Movie World Hypercoaster Canopies
Project Details
Location: Gold Coast, QLD
Completion Date: September 2017
Size: 460sqm
Fabric: PVC Mesh - Serge Ferrari FV381 (Slate)
Client: Village Roadshow Theme Parks
The Warner. Bros Movie World Hypercoaster Canopies project involved design, fabrication and installation of five (5) PVC leaf-like dark mesh canopies with a total fabric area of 460 sqm for the leaf structures and 45 sqm of wall panels.
The Brief
The purpose of the Movie World Hypercoaster Canopies was to provide exciting and functional shade structures for patrons queing up for the DC Rivals Hyper Coaster at the Gold Coast theme park. The structures needed to be innovative, eye catching and allow good views of the coaster and 3D DC character Feature Walls whilst still providing shelter. The structures needed to fit in a very specific arear along with other landscaping, pathways and loading areas.
The build also required the use of a crane to move completed structures over the roller coaster, which meant work was conducted outside of park hours to ensure minimal disruption for park visitors.
The Concept
The five Movie World Hypercoaster Canopies comprise of porous PVC membranes supported around the perimeter with steel compression beams which create the outer shape of a leaf.
A valley cable along the center was incorporated to develop tension through the body of the fabrics. The perimeter beams are supported with tapered rafters representing leaf veins branching from central midrib beams and supported with 2 columns along the midrib beams.
The geometry and size of the structures was heavily dictated by the landscaping of the paths while not covering vision lines of ride attractions. The design needed to be robust to be suitable for the geometry requirements of the five areas but have a commonality between the different types.
The Materials
The architectural concept demanded seamless integration of fabric design and color with the ride’s theme. Opting for Slate-colored PVC Mesh (Serge Ferrari FV381) for the Movie World Hypercoaster Canopies aimed to provide optimal patron protection, all the while offering views of the roller coaster and the DC Character feature walls.
This design element served to amplify the anticipation of the patrons as they awaited their turn to board the ride, which was further enhanced through the clever integration of lighting and speakers into the shade structrues.
The Result
The leaf inspired design is the most striking aspect of the four structures and the early coordination with the clients was pivotal in its development to match with their existing landscaping layout and to not interfere with existing structures or any hero shots of their latest attraction.
The Warner Bros. Movie World Hypercoaster Canopies are visually complementary to the overall theme of the attraction, enhanced shade protection and a striking visual landmark for patrons within the park.
