TUUCI lends shade expertise to University of Miami

Everglades Eco-Tent design a prototype for use in extreme conditions

Casual Living Staff -- Casual Living, 1/28/2013 10:58:12 AM

MIAMI - While TUUCI is generally associated with exotic shade structures featured at many of the world's most exclusive resorts, the Miami-based company recently loaned its expertise in high-performance design to the School of Architecture at the University of Miami for the creation of a prototype structure for the Florida Everglades National Park.

TUUCI's Eco TentKnown as the Eco-Tent, the 200-sq.-ft. structure built in the Flamingo section of the park was conceived as a prototype for the Park Service, which is exploring ways to provide overnight accommodations in the Everglades after hurricanes Wilma and Katrina devastated an existing motel and rental cabins in 2005.

TUUCI donated high-performance fabrics for the Eco-Tent as well as its CAD-based design and engineering expertise.

"The TUUCI design team has the right can-do, make-it-work-beautifully attitude," said Rocco Ceo, a University of Miami professor who directed the project. "TUUCI took on a very difficult project and in the end made our design better and something that I think will have broad application."

TUUCI's role with the project included the design and fabrication of the distinctive fabric cantilevered top of the Eco-Tent, which allows breezes to flow through the structure while also providing light from the use of translucent materials. University of Miami professors and students worked hand-in-hand with TUUCI engineers on many aspects of the design and actual construction on site.

"This project was a fantastic opportunity for us to work with students and professors on a cutting-edge project," Clarke said. "One of the great things about the Eco-Tent is the fact that it can be disassembled and stored during the off season or when there is a threat of catastrophic weather. We view it as a viable prototype for use in extreme conditions such as those in the Everglades."

The distinctive structure sits on a 2-foot high base and features a 12-foot high ceiling and flooring made of bamboo and recycled plastic bottles. Side screens keep out mosquitos and solar power provides electricity. For information on reserving the eco-tent, call 239-695-0124 or visit nps.gov/ever.

Keeping the environment top of mind, TUUCI's manufacturing facility follows an Environmental Sustainability Program reducing solid waste and recycling objects from plastics to steel to fabric and beyond. With 100% replaceable parts, TUUCI products have an extended lifespan resulting in less waste. Follow TUUCI on Facebook, Twitter and through the company blog. On the Web at www.tuuci.com.