The Structural Basis of Architecture

This is a book that shows how to "see" structures as being integral to architecture. It engages a subject that is both about understanding the mechanical aspects of structure as well as being able to relate this to the space, form, and conceptual design ideas that are inherent to the art of building.

Analyzing the structural principles behind many of the best-known works of architecture from past and present alike, this book places the subject within a contemporary context. The subject matter is approached in a qualitative and discursive manner, illustrated by many photographs and structural behavior diagrams. Accessible mathematical equations and worked-out examples are also included so as to deepen a fundamental understanding of the topic.

This new, color edition?s format has been thoroughly revised and its content updated and expanded throughout. It is perfect as either an introductory structures course text or as a designer?s sourcebook for inspiration, for here two essential questions are addressed in parallel fashion: ?How do structures work?? and ?What form do structures take in the context of architecture ? and why so?? A rich, varied and engaging rationale for structural form in architecture thus emerges.

"The profession of the master-builders split into the independent disciplines of architecture and structural engineering in the 19th century. In order to pursue a holistic approach, architects need an understanding of the structural basis of architecture. For this purpose, there is no better reading imaginable than this book. This is not only true for students, but also for practitioners who want to understand how buildings function structurally. Moreover, I would recommend this book to engineers, who seek to understand the reasoning and motivation of architects in order to find structural solutions for their intentions." - Manfred Grohmann, Founder and principal of Bollinger+Grohmann Ingenieure; Professor for Structural Design, Faculty of Architecture, University of Kassel

"The Structural Basis of Architecture, 3rd edition, is a comprehensive account of the many trickeries architects employ to defeat "nature". Since structure is our ultimate tool, the more extended our understanding of it the better chances to make a seamless transition of loads, either live or dead, into the ground." - Mauricio Pezo & Sofia von Ellrichshausen, founding partners of Pezo von Ellrichshausen

"What a delightful book! The Structural Basis of Architecture has been widely recognized as a classic that exposes how structures make Architecture. In this revisited third edition, new contemporary case studies, colored illustrations and an original chapter on structural systems sharpen and further reinforce any reader?s learning experience. Every student in architecture should study this book." - Sigrid Adriaenssens, Associate Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Princeton University

Review of the 2nd edition

"The Structural Basis of Architecture uses a myriad of historical and contemporary case studies to provide a concise and thorough explanation of the relationship between engineering and architecture. This book is an indispensable source for anyone interested in the logic of structures and their role not just in supporting but in imagining architecture." - Mohsen Mostafavi, Dean, and Alexander and Victoria Wiley Professor of Design, Harvard University Graduate School of Design