectural firm Housing Studio have designed the ultimate outdoor living space for residents to host community social events. To ‘top it off’, they were looking to cover the space with something a bit different to create a ‘wow factor.’ Their options were traditional brick and metal or a tensile fabric canopy.

To stay within budget, a 6m Sirocco was selected from Fabric Architecture’s Signature Structure range of products. Signature Structures removes the hassle out of buying a tensile fabric structure - everything is pre-designed, engineered and ready for quick install.

The Sirocco has clean organic lines and completes the modern feel of the outdoor living space (television not included). Steelwork was colour matched to balconies on the adjacent buildings and to the couch cushions (no detail was left out).

To keep in line with the developments ‘Eco’ theme, a white Silicone Coated Glass fabric was installed. This particular fabric can be completely recycled - it is made from woven strands of silicone and glass. Not only will it last for 30+ years, but it offers 40% light transmission allowing the space to remain light and airy.

The results speak for themselves. Residents are now ready to enjoy urban living at its finest. Special thanks to C.F. Evans Construction and Housing Studio.

Design note: the steelwork in the structure shown had to be increased to ensure structural stability due to potential extreme weather conditions in this region of the US.

JUST INSTALLED: THE ROOFTOP CANOPIES ON THE SNOW HILL BUILDING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture has just completed a very tricky two week installation of a complex structure on the roof of the Snow Hill Homeless Centre in Birmingham’s City Centre.

250 m2 of Solar Glass Weave Fabric was lifted up seven stories by a Self Erecting 1.9 tonne Tower Crane. Special precautions were taken to ensure the crane did not swing out over the nearby railroad and high winds added to the challenge.

A scaffold deck had to be built over the courtyard (seven stories above ground) to create a platform. This platform allowed Installation Engineers to install the steelwork, the six head-rings and then tension out all of the fabric canopies – a tricky task on the roof of a building.

The Solar Glass Weave fabric (with its 40% light transmission properties) and clear poly-carb head-rings allow an abundance of light to flood the courtyard. The end result is a landmark bespoke Conic structure offering all weather protection (without compromising sunlight) to the inner courtyard.

Click here to learn more about Fabric Architecture’s design and build services.

Click here for a full project brief.

SEEING IS BELIEVING: MAXIMISING OUTDOOR SPACE FOR STUDENTS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

St. Peter’s Catholic School is committed to maintaining a world class teaching facility and with over 1,100 students, there is reason to fully utilize all of their external space. Last year, Tania Cantoni, head of Marketing and Fundraising, oversaw the development of a new multi-million pound state of the art Sixth Form Centre. With this project complete, she now has her sights set on the great outdoors.

After receiving a recommendation from Godalming College to use Fabric Architecture, Mrs. Cantoni went to see the ‘Chill-Out Zone’ created with canopies at the neighbouring school. Fabric Architecture’s design team created a unique outdoor dining space by using a series of brightly coloured yellow Skylars and Pods. Impressed by the design, quality, and use of space, Mrs. Cantoni was inspired to create something similar at St. Peter’s Catholic School.

The design idea was to better use existing outside space by giving students a unique and eye catching covered play area and covered dining area. To do this, Fabric Architecture will be installing a Double Conic (11m x 8m), a Pagoda 7 Section, and 3no. 3m Pods with integrated tables. When these structures are installed in August, students will be thrilled and surprised to see their school colours displayed on the new structures: bright blue steelwork with cream coloured canopies.

No Architect or Main Contractor will be used on this project. Fabric Architecture will be handling the complete process – an added value to make life a little easier for Mrs. Cantoni and St. Peter’s School. Stay tuned for project pics.

Side Note:

Sometimes seeing is believing. Seeing first-hand how tensile fabric structures can be used, what they look like in situation and how much space they actually cover is an excellent way to gain design ideas. Fabric Architecture has installed over 5,000 structures throughout the UK since 1982. With this many structures, it’s safe to say that wherever your project is located, there will be a Fabric Architecture structure within a short driving distance for you to view first hand.

Please give us a call to learn what has been installed in your community 0845 094 3564.

MAKING HEADLINES AGAIN: DUBLIN AIRPORT'S EXTRAORDINARY TENSILE FABRIC CEILING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Featured in the May issue of Architect's Choice magazine.

You can read the online version of the magazine and have a look at the full article on the new Dublin Airport Terminal here. The story can be found on p16.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE TO ONCE AGAIN SPONSOR WAP

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Mark your diaries: 10 July is the 2nd annual Wearable Art Painswick Fashion Festival. This is a free festival that takes place in the streets of the beautiful and iconic Cotswolds village of Painswick.

As well as the Wearable Art competition, there will be fine art and craft stalls, street performers, music, and lots of wonderful food and drink.

Fabric Architecture is proud to once again provide one of our iconic Signature Structures as the stage/runway cover for the event. Last year, a 5m Pagoda took centre stage.

This year, we will showcase our latest product offering, The Arc, offering 10sqm of coverage. WAP has doubled in size this year and the Arc will provide ample coverage for the 150 models who will be cat-walking down the runway wearing their own custom creations.

The visualization above is of The Arc. Please join us for this very exiting event and come see The Arc in person.

RIBA CPD ROADSHOW IS A HIT!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is the only RIBA certified company to deliver CPD’s on both “How to Design a Tensile Fabric Structure” AND “How to Design an Internal Fabric Ceiling System”.

We are on schedule to deliver over 50 CPD’s this year from London to Edinburgh, educating architects across the UK about the benefits of using fabric as the 5th building medium. Already this year we have delivered CPD’s to BDP, HOK, ADP, Aedas, S&P, Stride Treglown and others.

What the architects are saying about the CPD:

• “Many thanks for a well delivered CPD seminar on tensile fabric structures. It was one of the most

interesting and informative CPD’s I have attended in recent months – thanks very much.” Jacobs

• “Thank you for delivering the CPD presentation last week, we thoroughly enjoyed it.” Aedas

• “Many thanks for coming into our offices today for the CPD. It was most informative and interesting”

S&P

To learn more about the RIBA CPD presentations, click here or call David on 0845 004 1056.

WHERE THERE'S SUN, THERE'S PLAYSHADE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

According to the BBC, the UK had the hottest April on record. The abundance of sunshine has been a welcome change across the country, inviting everyone to enjoy the great outdoors. Just in time for the record heat and sun is a new range of Shade Structures from Fabric Architecture.

PlayShade is range of six exciting shade structures. They are economical solutions to providing shade without compromising design.

These structures are perfect for schools, nurseries, parks, and any space where shade could be enjoyed on a hot sunny British afternoon.

What makes the PlayShade range different from all the other shade offerings on the market?

   •   In business since 1982
   •   Zero Health and Safety Violations over the past 10 years
   •   Work to ISO 14011 and 9001 standards
   •   Unique Designs – some are even modular
   •   Water resistant with UV protection - long lasting shade canopies

We: Survey, Prepare, Deliver And Install (Yes, foundations are included)

Click here to view the range.

For a free quote and to discuss how PlayShade can add the WOW! factor to your location, give us a call on 0845 004 1056.

Image above is of the SolaShade, recently installed at a nursery in Painswick, Gloucestershire.

MAKING HEADLINES: DUBLIN AIRPORT'S EXTRAORDINARY TENSILE FABRIC CEILING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Featured in the May issue of Commercial Interiors magazine.

You can read the online version and have a look at the full article on the new Dublin Airport here. The story can be found on p6.

CONGRATULATIONS TO WILLMOTT DIXON

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is proud to announce that one of our strategic partners for delivering beautifully practical tensile fabric structures, Willmott Dixon, has just won Major Contractor of the year (over £300m).

The prestigious Building Awards were held on 7 April at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London and were a great success with over 1,300 people there to salute the best-in-class companies and projects from right across the Built Environment.

Below is a sample of some of the work we have completed with Willmott Dixon:

•   Gateshead International Stadium

•   Hyde Primary School

•   Queen Boudica Primary

•   Belvoir High School

Congratulations to Willmott Dixon for taking top honours at the Building Awards. We are proud of the work we do together and look forward to future projects.

MAKING HEADLINES: THE NEW MANCHESTER CITY FAN PAVILION

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Featured in the March issue of Building for Leisure magazine.

You can read the online version of the magazine and have a look at the Man City article here. The story can be found on page 61.

BARLEYHURST PARK PRIMARY LOVES TENSILE FABRIC STRUCTURES!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Located in Milton Keynes, Barleyhurst Park Primary, has not one, not two, but now three Conic Structures.

Barleyhurst knows how to maximize their outdoor space. Originally they came to Fabric Architecture in March 2009 requesting a Triple Conic. They were so pleased with the structure, they then ordered a Single Conic in May 2009. This month, they came back to us with a request for a third structure, a Double Conic – completing the set!

Conic Structures were chosen from Fabric Architecture’s Signature Structure Range because they are easy to specify and are long lasting architectural products.

There was no need for architectural drawings going back and forth nor was there a need for a main contractor. Signature Structures are an economical way to deliver stunning designs (which look bespoke), while offering maximum coverage. Planning is easy to obtain and installation is easy.

In the case of the Double Conic installed last month, Barleyhurst was pressed for time and needed the structure installed within four weeks. Because Conics require minimal ground works, we were able to manufacture and install to meet their tight deadline.

