BMW Pavillon, IAA Motorshow

Frankfurt, Germany

A Rapid Dramatic Impression, Anytime, Anyplace

BMW chose a tensile structure to solve its exhibit difficulties. The pavilion at the Frankfurt exhibition complex drove BMW out of its usual hall for the 1995 IAA.5,200m² of PVC-coated polyester fabric formed the 97 by 57 metre tent roof. The membrane roof is supported by five raking steel lattice masts up to 22 m high held in position by peripheral ropes fixed in membrane sleeves. The facade consists of a pneumatic cushion and a system of open able glass louvers, which, combined with the eye-like glass-louvered openings at the tips of the masts, provide a means of natural ventilation. A tubular air cushion and intermediate panels close the gap between the facade and the membrane roof.