Project Overview: Cafeteria Ino Pedestrian Bridge Canopy – Architectural solution in harmony with nature
Article analyzes technical solutions for the project Cafeteria Ino pedestrian bridge canopy, a prime example of the application of tensile membrane architecture to solve complex challenges from the existing building and natural context. The project required a structure that was ultra-lightweight and able to integrate seamlessly with the existing greenery without affecting it.
- Category: Architectural canopy for elevated pedestrian bridge.
- Location: Cafeteria Ino (connecting two office buildings).
- Structure: Conical canvas canopy (2 peaks).
- Outstanding features: The design allows greenery to grow through the roof.
Technical Requirements Analysis & Project Context
The project faced several stringent technical constraints, requiring a bespoke solution rather than traditional shielding methods:
- Load Requirements: The canopy structure must have extremely low self-weight due to the very limited load-bearing capacity of the existing pedestrian bridge system.
- Status Adaptation Requirements: The design must surround and retain intact the tall coconut trees growing through the roof area. Request from architect It is absolutely not allowed to cut down trees.
- Space Requirements: Must ensure maximum ventilation, not create a feeling of heaviness or claustrophobia for users, and at the same time no structures affect the walkway on the lower floor.
- Functional Requirements: Ensure effective rain and sun protection for the entire walkway and have a controlled drainage system.
Technical Solutions and Implementation Process
To simultaneously address the above complex requirements, Flexiiform designed and constructed an architectural tensile membrane solution with technical specifications specifically tailored to the project.
Conic Shape Membrane Structure Design
The chosen solution is a double cone tensile membrane structure. Technically, this shape has the following advantages:
– Super light weight: Tensile membrane architecture has a significantly lower self-weight than rigid roofing materials (glass, poly, metal), directly meeting the strict load requirements.
– Optimize ventilation and drainage: The two high conical peaks create a stack effect, promoting hot air convection to move up and out, keeping the space below cool. At the same time, the naturally curved surface also directs all rainwater to the drainage ditch located at the lowest edge of the roof.
Technical Treatment for Roof-piercing Tree Location
This is the most special technical point of the project. To integrate trees into the canopy, circular openings with diameters larger than the diameter of the tree trunks were calculated and cut into the surface of the canvas. The reinforcement details and heat welding of the canvas edges around these openings were done manually right on site. This technique requires high precision throughout the survey, design and construction process, to ensure the integrity, waterproofing and durability of the canvas membrane at the intersections.
Results and Performance Evaluation
Flexiiform's solution for the project Cafeteria Ino pedestrian bridge canopy has brought about outstanding results, highly appreciated in the following aspects:
- Completely resolve the constraints: Successfully met all initial technical requirements, especially the issue of light load and preservation of all existing greenery.
- Optimize user convenience: The pedestrian bridge space is always airy, cool and dry. The view of the surrounding landscape is unobstructed, creating a comfortable feeling when moving.
- Create unique aesthetic value: The project has become a typical example of the harmonious combination between architecture and nature, creating a unique identity and an exciting spatial experience for users.
Contact Technical Consulting
Flexiiform specializes in providing comprehensive technical solutions for tensile membrane architectural works, especially projects with complex contexts and high technical requirements. With a team of experienced engineers, we are able to analyze and provide optimal solutions for all project challenges.
For detailed technical advice on roofing solutions, please contact:
- Company: Flexiiform
- Website: https://flexiiform.vn
- Hotline/Phone: [Your phone number]
- Email: [Your Email]
