The “Sky Gap” canopy forms a luminous architectural landmark within the Shanghai Xujiahui Center (ITC). Its flowing white membrane surface appears to float above the development like feathers moving through the sky, combining advanced lightweight construction with an expressive and elegant architectural form.
PFEIFER Structures was responsible for the detailed design, supply, fabrication and installation of approximately 4,000 m² of single-layer ETFE tensioned membrane. The lightweight foil enables the canopy to follow the complex free-form geometry of the supporting structure while minimizing additional structural loads. Precisely fabricated membrane panels and carefully engineered connection details create a uniformly tensioned and visually continuous surface.
The translucent ETFE membrane introduces soft natural daylight into the covered spaces and creates a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Its smooth, non-stick surface offers excellent self-cleaning properties, reducing dirt accumulation and long-term maintenance requirements. At night, integrated architectural lighting transforms the membrane into a luminous surface, emphasizing the dynamic canopy geometry and establishing the project as a distinctive feature of the Xujiahui skyline.
