As its name suggests, the America's Cup Pavilion is a building proposal meant specifically to serve the great San Francisco sailing race in 2012. Why shouldn't its form then reference the majestic shapes of towering masts? From offshore, the project looks to have been composed of a cluster of billowing mainsails, resulting in a sight that's so characteristic of the start of a major regatta.
A complex folded plate structure sculpts curves, creases and buckling textures along the extent of the jetty, creating an artificial landscape so unlike the look of a typical pier. The consequent repeated abstract enclosures formed offer an abundance of unusual shelters to service boat slips below and dry land above. The experimental geometries of the America's Cup Pavilion afford great flexibility for the activities that may be accommodated within the quay.
Overlapping Mast Piers
This America's Cup Pavilion Takes its Form From Lofty Yacht Sails
Trend Themes
1. Abstract Pavilions - Architecture that mimics the striking appearance of high-performance craft sails will become increasingly popular in building proposals for large-scale events.
2. Folded Plate Structures - Architects will increasingly experiment with complex folded plate structures that sculpt curves, creases, and buckling textures in buildings.
3. Flexible Geometries - There will be a growing demand for structures that offer great flexibility for the activities that may be accommodated within them.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The architecture industry will benefit from exploring innovative ways to flourish fantasy structures for events through the incorporation of unique sailboat-inspired designs.
2. Construction - The construction industry can develop unique structural plans for buildings mimicking sailboat designs which can add aesthetic value to the buildings and stand out.
3. Event Management - The event management industry can benefit from creating customized pavilions like the America's Cup Pavilion to offer unique experiences that enhance the visitor experience.