Barleyhurst is using their three Conic Signature Structures in a variety of applications:

• Outdoor Classroom
• Covered Play Area
• Linking Buildings With Covered Walkways
• Outdoor Performance Area
• Meet & Greet Shelter
• Creating a Modern Fresh Look to Existing Traditional Buildings

Here is summary of structures installed on the school grounds:

· Single Conic: 8m in diameter
· Double Conic: 9m x 6m
· Triple Conic: 18m x 7m

While all Signature Structures steelwork and caps can be painted to any RAL colour, the chosen colour for all three structures was white with white PVC coated polyester.

The photo above shows the third structure awaiting ground works to complete the finish.

While we would love to install another Signature Structure, Barleyhurst is out of outdoor space to be covered – and very happy with the end results.

ARCHICLAD: WAN PRODUCT OF THE YEAR SHORTLISTED

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture has pioneered another innovative design solution called ArchiClad. ArchiClad is a sleek, lightweight tensile fabric ceiling system that was created for Dublin Terminal 2.

This system is creating such a buzz in the industry that it was picked up by World Architectural News (WAN), where it was shortlisted in the international competition for product of the year. ArchiClad was selected for its striking visual impact, variety of applications and ease of installation.

Having now successfully installed variations of ArchiClad in Ferrari World, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and Dublin T2, it is being considered in a wide range of other commercial applications including offices, hotels, and other UK airports.

GOING GREEN: FABRIC ARCHITECTURE NOW RECYCLES ALL FABRIC OFF-CUTS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

As part of our efforts to reduce waste and maintain our green profile we are pleased to announce we are now recycling fabric off-cuts. When we read Children’s Scrapstore’s company motto: “making wastethings playthings,” we knew we had to get involved.

Children’s Scrapstore is a local charity and they are now responsible for collecting 100% of all the PVC and Solar Glass Weave fabric off-cuts from the hundreds of structures we install throughout the year.

Prior to partnering with Children’s Scrapstore, the off-cuts were going to landfills. Now they will be used for arts and crafts and educational materials by thousands of groups working with children and young people across the UK.

Debra Drew, Commercial Director of Fabric Architecture, said: “not only is this ethically responsible, but it feels good realizing that the fabrics that we are so creative in working with will now have a creative use for children.”

Recycling off-cuts is another way Fabric Architecture continues to keep our ISO 14001 certification current and ‘in action.’

LINKING THE COMMUNITY TO THE SCHOOL WITH CANOPIES

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture have just been awarded an exciting new project, Coopers Edge School.

Coopers Edge, a brand new development that is rapidly growing on the outskirts of Gloucester, is a mixed use area with a school under construction, over 2000 homes being built, shops and restaurants. Coopers Edge is becoming a popular place to live, work and play in the beautiful Cotswolds.

Fabric Architecture was approached by a team of people (the governors) whose job was to come up with the design and oversee the development of the new Coopers Edge School. Working with local architect Roberts Limbrick, a design was selected and brought to Fabric Architecture.

The main feature of the school will be a very large bespoke canopy that will be used to create a “Village Square”. One of the governors stated that “it’s the canopy that will link the school with the community – getting it right is absolutely critical.”

Originally specified using a tensile fabric system known as ETFE (inflatable ‘air’ pockets – seen at the Eden Project), the governors wanted to understand more about the system and look at other options. While Fabric Architecture was not opposed to using ETFE, the governors insisted on doing their own investigative research and site visits.

They learned and shared with us the following about ETFE:

· It’s noisy in the rain

· The system is high maintenance, requiring constant air pressure monitoring

· On hot days, it creates a ‘green house’ effect and heats up the space below

· The system and the installation is very expensive

The governors wanted a light and airy covered space to serve two functions:

1. For students to play under and hold school assemblies

2. For the Coopers Edge community to have a place for community sales, activities, and meetings

Roberts Limbrick Architects wanted to create a covered area that would “inspire and enable people, while energising the community and enhancing their quality of life.” Aesthetically, the very large canopy was to look like it was floating and not block the flow of walking traffic below.

Realising that one of the main concerns was an abundance of natural sunlight, Fabric Architecture shared with them about a fabric we helped pioneer called Solar Glass Weave (SGW). SGW is very low maintenance (practically self cleaning in rain), offering up to 40% light transmission, and it allows plants to photosynthesize underneath it.

The design solution realized is a 500 m2 bespoke SGW canopy that is almost flat in design. There will be no steel masts touching down on the ground. The structure will over sail and connect back into the roof of the building through a series of trusses. The conical headrings will be manufactured using polycarbonate for maximum light exposure, acting as light wells for the area below.

The governors were pleased to learn that using SGW as opposed to ETFE offered significant savings to the school. Construction is set to begin this June with the grand opening January 2012 – welcoming 420 students. The Visualisation above is an ‘architectural perspective’ showing the shape and its 15 conical headrings. Stay tuned for construction photos and updates.

USING INNOVATIVE FABRIC TO BRIGHTEN A COURTYARD

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Snow Hill Homeless Centre is one of the largest Hostels in Birmingham. In an effort to help keep homeless people off the street, the Centre is undergoing a 10M renovation.

Not new to innovative design, Hulme Upright Manning architectural firm is working with Fabric Architecture’s design team to create a 250 m2 bespoke canopy covering the internal courtyard at Snow Hill. Set for completion mid April, the installation of this canopy will be complex.

In order to make the courtyard useable year round, a canopy was added to the renovation works. The complexity lies in the structure of the building. The internal courtyard for the Snow Hill Hostel is on the ground floor of the building with the existing building five levels around on all four sides - surrounding the courtyard. Steelwork will rise out of the ground almost six stories tall to the tips of the conics.

The design result is a conic structure with six conical points. Inspired by the conic shape of one of Fabric Architecture’s Signature Structure, the Triple Conic, this conic is very unique. Each conic point is off set from the other creating a visually stunning pattern when viewed from underneath.

Because the building is so tall around the courtyard, to cover the courtyard with a standard PVC would block out the sunlight making the space dark below. This particular structure is being manufactured using the environmentally friendly Solar Glass Weave fabric (SGW).

Nigel Browne, Design Director of Fabric Architecture, helped to pioneer SGW by assisting with the research and development. SGW offers up to 40% light transmission and even allows plants to photosynthesize underneath it. The makeup is woven strands of silicone coated glass. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to traditional PVC.

To ensure the structure takes the most advantage of sunlight, the six conic head rings are being produced using clear polycarbonate – this along with the SGW fabric will allow the inner courtyard maximum natural light exposure on clear days.

When working on a project this complex, it’s always good to have history with the architect. In this case Fabric Architecture worked with Hulme Upright Manning on the canopies at Staffordshire University with loads of success - we feel confident with the design intention.

Main Contractor, Frank Haslam Milan, the award winning leader in the delivery of community regeneration, will be the perfect partner to support us delivering and installing the steelwork and canopies.

See above image for structure details. Stay tuned for updates and photos.

MODERN CANOPIES CREATE DRAMATIC ENTRANCES TO THE NEW WING OF VICTORIA HOSPITAL, KIRKCALDY, SCOTLAND

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Victoria Hospital has been undergoing a multi-million pound extension. Opening January 2012, the new wing will be home to the A&E department; maternity unit and eleven new operating theatres.

The design of the new hospital wing is modern and organic. Lines curve and arc with few right angles – there is nothing ‘boxy’ about the design, breaking the mould of traditional hospital architecture.

The two main entrances into the new wing needed to be covered and with the rounded sections of the building, glass, steel or polycarbonate were not options. Having worked with architectural firm BDP on several previous projects, BDP had a good understanding of how fabric works as a building medium and how it can take organic shapes.

The design intention was to create two covered entranceways that:

• Take the shape of the building, enhancing its architecture
• Would feel light, airy and welcoming
• Could allow ambulances to drive under
• Feature rainwater management, creating dry space for patients and visitors
• Integrated up lights for nighttime brilliance

Fabric Architecture and BDP started sketching out designs that would work with the unique building entrances. The design result is two bespoke ‘barrel’ type tensile fabric structures. One measures 25 m x 10 m and the other is 22m x 11 m.

Canopies were specified using an Architectural Grade type 2 PVC in white with white painted steelwork.

What’s unique about the two ‘boomerang’ structures is their integrated rainwater management system. The steelwork along the edge creates a very clean, smooth and modern look. It’s both aesthetic and functional in that it is concealing ridges along the circumference of the canopy where water is channelled to the lower points and drains down and out the masts.

Working alongside Main Contractor Balfour Beatty, canopies were installed with ease and add the finishing touch to the new hospital.

Having recently completed the canopies at the Veterans Ambulatory Hospital in North America and canopies going in at the Newport Children’s Centre in April, Fabric Architecture is seeing a growing trend towards the installation of tensile fabric structures in hospitals and healthcare facilities.

See above for construction image. Stay tuned for professional pictures and additional images when the project has been completed.

CELEBRATING 29 YEARS IN THE TENSILE FABRIC INDUSTRY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

4/3/11: Fabric Architecture staff Marched ‘4ward’ into 2011 celebrating a record year and 29 years in the tensile fabric industry.

This year’s annual meeting was held at Thyme at Southrop, a world class cooking school built inside a restored Tithe Barn. 32 staff from Fabric Architecture offices in Scotland, England, Abu Dhabi and Florida met for very ‘untypical’ corporate meeting.

Staff had the opportunity to learn how to prepare a three course gourmet lunch with two renowned chefs. It was completely hands-on and the results were delicious. In addition, a foraging trek around the gardens learning about veg, herbs and local Cotswold plants proved entertaining and informative.

Debra Drew, Commercial Director, shared with staff that “2011 is going to be an incredible year. We have many plans including expanding our international market, growing the fabric interiors division and continuing to offer world class design, service and support to all of our clients."

