Company:
Tropical J's Inc. Honolulu, HI

Project Details

Fabric 1

Comtex
Producer: Polyfab USA
Supplier: Trivantage LLC


Engineer Name 1
Ian N. Robertson, PhD, P.E.

Engineer Company 1
INR

Design Name
Gary Barnes / Jordan Barnes

Design Company
Tropical J's

Architect Name
Bill Brizee

Architect Company
Architects Hawai'i, Limited

Fabrication Name
Adam Murell, Tara Cabral, Ola Mahuiki

Fabrication Company
Tropical J's

Project Manager Name
Justin Barnes

Project Manager Company
Tropical J's

Installation Name
Alwin Lacar

Installation Company
Tropical J's


Please describe the project specifications

A free-standing tensile structure with three inter-locking Hypars installed into a custom framework above a mixed-use stage. Implied movement is integrated into the artistic fabric shade sails through creative design and fluid fabric assembly where elegant form meets practical function. Integrated lighting and speakers make the stage area accessible both day and night, inviting patrons to enjoy the leisure of the Ohana gathering place.


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

A free-standing tensile structure with three inter-locking Hypars installed into a custom framework above a mixed-use stage. Implied movement is integrated into the artistic fabric shade sails through creative design and fluid fabric assembly where elegant form meets practical function. Integrated lighting and speakers make the stage area accessible both day and night, inviting patrons to enjoy the leisure of the Ohana gathering place.


What is unique or complex about the project?

The most unique and complex component to this structure is the fluid design pattern in the fabric shade sails that seemingly runs cohesively through the multiple membranes. This technique is achieved through laborious 3D CAD design and talented craftsmanship in manufacturing. From either a bird’s eye view above, or looking up from directly underneath the installation, the pattern appears to be flow seamlessly. Essentially, our intent was to generate positional perspective art through fabric. It's a very cool and unique effect that we are pioneering to break the monotony of single color installations.


What were the results of the project?

The center court structure immediately became a focal point of activities for the Town Center of Mililani and a place of entertainment for their customers and guests. The foresight to include lighting, power, and speakers in the columns allows management the flexibility to use the structure for any event, including musical performances, Hula dancing, wining / dining, et cetera. Our vision is to “Protect our Ohana, Rain or Shine,” and we are extremely proud of another beautiful project that exceeded our client’s expectations.


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