Photovoltaic Shade Structure - CODAworx

Photovoltaic Shade Structure

Submitted by Sparkflight Studios, LLC

Client: Government Center

Location: Las Vegas, NV, United States

Completion date: 2011

Artwork budget: $853,726

Project Team

Architect

Anne Johnson

Sparkflight Studios

Structural Engineer

David Rowe

Wright Engineers

Overview

Design, documentation, and construction administration for 4,000 SF of unique steel structure for 30kW photovoltaic covered parking. Canopy design assimilates with the architecturally significant Clark County Government Center building, while the light footprint minimizes visual disruption of the existing building. Nighttime LED column and under-canopy lighting enhance the design and safety.

Goals

Due to the unique architecture of the County's headquarters, the artist proposed that the adjacent parking structure complement the design with a single-post design that inclines similar to many of the building's sandstone walls. The sculptural form is intended to minimize visual busyness while feeling light and almost airborne. The 30kW photovoltaic system offsets power usage and ties to an educational kiosk for the public.