Nigel Browne, Design Director, stated that “after 29 years, my commitment is still to create beautifully practical tensile structures.”

A great day was had by all.

A WINNING COMBINATION: FABRIC INTERIORS AND THE ASSOCIATION OF INTERIOR SPECIALISTS (AIS)

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Interiors have been invited to take up membership of the AIS.

We have now successfully fulfilled a comprehensive range of standards and criteria, including quality (ISO 9001), environmental (ISO 14000) as well as our exemplary H&S records (no reported accidents in 5 years). All of this now allows us to fulfil on the AIS’s very exacting requirements for membership.

With a commitment to quality and excellence, Fabric Interiors is pleased to now be affiliated with an association that shares our values. It’s a natural next step towards fulfilling our business intentions as we expand into the tensile interior market.
Fabric Interiors currently offers:

•    ArchiClad: a modular tensile fabric cladding system
•    Signature Series consisting of:
    -      FreeStyle Product Range
    -      Skytes
    -      Skylars

With installations now complete at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Dublin Airport, Heathrow Airport, Cummin’s Dubai and soon to be MediaCity, UK, Fabric Interiors is on the fast track to continue growing in following areas:

    •    Airports and hospitals
    •    Retail and commercial
    •    Public sector
    •    Hotels and leisure

GOING 'GREEN' WITH COLOURFUL ATRIUM SKYTES IN DUBAI

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Cummins Inc, an international corporation that designs, manufactures, distributes and services engines and related technologies. Cummins has now expanded in the Middle East by opening a new regional headquarters in Dubai.

The new headquarters is a state of the art 6,000m2 facility that has been designed and built to the Leadership in Energy & environmental Design (LEEDS) certification.

Fabric Architecture Middle East was contacted by the Cummin’s Design Consultant to come up with a design lead solution to an inherent problem with many glazed structures – solar glare. The design dilemma was how to create an architectural feature to an existing glass atrium that would be both functional and visually striking.

The result is a series of Skytes. Skytes, part of the Fabric Interiors Signiture Series of Products, take inspiration from one of our most popular forms – the hypar. This dynamic and 3-dimensional sculptural fabric shape, tensioned to a lightweight stainless steel frame offers an ideal cost-effective alternative to a bespoke feature, and a superior version to standard soffit designs. In glass atriums, Skytes help with solar reduction by reducing direct sunlight and at Cummins, further adding to their LEEDS criteria.

It was important to ensure the Skytes were colour matched to the Cummins Logo which encompasses grey and red. Using a Ferrari Mesh Batty Line HM fabric, the red and grey colours were an exact match. The particular fabric used is a specialty interior fabric that is lightweight yet very effective. Attaching it to steel support frames that was locally sourced also was aligned with LEEDS.

Local installation engineers from Gebal installed and attached 4 no 3m grey Skytes and 2 no 3m red Skytes to the atrium’s steel framework. Working around block lights and a massive glass ceiling was a challenge at such heights. The result is dramatic.

As the 120 employees at the new Cummins Middle East Headquarters in Dubai enter their new office, they will immediately notice the beautiful colourful patterns formed in the glass atrium. In the direct sun, they glow with ambiance and at night, up-lights bring the shapes back to life.

CREATING A SENSE OF PLACE AT THE CENTER OF SUBURBAN LIFE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Luis Dias, co-founder, developer and award winning builder, approached Fabric Architecture North America’s office in Tampa, Florida with a vision: To develop a mixed use community with dining, shops, and flats - all set around a beautiful green space lined with fabric canopies.

Applying the urban planning principles of Smart Growth, Luis created Tioga Town Center in Gainesville, Florida, USA. Tioga’s mission is to create a “sense of place at the center of suburban life where visitors could leave behind the frenzy of traffic and congestion and enjoy daily activities in a relaxed neighbourhood setting.”

The hub of Tioga is the park set at the center. Looking for something iconic and different, Fabric Architecture listened to his concerns and commitments. The design intention was to use tensile fabric structures to create a:

• Covered performance stage that could be enjoyed by children, adults and entertainers

• Focal point for meet and greet

• Defined space and Way Finding

• Light and airy feeling that reflects visitor's adventurous lifestyles and ties into the

nautical feel of a local Florida community

• Sense of safety, encouraging people to be outdoors and enjoy loads of activities

The design result is the use of two different Signature Structures. Signature Structures, a range of over 40 different ‘off the shelf’ tensile fabric structures are engineered to any geographical area. With this being the Florida Panhandle, notorious for hurricanes, steelwork had to beefed-up two times the standard requirement.

At center stage is the 10 meter Bandshell. A striking performance structure that provides an engaging area with many uses. Truss work integrates with lighting and speakers, making this a multi functional structure that is a guaranteed eye catching crowd pleaser.

Six no. three meter Skylar Structures surround the Park creating and ‘holding’ the space. Excellent for way marking and directing foot traffic, Skylars are both fun and functional and transform any area with their unique shape.

From the photo above, one can notice just how beefed-up the steelwork is. These structures are designed to withstand 110 mph winds without tearing away or bending the steelwork.

Locals at Tioga are seen above making the most of their striking park at the heart of Tioga.

JUST AWARDED: 'THE RIBBON' AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SALFORD

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Regarded as one of the UK's most enterprising universities, the University of Salford is opening a unique digital learning, teaching and research space located at MediaCity UK - the heart of six national BBC Departments.

With a commitment to creativity, this dynamic and cosmopolitan institution is creating real-world first class reaching and ground breaking research facilities. Having heard about Fabric Architecture's recent internal installations at Dublin Airport and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, The University of Salford approached us with an interesting design challenge:

The challenge was to create something:

• Visually stunning

• That is organic in shape and appears to float

• Which offers way finding

• That is artistic and sculptural, adding colour and a wow factor to the entrance

• Has acoustic properties to recude echo and sound bounce in a vast space

Under the Fabric Architecture umbrella, Fabric Interiors worked in partnership with Fairhurst Design Group to create 'The Ribbon', a 3D lightweight 'floating' sculpture.

The Ribbon is three long sections measuring: 4.5m, 12m and 5.5m in size. Made of a lightweight Fire Rated Internal Fabric, the Ribbon will utilise the same technology found in our new ArchiClad system. The structures will be suspended and achored by high-tech wires and strops in similar fashion to the ceiling system we created for Dublin Airport and the wall mounted fins found in Ferrari World.

Installation of the Ribbon is scheduled for May. Stay tuned for photos of the completed project.

If you would like to learn more about FA Interiors and ArchiClad, please contact Rob Arthur.

JUST COMPLETED: 30 SKYLARS AT HILI FUN CITY, AL AIN, UAE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Al Ain, also known as the Garden City due to its greenery, is the second largest city in the Abu Dhabi Emirate and the fourth largest city in the United Arab Emirates. Families have been visiting Hili Fun City Theme park for over 25 years. Unveiled by His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Muhammad Al Nahyan in 1985, it has just undergone a complete refurbishment and transformation.

Fabric Architecture Middle East (FAME) was contacted by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) of Abu Dhabi to help with the redevelopment by offering distinctive ‘Way Finding’ Canopies within the entrance car park area.

Hili Fun City, wanted to add colourful flair and way finding capabilities to help visitors navigate the car park. The result was a series of 25 x 4m Skylar Signature Structures with alternating red and yellow canopy colours. 5 further Skyalrs were located within the park.

Canopies were designed, engineered, patterned and manufactured in our UK based headquarters, while steelwork and installation teams were sourced in Abu Dhabi.

We were pleased to once again be working in partnership with Main Contractor Valley Crest, an international landscape company. Fabric Architecture North America completed a project with Valley Crest at the entrance to Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida last year where we installed a massive 12 meter tall multi-Skylar memorial structure.

Visitors and theme park lovers who crave thrill rides and adventures will now arrive to a more user friendly car park and one that catches your eye and remind you where you parked.

FAME has now completed projects in three Recreational Venues in the UAE: Ferrari World, Khalifa Park, and Hili Fun City.

'COVERING' THE TALLEST STUDENT ACCOMMODATION IN THE WORLD

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Students are now moving into the brand new Nido Spitalfields accommodation block in London. Located moments from the famous Gherkin in London's centre, Nido Spitalfields is the tallest student accommodation in the world. With over 600 flats, the development offers 5 star living for students attending various local universities.

Keeping in theme with the design elements of the modern glass and steel building, award winning architectural practice, TP Bennett, had the vision to create a unique covered outdoor space for residents. The covered zone is multi-purpose, a safe courtyard area in which students can relax, study, and socialise – all under shade and with wi-fi access – making it very functional and a space to enjoy all year round.

Having seen the Hypar shapes in the Signature Structures range, TP Bennett worked with Fabric Architecture’s in-house designers to create a bespoke PVC structure that is 8.5m x 8.5m, mounted on steel masts.

Installation was a challenge due to access restrictions, but Fabric Architecture’s experienced installation engineers found a solution by bringing in the steel masts by pipe truck and lifting them in to place using Genie lifts. Because we were affixing to an existing reinforced concrete slab, engineers had to use specialised diamond drills so that the heavy masts could be bolted into place, ensuring a solid connection for the 72m canopy.

The Main Contractor working on the project was ISG. Thanks to our established working relationship, due to successful recent collaborations on projects such as Little Parndown School, we were able to work faster and more efficiently. All of this allowed a tricky installation to flow with ease.

