TENSILE FABRIC AMPHITHEATRE, SLIMBRIDGE WWT
In 2016 Slimbridge WWT received £4.5m National Lottery Heritage Funding towards a £6m project to add new inspirational and immersive wildlife experiences to the centre. ARC was instructed to deliver the Living Wetland Theatre & Waterscapes Aviary – the largest exhibit, dedicated to engaging visitors in wetland conservation.
BRIEF
A 380-seat open air Living Wetland Theatre was phase 2 of the project. The aim of the exhibit was to create a amphitheatre environment under a fabric canopy. The canopy was specifically designed using tensioned fabric membrane to recreate the wingspan of a bird. Visitors to Slimbridge could then watch a display with birds flying overhead under the fabric canopy, while they discover how each bird is adapted to the wetlands.
OUTCOME
ARC designed, engineered, fabricated, and installed a 6m span PVC coated polyester bespoke canopy tensioned between galvanised steel cantilevered frames. The dramatic bespoke tensile membrane was designed to emulate the wingspan of a large bird.
Together, the new structures create a commanding impact on the Slimbridge skyline. Flanked by the huge aviary, the tensile amphitheatre canopy provides a stunning architectural focal point that perfectly complements both its surroundings and its new inhabitants.
‘We recently worked with Arc Structures on the new Waterscapes Aviary and Living Wetland Theatre canopy at WWT Slimbridge. I found them to be very responsive during both the design process and delivery of the works – we know we can be a fussy client and Andy paid great attention to detail on the design and ensuring we were happy with the final product. I would have no hesitation in approaching Arc again when we are planning our next tensile structure.’