Expo 2020 Dubai Sunshades

The shading structures line the main streets of three districts and provide shade during the day, light at night, and form a sculptural feature for the Expo and beyond.

Our team provided the structural design, working closely with Hopkins Architects and coordinating with the wider team. The shades are formed by suspending a thin steel cable-net from a steel mast and pulling it tight to the base. From this net, thin perforated aluminium panels are hung, carefully balanced to follow the shape of the net, and form the shading element of the structure. These panels are free to pivot around the cable they are hung from in the wind, cleverly shedding wind and creating a beautifully active rippling sculpture.