The large canopy, with its organic shape and large footprint, compliments the 33 storey building, enhancing the surroundings and creating a stunning courtyard. Students are already making the most of their new outdoor space at Nido Spitalfields.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE IS NOW CHAS CERTIFIED

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

With zero Health and Safety Violations, Fabric Architecture now has a new certification to support our ongoing commitment to excellence and safety.

On 5 January we were awarded with CHAS accreditation. The Contractors Health & Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS) began in 2001 with two intentions:

1.   to improve health and safety standards across Great Britain

2.   to reduce duplicated safety applications for both suppliers and buyers

What this means for architects, end users and main contractors working with us is an assurance that from the moment we start speaking with you about a project all the way through to installation and handover, health and safety has been as important as design and functionality.

Being CHAS certified speeds up the buying process. Fabric Architecture has passed specific standards and so has met criteria required by Main Contractors. Everything has been documented and is readily available as a resource making the process user friendly and easy.

When it comes to the installation of a Signature Structure, PlayShade, ArchiClad system, or a design and build project, one can rest assured that we:

•        over achieve with health and safety

•        have the experience and resources to carry out the work,

•        have method statements and well thought out risk assessments and references

•        hire professional installation engineers and supervisors

For additional information on Fabric Architecture’s CHAS accreditation or to speak to our in-house Health and Safety Manager, Andrew Thomson

GOING GREEN IN NORTH AMERICA WITH SKYLAR SIGNATURE STRUCTURES

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The state of California has always been ahead of the game when it comes to Environmental Policy and protection. With the introduction of the California Air Resources Board, their commitment has always been to reduce carbon emission in order to attain and maintain healthy air quality.

With this in the background and a prediction by Nissan CEO, Carlos Ghosn, that by 2020, one in out of every 10 cars globally will run on batteries, California is once again leading the way for a new movement towards re-charging stations.

Fabric Architecture North America was approached, given our commitment to unique design lead solutions, to come up with an iconic structure for California based Electric Car Charging Stations.

The intention was to develop a distinct look for charging stations – something that becomes eye-catching, iconic and has a modern, clean look. Searching the internet, our client came across the distinctive and very different Skylar. The Skylar, a Fabric Architecture Signature Structure, comes in three, four and five meter sizes, as well as a Fountain (three adjoined at the base) and even Streetlights.

This May, the first set of Skylars will be installed over an Electric Car Charging Station in San Bernardino, California at one of the world’s largest convenience retailers. This will be the first of 50 charging stations throughout California that will receive a pair of Skylar 3 meter Signature Structures.

Skylars will be featured with silver steel work and bright white canopies. Fabric Architecture will be partnering with a specialist local commercial main contractor for installation of all 100 Skylars currently being produced over the next 18 months.

This is a very prominent project and one we hope will be integrated across North America. Stay tuned for photos and visualisations.

CONTINUING OUR SUPPORT IN AFRICA

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

As part of Fabric Architecture’s ongoing commitment to supporting schools in Africa and fulfilling on our ISO 14001 Environmental Policy, we recently contacted IT Schools Africa (ITSA).

ITSA is a registered charity that refurbishes old computers and distributes them to schools in Africa. Their mission is to transform IT education in Africa.

Rather than sending our old computers, monitors and IT kit to local landfills, we contacted ITSA to arrange pick up. To date they have distributed over 20,000 computers and are making a difference by allowing students and local communities to have ready available access to computers for learning.

ITSA also makes a positive impact in the Cotswolds (where we are based) by having 30 volunteers and providing valuable work experience for local school children, the long-term unemployed and people with learning challenges.

Donating was responsible, ethical and beneficial to people on many levels – ITSA is perfectly aligned with Fabric Architecture’s Core Values.

THE BOWL STADIUM RECEIVES A MAKEOVER FOR CYG 2011

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The Isle of Man is preparing to host the Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) September 7-13, 2011. With a confirmed 71 countries participating in the 6 day event, ensuring sporting venues are world class is essential. The Bowl stadium, formally known as the King George Bowl, is seeing a massive transformation. As the venue for both Opening Ceremonies and Rugby 7’s, the bowl will certainly have its day in the spotlight.

Fabric Architecture was approached by architectural firm, Savage & Chadwick on behalf of the Isle of Man Government to help re-develop the Bowl because of our expertise and history in working with both world class sporting events, and stadiums/sports arenas.

Having designed and installed sports venue canopies at Gateshead Stadium, Wellington College, Manchester City Fan Pavilion, The Yards in Washington DC, and Aintree Racecourse, we have become industry experts. In addition, Fabric Architecture installed canopies and structures for the Olympic Games in Atlanta, Sydney and Portsmouth for the London 2012 Games – we know how to create visually stunning canopies for global events.

Working in partnership with Savage & Chadwick, the design result is a series of connected bespoke canopies influenced by the Barrel shapes of some of our Signature Structures and the cantilevered stadium canopy at Gateshead. Fabric Architecture Installation Engineers have just finished installing 26 bays measuring 5.7m by 6.5m each. The bespoke canopies cover the 3,000 seats for the new Bowl stadium creating dry space for fans. White PVC and white painted marine grade steelwork offers a clean fresh modern look for the stadium.

To create a sense of arrival, a bespoke Quad Conic is being installed over the ticket kiosk and stadium guest facilities creating a striking entrance feature.

With the canopies almost fully installed, works can now commence on the pitch. Main Contractor Avidyn Construction has been pressing forward supporting the regeneration of the Bowl to welcome the world on 7 September.

After Closing Ceremonies, the stadium will be turned over to the Manx Football club as part of a Legacy Programme.

Construction pictures below sent in via Iphone shows the canopies being installed around the circumference of the pitch.

INNOVATIVE COVERED WALKWAYS ATTRACT ADDITIONAL VISITORS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Founded in 1891, Dogs Trust is the largest dog welfare charity in the UK . Their mission is “to bring about the day when all dogs can enjoy a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction”.

At Fabric Architecture, we love dogs – in fact we have two Jack Russell mascots, Paddy and Addie, who attend all of our in-house design meetings. When we were approached by Peter Napier, Planning Consultant for Dogs Trust, we new we would do whatever it takes to fulfill on the design intentions for the West Calder location in Scotland .

The design brief was to link up 37 kennels (pods) that were exposed to the elements with a covered walkway system, providing dry space for visitors to the Centre to view the dogs in the kennels. Dogs Trust also wanted to create a large central covered gathering area with a Wow! factor.

There were several challenges for us to overcome with this particular project. The pods were set on a slope and the building landscape is complex. We proposed a large 18m x 10m Double Conic structure for the central gathering spot and a highly bespoke/modified version of one of our Signature Structures, The Hull, to serve as the model for walkway canopies.

To achieve this, our in-house engineers had to start from square one and factor in weather conditions specific to West Calder (high levels of local rain, wind and snow loads required to be defined). Then we had to study the slope of the site. Because all of the canopies are inter-linked the patterning, finite element analysis and form finding for the canopies had to be exact. If anything was ‘off’ the implications would domino throughout the scheme and the canopies would not work.

No detail was left untouched so rain water runoff had to be considered and hoppers were integrated throughout the canopies to keep the space and surrounding area dry. At the end of the day, we installed over 1,000 sqm of canopies creating architecturally beautiful and functional covered walkways and meet and greet space for Dogs Trust.

Dogs Trust had been considering polycarb and glass as building mediums and we were delighted that our positive response to their requirements allowed them to decide to go with the 5th Building Medium, Fabric, to achieve an even greater visual impact.

Centre Manager, Susan Tonner, commented that both visitors and staff are delighted with the canopies since it brightens and lifts the whole centre. She stated "the photograph [below] is good, but you need to see it in the flesh to appreciate it. There isn't a day that goes by, where I don't walk around the structure and still admire it! I cant belive how it withstands the weather - storm force winds batter it regularly and it coped amazingly with four feet of snow for eight solid weeks - surely winter here cant get worse than that!"

Marking the one year anniversary of the beautiful canopies installed at West Calder, we wanted to thank Susan, Matthew Taylor (Development Director) and Peter Napier (Consultant) for their patience and vision for the use of fabric throughout the Centre. The result truly a world class venue offering homes to thousands of loveable dogs in Scotland each year.

All of the Dogs Trust work is funded by public generosity. If you love dogs, as we do at Fab Arc, please make a donation or visit their new landmark centre in West Calder.

LET IT GLOW! THE NEW MANCHESTER METRO SPORTS CITY STOP COVERED WALKWAYS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The Manchester Metro Link is the most successful light rail system in the UK carrying nearly 20 million passengers each year. As part of a multi-million pound improvement plan to improve passenger facilities, Fabric Architecture was approached by Laing O’Rourke, part of the consortium MPACT.

Two structures were specified to cover the In and Out bound passenger areas along the platforms at the Metro Sports City Stop. Currently under construction, the 2 canopy structures cover 450sqm and 400sqm respectively.

The design intention was to create an identifiable visual icon at the stop and to have the canopies glow with light and colour. Lighting is key and the canopy detail was literally designed around it. It was important for the stop to feel safe and bright for passengers as well as dynamic from a distance.

Fabric Architecture proposed a Double Skin canopy. The top layer is a white Silicone Coated Glass fabric known as Solar Glass Weave. Fabric Architecture helped pioneer this product have been recommending it given it has a life expectancy of 30 plus years, is completely recyclable and is has a light transmission of 40%.

The bottom layer of the canopy envelope is a white PVC mesh. This is a very thoughtful canopy: the mesh was created so that maintenance could be done with ease, all of the LED covers could be cleaned and so that bugs could easily get out – yes you heard that right. These canopies are bug friendly.

