HAWASSA UNIVERSITY

DEPARTEMENT OF ARCHITECTUTR

INSTITUTION OF TECHNOLOGY

THEORY AND DESIGN OF

STRUCTURE ASSIGNMENT

SEMESTER PROJECT
REPORT

NAME: OLIVIA DANIEL

ID: 2866/13

CASE STUDY ON SYNEREGY

OF ARCHITECTURE AND
ENGINEERING

SUBMITTED TO MR, SORASA

Table of ConTenTs
Introduction ............................................................................................... 1
The significance of shells and domes to Christianity ............................ 1
St. Paul's Cathedral in London, England ............................................... 2
History of St. Paul's Cathedral ............................................................ 2
Design of St. Paul's Cathedral ............................................................. 3
Construction ........................................................................................ 3
Why I chose St. Paul's Cathedral ........................................................... 5
Engineering analysis ................................................................................. 5
Engineering Principles Contribution to The Building's Functionality and
Aesthetic Appeal .................................................................................... 6
Aesthetics analysis .................................................................................... 7
Harmony and Beauty.............................................................................. 7
Engineering and Aesthetics Integration ................................................. 8
Integration analysis ................................................................................. 10
Conclusion .............................................................................................. 10
Reference................................................................................................. 11
 InTRoDUCTIon

THe sIGnIfICanCe of sHells anD DoMes To CHRIsTIanITY

Domes have a significant role in Christian architecture. They have been influenced by the Roman
Empire, symbolize important theological concepts, offer practical advantages, and continue to hold
significance for Christians today.

 Historical and Religious Significance: They originated

from the influence of the Roman Empire and were
incorporated into Christian architecture as symbols of
heaven and God's presence. Domes represent a
connection between Earth and the divine realm, and
they serve as reminders of the heavenly realm in
Christian theology.
 Symbolism and Meaning: They represent the unity of
God, the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the hope of
eternal life. Domes also symbolize cosmic order, power,
authority, and protection. They evoke a sense of awe
and wonder, symbolizing the divine and eternal life.
 Practical Advantages: They provide structural
strength, allowing for large and acoustically pleasing
spaces for worship. Domes also have excellent
acoustics, ensuring clear sound distribution within a
domed space. They are ideal for creating spacious and
open interiors, allowing natural light to filter in and
creating a sense of upliftment.
 Contemporary Significance: Domes continue to hold significance for Christians in both
symbolic and practical aspects. Symbolically, they represent heaven, the unity of God, and the
resurrection of Jesus Christ. Practically, they offer structural strength and excellent acoustics,
making them popular in contemporary church designs.
 Cultural Identity and Heritage: Domes also reflect Christian culture and identity. Globally
recognized domes, such as St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, and the
Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, are important symbols of Christian history and
heritage.
In conclusion, they serve as powerful symbols of the Christian faith and practical solutions for creating
large and acoustically pleasing spaces for worship. They represent the historical, religious, and
architectural significance of Christianity and continue to be valued by Christians for their symbolism
and practical advantages.

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 sT. PaUl's CaTHeDRal In lonDon, enGlanD
St. Paul's Cathedral in London, England is an iconic landmark and one of the most significant cathedrals
in the world. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, it was built between 1675 and 1710 to replace the
medieval cathedral destroyed in the Great Fire of London.

The cathedral is a masterpiece of English Baroque

architecture, with a massive dome that dominates the London
skyline. The interior is just as impressive, with a spacious
nave and choir, and beautiful stained-glass windows. It is a
popular tourist destination, Visitors can climb to the top of the
dome for stunning views of London, or explore the cathedral's
crypt, where many famous people are buried.

St. Paul's Cathedral has played an important role in British

history. It has been the site of many important events, such as
the coronation of Queen Victoria and the wedding of Prince
Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. The cathedral has also been
a symbol of British resilience in the face of adversity. During
World War II, the cathedral was bombed several times, but it
survived the war intact. Today, St. Paul's Cathedral is a
thriving place of worship and a popular tourist destination. It
is a reminder of London's rich history and culture.

HIsToRY of sT. PaUl's CaTHeDRal

The first Christian church on the site of St. Paul's Cathedral was built in 604 AD by King Ethelbert I of
Kent. The church was dedicated to Saint Paul, the apostle of the Gentiles. The church was destroyed and
rebuilt several times over the centuries. In 962, the church was destroyed by Viking raiders. The church
was rebuilt in the 11th century, and it remained in use for over 600 years.

