45 Commerce Street, Hamilton, New Zealand.
Hamilton Workingmen’s Club
FABRIC
Hiraoka HG212 HT
SIZE
2,878 m²
AWARDS
2024 ATA NZ Winner Tension Structures over 100m²
BUILD
Hamilton Workingmen's Club was established in 1955, and in the last two decades has experienced significant growth with more than 7000 members, to become one of the Premier Clubs in New Zealand. Infrastructure development is important to both the club and community, and over the years the club has invested in maintaining and elevating their amenities. Fabric Structures was engaged to design, fabricate, and install a new partial enclosure over the green at the Hamilton Workingmen's Club.
The project, which began with a comprehensive design and engineering phase, aimed to provide a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution to shield the bowling green from the elements while enhancing the overall user experience. The final installation incorporates a blend of innovative design and high-quality materials, tailored to meet the specific needs of the club and its patrons.
The installation features a state-of-the-art fabric canopy designed to offer protection while allowing maximum natural light. This was achieved using a specialty PVC membrane, selected for its impressive 21% light transmission rate. The choice of this fabric ensures a bright, inviting atmosphere, crucial for the club’s activities. The membrane’s durability and weather resistance were key considerations, ensuring long-term performance despite the challenging environmental conditions.
Fabric Structures faced several challenges during the project, primarily due to the site’s restricted access. The area, bordered by other businesses, necessitated innovative construction methods. The limited access around the boundary also required that the PVC fabric and gutter installation be carried out from within the bowling green itself, adding complexity to the process.
The project also included the integration of a custom operable wall, featuring a curtain system that allows for flexibility and adaptability. This was designed to accommodate varying needs and events, ensuring the space remains versatile throughout the year. The full LED lighting system, sourced from Feisst Electrical, was incorporated to enhance the space further, providing efficient and effective illumination.