When the new glowing walkways are completed in Summer of 2011, the entire area will be transformed. Everything will have an integrated look and will feel modern, clean and will put the Man City Stadium on the map as a world class venue – with the fans in mind. Fabric Architecture also recently completed three massive canopies right up the steps from the station stop at the new Fan Pavilion.

Visual illustrating the new Metro walkway canopies to be completed by Fabric Architecture, sitting beatifully beside Fan Pavilion Canopies designed and installed Summer 2010. Stay tuned for actual photos when the overall project completes Summer 2011.

INVITED TO THE ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture was invited to attend the 7th Annual Architect of the Year Awards last night in London. This prestigious event brought out the best of the best and saw the likes of over 500 Architects, Designers, Project Managers and others in the industry. Special thanks to headlining sponsor Armstrong for creating an evening that was absolutely first class. From the opening comic relief with comedian Marcus Brigstock (who emceed the event) to the fundraising casino benefiting Article 25 for development and disaster relief (which raised over £2,500) - no detail was left out.

With over 13 sectors up for awards, judges really had a challenge in selecting the winners. Ellis Woodman, Editor of BD, said that it was all about selecting firms who “display best practices and are able to shift expectations in their nominated field.”

The winner of the Richard Feilden Architect of the Year award went to DSDHA for their work in the education sector in designing a pair of "extraordinary schools." Like Fabric Architecture, DSDHA has a commitment to education and creating inspirational spaces for children to learn. The judging panel felt the education sector was an important focus this year, given recent financial cuts.

Other themes throughout the night which winners embodied were: sustainability, creating socially engaging spaces, being thoughtful and sensitive to local surroundings, and designing projects that are distinctively different.

Edward Cullinan Architecture won the award for Public Building Architect of the Year for the John Hope Gateway building at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh. They impressed the judges with their ability to blend the new building into the natural landscape and focusing on sustainability. Fabric Architecture also played a role in the John Hope Gateway project by designing and installing a series of inverted conics adjacent to the winning building. Like Edward Cullinans’ design, our canopies blended into nature, using a sustainable fabric (Solar Glass Weave). Read more about this project by scrolling down to our July News.

We want to offer a special acknowledgement to BDP. While BDP did not take home an award, they were the only firm to be nominated for 5 of the 13 awards – an incredible feat none the least. Fabric Architecture is proud of the work we have done and have on the go with BDP including the Aintree Racecourse and Victoria Hospital . Their designs are always striking, thoughtful and functional.

To read all about the other categories and winners, click this link for the full story in last night’s BD magazine.

CREATING PATTERNS IN THE SKY, KHALIFA PARK, ABU DHABI

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Nestled down between the aqua blue ocean and the sandy beaches is an emerald green park called Khalifa. With amenities to include a mosque, a museum, an amphitheatre, gardens and a theme park, Khalifa Park is an entertainment and enlightenment site, a place that beautifully blends tradition and modernity very much like Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other emerging Emirates of UAE.

Khalifa Park was a gift for the people of Abu Dhabi from UAE ruler Sheikh Khalifa and is undergoing a massive renovation. Fabric Architecture Middle East (FAME) was invited to be a part of the renovation by providing over 1650 sqm of shade canopies at the Khalifa Kids Cove section of the park. Kids Cove is an oasis of fun; a subterranean fantasy water park with a multitude of features including water cannons, full scale boats, and a ‘lazy river’ water ride.

Having recently completed a water park in the USA, Fabric Architecture knows what kids like and how to incorporate design with functionality. FAME is currently installing a bespoke and almost entirely flat canopy to represent the surface of the sea. This Shade Structure is supported by six enormous tripods, reaching over 11m high. Tripods provide the restraints for a cable net structure, forming a web of connection points for 36 individual canopies which make up the structure. A mix of solid and mesh PVC fabric is being used to give a dappled shade effect, while seaweed and fish-like sculptures will be fixed to the underside of the cable net to add to the subterranean theme.

Soon the bespoke shade structure of Khalifa Kids Cove will be another visualization to add to the rich and vibrant palate of colours in the area.

As you can see from the photo, the canopies come together to create beautiful patterns in the sky and cast shadows that dance across the park throughout the day.

TOP MARKS FOR ADRIAN MONKS, PROJECT MANAGER ON THE KHALIFA, UAE PROJECT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for sending Adrian Monks for this first installation in Abu Dhabi. Without exaggerating, Adrian handled the job with the utmost of professionalism and has put in very long hours and a lot of effort and direction to make sure that everything went smoothly.

The team he was provided by GEBALCO were new to this type of installation, and through his direction and experience he managed, supervised, and educated them with great command. Adrian had the time and patience to explain things and guide everyone. I certainly learnt a lot from him. Lastly, I would like to point out that Adrian’s sign language has improved tremendously after this experience and it is now second to none. I hope that I will have the opportunity and the pleasure to work again with Adrian in the near future." Peter Gebara, Contour Entertainment

SAILING HIGH! FIRST CANADIAN INSTALLATION, A BEACHFRONT DOUBLE CONIC

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Orillia, Ontario Canada , known as the " Sunshine City " is the perfect place for a Fabric Architecture canopy. Currently under construction on the beach of Lake Couchiching is a new recreation an water park called Moose Beach Water Play Centre. ABC Recreation LTD approached Fabric Architecture’s North American office with a unique concept: to create a tensile structure which replicates the sails of a boat.

Fabric Architecture designed and engineered a bespoke version of one of our Signature Structure's, the Double Conic. This 10m x 18m Double Conic was designed and constructed with over sailing masts on one side of the canopies to create a nautical 'sailboat' look. Installed on a massive raised concrete foundation pad (shaped like a ship) the Double Conic adds the finishing touch to the Play Centre’s theme.

With this being a unique structure and our first installation in Canada , it was important to engineer to extreme local conditions. Blackwell Bowick Structural Engineers worked in partnership with Fabric Architecture North America to ensure the Double Conic would be able to withstand heavy snow loads and wind. In fact, as we were installing the structure last week, crews got their first blast of winter weather with 4 inches of snow.

In order to reduce our carbon footprint, local steel was sourced, while the white PVC canopies were imported from our European headquarters in the UK .

When Moose Beach opens in the spring of 2011, this will be Fabric Architecture’s 2nd water park installation in North America . In August 2009, we installed an 8.6m x 8.6m Pagoda Diamond at Island Spray Park in Mt Pleasant Michigan.

Above is an installation picture sent in via Iphone. Stay tuned for professional pictures spring 2011.

THOUGHTFUL DESIGN: THE CANOPIES AT THE H.J. HEINZ AMBULATORY CENTRE, PITTSBURGH, USA

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA is committed to modernizing and energizing health care for Veterans. When the new H.J. Heinz Ambulatory Care Centre opens fall 2011, it will set the standard for world class Veterans health facilities.

Fabric Architecture North America was approached 2 years ago at the very start of the development and design of the new Centre. The design intention was to create covered outdoor space which would be easy to navigate, offer patients access to nature, and create a tranquil ‘sanctuary’ area. In addition, the Centre wanted to add to their eco credentials by reducing solar glare on all of the glass along the building’s façade, while giving the building a pleasing bright colour scheme.

From the beginning, the H.J. Heinz Ambulatory Care Centre has been very thoughtful with its design. The design solution Fabric Architecture proposed was the installation of 2no. modified 5m x 3m Signature Structures called the Wave. In addition, we designed an 11 bay 30m x 2m bespoke Brise Soleil. The Waves create the ‘sanctuary’ space for patients and the Brise Solei covers the walkway into the building and offers solar reduction.

About the Wave:

In order to not have water pooling on the low points of the Wave Structures, we specified a mesh boarder. The boarder was high frequency welded to the PVC of the canopies and allows water to properly drain. This particular mesh was the same fabric used on the Khalifa Park project in Abu Dhabi and the Skylar Fountain in Pensacola, Florida.

About the Brise Soleil:

Working in partnership with Walsh Construction, Fabric Architecture was able to specify steel for the Brise Soleil early days and have it integrated into the framework of the building. This allowed us to install the structure directly to the building as opposed to using external masts and foundations. Having the Brise Soleil affixed direct to the building creates a 'design lead look' and allows patients in wheelchairs easy access to the building.

We wanted to offer a special thanks to Walsh Construction for their support over the past two years on the project and to the H.J. Heinz Ambulatory Centre for their vision in creating a world class health facility for veterans.

The picture above of the Waves was sent in by our Installation Engineers via Iphone. Additional images will be featured in the project profile (soon to be uploaded)

WORKING SMARTER WITH UNION SQUARE'S WORKSPACE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

For over 25 years Fabric Architecture has been committed to excellence. Getting it right the first time, quality and offering impeccable Design, Engineering and Project Management is what makes us the industry leaders. Our intention has always been to ensure the process from design to installation is smooth, easy and with no detail left out.

Finally we have a high-tech data management system designed completely bespoke for the way we work and how we want to serve and support our clients.

Developed and supported by Union Square, Workspace™ is a knowledge management system which provides Fabric Architecture with a centralised storage area for project and company data.

This system allows for the integration of information and greater project awareness. Because everything is now on-line, we can access it anywhere there is internet. This allows us to better manage projects and share information in our offices in North America, The Middle East, Scotland , England and wherever we are travelling.

As part of our ISO 14001 plan, we went with Workspace to reduce the paper trail and support the environment. Everything is in the system from email communications, to drawings, to project briefing meeting notes – it’s all linked. This allows our staff to look at multiple tabs and windows at the same time and really have a visual ‘dashboard’ for each of our clients’ projects.

