How tensile architecture brings complex designs to life

‘Tensile architecture’ describes structures where tension is used as a key structural element within the structure. Today, the phrase ‘tensile architecture’ has been widely adopted by the industry to define and convey the industry purpose, but this wasn’t always the case. The phrase was little used until 2008 when Ronstan researched a business name change to better identify and link its speciality skillset with its market and realised the underutilisation of the highly relevant term ‘tensile’ as a market descriptor. With its name changed, Ronstan Tensile Architecture became the first industry player worldwide to refer to the phrase ‘tensile architecture’ as a description of the field in which we play.

Tensile architecture is all about structural efficiency. The use of modelling and analysis helps us to understand the loads apparent in structures of interesting, dramatic, and complex forms that could not have been understood before, or at least not without significant physical modelling. These forms cannot be realised with conventional architecture, which typically rely on heavy columns and beams.

Achieving the simple form and anticlastic shapes associated with tensile architecture relies on the application of highly efficient materials that can carry and disperse the high-tension loads or forces necessary to resist deflection of the structures themselves. This is where cables find purpose as highly efficient tension members that are significantly stronger and lighter than traditional steel or concrete members. These hold materials such as mesh and fabric in tension allowing them to function as part of the primary load carrying structure, transferring loads with little supporting structure beneath.

Ultimately, the use of these super-efficient materials means we can carry loads or forces in a tensile member of significantly less weight. This translates to tensile structures that are far lighter and can span greater distances, opening opportunities for better utilisation of space or the realisation of designs that could not have been achieved by traditional building methods. 

Melbourne’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building (1880) with its myriad columns, supports and interrupted spaces, sits in juxtaposition with the exhibition halls of today. These often have 100-metre uninterrupted clear span roofs made possible by using highly efficient and light cables/materials to reduce the self-weight of the roof and thereby, allow the application of far fewer support mechanisms.

And our reason for being at Ronstan? We make all this possible with cables and the considered application of science (engineering). We believe in the importance of a thorough and robust design process well in advance of construction. Our mantra and the thing that defines or differentiates our project work: “We apply the science upfront.” 

Ronstan Tensile Architecture – bringing tensile concepts to life.

Image: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art – Cable-suspended roof structure