project

Cine IMAX

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General information

  • Location address
    Avenida 30, San Rafael de Escazú, San José Province
  • Location country
    Costa rica
  • Year of construction
    2010
  • Name of the client/building owner
    O Y R Trust Services S.A.
  • Function of building
    Theatres & cinemas
  • Degree of enclosure
    Hybrid structure
  • Climatic zone
    Tropical - hot and wet all year
  • Number of layers
    mono-layer
  • Type of application of the membrane
    attached
  • Primary function of the tensile structure
    • Rain protection
    • Sun protection

Description

This shading-sail is located in Escazú, Costa Rica and was designed as part of a building complex that hosts a multiplex cinema. The architectural design intended to add an eye-catching element to the building entrance, creating hierarchy and a formal contrast. The primary function of the membrane structure is to protect visitors from rain and sun. A white PVC coated polyester fabric was chosen for this purpose. At night, colourful light projections on the membrane evoke a festive atmosphere. The bat-like membrane shape developed from symmetrical anchorage points, defining the boundary conditions of the structure. Vertical supports were intentionally avoided, using cables and horizontal masts instead, to reduce any obstruction in the entrance area to a minimum. As part of the climatic adaptation strategy, membrane shape and orientation were optimized to enhance the aerodynamic behaviour and provide maximum protection from rain combined with wind—a condition common during the rainy season in the Tropics.

Description of the environmental conditions

The project is located in a newly developed commercial area situated in close range of the capital city of San José, at 1042m above sea level on the slopes of the mountainous ridges of Escazú. Costa Rica, in general, has a tropical wet and dry climate. Most precipitation occurs during the rainy season between May and October, with a monthly maximum of 375mm. During the dry period, from January to March, the highest temperatures reach 29°C, while during the cooler rainy season, the average maximum temperature is 27°C.

Material of the cover

  • Cable-net/Fabric/Hybrid/Foil
    Fabric
  • Type (code)
    Ferrari Precontraint 1002 Fluotop T2
  • Material Fabric/Foil
    PVC - coated polyester fabric
  • Material coating
    PVDF
  • Weight (g/m2)
    1050

Main dimensions and form

  • Covered surface (m2)
    45
  • Maximum height (m)
    6.3
  • Total length (m)
    13.6
  • Total width (m)
    5.5
  • Form single element
    Anticlastic
  • Form entire structure
    Anticlastic

Duration of use

  • Temporary or permanent structure
    Permanent
  • Design lifespan in years
    11-20

Involved companies

Editor