Workspace is also expandable and as we grow, so does the system, always with our best practices in mind and at the forefront. Implementing Workspace was a massive investment in technology, training and support and it’s already offering great rewards. We now have faster ready to access information for briefing architects, main contractors and end users.

If you would like to learn more about Workspace™, visit www.unionsquaresoftware.com.

27,000 SQM OF FABRIC IN THE STUNNING NEW DUBLIN AIRPORT TERMINAL 2

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

The Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) is transforming the Dublin Airport into a 21st century transport gateway for the capital of Ireland . With a budget of 395 Million Euros, the new Terminal 2 will be nothing short of World Class. T2 is being designed with travelers in mind and with 15 million passengers per year- this is no ease feat. The new terminal will have a very calm and relaxing feel throughout its ultra modern ‘gallery’ like interior. Use of natural light everywhere and a brilliant white ceiling with ‘Fan Vaults’ adds to the bright and airy feel of this enormous space. The unique ceiling involves the integration of 27,000 sqm of tensile fabric mesh ceiling panels.

Architects Pascall + Watson specified this ceiling system with Fabric Architecture to create a stunning look and feel. Throughout ones journey in the vast airport, the fabric mesh ceiling is the one constant interior design feature. The ceiling design required large panel sections to be faceted in both the width and length to echo the form of the terminal shell. The panel sides required to be off-set by 600mm from the main trusses to allow for lighting and access for services as well as articulating the geometry and tight lines of the ceiling. Two massive 15 meter double curvature ‘fan vaults’ also feature, which role down from the ceiling panels creating stunning organic forms.

To respond to the unique requirements of this project, Design Director, Nigel Browne, developed a creative light-weight, self tensioning frame system which would maintain its form and could be installed quickly and consistently. It was important that the panels could be removed for maintenance and with ceiling heights ranging from 5 meters to 23 meters, the installation was a challenge.

The result of this design challenge is Fabric Architecture’s new ArchiClad system. This system is fully modular with the flexibility to be applied both vertically and horizontally, as required at Dublin T2. A clever linking system allows for self-regulating of the panels, ensuring lines are crisp and clear, as required by the architect.

This is the type of project that is guaranteed to make headlines both for it being a breakthrough for the fabric industry and for the forward thinking design of the airport’s beautiful exterior internal features. Special thanks to our project partners PJ Hegarty & Sons and Pascall + Watson.

The picture above shows the main hall with its beautifully curving organic lines and shapes with gigantic fan vaults at the centre focal point.

WORLD'S LARGEST INDOOR THEME PARK IS 'FINTASTIC!'

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture were commissioned to design, engineer, manufacture & supply 2063 bespoke tensile wall mounted facade 'fins' (using our new ArchiClad system) for a prestigious new development in Abu Dhabi. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, is the world’s largest indoor theme park with over 20 attractions including the world’s fastest roller coaster - accelerating riders from 0 to 60mph in just 2 seconds! As close to the performance of a Ferrari formula 1 car as most of us will ever get! This amazing building spans over 200,000m2 with the exterior taking its design cues from the classic double curvature of Ferrari GT cars.

The interior covers over 86,000m2 (or 13 full size football pitches!). The 'fins' are mounted to every internal facade and represent cooling fins on an engine. They vary in size from 5m to over 20m.The fin design is completely unique and each of the 2063 fins is different. They are constructed from extruded, formed and painted aluminum and clad in a tensioned silicon coated glass cloth. Over 100km of extruded aluminum, 50km of extruded plastic and 45,000m2 of fabric has been used in their manufacture - making this the largest internal tensile installation in the World!

Superb in house design expertise were combined with local specialists knowledge in order to realise the architects vision. New techniques and processes were developed and local suppliers and specialist subcontractors were used wherever possible. Without their hard work and dedication the project would not have been possible. Moving forward, this iconic project will form a launch pad for Fabric Architecture in the Middle East and we hope to take the 'fin' concept to new markets. A huge thanks goes to all involve, including Holden Aluminium for providing over 14,000 aluminium parts for the installation.

If you would like to have a virtual experience flying through the new Ferrari World, click on this video link. In addition, to see the Fabric Fins in situ in the entrance space, take a look here.

WHERE EXCELLENCE IS STANDARD: WELLINGTON COLLEGE'S NEW MONRO PAVILION

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

August saw the first year anniversary of the new Monro Pavilion at Wellington College. With over 150 years of tradition, Wellington College has long been renowned for excellence in rugby and the design of its new pavilion and rugby pitch needed to be first class. In a highly competitive market, they came to Fabric Architecture because of our ability to complete in-house engineering, our commitment to world class design and our heritage with over 25 years in the industry. Getting it right the first time was imperative and having a stunning structure was crucial for such an elite college.

The design intention for the canopies was for them to be architecturally beautiful, while providing shade and shelter for the magnificent viewing balcony overlooking the main rugby pitch. In coordination with Beard (construction) and HJ Stribling & Partners (architects), Fabric Architecture designed and installed a very bespoke and irregular Quad Conic. Installation was tricky, given the structure was integrated with and fixed to the new pavilion building.

This feat required comprehensive in house engineering factoring in all snow and wind loads. Our in house patterning team also had a challenge, given the two cones on the outside are lower and wider than the two on the inside. In addition, the entire structure is higher at the back and actually tilted forward creating an ‘eyebrow’ effect over the upper level. Unique steel pointed tips were added to enhance the Conical tops, given them an elite looking finish!

Added Value for Wellington College: Monro Pavilion has been a win-win for this prestigious college, given parents and community have been hiring out the new covered structure for private events and functions. This has added even more value to the project and it has now started to pay for itself.

As you can see from the recent picture below, the result is magnificent. Wellington College knows how to pack the house on match day and we are proud to have our Bespoke Quad Conic as the main focus. Special thanks to our construction and design partners Beard and HJ Stribling & Partners – both of whom were brilliant to work with and offered excellent service.

To learn how an original Fabric Architecture structure or product can work for you and pay for itself on your project, please contact us on 01452 612800.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE TO SHOWCASE INTERACTIVE DESIGN BAR AT THE BSEC MENA EXHIBITION & CONFERENCE 21-22 NOVEMBER, FOLLOWED BY ARCHICLAD CPD - ABU DHABI, UAE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

One again, Fabric Architecture Middle East is attending the BSEC Show at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre on 21-22 November. Immediately after the show on 23 November, we will be hosting a CPD presentation inside the spectacular new Ferrari World Theme Park and a Networking Cruise on board a Traditional Dhow.

Visit the modern interactive ‘Design Bar’ to view the many beautiful organic possibilities fabric can create both internally and externally. We welcome you to enjoy a seat, view the video wall, discuss your project with staff experts on hand and walk away with design ideas and peace of mind in our ability to design, deliver and install unique, world class tensile structures. With over 150 installations in the education sector each year, Fabric Architecture know how to transform schools.

Beautiful tensile fabric structrues create exciting sustainable outdoor learning spaces to be enjoyed by both the school and the wider community.

Activities Happening at the Show:

Discuss your project with us and view design options for creating the perfect outdoor learning space for your school.
Video Wall showcasing hundreds of completed structures throughout the world
Technical experts on stand to discuss your project and answer questions
Learn about Solar Glass Weave Fabric – made from woven strands of glass coated in silicone with a 30+ year life span and it’s 100% recyclable
Discuss other sustainable options to make your structure ‘green’
Learn how our Shade Canopies and Tensile Structures can protect students from harmful UV rays and reduce the temperature, creating safe, comfortable and useable covered play spaces.

Invitation to Continuing Professional Development Presentation

While visiting us on Stand 412, be sure to pick up your invitation to the CPD presentation and Traditional Dhow Cruise to be held on Tuesday, 23 November.

Led by Nigel Browne, Fabric Architecture’s Director and Senior Designer, Nigel won the prestigious British Design Award and was nominated for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Design Award for his work in the field of tensile design. He is the only RIBA certified presenter in the discipline of tensile structures, giving Continual Professional Development seminars throughout the UK.

This CPD focuses on ArchiClad, our innovative tensile fabric cladding system used to create the 45,000 sqm of ‘Ferrari Fins’ showcased exclusively in the stunning new Ferrari World venue. The presentation will be followed by a tour of the ‘Ferrari Fins’. Later that evening, please join us for a fun sunset evening of casual networking with like-minded professionals, delicious food and drink. Be sure to secure your space at this years most exciting CPD presentation and/or the Dhow cruise – seating is limited. For further information please contact Jason Smith on 01452 612 800 or email: jasons@fabarc.co.uk

PAGODA PLAY UNVEILED AT THE REMODELLING EDUCATION SPACES CONFERENCE, MANCHESTER

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture has been invited to exhibit and be a part of the upcoming Remodelling Education Spaces Exhibition at the University of Manchester, 13-14 September. As the only tensile fabric company exhibiting at the exhibition, we are very excited with both the theme of the event and the unveiling of a new product, Pagoda Play.

This particular conference could not be better timed. With the recent news from Education Secretary, Michael Gove, that he was scrapping the £55bn Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme, construction professionals have been left in a state of uncertainty. As one can imagine, this announcement has meant a sea of change for architects working in the education sector. With the focus now on making existing buildings more functional (while looking better), it’s no surprise there has been a mad dash to register to attend next week’s exhibition.

