The Tianfu Agricultural Expo

2024 · Chengdu, China

Timber Structure Analysis Instructor: Mark Cruvellier Type: Structures Studio Fall 2024 The Tianfu Agricultural Expo is a key component of a large-scale development initiative in Chengdu’s metropolitan area, which aims to position the city as a leading economic center in China. Situated at the western edge of the Sichuan Basin, where the mountains meet the vast plains, the sweeping views of rice fields and mountain peaks on the horizon inspired architect Cui Kai’s design concept for the building’s sweeping, curved timber enclosures. Spanning over, the Tianfu Agricultural Exposition is Asia’s largest timber structure and one of the biggest timber constructions globally. The design features five vaulted sections (G1-G5), incorporating Vierendeel-inspired trusses that blend timber beams with steel webbing. These trusses allow for clear spans of up to 360 ft and heights reaching 144 meters, making it one of the world’s longest timber clear spans.