Large fabric structures have generally been thought of as those that have a fabric surface area greater than 1000 square metres.
Often large projects will be made up of multiple panels of fabric whose boundaries are defined structurally and geometrically by straight or curved elements such as arches, edge beams and cables. The prestress forces from adjacent panels often counterbalance and the more efficient structures have a larger degree of symmetry and continuity such as a complete "bicycle wheel" for the roof a major sports stadium.