Winner 2022

Award for
structural elegance through integrated design and construction

Project Description

At over 75,000m2, this is the largest timber structure in Asia. This series of five vaults use unique Vierendeel-inspired trusses which are a hybrid of timber chords and steel webbing, achieving clear spans up to 110m and heights up to 44m. The unique wave of the building ensemble blends gently into the landscape, but also provided challenges for the engineering team in order to materialise the architectural scheme into a bold project on a very tight schedule.

Judge’s comments

The design of the vierendeel-inspired timber chord and steel webbing structure with ETFE membranes is aesthetically pleasing and seemingly melts into the surrounding environment. Thoughtful detailing of the unique shear-key connection is innovative and able to withstand seismic force. 

Computational design aided the geometry design process. An integrated workflow enabled the design data to be directly used by the manufacturer, streamlining the processes of fabrication ensuring clear communication. The CNC manufacturing process further increased the accuracy of assembly of all components and ensured an efficient erection process with minimised wastage. 

Efficient, thoughtful and collaborative engineering at its best.

Project overview

Structural Designer

  • StructureCraft and China Architecture Design & Research Group

Client Name

  • Sichuan TianFu Agriculture Expo Investment Ltd.

Location

  • Chengdu, China

Architect

  • China Architecture Design & Research Group

Principal Contractor

  • Beijing Urban Construction Group Co Ltd.

Key Contractors

  • Mule Studio – Parametric Design Consultant

    Hasslacher Norica Timber – Manufacturer

Year Submitted

  • 2022

Key attributes

  • People, Process