Tension structures is the generic term for surface stressed structures fabricated primarily from cables and structural fabrics or foils which carry applied load in tension only to appropriate supporting structures.

Their engineering performance is governed by their surface shape. Aesthetically pleasing doubly curved surfaces provide stability and load carrying capability with clarity of form and function. They may be free-standing canopies or integrated with other material types to form a whole building. Alternatively they may be modular components within a broader system.

Tension structures offer an economical use of material and energy. They also enable subtle or dramatic control of light. The basic surface forms of cone, barrel vault and hyperbolic paraboloid may be combined in many ways, or further modified by the introduction of differential air pressure for pneumatic constructions.

From smallest to largest, all of the structures require that great care be taken with the design and precise manufacture of a high quality pre-fabricated product subject to very fine geometrical tolerances.