Designing the biomes was an exercise in efficiency, both of space and material. Structurally, each dome is a hex-tri-hex space frame reliant on two layers.
The efficiency of the frame relies on the components of the geometric shapes: steel tubes and joints that are light, relatively small and easily transportable.
The cladding panels are triple-layered pillows of high performance ETFE foil and environmentally efficient, with maximum surface area and minimum perimeter detailing.
The biomes received almost two million visitors in their first year of opening, and the project is now one of the top three charging attractions in the UK and the second most visited destination outside London.
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The Eden Project has become world famous for its stunning structure and the wonder of its contents. It is making a huge contribution to the economy of Cornwall…It is without doubt one of our national treasures.
The Rt Hon Tessa Jowell MP, Chair of the Millennium Commission and former Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
Their enormous clear-span structures were built on unstable ground against crumbling cliffs, yet provide stable, sustainable and eye-catching architecture. The original 'funnel' structure for the biomes was superseded by 'bubbles' that were easily adaptable to the shifting ground beneath them.
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Location
Cornwall, UK
Project Type
Culture and Exhibition →
Client
Eden Project Limited
Area
23,000 sq m
Status
Complete
Year
2001