Morrison Hershfield was retained to provide the structural engineering services required for the project. This role required us to go beyond the typical design procedures used for conventional buildings and address the special loads, forces, and effects from the wind turbine.  Innovative design solutions were developed and new approaches were taken in producing a safe and constructible design.

From a height equivalent to a 20-storey skyscraper, tower visitors can feel the platform moving in step with the nacelle as it turns to face into the prevailing wind.  The revolving blades have a swept area the size of three NHL hockey rinks, pass within an arm’s length of the platform, and have tip speeds that can reach 260 km/hr.  To ensure an acceptable level of safety, The Eye of the Wind meets the requirements of the British Columbia building code.

The Eye of the Wind exceeded the client’s expectations and was inaugurated by the BC Premier in time for the Vancouver 2010 winter games.  It stands as testament to the ingenuity of engineers in turning an owner’s revolutionary vision into reality.

Installation of Viewing Platform
Photos credit:  Courtesy of Grouse Mountain Resorts