The Cloud: Queens Wharf, Auckland | RWC 2011 Event Centre
By Fabric Structures
The design of the Cloud was a collaborative effort between Fabric Structures & Jasmax Architects. Although Queens Wharf dictated the shape & size of the structure, the Cloud’s sculptural shape was the result of extensive modelling & form finding.
To efficiently achieve the Cloud’s shape, we adopted a standard truss shape that was oscillated up and down, around a virtual centre line. The variation in wall heights could then efficiently be achieved with varying height columns.
The project presented many challenges for us. The tight program meant that fabrication of steel had to start, before the full design was completed. Over half the structure was standing by the time the design of the mezzanine was concluded. There were numerous design changes that had to be accommodated late in the piece, which pushed every one hard because of the fixed completion date. The design of the mezzanine area & incorporation of all the elements (eg, 3 sets of stairs, lift, bracing, services, air-conditioning plant etc) proved extremely challenging. Due to the high loads of the mezzanine columns, their set out had to co-ordinated with the existing wharf piles, all the while trying to achieve as much column free space on the ground floor as possible. With a changing client brief, we went through numerous design & engineering iterations before settling on the final design.
Full details are on our website.
Client: Auckland Council
Fabric Type: ETFE, PVC- Outer Serge Ferrari 1002 T2, PVC Liners – Serge Ferrari 802 S2 - Mezzanine
Function: Architectural design for RWC 2011 – Party Central
Scope of Work: Concept, Design & Build
Location: Queens Wharf, Auckland, NZ
Size: 178.5m x 21m (3,400sqm)
Completion: 9th August 2011
Products used in
The Cloud: Queens Wharf, Auckland | RWC 2011 Event Centre
Professionals used in
The Cloud: Queens Wharf, Auckland | RWC 2011 Event Centre
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Fabric Structures
About the
Professional
Fabric Structures Ltd specialises in the design and fabrication of bespoke architectural and event structures. We provide internal and external expertise on a wide range of materials including PVC - solid, PVC - mesh, Metal Mesh, PTFE & ETFE. We are also the local distributors for a range of architectural membrane products.
From fixed frame canopies, cable tensioned structures, insulated enclosures and facades, we deliver fabric solutions for commercial buildings, aquatic centres, outdoor sport and recreation spaces, events and exhibitions, across a range of sectors.
Our highly-skilled, multidisciplinary team (based across two sites in Whangarei and West Auckland), provides expertise across every aspect of production, from a technical understanding of specialist textiles, best practice design/engineering processes, building consent applications, through to project delivery.
Innovation is at the heart of our culture, demonstrated through our award-winning bespoke local and international solutions, ranging from purpose-built architect-led solutions to internal design-led fabric structures and facades.
At Fabric Structures, we collaborate with other industry-leading experts, including architects, specialist tensile engineers, leading fabric suppliers, steel fabricators, local civil contractors and professional riggers.
"Big enough to execute with excellence, but small enough to know you."
We build sustainable working relationships with our clients, collaborating closely with them to understand their needs and issues so that we can provide the best solutions.