Design Miami/ 2008

Eventstar Structures, Miami, Fla., United States

The purpose of this project was to design and manufacture an innovative venue space for Design Miami/ 2008. This temporary structure housed more than 25 design galleries in a single 43,000 sq ft space during the fair in Miami, Fla.

What was unique and complex about this project was manufacturing the architect’s design for a temporary pavilion while meeting all local building codes as well as adjusting to the size of the lot, which dictated the structure's dimensions. Due to the meticulous design, and different roof slopes in various directions, proper water drainage was an important detail. A seamless aluminum rain gutter of more than 300 linear feet was installed where three roof slopes met. The water was evacuated via aluminum downspouts every 16' that penetrated the raised wood decking system and released the water onto the ground underneath. This was a one-of-a-kind structure never before attempted in the tent industry due its complexity of upright placement and the enormous heights. One 26' high center column allowed for the structure to turn 90 degrees. Another feature of the structure was its 40' high facade. It contained an exterior mesh made of Ferrari Soltis® fabric that was laser cut with a beautiful pattern that would move with the wind and allow the space for access and light to enter.

Natural light was controlled through the outer mesh facade to naturally illuminate the furniture and design objects. The highly customized facade allowed for a layered transition from the public space into the galleries inside. The structure’s entry height allowed for a 40' palm tree to protrude through the clear vinyl roof panels while still allowing for a covered entry porch and preventing any water permeability. The floor was reinforced to allow forklift usage during load and loadout. More than 65 million dollars worth of art pieces were housed in the structure, so beams, uprights and all connections were heat sealed onsite to ensure that water would not penetrate the structure.

The client was very satisfied and signed a three-year commitment to use this structure for its national and international exhibits. In fact, the structure is being credited with keeping the spirits and sales of the dealers high in this economically challenging time.