Project overview: Construction of lobby canopy at Central Plaza Building
Project Covered reception hall at Central Plaza Building is a tensile membrane architectural solution specifically designed to meet the strict requirements of load and construction conditions on the existing structure. The project uses a super light structural system, both ensuring the shielding function for the lobby area and creating a modern and elegant architectural highlight for the building's facade.
- Investor: Central Plaza (Central Pattana Group)
- Category: Canopy for lobby area and connecting walkway
- Structure: Hypar tensile membrane system with cable-supported boom structure
- Main materials: PVDF stretch film, steel structure, high strength steel cable
- Location: Bangkok, Thailand (Assumption)
Technical Requirements Analysis & Project Context
The project was implemented on an existing structure, thus facing many specific technical limitations and challenges:
- Load restrictions: The existing balcony structure was not designed to support the additional heavy load from a traditional roofing system (concrete, glass). Therefore, the new solution had to have a minimum self-weight.
- Space limitations: The area below the canopy is another walkway, so using large columns or beams to support it from below is not feasible.
- Compact structure requirements: The structural solution must be both physically light and visually elegant, avoiding creating a heavy feeling for the existing architectural facade.
- Effective shielding function: The canopy must have a large enough extension to effectively protect the lobby and walkways from rain and sun, and prevent rain from splashing into the main use space.
Technical Solutions and Implementation Process
To simultaneously solve the above complex problems, Flexiiform has come up with a smart technical solution, taking advantage of the advantages of tensile membrane architecture.
Cable Supported Lever Structure Design
The core technical solution is a structural system consisting of steel outriggers extending from the existing balcony boundary. Due to the thin cross-section of the balcony, which is not capable of withstanding large bending moments, these outriggers are supported by a system of high-strength steel cables suspended from anchor points on the upper floors. This solution effectively transfers the roof load to the main load-bearing structure of the building without the need for supporting columns below, completely freeing up the space for walkways.
Hypar Stretch Film with Fixed Edge
The tensile membrane is designed in the form of a hyperbolic paraboloid (hypar). One edge of the membrane is directly and continuously attached to the edge of the balcony (Fixed Edge attachment). The remaining corners are stretched to the ends of the lever system. This design not only creates a beautiful architectural shape, but also ensures tension and stability for the membrane surface, helping to drain water effectively.
Lightweight and Sustainable Materials
The tensile membrane material is PVDF, which is lightweight but has high tensile strength. The frame and arm system uses structural steel with anti-corrosion surface treatment. The cable and accessory system uses stainless steel to ensure longevity in outdoor environments. This combination creates an ultra-light roofing system that perfectly meets the load requirements. This is a smart application of Stretch canvas structure.
Results and Performance Evaluation
Project Covered reception hall at Central Plaza successfully solved complex technical challenges, providing an optimal solution in all aspects:
- Technically: The ultra-lightweight structural solution has been successfully installed on a structure with limited load capacity, demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of the solution.
- About function: Provides effective sun and rain protection for the lobby and walkways, enhancing customer comfort.
- About space: Maintain a clear, unobstructed space in the aisle below, meeting traffic and safety requirements.
- Aesthetically: The new project creates a modern, elegant architectural highlight, enhancing the value and elegance of the building's facade.
Contact Technical Consulting
Flexiiform specializes in providing solutions for the design and construction of tensile membrane architecture, especially for renovation projects or installations on existing structures with complex technical requirements. For detailed advice on your project, please contact our engineering team directly.
Contact information:
Company: Flexiiform
Website: https://flexiiform.vn
Hotline/Email: [Your contact information]
