Customer Overview
The Department of Public Works (DPW) in
Middleborough, Massachusetts, sought to
upgrade its facility with a new side entrance.
To meet their requirements for durability
and flexability, the department pivoted to a
custom-designed fabric structure.

The Challenge
The project faced several challenges, including aligning the new structure with the facility’s hillside location and ensuring it complemented the building’s modern design and color scheme. Most critically, the structure needed to withstand Massachusetts’ harsh winters, including heavy snow, strong winds, and extreme weather, to ensure safety and durability.
Proposed Solutions
To address these challenges, the project team
collaborated with a super structure company to design and install a customized fabric structure. NovaShield fabric was chosen for its exceptional durability, UV protection, and weather resistance. A unique dormer design was incorporated above the side entrance to prevent heavy snow buildup, reducing the risk of structural strain or damage. The lightweight yet robust nature of NovaShield allowed for a quicker installation process while maintaining long-term performance.

To learn more about Calhoun Super Structure,
visit https://calhounsuperstructure.com/
Results
The project successfully addressed all challenges and exceeded expectations. The custom fabric structure integrated seamlessly with the hillside location and complemented the DPW facility’s modern aesthetic. The dormer design effectively mitigated the risk of snow accumulation, ensuring year-round safety and functionality. NovaShield’s translucency provided an added benefit, creating a well-lit environment that reduced the need for artificial lighting, contributing to energy and cost savings. The structure’s quick installation and low maintenance requirements further reinforced its value as a practical and durable solution.



Conclusion
The Middleborough DPW’s decision to adopt a custom fabric structure proved to be a transformative solution. By leveraging NovaShield’s superior performance and innovative design features, the project successfully met all functional, aesthetic, and environmental requirements. This case demonstrates the potential of fabric structures as a versatile alternative to traditional construction methods, particularly in challenging environments.