2016 Archive : First Ascent Topographical Cloud

Project Details

Fabric 1

OTHER
Producer:
Supplier: OTHER

Engineer Company 1
Fabric Images, Inc.

Design Company
Fabric Images, Inc.

Fabrication Company
Fabric Images, Inc.

Subcontractor Company
Fabric Images, Inc.

Project Manager Company
Fabric Images, Inc.

Installation Company
Fabric Images, Inc.

Please describe the project specifications

Located in Chicago, First Ascent brings world class rock climbing to the community. The 25,000 sf. facility offers guests an escape from the flat Midwest plains with climbs up to 55 ft. in height. Upon entering the reception area, guests are immediately engaged with an artistic interpretation of a terrain well known to the climbing community; the Red River Gorge in Kentucky. This unique ceiling cloud combines brand personality and purpose with functionality.

What was the purpose of this project? What did the client request?

Offering the first impression of the facility, a design was requested that would lead guests on their journey. Within the expanse of the space, the form would carve out volume, lowers the ceiling, control sound and prepare guests for their entry into the climbing facility.

What is unique or complex about the project?

The design of the ceiling cloud is based on a terrain sampling within the Red River Gorge. Using an aerial elevation of the topographical mapping, a sampling was taken which formed the outline and placed the linear contours within the shape. The vertical undulation was then developed mathematically using a formula which mapped forces of imaginary lines from point to point along the perimeter. In order to enhance the flow within the space, the cloud tapers in height from front to back, directing guests from reception to the climbing facility.

While the shape and undulation offer flow within the environment, it is the materials which bring the cloud to life. A dense, high-quality felt, ranging in color from grays to oranges, offers the flexible quality to form the rugged curvatures and flowing undulations. Cut based on patterns created out of Rhino, the individual sections of material were then applied to a custom ceiling panel system through a tongue-and-groove style application.

The design application not only added to the aesthetic quality of the space, but also created a barrier to control acoustics. The density of the felt material creates a natural sound absorption surface, while a perforated pattern within the ceiling panel system scatters sound, enabling it to escape.

What were the results of the project?

Offering an escape to avid climbers, it was important that the design placed in the reception area reflect the strong, dynamic personality of the brand while welcoming guests. Through a solution that is dedicated to rock climbing and has a deep connection to the Red River Gorge, the ceiling cloud not only adds form to the space, but it enhances the experience that each guest receives.

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