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Problem / Situation
Our experience of a building is maximized when it is not only emotionally beautiful, but also intellectually beautiful.
All too often, the structural elements of a building are hidden, denying us the ability to appreciate how the building was built.
Solution
Make buildings where the structure is not hidden, but visible and celebrated. Bear in mind that we have intuitive understanding of weight and thrust. People should be able to instantly see, sense and understand how the building is held up. It is deeply satisfying to feel protected by a building that makes it clear why we should trust it to be structurally sound.
Loads should appear to be adequetly transferred to the ground. The building should also appear laterally stable.
In addition to making structural elements visible, make the connections between material and elements a thing of beauty.
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Supporting Patterns  | Make buildings appear visibly strong and stable by giving them a broad base. The broadness of the buildings base can be emphasized by having the building become narrower towards the top. |
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 | Structure should not be seen as a necessary evil, but as the fundamental heart of a building - something to be celebrated.
Rather than hiding the structure of a building, make the structure clearly visible, something to be appreciated and delighted in. |
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 | These patterns describe specific structural solutions to specific problems, including arches, domes, and trusses. |
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 | To create a structure that feels strong and protective, make walls visibly robust. This can be accomplished by showing the thickneess of the wall wherever it is penetrated by a window or doorway. |
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