2019 Archive : Tryon International Equestrian Center

Project Details

Fabric 1

Précontraint 1002 Formula S
Producer: Serge Ferrari North America Inc.
Supplier: Serge Ferrari North America Inc.

Design Name
Dirk Cos

Design Company
LDI

Project Manager Name
Curtis Mita

Project Manager Company
Signature Structures

Installation Name
Dennis Johnson

Installation Company
Signature Structures

Please describe the project specifications

The Tyron International Equestrian Center is one of the largest complexes of its type in the world. They were undergoing a major renovation/expansion ahead of hosting the FEI World Equestrian Games. As part of this construction, they had constructed a brand new grandstand that featured a custom designed shade structure. We were brought on as part of a larger team and tasked with designing and implementing a mounting system for the membrane atop of a steel support system designed and installed by others. We eventually designed as system that included over 1300 individual points of tension for the membrane on the enormous superstructure.

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

The purpose of the project was to provide shade for a huge grandstand overlooking an equestrian arena. The client was involved in a huge expansion to accommodate the event. The client's requirements for the project included seamless interaction with a large number of sub-contractors, timely performance with a tight timeline, and a finished product that reflected their status as one of the largest and finest equestrian centers of its type in the world.

What is unique or complex about the project?

There were many complexities to this project including very tight timelines, a large site and extremely busy worksite with multiple trades working simultaneously and requiring constant coordination. In addition, we were brought in relatively late in the project, after the steel superstructure had already been designed and fabricated. We needed to partner with our design and engineering partners to figure out a way to install the fabric membrane seamlessly and safely while working at times nearly 100 feet in the air. Lastly, the timeline was extremely tight, with completion scheduled only days away from the start of the competition.

What were the results of the project?

Our highly experienced project management team was able to design and installation system working off the drawings and specifications that were prepared prior to our involvement- a unique and complicated challenge that was accomplished successfully. Upon mobilization, our technicians were able to work seamlessly with multiple other trades to install the membrane in time for the event. The client was extremely

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