Power plant transforms into sleek entertaining space
September 1st, 2013
With use of PTFE fiberglass membrane, Birdair revolutionized this very visible pavilion. By Kelly Frush Transforming a nondescript power plant at the Century Center in South Bend, Ind., into a sleek, chic entertaining space was a challenging yet rewarding commission for Birdair of Amherst, N.Y. Century Center asked Birdair to create a fabric structure that […]
Positively portable structures
September 1st, 2013
Transportable fabric structures have been around for millennia—what makes today’s structures unique and practical are the high-performance characteristics of their cladding. By Bruce N. Wright, AIA Native Americans have known for eons about the virtues of lightweight, flexible fabric-wrapped structures, long before Europeans arrived in North America in the 15th century. Camping enthusiasts have appreciated […]
Floating on the land
September 1st, 2013
ETFE is the solution for a lively French resort. By Frank Edgerton Martin Located in Neydens, France, Vitam’Parc is a 50,000 square meter tourism destination that is part spa, part sports center, and part shopping mall. Its New Age offerings include: meditation rooms, climbing walls, a water park with various indoor and outdoor swimming pools, […]
Verseidag US introduces architectural fabrics to North American market
September 1st, 2013
Verseidag US has introduced its line of duraskin architectural materials to the North American market. This includes PTFE-coated glass and PVC/polyester material with a PVDF weldable topcoat. These high-quality, technical fabrics are available in several weights and widths.
SEFAR Vision fabric contributes to Italian skyline
September 1st, 2013
The Italian city of Udine welcomes a graceful, modern new office building to its urban landscape. The C Quadro Executive Building, designed using SEFAR® Architecture Vision fabric, mirrors the recognizable skyline of the financial district, while contributing a modern aesthetic. Constructed on an empty lot, the administrative building boasts a façade that accentuates the relationship […]
Banker Wire unveils architectural Circle Mesh
September 1st, 2013
After more than a year of development, Banker Wire has created the first-ever woven metal fabric with circular patterns. Circle Mesh applies the durability, versatility and aesthetic appeal of architectural mesh to new circular weaves. According to Banker Wire, Circle Mesh surpasses circle patterns created by perforated metal, delivering industry-leading quality, sustainability and visual characteristics […]
Cost-effective shade solutions from Trivantage
September 1st, 2013
The Solair® Comfort retractable awning features a sleek, modern style and enhanced functionality, redesigned to offer improved shade solutions for outdoor spaces. The Comfort awning allows construction professionals to increase a home’s useable square footage, while enhancing comfort and energy conservation. The product features a simplified pitch adjustment, a space-saving H bracket design and arms […]
Opportunities for shade structures in the world of LEED
September 1st, 2013
Awnings, solar shades and shade structures can help reduce cooling energy use in both homes and commercial buildings, while improving their appearance and making the occupants more comfortable. Both energy savings and occupant comfort are key aspects of U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED rating systems, so shade products should be an obvious option for […]