FabriTec Structures
Imagination and Innovation in Fabric Architecture - 877.887.4233
FabriTec’s unique tensile membrane fabric structures are the showcase projects for USA SHADE & Fabric Structures, Inc and demonstrate what we can achieve utilizing fabric in architecture. Expanding the boundaries of function and form, FabriTec’s designs enhance the landscape through inspiration and technical superiority. Our mast supported, arch & frame supported, and point supported fabric structures can create an attractive focal point for any venue ranging from the simply profound to the visually spectacular. As fabric architecture increasingly becomes a cost-effective and aesthetically appealing option for architects, engineers and designers, FabriTec will continue to provide the imagination and innovation to turn tension fabric structure design concepts into a striking reality.
SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center is a new development in the first phase of construction being built on the site of the former Los Arcos Mall in Scottsdale, Arizona. SkySong is a mixed-use project consisting of 1.2 million square feet of office, research, and retail space. It will also include a hotel/conference center and multi-family residential units. The centerpiece of the new development is an enormous custom tensile fabric structure supplied by FabriTec Structures in conjunction with FTL Design Architects and Higgins Development. The frame consists of eight steel structures reaching 111 feet in length. These steel “legs” weigh about 24,000 pounds each. The structure peaks at an impressive 125 feet in the air. The frame supports eight integrated conical-shaped pieces covered with 50,000 square feet of Teflon-coated fiberglass (PTFE) material. The fabric will be able to withstand 650 pounds of force per square inch once all the connection adjustments have been made. As FabriTec Construction Manager, Deon Kleynhans points out, “Once there is tension and it’s under load, it will be able to withstand the same forces as stainless steel.” SkySong promises to be a new model for this century’s workplace environment: a place where business and innovation are one and the same and a global portal connecting the world through technology. Current business tenants include Qwest Communications International and Ticketmaster. All will have access to the resources of Arizona State University who, along with the City of Scottsdale, form the development team. FabriTec Executive Vice President Claude Centner sees the fabric structure as a major focal point for the development and a landmark structure for the City of Scottsdale that will draw visitors to the area. “I’m hoping that people enjoy the uniqueness of the design and ultimately see it as a piece of art” says Centner. “The overall objective was to create a central point for four buildings. This really brings it all together.” The structure will have white lights installed which will enable it to glow at night as well as LED lights that can change color based on a specific requirement or occasion. Landscaping and other construction is currently underway and a Grand Opening event for the tensile structure and Plaza took place April 29th, 2009.
Architectural Fabric Structures AIA / CES Presentation
Enviornmental Design LEED Information
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