Connectors in the Garden of Eden?

In the United Kingdom, Simpson has been involved in a remarkable enterprise marking the millennium, known as the "Eden Project." The Eden Project's mission statement: "To promote the understanding and responsible management of the vital relationship between plants, people and resources leading to a sustainable future for all" … or, we might say, "to take care of the Strong-Tie between man and nature!"

In a former quarry in Cornwall, England, a collection of thousands of plants are now being sustained in three huge "Biomes." These giant conservatories tell the story of human dependence on plants. It is an impressive three story structure, inspired by the Fibonacci Spiral – found throughout nature in shell shapes and flower petal formations. This has led to a building of unusual shape. The floor areas are on different levels and are supported on a steel structure. They are constructed with open web floor beams which are connected by Simpson Strong-Tie hangers.

The irregular floor shape required hangers with skews varying by as little as three or four degrees. Paul Royal, from our Tamworth branch, took charge of the job, and meticulously calculated, manufactured, marked up and worked with the production and dispatch teams, to ensure speed and simplicity of construction.

On completion of the building, which is likely to enjoy great acclaim for its design, Simpson Strong-Tie products will, as usual, disappear into the fabric. Very few people will know about our hangers … but we can be proud of our part in constructing another fine "well-connected" building.