ARCHITECTURE GRADUATE
THE GREENHOUSE +
THE GRIDSHELL
Special Topics in Architecture 2022
Tensile Fabric Structures
Instructor - Mauricio Soto Rubio
Collaborators - Wesley Tran, Veronique Ulrich
Location - Cochrane, AB
Software - Rhino, Grasshopper, Illustrator, Enscape
This project explores the design of a low-impact structure which allows for the creation of complex shapes, using a minimum amount of material. A community garden and greenhouse space located in the city of Cochrane, Alberta - this gridshell structure is designed with flexibility in mind, being able to be taken down and re-erected with ease.
With the extensive use of ETFE cushion cladding, it acts as an emblem of innovation with regards to high-tech and low-impact materiality.
AERIAL VIEW
COMMUNITY SPACE / GROWING SPACE
why ETFE?
It is lightweight, weighing around 2-3 kh/m2 on average with aluminum connections
It has excellent insulation qualities: U value of 1.9W/m2 K
It has high light transmission: a single wall has a light permeability of 85-90%
It has high elasticity: it maintains structural resistance while being able to expand by up to 600%
It is self cleaning: particulates and dust do no stick to its surface
It has a long life span: more than 25 years due to its durability against UV, air pollution and environmental conditions
