It’s probably not news to hear that there’s a connection between our health and our surrounding environments – but that doesn’t just mean the impact of the climate or air quality (as examples). It also means the impact that our immediate surroundings have on our wellbeing and opportunities. So, there’s an increasing pressure on those of us in the industry to consider the “bigger picture” as we approach our projects – and embrace innovative architecture methodologies to achieve both the specifically defined project goals and the culturally implied ones.
What’s Innovative Architecture have to do with Creating Healthier Communities?
Last month, NPR reported some alarming new data that revealed how low-income urban communities are more impacted by heat than more affluent urban neighborhoods, and it really hit home for us. Shortly after, we explored the implications for the architectural and construction communities in our post: New Report Highlights Growing Concerns Over “Urban Heat Island Effect”.
But – we’re still thinking about it.
We recognize that in all the conversations we have about the benefits of tensioned fabric architecture, we talk more about energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness than the impact design can have on the end-user. So, today, we’re going to take a look into three ways innovative architecture can improve the lives of our youth (and our communities).
#1 – Urban Revitalizations
When planned with purpose, urban revitalization projects are about so much more than beautification. Today, there’s a growing focus on creating places of opportunity for local residents. This translates into more jobs and better schools – giving young people a better chance to thrive.
#2 – All-Season Sports Facilities
From learning about teamwork to getting exercise, there are countless benefits of youth sports. But, whether it’s hot desert sun or freezing winter temperatures, young people across the country are forced off the playing fields for large portions of the year because of weather. Tensioned fabric structures are ideal for creating essential shade protection at sports parks and recreational centers. For more substantial weather protection, this innovative style of architecture creates semi-permanent buildings that are perfect for sports facilities.
#3 – Parks & Safe Outdoor Spaces
In some communities, open space is plentiful, and kids can run around as much as they’d like. However, in many others, young people (and their parents) rely on local parks to get outside and experience some nature. Many landscape architects and city planners turn to tensioned fabric structures to create more functional outdoor gathering spaces that are actually used by the community and not just admired from afar.
Ultimately, the greatest benefit of incorporating innovative architecture into our communities is that it can encourage residents, especially young people, to have more balance in their lives.
Are Tensioned Fabric Structures the Right Innovative Architecture for Your Next Project?
In the Tension Structures Division of Eide Industries, we specialize in design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of structurally complex and creatively challenging commercial, government, and prototype design projects. We provide expertise and support for architects, landscape designers, general contractors, and property owners to develop their custom tensile membrane project ideas and construct iconic structures.
Explore the options for your next project. Contact one of our experts today by calling 800-422-6827.