X-Madrid is an innovative and creative retail space rebuilt from a previous shopping centre in Alcorcón, Madrid. The most significant element of the renovation is the construction of a new 75m-diameter roof (4,400 m2) to give shelter to the entrance plaza.
Merlin Properties and the architectural team in charge of the complete renovation of the mall, B+R, contacted us, Arenas&Asociados, as structural and design specialists to collaborate with them from the very early stages of design, to the last construction detail of the roof conceived to cover the plaza. The consideration of the human scale and the rhythm of the elements during the design of such a large roof, was a key point from the preliminary sketches.
The designing process, which implied the parametrization of different alternatives and wind tests, results in a hybrid structure, combining the use of a steel gridshell as a primary structure with high-performance PVC tensile conoids as secondary elements. The conoids tension is given by floating masts which are connected to the steel structure. The whole roof emerges from the ground, where the perimetral steel Warren beam rests over concrete basements. The reactions flow continues from the concrete basements and goes through the floor slab and the lower car park level to reach the ground.
Owner: Merlin Properties
Project: B+R Arquitectos - Arenas & Asociados
Surface: 4873 m2. Dome diameter: 78 m. Height: 29 m
Contractor: Acieroid – Moñita Pulido
Arenas & Asociados’ Role: Concept design and Construction project developer
