Innovative Canopy Designs at Westown Square
Of the many unique features at Westown Square, two that stand out are the‘ Bowl’ and feature canopies. LEAF Structures was approached by MDS Architecture and Boogertman + Partners to help develop and build these two elements.
The feature canopy acts as a link between the double volume barn structure, the second story retail and the open outdoor play area. To bring these different elements together, the architects envisaged a curved, floating canopy supported by tree like branching columns. The‘ Bowl’ canopy covers the stage area in the amphitheater and improves the acoustic performance for future concerts and shows.
Stage Canopy
Design Development Based off the initial architectural rendering, LEAF collaborated with the architectural team to further develop a wavy, tipped geometry that could be sheeted and clad with wooden panels. An efficient free form geometry was then developed based on the cladding requirements and then the column locations were finalised to evenly distribute the structural stress throughout the upper free form steelwork.
Cladding Limitations The structure was sized based on the sheeting modules. Sheeting was cold bent in the weak axis to create the undulating form. Two plywood panel boards were installed per segmented section, creating the ceiling for the feature canopy. For the‘ Bowl’ stage canopy, additional plate supports were provided on the grid shell steel structure to support the acoustic panels. LEAF paid special attention to the interface details between structure and cladding, ensuring harmonious canopies.
Rendering Courtesy Of MDS Architecture
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