Birdair Tensile Membrane Canopies Accentuate the Positive at the New Palm Beach Outlets
New England Development worked with the design architect, Elkus Manfredi Architects and with Dorksy + Yue International, the architect of record, to incorporate shade structures into the overall design of the center that would give the impression of lit, occupied tents conjuring the image of an oasis, and that could be seen from a distance. New England Development’s construction managers, EMJ Construction, then reached out to Birdair to help make this vision a reality.
The leading specialty contractor for custom tensile membrane structures around the world, Birdair, contributed to the beauty of the Palm Beach Outlets by designing, fabricating and installing approximately 41,000 square feet of its PTFE fiberglass membrane walkway canopies. These cone-shaped structures not only offer a signature look to the outlet center, but also provide patrons and employees with much needed protection from the sunny, hot and humid Palm Beach climate.
“A primary concern for anyone constructing an outdoor venue in South Florida is the weather,” said David Capezzuto, Director of Business Development, North America. “New England Development wanted to create an open-air outlet mall that would attract the residents and tourists alike, but needed adequate cover that would protect shoppers from the heat of the sun and almost daily precipitation that hits the region.”
“The Birdair team added great value from start to finish,” said Jim Fischer, New England Development’s Vice President for Design and Construction. “First and foremost, the product’s performance and aesthetic benefits speak for themselves. Secondly, we appreciated Birdair’s ability to integrate into the entire design and build team.”