Company:
Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Merrimack, NH

Project Details

Fabric 1

OTHER
Producer: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corp.
Supplier: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corp.


Engineer Company 1
Walter P. Moore

Architect Company
Populous

Fabrication Company
FabriTec Structures LLC

Project Manager Company
Mortenson Construction


Please describe the project specifications

A new SHEERFILL product - SHEERFILL ILLUMINATE 28 - was used to create the facade that wraps the new home of MN United Football Club. A special silver version was manufactured for this project. This PTFE-laminated glass fabric was selected to provide a transparent yet weatherproof facade to the stadium.


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

The client wanted a unique, stunning stadium that reflected the beauty of Minnesota, using a unique material and approach, that would invite fans in and still protect them from the elements. The stadium not only projects a unique and readily identifiable facade to these fans, it also aids in creating an intimate setting for them and their team.


What is unique or complex about the project?

The use of a pigmented coating, coupled with transparent films allows for both color and natural translucency not attainable with other materials or constructions. Colored materials are either opaque, or the colors are cast upon the occupants of the structure - neither of which would be acceptable at Allianz Field. The ability to deliver high strength for longer free spans while keeping translucency and transparency at the required levels is the key feature that separates ILLUMINATE from traditional SHEERFILL materials.


What were the results of the project?

The stadium is stunning, and has garnered attention from across the US and the world. The design and execution are an unquestionable success. The client - MNUFC ownership - has delivered a world class stadium to their fans, and an economic boon to the area.


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