Structure as Architecture - School of Architecture

form a post-and-beam structural system while the sheet cladding func-

tions as shear walls, providing bracing for lateral loads. The orientation

of the exposed interior ribs emphasizes each panel’s non-orthogonal

geometry (Fig. 3.37). The exposed structure enhances the shape and

sense of panel directionality and intensifies the chaotic qualities of the

assemblage. If a stressed skin or solid panel construction had been used

its planar aesthetic would place this work into the category of synthe-

sized forms.

The Verbier Sports Centre is the final example of consonant architec-

tural and structural forms. The multiple pitched-roof form suits its sur-

roundings. Roof planes step down to follow the mountainside slope and

relate comfortably to the adjacent chalet pitched-roofs. Roof trusses

run parallel to the slope and are articulated on the exterior where they

bear on exposed concrete buttresses (Fig. 3.38). The stepping roof

40 STRUCTURE AS ARCHITECTURE

▲ 3.35 Roof structure over main pool. ▲ 3.36 Eighteen Turns, Serpentine Gallery Pavilion 2001, London,
England, Studio Libeskind Angular and planar surfaces.

▲ 3.37 Interior ribbed surfaces. ▲ 3.38 Verbier Sports Centre, Switzerland, André Zufferey, 1984.
Complex stepping roof form.