Media & Immersive eXperience Center

Canopy Design

A shade canopy in the Arizona Desert is not a new concept, so the project team set out to push the limits of how such a structure, modest in scale and appearance, could actively contribute to its site, rather than stand idly by in the midst of urban life. Desires for a minimal yet dynamic presence led to explorations of tensile fabric structures, which could be modular, expressed in various forms, and offer a surprising level of transparency. Following the asymmetry of the Plaza’s landscape, the canopy forms a layered gradient of sail-like kites that swoop downward from its highest peak and expand toward the Southwest to minor structural posts. This orientation provides the most efficient shade distribution throughout all times of the year, mitigating heat island effect. Each post is equipped with technology and power distribution for a range of uses, including synced audio/visual art displays with the nearby MIX Center. In the Wintertime, the canopy serves the anchor point for Mesa’s beloved Merry Main Street festival, outfitted with a seasonal ice rink underneath. At all times of the year, the canopy welcomes all visitors to share in dappled shade and the variable colors of Arizona sunlight.