College campuses across the company are being built with state-of-the-art technology and impressive designs. And it’s no wonder, considering the fact that when students decide on which school to attend, the campus is just as important a deciding factor as the school’s reputation for academics.
As you plan for a renovation or new construction for a college or university, you want to pull out all the stops when it comes to the design. Here are some ways in which tensile structures can be used for an educational institution.
Architectural upgrades
Dated buildings could be retrofitted with a more modern design or demolished and rebuilt from the ground up, but both options typically cost quite a bit. Or, a solution such as a tensile structure could renovate the building exterior with a fresh, new design, all without permanent construction changes. Not only is this cost-effective, but it also saves time on the facelift.
Covered walkways
Walkways help students, faculty, and visitors find their way around campus, and having some areas covered can improve aesthetics and comfort, while also creating small areas for impromptu gatherings. Fabric tensile structures are an ideal choice for providing shade and shelter from the rain in a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing manner.
Outdoor dining areas
Another excellent idea for creating a space for gathering, outdoor dining areas could also greatly benefit from a tensile structure. Tensile fabric structures can be used to define an outdoor space, provide much-needed shelter, and create a welcoming environment.
Unique design features
The main entrance to a school, university, or a certain campus building could incorporate a tensile structure to add a beautiful, colorful, or iconic personality to the building. This option can be a quick and inexpensive fix, especially when compared to more permanent solutions.
Fitness centers and sporting venues
Some campuses like to boast of their sport and fitness amenities, so why not highlight them with your design? Tension structures at the entrance or perimeter of fitness centers, gyms, and sporting venues are just as functional as they are aesthetic. Use them to call attention to your building, assist wayfinding, and create shade.
Tension structures have many benefits for educational institutions that combine form and function. Depending on the building or area you’re designing, there are unique applications in which a tensile structure can add to your project.
In the Tension Structures Division of Eide Industries, we specialize in the design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of structurally complex and creatively challenging commercial, government, and prototype design projects. We provide expertise and support for architects, landscape designers, general contractors, and property owners to develop their custom tensile membrane project ideas and construct iconic structures.
Explore the options for your next project. Contact one of our experts today by calling 800-422-6827.