PREFACE
This book explores the potential of structure, that is beams, columns,
frames, struts and other structural members, to enrich architecture. At
the most basic level I hope to raise architects’ perception of structure
as an integral element of architecture rather than as just an applied
technology. I also wish to challenge architects to design structure them-
selves. That is, to attend to all aspects of its design, in collaboration with
structural engineers of course, in order to realize their design concepts.
Where structure contributes architecturally, other than in its primary
load-bearing role, it contributes another layer of aesthetic and func-
tional richness to designs. It increases interest in and enjoyment
of buildings, improves their usability, and raises the spirits of their
occupants.
This book therefore seeks to change a view of structure, common
among architectural students at least, as a purely technical component
of architecture, and at worst, a necessary evil. Examples throughout the
book illustrate structure as an indispensable architectural element that
is thoroughly integrated and involved in the making of architecture, and
playing significant roles that engage the senses, hearts and minds of
building users. As designers, we need to ask ourselves how structure
might assist us to add aesthetic and functional value to our design work,
thereby enriching it.
I write primarily for architectural students and practising architects, but
expect the book will be of more than passing interest to engineering
students and structural engineers who also wish to expand their aware-
ness of the architectural potential of structure. The book, illustrated
with examples from more than one hundred and seventy buildings, is
intended to function both as a source book for architectural design
inspiration and ideas, and as a book to assist designers to reflect upon
their own work. It provides a large resource of very diverse precedents
where structure enhances specific architectural ideas, concepts and
qualities. The index collates these issues and an alphabetical list of all
the case studies discussed provides initial references for further study.
The initial research from which this book has developed began as a lit-
erature review. However, limitations in this approach became apparent.
Books for architectural students about structures tend to concentrateH6527-Prelims.qxd 6/15/05 12:54 PM Page vii