Eisenhower Memorial
Washington DC, USA
Project Details
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Material & Services:
Design-assist, engineering, fabrication, and installation of the stainless-steel cable-net support and connection system, including the installation and tensioning of 604 woven stainless-steel tapestry panels.
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Construction Period:
2019
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Owner:
United States Federal Government
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Client:
Clark Construction
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Architect:
Gehry Partners
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Engineer:
Magnusson Klemencic Associates
Project Description
The Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial honors the achievements of the 34th President of the United States and Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in Europe during World War II. Its defining architectural element is a monumental woven stainless-steel tapestry depicting the Normandy coastline. Measuring approximately 450 feet in length and 80 feet in height, the transparent artwork is supported by a tensioned cable-net structure suspended between six limestone-clad columns.
PFEIFER Structures joined the project in a design-assist role, working closely with Gehry Partners, artist Tomas Osinski, and the structural engineer to develop the supporting system from the initial concept into a buildable solution. The scope included the engineering, fabrication, and installation of the stainless-steel cable net and its connection system, as well as the precise installation and tensioning of 604 prefabricated tapestry panels. The demanding geometry, considerable weight, and tight tolerances required detailed coordination and carefully planned assembly procedures.