Fabric Architecture will be featured in two areas of the conference:

The Exhibition Hall, Stand 28
Upstairs, outside the entrance to the Seminar Theater

Tensile experts will be on hand in both locations to discuss creative ways that fabric structures can breathe new life into existing schools. Architects have found the organic lines of canopies, bold colours, and available options can provide a quick and easy solution for a functional, fresh and modern look. Schools built from the Victorian era, Edwardian era and up through the 60’s and 80’s can all benefit from tensile structures.

Part of Fabric Architecture’s presence at the show is to unveil the new Pagoda Play System. Be sure to visit us upstairs where we will have an actual structure on display. Pagoda Play is the first fully waterproof tensile structure ready equipped with integrated play kit. The particular structure on display will feature a swing – definitely not the swing from an older era, but a massive round black rubber pad with brightly coloured red discs.

Nothing brings out our fun hearted inner child faster than a swing, and besides adults, kids love them. This is sure to create a buzz throughout the exhibition. With over 300 attendees pre-registered, we are looking forward to seeing contacts we have completed recent projects with at Atkins, Bam, BDP, Carillion, HLM Architects, Kier, and Willmott Dixon. This conference is one NOT to miss.

NEW MANCHESTER CITY FAN PAVILION IS A MATCH HIGHLIGHT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is pleased to announce the successful and speedy completion (just in time for the season opener later this month) of two landmark canopies outside the City of Manchester Stadium. BDP, Europe’s largest interdisciplinary design practice, approached Fabric Architecture in late May 2010, looking for 1,500m² of canopies to be installed for Manchester City Football Club before the start of the 2010-11 Premiership season.

With only 10 weeks to turn around a project that would usually take 18-20 weeks, Fabric Architecture have had to employ all of their project management skills to meet the deadline of a very exacting client. The result is a pair of beautiful structures creating new covered bar and café areas for fans to use before and after games. The site will be further enhanced by the addition of a Fabric Architecture stage cover within the next two weeks.

Above is a picture of this very unique and organically flowing structure.

More information on this project can be found on the project profile. Be sure to take a look.

‘COVERING’ BULWELL ACADEMY WITH THE UK'S LARGEST INVERSE CONICS

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

1,050 students will soon be walking through the stunning courtyard of Bulwell Academy in Nottingham. With Britain’s unpredictable weather conditions, Bulwell had a plan and a vision for how to create outdoor learning spaces that could be used all year round.

What makes this particular project a bit different is the ethos behind the design of the academy – “learning by doing”. As part of their academic studies, students contributed ideas regarding what they would like to see in their school. One of the results is a courtyard with upper level walkways covered by eight intermittent Inverse Conics, two of which are an enormous 24m x 16m while the other six are a massive 18m x 16m. The Conics are so large that the hoppers at the base are 2.3 meters wide.

What’s unique about these Inverted Conics is how they over-sail one another at different heights, providing a very light and airy feeling. The wow factor comes to play when sunlight beams through the different layers and levels of the canopies creating dramatic patterns and shadows throughout the space. Rain channeling through hoppers allows the courtyard below to remain dry while uplighting from the eight masts transforms the space on cloudy days and evenings into something even more remarkable.

Through meticulous patterning, engineering and design analysis, Fabric Architecture was able to create a courtyard roof of closely interwoven canopies. In house Design Manager, Chris Gyngell, stated that the patterning of the Bulwell Conics is “right on the edge of what you can achieve with fabric for Inverted Conic structures of this scale.”

Bulwell Academy is the latest school to be completed as part of the strategic plan for Building Schools for the Future (BSF). BSF is a programme committed to providing world-class teaching and learning environments, as evident in the incredible photos below (taken from various angles to show the scale and scope of this world class learning facility).

INVESTING IN DALE CARNEGIE TRAINING

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is committed to Training & Development and recently sent four of our staff to the 12-week long Dale Carnegie Effective Communications in Human Relations Programme.

This is the 3rd group of employees to participate in Dale Carnegie’s wide range of training programmes. To date 15 staff have graduated from Dale Carnegie Programmes.

This particular programme taught participants to become masterful at building and strengthening interpersonal relationships, while being able to handle/manage their roles in a fast paced and ever changing workplace. As a result of the programme, staff are now equipped to solve problems in partnership with others, be more focused in their leadership, and present themselves with enthusiasm and confidence in all situations.

This particular program stretched participants by having them use real life examples upon which they had to apply the ‘DC’ principles. Each person set powerful future goals for their roles in Fabric Architecture and shared them publically with the rest of UK based staff. Participants found the Dale Carnegie Golden Book a powerful tool to improving their own self development.

Above is a photo of recent graduates. From left to right: Sam Walker, Leslie Barton, Alex Wood and Louise Ashdown

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR, GLASGOW AIRPORT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Upon the arrival of Glasgow Airport, one will immediately see that in addition to planes in the air, change is in the air as well. Fabric Architecture recently completed a 200m covered walkway which greets passengers on their arrival to the airport. This walkway is a key focal point offering an immediate visual impact, giving the airport a modern and fresh feel. There are now plans underway for £2m with of improvements to the airport and the covered walkway is part of phase 1.

Soon Fabric Architecture will be expanding the walkway and working on a new outdoor Information Hub featuring fabric – all in keeping the theme/feel consistent throughout the airport. This Hub will also be used as a meet and greet zone and will offer information screens showing flights details. Tensile structures have a way of creating an immediate visual impact to existing buildings and spaces. With Glasgow’s commitment to create the look and feel of a major international airport, we are excited to be ‘on board’ and supporting Glasgow Airport with their vision.

Above is a photo of the recently installed covered walkway. This walkway is known as a Classroom and is infinitely expandable – it’s part of Fabric Architecture’s Signature Structures range.

COVERING THE BRITISH GRAND PRIX, GATESHEAD

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Saturday 10 July, saw many of the world’s finest athletes line up for the Aviva British Grand Prix (for the first time) at the Gateshead International Stadium.

The event hosted a total amount of 41 Olympic medalists and 58 World medalists, including 2010’s World’s Fastest Man, Jamaica’s Asafa Powell. World Class athlete fans deserve World Class Sporting Venues and this is where Fabric Architecture ‘steps into the arena’. Fans got to experience firsthand the new Bespoke Cantilevered Canopy over sailing the East Grand Stand. As reported below in June, the installation is complete and was ready just in time for the British Grand Prix. The canopy created a stunning backdrop that could be seen in almost all of the video footage and photos from the event.

A ‘ROYAL’ INSTALLATION, ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN OF EDINBURGH

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Founded in 1670, Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh has been growing and studying plants for over 330 years. With the mission of “Growing and explaining the world of plants for a better future”, they searched out for the perfect tensile fabric company to support them fulfill their vision with a multi million pound expansion.

The goal was to cover a large outdoor plant retail area, while at the same time not hindering the growth of the wide variety of plants underneath. Fabric Architecture came to the table with 2 incredible offers:

1. A design that actually emulates the organic nature of plants and

2. A fabric that would protect the plants while promoting growth.

The result was a series of eight Inverted Conics covering a space of 24m x 16m and a very unique fabric known as Solar Glass Weave (SGW). SGW is a fabric that Fabric Architecture pioneered as part of its commitment to sustainability and ‘Going Green’. What makes SGW so special is that it actually blocks out UVB and UVC rays (both harmful to plants and people). Solar Glass Weave transmits UVA which actually promotes plant growth – it even has a light transmission qualities of 40%.

Unique hoppers were created for each of the eight masts which collect rainwater for use by the garden facility. Patterning to the canopies where they fabric meets the hopper created a ‘Royal’ Flair by given the hoppers an almost crown like look.

Her Majesty The Queen officially opened the new expansion of the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh on 12 July.

The photo above shows the new Garden Centre with ‘crown’ like hoppers and the majestic Inverted Conics expanding out over the entire garden area.

If you are interested in how SGW fabric can work for your project, please contact our fabric experts on staff.

FABRIC ARCHITECTURE'S PAGODA STRUCTURE HIGHLIGHTS THE FASHION RUNWAY

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

More than 1,000 spectators gathered in Painswick Village in the heart of the Cotswolds to be a part of the inaugural Wearable Art Parade and the Opening Ceremony of the Summer Arts Festival.

Fabric Architecture was asked to provide a structure to be both a focal point for the T-shaped runway stage (giving the event a WOW factor) and to provide shelter. The structure chosen was a 5m x 5m Pagoda, a best seller from the Signature Structure Range. Normally a permanent structure, this particular Pagoda was modified and mounted on aluminum legs specially sized to meet the height clearance of the stage for the one day event. The soaring white iconic canopy created a beautiful backdrop for the 30 artists who hit the runway in style displaying “colourful, imaginative and bizarre costumes they hand crafted.”

Hosted by actor Keith Allen, the turnout and participation exceeded the organizing committee’s “wildest dreams.” Everyone was thrilled with the Pagoda and hope to make it a fixture for future events. With UK headquarters in the heart of the Cotswolds, Fabric Architecture was pleased to be able to contribute to the arts and make a difference to a community we call home.

48 HOUR INSTALLATION, LUAS LINE, DUBLIN

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture was approached by the Railway Procurement Agency in Dublin with what seemed to be an impossible task. Installing a massive 10 mast 55m x 18m Bespoke Inverse Conic over Belgard Tram Station on the Luas Line in a mere 48 hour window of time.

After months of meticulous planning, pulling together a ‘dream team’ installation crew and lining up all of the cranes, plant and kit needed to do the 48 hour installation – the day came and it was show time. Trams came to a screeching halt on the morning of 12 June and crews at Fabric Architecture (having rehearsed and played out all scenarios and planned for any contingency) started the installation.

