A tensile fabric structure comprises a tensioned fabric membrane roof supported by structure usually made of steel, aluminium or timber. Tensile Fabric Structures (Lightweight) structures are architectural and engineering creations known for their low mass compared to the applied loads. They encompass various forms such as tensile structures, frame-supported structures, air-supported structures, air-inflated structures, cable net structures, cable-and-strut structures (also called tensegrity), geodesic dome structures, and grid shells. These structures are celebrated for their material efficiency and are widely used in architecture and engineering due to their ability to offer strength and stability while keeping weight to a minimum, making them versatile for various applications.

Integrating tensile structures with regular buildings involves a strategic approach to seamlessly combine architectural and structural elements. They can be used as curtain walls either as building cladding for atriums or courtyards in intense solar regions or as shading systems in conjunction with glass curtain walls. They can be used as canopies that join on the outside of buildings to give flair at entrances and as covered walkways. They can be stand alone pavilions that act as objects in the streetscape. They not only provide shelter but also introduce natural light and enhance the aesthetics of a building.

The natural states of pure tension and pure compression are the most efficient in building physics. This means the least amount of material is required to build these structures, saving the earth's precious resources for future generations. Tension structures are buildings that are being pulled rather than squeezed like compression structures. They require considerable foundations to hold them down, but defy gravity both in their forms and in their structure. This gives the Architect a whole new vocabulary of shapes and forms to work with. However, tension structures must always be in tension; if any part of the structure goes into compression, the structure loses strength. Almost all tensile structures have finite elements in compression such as columns, portal frames and truss arches.

This can vary depending on the design and specification of the materials and on other factors such as maintenance, cleaning and location. Typically, a PVC membrane would last around 20-25 years and a PTFE structure would last in excess of 30 years. Fabric technology, design and manufacturing techniques are advancing all the time and we’re seeing the lifespans of tensile structures increase as a result.

Tensile fabric structures are inherently sustainable due to their material efficiency, which minimises resource usage and environmental impact. They enhance energy efficiency by allowing natural light penetration, reducing the need for artificial lighting and providing thermal regulation. Their adaptability and potential for disassembly and reuse contribute to extended lifespans, reducing the demand for new construction. For more information, read our "4 Sustainable Advantages Of Tensile Fabric Structures" blog.

Various fabric materials are used in the construction of tensile fabric structures, each chosen for its specific characteristics and suitability for the intended application. At J & J Carter we use four different types, PVC coated Polyester, PVC coated Glass Fibre, Silcone coated Glass Fabric, and PTFE coated Glass Fabric. For more information on the different types of materials, visit our Tensile Fabric Materials page which breaks down each fabric and provides a helpful comparison graph.

The design process is similar to conventional buildings however the design process for tensile fabric structures is specialised, with a strong emphasis on form, fabric properties, and unique engineering considerations. It is important to have initial loads for the foundations early on during the Design Development Phase of the Project. This means the design of the tensile structures should start in Schematics or at the beginning of the Design Development Phase. The construction of the structure occurs off-site (since it is prefabricated), and is installed towards the end of a conventional building project. Installation on site is generally a short period.