Zaha Hadid Architects were commissioned to create a unique performance space for solo performances of Bach’s music. The result was a single continuous ribbon swirling around one of the main rooms in the Manchester Art Gallery, creating layered spaces to cocoon both the performers and audience. The challenge for Base Structures was to transform the complex 3D model produced by Zaha Hadid’s office into a buildable structure that retained all the fluidity of the original design.

By means of a true collaboration between the engineers, CAD fabric designers, frame fabricators, project managers, sailoft staff, riggers and the client, the resulting structure bore an uncanny resemblance to the visuals. The structure incorporated innovative spigot and fabric zip details, including acrylic acoustic reflectors hidden in strategic areas within the depth of the frame to tune the sound quality. The structure is intended to tour to other venues over the coming year.

Architectural drawing courtesy of Zaha Hadid Architects. Photographs by Luke Hayes Photography.