Lawrence Fabric & Metal Structures is proud to announce that it has been recognized with an Outstanding Achievement Award in the Freestanding Structures Division at the 2026 International Achievement Awards (IAA) presented by the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA).
The award-winning project, Tupelo Honey, showcases Lawrence Fabric’s expertise in combining advanced engineering, architectural design, and precision fabrication to create a visually striking and highly functional custom canopy structure.
The Tupelo Honey canopy serves as a distinctive architectural focal point while providing year-round weather protection through the innovative integration of engineered steel, aluminum, and tensile fabric construction. Measuring approximately 52 feet wide with a 24-foot projection, the freestanding structure features a welded aluminum support framework clad with Ferrari 502 architectural membrane fabric, delivering both contemporary aesthetics and long-term durability.
Strategically positioned 8-inch steel columns support the canopy, while a robust 4-inch by 8-inch steel front-edge substructure spans between support posts to create an efficient load-bearing system. Architectural detailing further elevates the design through faceted steel frame connections and a smooth radiused aluminum canopy edge, providing striking visual contrast and a streamlined appearance.
All exposed steel and aluminum components were finished with a high-performance AAMA 2603 paint coating in the owner’s selected color, ensuring lasting beauty and corrosion resistance. The project also included comprehensive structural engineering for both the canopy system and associated concrete footings, delivering a fully integrated design solution.
“Our team takes tremendous pride in delivering projects that seamlessly blend design, engineering, and craftsmanship,” said Dave Bess, President
“Receiving recognition from the Advanced Textiles Association is an honor and reflects the dedication, creativity, and technical expertise of everyone involved in bringing the Tupelo Honey project to life.”
Lawrence Fabric & Metal Structures provided a turnkey scope of work that included structural engineering, field verification, fabrication, delivery, and installation, all completed through a single mobilization to maximize project efficiency and minimize disruption to site operations. The result is a durable, visually distinctive canopy system that enhances the outdoor environment while meeting the highest standards of performance and craftsmanship.
The International Achievement Awards recognize and honor excellence in specialty fabrics and technical textiles projects from around the world. Winning entries are evaluated for innovation, complexity, design excellence, and execution across numerous categories within the fabric structures industry.
“This award highlights our continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fabric architecture and custom structural solutions,” added Dave Bess, President. “We are grateful to our clients, partners, and employees whose collaboration and expertise make achievements like this possible.”