THE ASK
The First Flight Centennial Foundation and the National Parks Service wanted the Wright Brothers National Memorial site to include a large exhibition hall and auditorium, which would host aviation-related exhibits, meetings, concerts and special events during the flight’s centennial anniversary year and beyond.
HOW SPRUNG DELIVERED
The memorial, which includes an 8,000-square-foot-exhibition hall and an 11,000-square-foot auditorium with seating for 1,000 people, features a hanger door at one end that allows vintage aircraft to be brought into the hall for display. Energy-efficient lighting and power is provided throughout, including special track lighting to illuminate exhibits.
Fire and security systems are also included in the high-strength, aluminum-framed structures, and because aluminum’s strength increases with age, the buildings do not need much maintenance.
The Sprung structures are also designed and engineered to meet significant hurricane-force winds. Hurricane Isabel passed directly through the area shortly after the Sprung tensioned fabric structures were erected. The structures remained intact, while conventional construction in the area sustained significant damage.
THE SPECS
- 70’ wide x 143’ long | 70’ wide x 115’ long
- 30’ wide x 64’ long | Assorted accessories