Sep 25 2007
American Spaceframe Fabricators International (ASFI) has entered into an agreement to design, fabricate and construct a 60,000 square foot covered seating area at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's (ASO) new Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, expected to open in May 2008.
Working with KKE Architects, Inc., ASFI designed and fabricated a shelter that meets the visual, acoustic and structural needs for the amphitheatre. The structure's design plan calls for a distinctive, refined quality that is sure to raise the patron's concert experience while also sheltering the 7,000-seat audience from the elements.
"Our vision for Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre was to create an aesthetically appealing and acoustically sound environment that reflects the artistic nature of the venue for all of our patrons," said Don Fox, chief financial officer of the ASO and chief executive in charge of the amphitheatre project. "ASFI took our structural and economic needs into account and brought our architectural design to life. The new amphitheatre covering is a structure we can not only be proud of, but more importantly, that also communicates the ASO's voice."
The structure consists of a translucent fabric roof covering and is a steel framed structural system made of box truss girders and columns that are set approximately 65 feet above the seating area. Characterized by a slight upward flare at the end, the roof has become the amphitheatre's visual signature and communicates the artistic feel the ASO had envisioned when it commissioned KKE Architects from the outset.
The covering's framework also provides necessary functional requirements. Comprised of high-strength galvanized tubular steel, the framing requires no costly welding. Additionally, weight loads exceed requirements to accommodate future lighting needs.
ASFI's experience designing and building numerous entertainment facilities, including the Ford Amphitheatre at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, is reflected in key aspects of design execution. For example, the roof is comprised of a translucent fabric that allows 15 to 20 percent of the natural light to filter through - providing an even light during the daytime hours while protecting patrons from harmful UV rays. Additionally, the fabric roof is structured so that precipitation acts as a cleaning agent helping maintain the roof's clean white profile.
"At ASFI, we recognize that each project has its unique requirements," said Tim Nee, vice president of architectural sales for ASFI. "Our strength is being able to help our clients articulate and translate those needs into a usable structure - whether is intended to serve a functional purpose, serve as an extension of their brand or a combination of both. The Verizon Wireless Amphitheater is a perfect example of our capabilities."