Structural consultancy for the ephemeral installation "Loom" in Albania
General information
Date: 2023
Client: Gjirokastra Albanian National Folk Festival 2023.
Collaborators:
- Artist: Inés Esnal.
- Creative direction and Scenography: Ina Lisi
Location: Gjirokastra, Albania.
Photography and audiovisual property: Subliminal image (Miguel de Guzmán + Rocío Romero).
SOCOTEC has carried out the engineering consultancy for this project, evaluating the resistant capacity of the structure, proposing the necessary reinforcements.
This project focuses on the stage design of the Albanian National Folk Festival in Gjirokastra 2023, designed by Ines Esnal. The setting is located on a rocky spur within the historic fortress of Gjirokastra Castle, offering panoramic views of the Drin River Valley.
Engineering Consulting Services for Architecture
SOCOTEC carried out the structural consultancy for the installation designed by Inés Esnal for the stage of the Albanian National Folk Festival of Gjirokastra 2023, recognized as the most important event of Albanian cultural heritage. The installation, which uses the pre-existing dome structure of the original 1968 Festival (based on an 8 m radius steel semi-sphere and independent columns aligned behind it), consists of bands of taut ropes that run through the elements of the structure, crossing symmetrically to generate a lightweight textile vault, thus highlighting excellence in ephemeral architectural design.
SOCOTEC evaluated the resistant capacity of the structure, proposing the necessary reinforcements and limiting the maximum traction at which the ropes of the installation could be tensioned without ephemeral. compromise the stability of the whole. Our structural expertise is reflected in each project, consolidating our commitment to safety and efficiency in the field of ephemeral architecture.
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Challenging the Singularity:
Ephemeral Engineering
With more than 20 years of specialization in engineering, SOCOTEC leads in unique projects. Our technical prowess and collaboration with visionary architects positions us as experts in overcoming unique challenges, including the implementation of ropes in installations.
The installation features a canopy of ropes between columns and a main performance area, extending the stage through an ambulatory that serves as a transition backstage. The double-sided design defines both the stage space and the backstage area, adapting to the needs of the thousands of event participants. SOCOTEC played a crucial role in evaluating and proposing solutions for the facility's structural system, ensuring the integrity and resistance needed in this context of ephemeral architecture and adapting to the use of complex materials.
With more than 20 years of specialization in engineering, SOCOTEC leads in unique projects. Our technical prowess and collaboration with visionary architects positions us as experts in overcoming unique challenges, including the implementation of ropes in installations.
The installation features a canopy of ropes between columns and a main performance area, extending the stage through an ambulatory that serves as a transition backstage. The double-sided design defines both the stage space and the backstage area, adapting to the needs of the thousands of event participants. SOCOTEC played a crucial role in evaluating and proposing solutions for the facility's structural system, ensuring the integrity and resistance needed in this context of ephemeral architecture and adapting to the use of complex materials.
Ephemeral Architecture Concept: What are design strategies in architecture?
The permeability of the installation allows light to filter through the rope material, improving the visual interaction between the stage and the backstage. During the day, the installation blends harmoniously with the landscape, while at night, it transforms into a defined and eye-catching element. The careful selection of materials in this installation demonstrates the mastery of the use of strings to achieve impactful and functional visual effects.
Our exceptional expertise in structural evaluation and reinforcement, coupled with a strong track record in ephemeral engineering, positions us as your trusted partner for the development of unique building projects. From conceptualization to implementation, SOCOTEC offers innovative technical solutions that ensure the stability and viability of your installations. At SOCOTEC, we understand the importance of project development and are committed to providing robust and reliable structural solutions for every unique challenge that comes our way.
