Bristol is a city in the midst of regeneration, its architectural footprint rampantly swelling alongside its population. The commercial Dovercourt development of prestigious flats in the centre of the city had to really pull out the stops to make its mark.
We delivered a phased programme of works. Initially, two tensile fabric barrel vault structures were erected to provide coverage over the show flat. They delivered impact and crucial wow factor during the early marketing when first impressions really count.
It was nearly eight months before the entire site was literally transformed as the phase two canopy was installed. The earlier structures almost paled in comparison. Two of the main supporting head rings float via a suspended ‘flying’ mast system, with the canopy tensioned and constrained at the perimeter by a series of cables and membrane plates. A rainwater catchment system ensures residents remain dry in the courtyard below, even in the most inclement weather.
Covering an area approximately 45m x 20m, this magnificent, single-piece triple cone membrane has scale, complexity and ingenuity.
Our client required a tensile fabric roof structure to their new creche being built as part of The Hub development at Doncaster college.
We designed, manufactured and installed the fabric canopy roof structure, which included the fabric membrane, steelwork and associated fittings
The tensile structure not only acts as a roof but is also an impressive feature adding style to the development.
The new Digital Technium building at Swansea University required a terrace canopy to the 5th floor Science and Technology department which needed to be both functional and aesthetic.
We designed, manufactured and installed the inverted barrel vault structure, including the fabric, branch-frame steelwork and associated fittings. This project was great to work on as it is a perfect example of a classic tensile structure. It went in well and on time for the buildings opening.
The fabric structure provides a sheltered terrace area and is a dynamic addition to the futuristic impact of the building.
Working directly for the client, Base Structures were asked to replace the existing multi-cone tensile structure which was damaged during a severe local weather event.
Our design department replicated the original architectural design for the tensile fabric and changed some of the detailing to ensure it would no longer be liable to damage.Our installation team spent two weeks on site, de-rigging the old and then reinstalling the new canopy. During this period we successfully managed the interface with the public so that as little inconvenience as possible was encountered by public and shop keepers alike.
A visually stunning and practical, weather tight canopy structure that adds to the sophistication that is Dalton Park.
Located in Crown Square, Manchester, this 196m2 single inclined conic fabric canopy structure was to feature as the latest part of the Spinningfields development – an area that is fast becoming known as the ‘Canary Warf of the North’. By providing both a focal point and shelter for outdoor events, the tensile fabric canopy needed to lend an entirely new identity to an area surrounded by tall, modern buildings.
Highlighting the benefits of using tensile fabric structures for exterior performance areas, this bespoke fabric canopy structure demonstrates the versatility, practicality and aesthetic possibilities of tensile fabric for extending the use of public spaces. Designed to fit onto existing foundations located at different levels, the undulating fabric perimeter and inclined steelwork present a lively aesthetic in keeping with the vitality of the wider location.
Running for a number of weeks during the month of June, Creative Common was a creative initiative in the heart of the city of Bristol showcasing a spectacular array of music, performers and artists, coupled with bars and eateries. Base is proud to have played its part in supplying a PVC canopy to WH Bence, working on behalf of Inside Out Events, for The Goods Yard container bar as well as three yurt structures for Tipi Events.
The Goods Yard bar was creatively imagined with two industrial containers serving an open-air decking area. We manufactured a PVC fabric canopy to envelope and extend from the containers to create a sheltered alfresco drinking area, allowing customers to enjoy the facilities whatever the weather. Base also manufactured the fabric roofs and sidewalls for three traditional yurts in the Creative Common area.
The cultural installation opened with the critically acclaimed BIANCO circus. Esther O’Callaghan OBE, Acting Creative Producer for Creative Common commented “Creative Common 2013 will showcase the best of Bristol and welcome artists and audiences both local and international to the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone in a clear demonstration of how creativity can bring these public spaces to life”.
Our brief was to install a tensile fabric entrance canopy to the Ashley Down college building as part of the re-development at the site. The tensile structure needed to provide not only a dramatic and welcoming entrance but it also needed to be a functional sheltered area for students to congregate or as a meeting point.
We designed, manufactured and installed the entrance canopy, including fabric, supporting steel structure and associated fittings.
Our brief was to build a sun shade shelter and feature for the recreational terrace at the Cardiff children’s hospital. The tensile fabric structure needed to provide a sheltered area for outdoor eating and patient relaxation.
We designed, manufactured and installed the series of PVC sails including the supporting steel structures and rigging cables. A large part of the installation of this project was by rope access at high level. Thorough planning and pre site preparation ensured a smooth and successful installation
Designers MC Squared asked us to design, manufacture and install two canopies located at the 02 Arena for their client Brandwidth. One tensile canopy consisted of an inverted cone fitted to the underside of the existing services towers. The other was a freestanding conical canopy supported on a central mast and perimeter tripods.
Our scope of works included the membranes, supporting steel and fittings including the cables to support climbing ivy.
The transformation of the service tower was visually dramatic and enhanced the very popular venue. The client went on to propose additional structures on the site and at other venues.
We were asked to build a circus tent for a new development at Bioscope Leisure Park in Alsace, France, called the Learning Zone. This colourful fabric structure provides a fun and interactive learning environment.
Our scope of works included the design and manufacture of the PVC fabric tent, steelwork and associated fittings. We also supervised and helped our client with the installation.
in Bristol
