THE CHALLENGE – PROTECTION WITHOUT OBSTRUCTION
Tropical heat, a tight budget, strict local building regulations and the requirement to create shade without obstructing the view were the challenges presented by this project. During the hot season, Singapore’s temperatures frequently exceed 104°F. While swimmers at the United World College pool could easily stay cool, spectators in the tiered seating area were exposed to the full strength of the tropical sun. United World College turned to Structurflex for a cost-effective solution that would add value and aesthetic appeal to their recreational asset, within the confines of a strict budget.
OUR SOLUTION – A CONTEMPORARY CASCADING CANOPY
The Structurflex canopy created for this pool has been designed to provide shade from the sun and protection from the heat, without reducing light levels. Natural light diffuses through the white membrane, which reflects approximately 80% of the sun’s heat.
From an aesthetic point of view, the canopy is a triumph. The structure’s unique cascading shade follows the contours of the grandstand, adding contemporary architectural character without disrupting spectators’ view of the swimming pool. Fully compliant with Singapore’s building regulations, the project was completed on time and within budget.
We are pleased to have collaborated with KieranTimberlake and the outfit of a parking structure on the Rice University Campus. In their blog post, they describe the concepts they employed to create an iconic sculptural element. For more details see the KieranTimberlake blog post.
The Increasing Importance of DurabilityWhile tensile fabric has several distinct advantages over more traditional materials like glass, one of the most important may be its ability to withstand severe weather events. Our tensile structures and tensile facades in Miami, Jacksonville, Houston, Fort Worth, Waco, and Atlanta did not sustain any damage or require any repair despite enduring events ranging […]
