Tensile architecture systems can contribute to public spaces in positive ways by not only prioritising safety, but also aesthetics.
While these systems offer practical solutions for fall protection and security, they can also be designed in such a way to complement or even enhance existing architecture.
4 tensile architecture system applications
Here are a few examples.
1. Shade structures in public parks or playgrounds
While it might seem unlikely, stainless steel tensile mesh can offer a viable alternative to shade sail fabric, which has limited longevity for public spaces.
This was the case at the Charles Heath Reserve at Five Dock in Sydney, where Jakob Webnet mesh was used for the shade structures over the playground area.
Webnet’s practical advantages for this type of installation include resistance to corrosion, fire and weather, recyclability after use, high strength-to-weight ratio, flexibility and excellent longevity.
When it comes to aesthetics, Webnet can be enhanced in different ways with decorative elements. In this case the mesh covers have been fitted with small metal coloured plates to create a unique mosaic floral pattern.
The finished result is a series of shade sails that provide protection and shade from the sun, while looking pretty spectacular at the same time!
2. Lookout platforms
Tensile Webnet mesh is highly transparent. It can allow people to climb elevated structures in complete safety, while not obstructing the views they came to see.
An example is the circular-shaped Ned Kelly Discovery Hub in Victoria, where a Webnet barrier stretches and curves around the structure. The barrier addresses fall protection while maximising the views of the surrounding landmarks from the different levels.
Tensile worked hard to ensure the barrier design aligned with the goals of the architects, right down the smallest of details!
3. Pedestrian and cyclist bridges
The Tensile team has designed and installed many Webnet barriers on public footbridges over busy roads, railways or waterways.
These days, footbridges not only functional – they are beautifully-designed structures that incorporate elegant sculptural forms. So, when the bridge at Sydney’s Emu Plains station needed a safety barrier, we knew Webnet would be the ideal material for the job.
Webnet can amply meet the building codes for fall protection, non-climbability and crowd loads that bridges require. At the same time, it is light and subtle in appearance, and allows for views as people walk or cycle across.
The completed bridge demonstrates how safety and elegance don’t have to be mutually exclusive when it comes to tensile mesh barriers.
4. Elevated gardens
Another benefit of tensile mesh is how it can be used as a trellis support system for greenery, while still meeting safety codes for a barrier.
A unique example of this is the elevated Sky Park in Melbourne’s Docklands district. In this case Webnet barriers, rated for C5-crowd loads, surround the park’s edge while acting as a support structure for a series of climbing plants.
The completed green barriers provide multiple benefits. These include fall protection, shade, views over the city, and subtly dappled light. They also simply look pretty fantastic!
Give us a call to find out more about tensile architectural systems or to discuss your next project.
