Project Overview: Construction of Drop-off Sail Roof at Sofitel SO Hua Hin
Project Drop-off canopy at Sofitel SO Hua Hin resort is a tensile membrane architectural solution designed specifically for the main lobby area. The project uses a sail structure (hypar) to create an effective shielding space, with a graceful structure and high aesthetic value, suitable for the standards of a 5-star resort.
- Investor: Sofitel SO Hua Hin
- Category: Architectural Canopy for Lobby Area (Drop-off Canopy)
- Structure: Hyperbolic paraboloid (hypar) membrane
- Main materials: PVDF stretch film, steel structure, high strength steel cable
- Location: Hua Hin, Thailand
Technical Requirements Analysis & Project Context
The lobby area of Sofitel SO Hua Hin has a unique landscape layout: the main entrance is separated from the parking area by a strip of greenery. This places strict technical and aesthetic requirements on the roofing solution:
- Minimalist and elegant structure: Requires a simple, elegant design, avoiding heavy structural systems to harmonize with the landscape architecture and luxurious resort space.
- Space optimization: A structural solution with the ability to span large spans is required to cover the entire lobby area without hindering the movement of people and vehicles. The load-bearing columns must be intelligently arranged within the existing green belt.
- Effective shielding function: The canopy must ensure effective sun and rain protection for the entire passenger pick-up and drop-off area, and must have a reasonable slope to drain water and clean the surface.
- In harmony with the landscape: The canopy design needs to create a subtle spatial transition, maintaining a sense of curiosity and discovery for visitors as they move from the drop-off area into the main lobby.
Technical Solutions and Implementation Process
To meet the above requirements, Flexiiform proposed and implemented a comprehensive technical solution, using a sail-shaped tensile membrane structure.
Sail Structure Design (Hypar)
The chosen technical solution is a hyperbolic paraboloid (hypar) membrane structure. This shape is created by stretching a membrane between four anchor points of different heights, creating a two-dimensional curved surface that is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally superior. The natural slope of the curved surface ensures effective drainage of rainwater and self-cleaning of dirt.
Minimalist Bearing System
To minimize the structural mass, the main load-bearing system consists of single steel columns reinforced with high-strength steel cables. The columns are strategically placed within the existing green belt, helping to conceal the structure and not affect the usable space. This solution makes the structure lighter and more elegant than using complex steel beam frames. This is an effective application of Stretch canvas structure.
Engineering Materials for Coastal Environments
The enclosure material is high-grade PVDF membrane, which is UV-resistant, waterproof and durable, suitable for Hua Hin's coastal climate. The entire steel structure is surface treated with anti-corrosion and powder coated to ensure longevity. The cable system and accessories use stainless steel to resist salt corrosion.
Results and Performance Evaluation
Project Drop-off canopy After completion, the function and aesthetic value of the lobby area of Sofitel SO Hua Hin has been significantly enhanced:
- About function: Providing a lobby space that is completely sheltered from the sun and rain, creating maximum comfort and convenience for customers from the moment they arrive at the resort.
- Aesthetically: The modern, elegant sail design has become an architectural highlight, creating a luxurious and unique first impression.
- On structural efficiency: The minimalist structural solution was successfully implemented, meeting the requirements for an open, unobstructed space in harmony with the landscape.
- About operating efficiency: PVDF material has good self-cleaning ability, helping to minimize costs and effort for maintenance and cleaning, ensuring the roof always retains its new appearance.
Contact Technical Consulting
Flexiiform specializes in providing architectural design and construction solutions for tensile membranes for hotels, resorts, commercial and public projects. For detailed technical advice for your project, please contact our engineering team directly.
Contact information:
Company: Flexiiform
Website: https://flexiiform.vn
Hotline/Email: [Your contact information]
