Twin Cone Curved
Geometry Structure
A large-span, twin cone curved geometry tensile membrane structure, engineered to cover a full amphitheater footprint and transform it into a functional, column-free dining facility.
Unlike a conventional conical form, the geometry of this structure follows the natural curvature of the amphitheater's outline — with every edge boundary precisely matched to the sweeping perimeter of the space.
The entire structural load is carried exclusively along the boundary edges, eliminating the need for any intermediate columns or internal structural members, and delivering an unobstructed, open-plan sheltered environment across its entire span.
The structure simultaneously accommodates four distinct deck levels within the amphitheater, with an elevation difference of approximately 15 meters across the levels — each deck seamlessly integrated under one continuous roofing membrane, while maintaining full functional connectivity between all levels and their associated kitchen and pantry services.
A curvilinear canopy over four levels of life — where structural engineering liberates space and design transforms a dead zone into a destination.
From Amphitheater
To Alfresco Cafeteria
Originally an underutilised outdoor amphitheater, this space was reimagined and operationalised as a covered alfresco cafeteria extension for a large IT company campus — now comfortably accommodating 400 to 500 diners simultaneously.
The tensile membrane canopy provides complete weather protection across all deck levels, enabling employees to enjoy an expansive, landscape-integrated outdoor dining experience during lunch and dining breaks.
The multi-level layout preserves the character of the original amphitheater while delivering a fully functional, connected dining infrastructure — with unobstructed sightlines, natural light diffusion through the membrane, and a seamless visual connection to the surrounding landscape.
From Dead Zone To Destination
What was once a neglected, non-functional amphitheater is today a thriving, fully operational dining destination — and that transformation is the story of MECANCO's engineering philosophy in action.
The challenge here was not just the scale of the span, but the complexity of designing a single unified roof over four terraced deck levels with significant elevation differences, varied terrain conditions, and the functional demands of a live cafeteria operation.
Our team engineered a solution where every structural member lives on the boundary — leaving the interior entirely free, open and uncompromised.
The result is a column-free facility of rare architectural quality, where employees don't just dine — they experience space.
This project stands as one of MECANCO's most compelling examples of how structural intelligence and design sensitivity can together unlock the true potential of an underutilised space.
THE MALL PROJECT ( TWIN CONE )
TWIN CONE
A bespoke twin cone, fixed edge tensile membrane structure, precision-engineered to cover the central plaza atrium of a large commercial mall.
Anchored by two dominant central masts, the structure features a classic conical form on each mast with all boundary edges firmly clamped to the duct perimeter — creating a taut, architecturally refined roofing envelope over a rectangular atrium duct.
The geometry of each cone was meticulously defined in response to the existing structural drawings and site-specific CAD data, ensuring a seamless integration with the building's architecture.
The valley formed between the two cones was subject to rigorous water ponding analysis, ensuring zero water accumulation and long-term weatherproofing performance.
Each cone apex is finished with a high-durability FRP cap, protecting the structural tip while delivering a clean, polished termination detail.
Twin cones rising above the heart of the mall — where engineering shelters commerce and architecture inspires experience.
Sheltering Commerce.
Elevating Experience.
Designed as the primary overhead roofing solution for the central plaza atrium of a busy commercial mall, this twin cone tensile membrane transforms the heart of the building into a sheltered, light-filled, visually dynamic space.
The structure provides year-round weather protection to the mall's central gathering zone, enabling continuous commercial activity beneath an architecturally striking canopy.
As the centrepiece of the mall's interior landscape, it also serves as a powerful visual identity element — elevating the overall aesthetic and customer experience of the entire property.
Engineered For
Precision Performance
Reimagining Vision.
Delivering Without Compromise.
When the client and architect initially envisioned a conventional polycarbonate dome over the atrium duct, MECANCO saw a greater opportunity.
Our team presented alternative design render options that reimagined the space entirely — and the response was immediate appreciation.
The proposed twin cone tensile solution was approved by the client, architect and project consultants, replacing a generic solution with one that is architecturally distinctive, structurally superior and functionally enduring.
Executed at significant elevation on the building's top terrace, this project demanded exceptional precision and site management — both of which MECANCO delivered without compromise.
Today, the mall operates under our membrane roof, a living testament to what thoughtful design engineering can achieve.
