World’s tallest tensile structure

A new cable-net tensile structure claiming the title of world’s tallest tensile structure opened recently in Astana, Kazakhstan. Soaring 150m from an elliptical base, the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, designed by Foster + Partners, is a three-layer ETFE-clad shelter that encloses an urban-scaled park, various entertainment and leisure facilities, and restaurants, cinemas and shops.

As the climate of Astana can range from -35C in winter to +35C in summer, the membrane envelope is designed to precisely control temperatures and energy use by the complex to provide a comfortable environment year round. Co-architects for the project are Linea Tusavul Architecture and Gultekin Architecture.