geometry recalls that of fortified Pequot villages whose palisades were
laid out as two offset semi-circles, and its curves also evoke the forms
of Pequot wigwams, rounded in both plan and section. The north-facing
Gathering Space is equivalent to a three- to four-storey volume (Fig.
3.31). Its semi-circular wall is glazed and radiating roof beams that slope
away from the centre of the space are supported on inclined perimeter
steel posts. Their cross-sectional dimensions have been minimized by
the introduction of a most unexpected structural system – a horizontal
arch, but one that synthesizes with the architectural form (Fig. 3.32).RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN ARCHITECTURAL AND STRUCTURAL FORM 37
▲ 3.30 Tobias Grau headquarters, Rellingen, Germany, BRT
Architekten, 1998. Glue-laminated ribs enclose the ground floor
interior concrete structure.
▲ 3.31 Pequot Museum, Mashantucket, USA, Polshek
Partnership Architects, 2000. Exterior view of the Gathering Space.▲ 3.32 The horizontal arch supports the curved and sloping wall.