BioMat Pavilion 2021 – LightPRO Shell
Project overview
The BioMat Pavilion 2021, also known as the LightPRO Shell, is a research demonstrator erected on the campus of the University of Stuttgart under the direction of Jun.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hanaa Dahy. The project explores a novel hybrid construction method, combining a bending-active gridshell structure made from pultruded natural fibre-reinforced biocomposites with a pre-stressed textile membrane roofing system. The dual system creates a mutually stabilizing equilibrium between compression and tension forces. Designed as a full-scale experimental pavilion, the structure aims to demonstrate the architectural and structural potential of renewable materials in future-oriented lightweight construction.
Details
The supporting structure of the pavilion consists of a bending-active gridshell made from newly developed BioMat profiles based on flax and hemp fibres. These tubular profiles are shaped into a double-curved form and are subjected exclusively to compressive forces. The roof consists of a textile membrane, which is purely tension-loaded. Both systems are connected along a shared edge, a continuous double-tube perimeter ring, which functions as a compression-tension interface and forms the backbone of the system’s stability. The interaction between the gridshell and the membrane forms a self-contained counterforce system, resulting in significantly reduced foundation reactions compared to single-force systems. Due to differing form-finding strategies between gridshells and membranes, the free space that emerges between the two layers not only enhances visual lightness but also enables the gridshell to work effectively as a bending-active structure. All connection details were designed specifically for this structure.
Specifications
Span | approx. 10 m |
Height | 4.5 - 4.8 m |
Date | 2021 |
Tools used | RFEM, Rhino, Grasshopper |
My role
As membrane specialist at Bieri Tenta AG, I served as a design and technical advisor to Prof. Dahy. I contributed to defining the base geometry of the pavilion and verified the feasibility of the membrane solution. I was responsible for the conceptual and technical detailing of the membrane connections, performed the structural analysis of the membrane, and produced the execution and fabrication plans. My role also included resolving the complex interaction between the form-found gridshell and the membrane, ensuring buildability and structural performance.
My sketches
Results
The LightPRO Shell showcases the potential of combining bio-based compression and tension systems into a single structural unit. It successfully demonstrates the use of natural fibre composites as load-bearing elements in architectural applications and provides a working model for hybrid material systems with ecological and structural synergies. The pavilion has received wide attention for its biomimetic form, material innovation, and sustainability-driven design.
Note
This project was completed during my time at Bieri Tenta AG, the company responsible for its execution. The insights and results presented here are based on my professional experience in the planning and realization of textile architecture as part of my role at Bieri Tenta AG.