Tree structure for the Qatar National Convention Center

source: www.designbuild-network.com

The new Qatar National Convention Center, QNCC, that will be finished in 2011, aims to be the first convention center with a gold LEED rating according to the standard of the US Green Building Council. The concept of the building is designed by Yamasaki Architects based on a design by Arata Isozaki.
Striking is already the tree structure at the main entrance that supports the canopy of the building. Buro Happold is the design consultant for the tree structure.
Although the building strives for a high sustainability level, it is questionable whether this structure is the most material efficient solution. More details and renderings of the building can be found on Designbuild Network.