Strong coffee and lights kept the various evening crews installing and passion for purpose in meeting the tight deadline kept the day crews pressing forward. By break of day on Monday, 14 June, plant was off site, the white Solar Glass Weave Inverse Conics were up, tensioned and trams were zipping through (business as usual) all under a stunning new canopy.

To view this ground breaking installation, be sure to watch the video link below of the 48 hour installation in 20 seconds.

GATESHEAD STADIUM'S MASSIVE CANTILEVERED CANOPY IS TAKING SHAPE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

After meticulously planning, and working through the engineering and logistic details for this 30m cantilevered canopy structure, we have made rapid progress on site and are now on the home straight! The steelwork is now completed which in itself makes an impressive sight. The fabric canopy is now being carefully installed in a sequence of flying barrel-vault forms, creating a dynamic impact befitting the likes of Tyson Gay and a host of other Olympic and World Champions who will be gracing the Gateshead track for the televised Aviva British Grand Prix event next month.

Watch this space for photos of the completed structure...and if you’re lucky enough to be going to the British Grand Prix, make sure you book your tickets for the newly covered East Stand!!

Above is a construction picuture showing how the installation is progressing.

'ALL GOOD' SAYS WILLMOTT DIXON, REGARDING FABRIC ARCHITECTURE'S RECENT HEALTH AND SAFETY CHECK

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture are delighted to announce the full Health & Safety approval achieved with main contractors Willmott Dixon. This approval demonstrates competency and the addition of Fabric Architecture to Willmott Dixon’s approved database.

ADDING NEW CLASSROOMS AT TOP RIDE ACADEMY IN KENYA

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture’s support to the Top Ride Academy in Kenya continues to be a success. With the introduction of several new classrooms housing the 2nd to 8th grade students along with the nursery children it is clear to see the outstanding impact and importance of the contributions made from the sale of every Fabric Architecture structure. Please click here to see how these contributions have played a part.

SIGNATURE STRUCTURES 'CHECKED IN' AT GLASGOW AIRPORT

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Glasgow BAA have recently embarked on a phased development to re-orientate passengers between the terminal building to adjacent car parks, as part of ongoing improvements to the airport since it was subject to a terrorist attack in 2007.

BAA contacted Fabric Architecture directly to develop ideas for an extended 200m walkway with integrated lighting and advertising partitions. After considering a number of options, a scheme based on our Classroom Signature Structure with an 8m diameter Single Conic feature was chosen. Working to a very tight installation schedule, the structure is to be completed in early June in readiness for the upcoming holiday season. We look forward to working with Raynesway (A Balfour Beatty Company) to ensure the structure arrives on time!

'SERVING UP' DESIGNS AT THE BSEC 'DESIGN BAR', LONDON

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture showcased a modern interactive ‘Design Bar’ in our boutique exhibition stand at the Building Schools Exhibition & Conference, held 24/25th February at Exel, London.

Attendees and exhibitors visited the bar to view the many beautiful organic possibilities fabric can create both internally and externally. Visitors were able to pick and choose structures of interest from the ‘wall of images’ and discuss projects with fabric experts on hand.

With Fabric being the 5th Building Medium (alongside Wood, Steel, Glass & Concrete), attendees left the stand feeling excited and energised about the possibility of using fabric as a building solution, while at the same time, able to visualise tensile structures in their upcoming projects.

With over 200 completed projects in schools each year, Fabric Architecture knows how to transform schools by creating exciting sustainable outdoor learning spaces to be enjoyed by both the school and the wider community. Most recently, we have provided beautiful tensile fabric structures to a number of BSF Sample Schools including Bulwell Academy, Hadden Park School (Notts BSF) and Allerton High School (Leeds BSF).

If you did not catch us at BSEC, be sure to visit us at BSEC MENA (Middle East and North Africa) in Abu Dhabi, 12/13th December, or back in London again for BSEC 23/24 the February 2011!

Grand Prix Coverage at Gateshead

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is delighted to announce its recent appointment for a prestigious canopy project at Gateshead International Stadium (GIS).

GIS is globally recognised for International Athletic Grand Prix meets, but also hosts an increasing range of professional and amateur sporting events including football and rugby. The design and build project is for a stadia canopy system which will initially cover over 2,500 square meters and forms a significant element of a wider refurbishment programme at the stadium. This is a landmark project for the company and is scheduled to be completed in June this year. We look forward to working with Main Contractors Willmott Dixon to deliver an exciting new feature to enhance this famous venue.

NEW PLAYSHADE RANGE LAUNCHES OFFERING TURN-KEY SERVICE

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture has pleasure in announcing the launch of a new division, Playshade! Playshade provide a range of shade sail canopies available in a wide variety of brightly coloured, lightweight, shade-net material that provide a high level of UV protection. These versatile, practical and easily maintained sails come complete with steel framework and a selection of practical, fun accessories.

Playshade are offering a full turn-key service to include a free site survey, foundations with ground works plus a fully installed canopy all within a 4 week lead time; all designed with the smaller budget in mind to be very a cost effective solution.

Why not contact us on 0845 094 3564 today to find out more about this exciting new product and see how we can help provide some inspiring ideas to transform your outside space.

Fabric Architecture heads to the Middle East!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture is pleased to announce the opening of our Middle East office in Abu Dhabi. To mark the occasion we are attending the BSEC Mena Show at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre on December 13th & 14th, where we will be showcasing a modern interactive 'Design Bar', following up with a CPD presentation on December 15th at the spectacular Yas Hotel.

Luas Line

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

We are delighted to announce our appointment for another prestigious project in Dublin. The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) in Dublin recently appointed BAM Civil Ltd to upgrade the Belgard to Saggard stretch of LUAS Line A1 on the Dublin tramway system. Within this scheme RPA specified a stunning 10-masted, 950 square meter inverted conic canopy structure at the tram stop, which will be required to be installed within a 52 hour period in Easter 2010.

Because of the high level of technical and logistic requirements for this project, BAM undertook a vigorous procurement process before selecting Fabric Architecture as their specialist contractor. We are all delighted at our appointment and look forward to working closely with BAM to successfully deliver this striking structure.

The Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) Award of Excellence!

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

We are proud to announce that Fabric Architecture has been awarded the IFAI 2009 International Achievement Award of Excellence for its entrance structure to the new IKEA store in Southampton, UK. The prestigious 1000m2 wave structure was selected from 416 entries in 17 different countries and the winners in several different categories represent many of today’s top professionals in the tensile fabrics industry.

Building Schools for the Future, Newsletter Autumn 09 – Covered Walkways

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Do your school plans include covered outdoor walkways? Check out our latest E-Newsletter to find out more about linking existing buildings or managing traffic flows to new buildings. Read the Nottingham BSF case study on Big Wood School, to learn how they linked courtyard buildings and provided solar shade to their new school. Be sure not to miss our outdoor classroom as the TES – Construction in Education Show 2nd & 3rd October to receive your 10% discount on any of our structures. Click Here to read our Autumn 09 issue.

Olympic News

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

First off the blocks, Fabric Architecture has recently completed an entrance structure for Portland Marina. In April 2009 Dean & Reddyhoff Marinas opened a brand new 560 berth marina in Portland Harbour, Dorset which is to host the sailing events for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bulwell Academy Nottingham

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture has been awarded the £500,000 contract to manufacture and install eight stunning fabric canopies at the flagship Academy within Nottingham's BSF scheme. The project comes after Fabric Architecture completed the design development for this element of the build, detailing the large inverted conic structures that will cover 2,500m² of space within a central courtyard.

Building Schools for the Future - Launch of E-Newsletter

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Transforming outdoor spaces and creating inspiring learning spaces has just become even easier with the recent launch of the Fabric Architecture BSF E-Newsletter. Read the latest news and information regarding BSF, such as the Orchard School Case Study to find out how the students in Canterbury are using their covered outdoor space or learn about the CABE minimum design standard and how outdoor space is integral to any future planning.

Times Education Supplement in Construction and Education Show 2009

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture are to exhibit an outdoor classroom at the TES Show, 2 & 3 Oct 09 at Olympia, London. Stop by and visit us on stand H11a and register your interest to receive a 10% discount on any order placed within 90 days of the show.

Yas Island Abu Dhabi

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture has been awarded the contract for the design, manufacture and installation of 50,000 sq m of internal fabric decorative partitions for The Ferrari Experience Pavilion on YAS Island in Abu Dhabi. Opening in 2010, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is set to be the world’s largest theme park; the contract value for the internal fabric systems is 1.8 million dollars. This project launches our new Middle East office and we will have details to follow.

Africa

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

A group of eight employees have just returned from an annual trip to Africa visiting the school and well projects the company supports throughout the year by donating a percentage of every sale to these causes. It was an enormously successful trip that saw colleagues working at the school and even participating in the annual sports day games and events.

Dublin Airport, Ireland

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture are half way through the delivery and installation of 15,000 sq m of our patent pending ArchiClad suspended ceiling system cladding for the new airport terminal in Dublin. The ceiling system will be highlighted with two enormous fan vaults in the arrivals atrium Contract value is 1.6 million Euros.

US MICHIGAN

Fabric Architecture — Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:00:00 -0600

Fabric Architecture’s North American office just completed the installation of the new Pagoda Diamond, our most recent addition to the Signature Structure Range. As you can see from the photo above, the structure is quite popular with all of the children visiting the new Island Water Park. For more informaiton on the Pagoda Diamond structure, click here. To read more about the project click here.