In the last two centuries, the concept of tensile architecture has evolved in the Eastern hemisphere, where architects and engineers initially applied the principles of tensioned construction to tents and suspension bridges. Since the 1950s, tensile architecture has become more rigorously analyzed and has benefitted from steady technological progress, contributing to its increasing popularity on a global scale and its introduction to the North American architectural/engineering community.
Ronstan Tensile Architecture is based in Melbourne,Australia, and manufactures tensile cables, rods and bars for many of the continent’s impressive tensile structures. As an established specialty contractor expanding into the U.S. market, Ronstan is influencing the presence of overseas tensile trends in North American architecture.
Green Benefits of Tensile Architecture
Tensile architecture offers a variety of benefits, including functional, sustainable and aesthetic enhancements. For instance, hanging lighting schemes, vertical gardens and decorative signage are some of the many functions that tensile structures can serve. Depending on the application, tensile structures can provide fall protection and exterior shading as well as secure enclosures.
To address sustainability issues, tensile structures can be designed to increase green space while reducing the urban heat island effect. Additionally tensile architecture incorporates lightweight components that can lessen foundation requirements, reduce energy use during installation and require minimal long-term maintenance. By incorporating vegetation, fabric mesh, floating panels or other materials, tensile structures can also offer a shading system with aesthetic appeal.
International Influence
Formerly an official AFL stadium, Whitten Oval in Footscray, Australia, showcases a sustainable tensile façade that was installed during a redevelopment of the facility. Peddle Thorp Architects, Melbourne, approached Ronstan Tensile Architecture to assist in creating the exterior of the new stadium entrance. The scope of work required Ronstan to manufacture, supply and install a cable net, suspended panels and the associated hardware to provide shading and aesthetic appeal. The façade accents the entrance to Whitten Oval and extends from the first floor to the roof, displaying floating panels in the home team’s colors.
More recently, Ronstan lent its expertise to tensile applications in the United Sattes, including an outdoor canopy installation at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, Texas. The new 160,000-square-foot (14,864-m2) complex presented a challenge for architect of record Richter Architects, of Corpus Christi-to create the quintessential heart of campus for Del Mar. Richter Architects aimed to create a social environment for students that offer shading as well as a central gathering place. The project team partnered with Ronstan to install a large tensile canopy that spans the space between two campus buildings, creating a unique aesthetic and functional environment.
Peter Katcha is the vice president, architectural for Ronstan Tensile Architecture. For more information, visit www.ronstantensilearch.com.