Famous Examples of Tensile Structures
Tensile structures are marvels of engineering and architecture, showcasing the perfect blend of strength, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal. From iconic stadiums to breathtaking pavilions, these structures rely on tensioned membranes or cables to create lightweight yet durable frameworks. Here at Collinson Tensile, we love nothing more than seeing the application of tensile fabric structures, so in this article, we’ll explore some of our favourite famous tension structure examples, delve into their history, and examine their applications across architecture and engineering.
A Brief History of Tensile Structures
Tensile structures date back centuries, with early examples like tents and sails showcasing the potential of tension in construction. Modern tensile architecture began to flourish in the mid-20th century, thanks to innovations in materials like high-strength fabrics and cables. Architects such as Frei Otto, a pioneer in tensile design, pushed the boundaries with projects like the 1972 Munich Olympic Stadium, proving that tensile structures could be functional and visually stunning.
Types of Structures with Tension Membranes
Tensile structures are incredibly versatile and are used in various applications, including:
- Stadiums and Arenas: Clear-span roofs that cover large areas without internal support.
- Pavilions and Exhibition Halls: Lightweight, portable solutions for temporary or permanent events.
- Transportation Hubs: Canopies for airports, train stations, and bus terminals.
- Shade Structures: Coverings for parks, plazas, and outdoor spaces.
- Industrial Applications: Warehouses and storage facilities with clear-span designs.
Modern-Day Famous Architectural Examples of Tensile Structures
Architects and engineers often use tensile structures to create visually striking designs that also serve practical purposes. Below are 10 famous examples from around the world.
1. Munich Olympic Stadium (Munich, Germany)
- Built: 1972
- Description: Designed by Frei Otto, this stadium features a stunning tensile roof made of acrylic glass supported by steel cables. Its translucent canopy covers the stadium, swimming hall, and other facilities, embodying lightweight elegance.
2. Millennium Dome (London, UK)
- Built: 1999
- Description: Now known as The O2, the Millennium Dome is a massive tensile structure with a steel framework supporting a tensioned PTFE-coated glass-fibre roof. Its iconic circular design makes it one of the largest domed tensile structures globally.
3. Denver International Airport Canopy (Denver, USA)
- Built: 1995
- Description: The iconic roof of Denver Airport resembles snow-capped peaks, reflecting Colorado’s mountainous terrain. It uses a PTFE-coated fibreglass membrane supported by steel cables to create a durable and weather-resistant canopy.
4. Eden Project Biomes (Cornwall, UK)
- Built: 2001
- Description: The hexagonal tensile membrane covering the Eden Project’s Biomes provides a lightweight and energy-efficient enclosure for diverse ecosystems. ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) foil is tensioned over steel frames, ensuring maximum light transmission.
5. Burj Al Arab (Dubai, UAE)
- Built: 1999
- Description: The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel features a striking tensile fabric façade on its seaward side. This PTFE-coated fibreglass membrane is tensioned between the hotel’s steel exoskeleton, giving it its distinctive appearance.
6. Beijing National Stadium (Beijing, China)
- Built: 2008
- Description: Known as the Bird’s Nest, this stadium features a tensile roof system using ETFE membranes for weatherproofing. The structure’s iconic design integrates tensioned materials for lightweight durability.
7. The Louvre Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi, UAE)
- Built: 2017
- Description: Designed by Jean Nouvel, the Louvre Abu Dhabi features a unique tensile roof structure composed of a steel framework and overlapping aluminium and stainless steel panels. This “floating dome” creates a stunning “rain of light” effect, blending traditional design with modern tensile engineering.
8. Allianz Arena (Munich, Germany)
- Built: 2005
- Description: The home of Bayern Munich, the Allianz Arena is an architectural marvel featuring a tensile ETFE membrane façade. The panels are tensioned over a steel framework, allowing the stadium to change colours depending on the team playing or event hosted. This innovative use of tensile materials provides weather resistance while creating one of the most recognisable stadium exteriors in the world.
9. Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center (Astana, Kazakhstan)
- Built: 2010
- Description: Designed by Norman Foster, this massive tensile structure serves as a climate-controlled entertainment and shopping complex. Its ETFE roof is suspended from a central steel mast and tensioned by cables, allowing it to withstand extreme temperatures while maintaining a stunning visual profile.
10. SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, USA)
- Built: 2020
- Description: Home to the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, SoFi Stadium features a translucent ETFE tensile roof supported by a massive steel structure. The lightweight tensile membrane allows natural light while providing weather protection, making it a standout architectural and engineering feat.
Historic Architectural Examples of Tensile Structures
Tensile structures have a fascinating history, with groundbreaking designs that combine innovation and functionality, laying the foundation for modern tensile architecture. Although many of these historic structures no longer stand, their influence on engineering and design continues to inspire. Here are 7 examples of historic tensile structures that are no longer standing today.
1. The Philips Pavilion (Brussels, Belgium)
- Built: 1958
- Demolished: 1959
- Description: Designed by Le Corbusier and Iannis Xenakis for Expo 58, the Philips Pavilion was a futuristic combination of steel and fabric tension. Its steel framework supported a tensioned membrane that created dramatic curves and slopes, resulting in a striking architectural statement. Although it was temporary, its innovative use of materials made it a significant milestone in tensile architecture.
2. The Expo 67 German Pavilion (Montreal, Canada)
- Built: 1967
- Demolished: 1968
- Description: Designed by Frei Otto, the German Pavilion for Expo 67 in Montreal was a pioneering example of tensile architecture. A lightweight steel frame supported a tensioned fabric roof made of a translucent membrane. Its modular design and ease of assembly highlighted the practicality and visual appeal of tensile structures.
3. The United States Pavilion (Expo 70, Osaka, Japan)
- Built: 1970
- Demolished: Post-exhibition
- Description: This pavilion was another example of a tensile structure at Expo 70, featuring a steel frame and a tensioned fabric roof. Its architectural simplicity and lightweight design were perfect for the temporary nature of the exhibition.
4. Shukhov Rotunda (Nizhny Novgorod, Russia)
- Built: 1896
- Demolished: 1920s
- Description: Designed by Vladimir Shukhov for the All-Russian Industrial and Art Exhibition, the Shukhov Rotunda was an early example of tensile engineering. This groundbreaking structure featured a lattice steel framework supporting a fabric membrane roof, creating a lightweight and expansive design. Its innovative use of tensioned materials demonstrated how tensile systems could achieve both strength and elegance, influencing future developments in architecture and engineering.
Legacy of Steel and Fabric Tensile Structures
These historic examples represent key innovations in tensile architecture, combining the strength of steel frameworks with the lightweight flexibility of fabric membranes. Though many were temporary, they demonstrated the potential for tensile systems to create expansive, visually stunning spaces while minimising material use. Their influence can still be seen in modern tensile architecture, where steel and fabric remain a popular pairing for creating dynamic and efficient structures.
Why Tensile Structures Are So Popular
Tensile structures are renowned for their efficiency, sustainability, and visual appeal. The lightweight nature of tensioned membranes reduces material usage, while their translucency enhances natural light, cutting energy costs. Additionally, these structures offer unparalleled design flexibility, making them suitable for applications ranging from industrial warehouses to iconic landmarks.
Conclusion
Tensile structures continue to inspire architects and engineers worldwide, blending functionality with stunning aesthetics. From the sweeping roofs of stadiums to the delicate canopies of cultural landmarks, these structures demonstrate the power of tension in creating innovative designs. Whether for architectural beauty or industrial utility, tension structures remain a symbol of modern engineering excellence.