Company:
Birdair Inc Amherst, NY

Project Details

Fabric 1

Sheerfill II
Producer: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corp.


Engineer Company 1
Parson Brinckerhoff / Simon Wong Engineering

Design Company
Demattei Wong Architecture

Architect Company
Demattei Wong Architecture

Fabrication Company
Birdair, Inc.

Subcontractor Company
Birdair, Inc.

Graphics Company
N/A

Project Manager Company
Birdair, Inc.

Installation Company
Birdair, Inc.


Please describe the project specifications

To design, fabricate and install 16,700 square feet of PTFE fiberglass membrane inverted cones to create coverage and shade for travelers seeking rental cars at the San Diego International Airport.


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

Architecture firm Demattei Wong Architecture, Parsons Brinckerhoff / Simon Wong engineering, and general contractor Austin / Sundt joint venture worked to complete the new car rental center. They determined something special was needed to make the rental car center beautiful and unique while providing weather protection for the curbside walkways. So they turned to Birdair to oversee the design, fabrication, supply and installation of the PTFE membrane, clamping, cables and structural supporting steel.


What is unique or complex about the project?

Not only do the 17 new inverted cone structures create an iconic look for the Rental Car Center, but they are also extremely functional in creating a central hub for the airport’s rental car companies. PTFE fiberglass is a uniquely versatile building material, physically and geometrically, and truly brings the potential of tensile membrane to life for this project.


What were the results of the project?

Birdair was able to achieve the architect's vision through the design, fabrication and installation of a series of inverted PTFE cones providing guests with relief from the San Diego’s famous sunshine.


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