With a growing student body at Simon Fraser University (SFU), the desire for new space and facilities at the Burnaby campus surged – one being a new football stadium. Engaging the student body and raising school spirit are key elements to the architectural vision behind the new 1,800 seat stadium and canopy. Source: Timberbiz
The lightweight “floating” canopy cantilevers more than 16 metres, providing unobstructed views for the grandstand spectators below. The modern reflection to the architectural rhythm of the existing Lorne Davies Complex building is accentuated by the careful set out and shaping of prefabricated steel girders.
Careful structural detailing was developed to ensure the roof seamlessly coordinates with the supporting services required. The stadium is now home to Canada’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) teams as well as SFU’s football team. The new facility also serves as a space for other SFU athletic teams and activities, special events, and entertainment.”
Lights, sprinklers, speakers and security cameras are into the canopy.
The engineering, fabrication, and installation of the roof structure faced challenges due to heavy snow loads, large cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels with integrated systems were used to form the roof.
The biggest challenge was to provide stability with a roof structure featuring a 16.4 m cantilever. Massive 22m, 14.33-ton box girder beams extend 16m over the stands, supporting the floating roof structure.
Stainless steel pins rods anchor the beams at their tails. Circular columns near the corners provide additional support.
The tapered design of the steel girders means they can’t easily been seen, thereby creating the illusion of an very thin roof.
