The lower supporting columns.
These are arranged in a circle, adding stability not found in square or rectangle frames.
The architectural intention was to create a tree like space above a visitor—the tree is composed of massive structural members.
The elliptical members are 10' long and 4' wide at the base; the upper supports range from 1.5 to 3 feet in diameter. The smaller members are braced in the middle as are the larger columns. If further bracing were necessary, a circumferential ring at the midpoint of the largest columns could help resist lateral loads transferred down through the branches.
