The Cloud

BUILD

The Cloud, an iconic fabric membrane structure designed for the 2011 Rugby World Cup, is a remarkable blend of architectural innovation, structural efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Also known as ‘Party Central,’ this structure became a focal point for the World Cup’s functions and events, exemplifying a high standard of design and engineering.

The Cloud’s sculptural form was the result of a meticulous collaboration between Fabric Structures and Jasmax Architects. While the location on Queens Wharf dictated its dimensions, the shape was born from extensive modeling and form-finding processes. By oscillating a standard truss shape around a central axis, the design achieved its unique curvature, allowing for variations in wall height to be efficiently supported by columns of differing heights. This truss configuration not only defined the structure’s flowing form but also allowed for structural simplicity amid the complexity of its organic design.

Standing 11 meters tall and stretching 178.5 meters in length, the Cloud’s grandeur is apparent. The wide, open spans—reaching 29 meters at the broadest part—create an expansive interior space that balances functionality and openness. Along both sides of the structure, doors allow for versatility: they can remain open to foster a breezy, open-air atmosphere, or be closed to suit the specific needs of an event. A 500-square-meter mezzanine with an exterior balcony, designed for VIPs and media during the World Cup, enhances the building’s functionality and luxury.

Material selection played a key role in defining both the aesthetic and performance of the Cloud. The roof is predominantly composed of 1002-T2 PVC, known for its durability and adaptability in large-scale fabric structures. The VIP mezzanine area, however, incorporates single-skin ETFE membranes for the last two bays, which not only reduced the weight but also introduced a sense of openness and connection with the surrounding harbour. In total, 46 single-skin ETFE panels were also integrated into the wall design, creating visual transparency and allowing natural light to permeate the structure.

The interior design of the Cloud is no less impressive. A white 502PVC ceiling liner beneath the south atrium forecourt conceals the structural trusses and steelwork, enhancing the building's cloud-like form from within. In the mezzanine, fabric ceiling liners crafted from Serge Ferrari Soltis 92 add to the elegance, with their curvaceous shapes and fine detailing, including air-conditioning vents that integrate seamlessly into the fabric. This attention to detail elevates the mezzanine to a space of refined luxury, a testament to the careful integration of form and function.

Ventilation was another critical consideration in the Cloud’s design. Following extensive HVAC modeling, the client opted for natural ventilation, incorporating ventilation slots along the length of the building and mesh panels in the door recesses to allow airflow without compromising the structure’s aesthetic or functionality.

The Cloud’s construction, however, was not without its challenges. With a tight timeline, fabrication of the steel began before the full design was finalized, resulting in the structure being partially erected before the mezzanine design was completed. Additionally, the client’s evolving brief led to numerous late-stage design changes, pushing the project team to its limits while adhering to a strict deadline. The coordination of the mezzanine—complete with stairs, lifts, bracing, services, and HVAC systems—was particularly demanding, especially as the columns had to align with the existing wharf piles without compromising the open floor plan below. Despite these hurdles, the Cloud was successfully completed, demonstrating the team's adaptability and problem-solving expertise.

Ultimately, the Cloud stands as a symbol of innovation and architectural excellence, seamlessly blending functionality, elegance, and adaptability into a structure of international renown. Its graceful form, efficient use of materials, and sophisticated interior make it a lasting legacy of the 2011 Rugby World Cup and a testament to the collaborative power of architecture and engineering.