Expressive Structures; Exploring Architectural Design Through Engineering Principles

Abstract

This thesis investigated the intersection of architecture and engineering with a focus on the role of structures in shaping space, order and character of buildings. The research aimed to explore how structures can influence the character of the architectural language of a building. Usually structures are seen as a necessity rather than potential, and are often designed around efficiency and compromised solutions between architects and engineers. The question that arises from this perspective is, how can a tectonic approach be used to design a multipurpose sports hall in Gothenburg? By engaging with both theoretical discourse and design experimentation, a design task was set to create a sports hall for Chalmers campus which became a testing ground for the thesis topic. The research found that by engaging with design and engineering of structures, one can make use of the logic there is behind the natural percpetion of the strucutres to deliver a message about spaces and elements that align with the architectural intention and expression of the building. The research further allows the investigation to be discussed from a more holistic approach to ensure that the terms between engineering and architecture can merge into a single unified expression.