After the Great Fire, King Charles II commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to design a new St. Paul's
Cathedral. Wren was one of the most prominent architects in England at the time. He had already
designed a number of important buildings in London, including the Royal Hospital at Chelsea and the
Greenwich Observatory. Wren's design for the new St. Paul's Cathedral was a radical departure from the
medieval cathedral. Wren's design was inspired by the great cathedrals of Europe, such as St. Peter's
Basilica in Rome and the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Wren's design for the new St. Paul's Cathedral was
approved by the king in 1675. Construction began in 1676 and was completed in 1710.

Timeline of St. Paul's Cathedral

 604 AD: The first church on the site is built.
 962 AD: The Church is destroyed by Vikings.
 1087 AD: A new church is built on the site.
 1666 AD: Great Fire of London destroys the church.
 1675 AD: Sir Christopher Wren's design is approved.
 1710 AD: New cathedral is completed.

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 DesIGn of sT. PaUl's CaTHeDRal
The design and construction of St. Paul's Cathedral was led by Sir Christopher
Wren, who was chosen by the King to rebuild the city after the Great Fire of
London. Wren's plans included a new Cathedral that would be strong, useful, and
beautiful, giving the people a sense of hope and renewal. The Cathedral was to
have a special feature - a dome, which would reach up to the sky and be visible
to everyone in the city. Wren believed that the Cathedral could be a place of
hope, prayer, and community peace.
Wren's design for the cathedral is characterized by its massive size, its elegant proportions, and its use of
classical elements such as columns, pediments, and domes. It was influenced by classical and
Renaissance architectural styles, particularly the dome structures of ancient Rome. The cathedral
features a large dome that rises to a height of 365 feet (111 meters), making it one of the tallest domes in
the world.
The cathedral's interior is just as impressive as its exterior. The
nave, or central aisle, is flanked by two rows of columns. The
columns support arches, which create a sense of spaciousness and
grandeur.
The cathedral's choir is located at the eastern end of the nave.
The choir is where the cathedral's choir sings services. The choir
is separated from the nave by a screen, which is decorated with
carvings and sculptures.

ConsTRUCTIon of sT. PaUl's CaTHeDRal

The construction process involved clearing away the debris of the old city and finding a way to start
anew. The site of the pre-fire Cathedral was chosen for the new St. Paul's Cathedral. It took 35 years for
the Cathedral to be built, with Wren's team of designers and builders working together to bring the
vision to life. The finished Cathedral stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the
people of London, who rebuilt their city and created a special community meeting place.
The construction process involved a team of skilled craftsmen and workers who meticulously executed
Wren's design. The main structure is made primarily of Portland stone, with intricate carvings and
decorative elements adorning the exterior and interior.

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The double-shell dome is a dome that is made up of two layers of brick. The inner layer supports the
weight of the dome, while the outer layer creates the dome's shape.

St. Paul’s Cathedral features an innovative triple dome structure. On the circular drum, the inner dome
rises and is visible from the cathedral interior. Above this inner dome, a brick cone rises to support the
850-ton lantern. This brick cone also supports the wood rafters and frame of the outer dome, which is
covered in wood and lead. This three-dome system allows the cathedral to support such a heavy lantern,
all the while maintaining the great height needed to be a visible London landmark.

-Inner dome: visible from inside and purely for show; height 225
(69m)
-Middle brick cone: a brick cone that is invisible from below but
supports the 850-ton lantern above; height 278 ft (85m)
-Outer dome: a wood and lead-roofed structure visible from the
cathedral exterior; height 278 ft (85m)
-Lantern: an 850-ton stone lantern and cross, whose weight is carried
to the ground via the middle brick cone 365ft (111m)

The flying buttress system is a system of arches that helps to support the
weight of the cathedral's walls. The flying buttresses are located outside of
the cathedral walls, and they are connected to the walls by arches .
Challenges
Wren faced a number of challenges during the construction of St. Paul's Cathedral. One challenge was
the soft London clay ground on which the cathedral was built. Wren overcame this challenge by building
a deep foundation system consisting of thousands of wooden piles.

Another challenge was the weight of the dome. Wren solved this by using a double-shell design, with an
inner dome and an outer dome. The inner dome is made of wood and plaster and is primarily decorative.
The outer dome is made of lead-covered timber and is responsible for supporting the weight of the
lantern and cross above.

Wren also used a number of other innovative engineering techniques in the design of the cathedral. For
example, he used a system of iron chains to reinforce the dome and prevent it from collapsing. He also
used a unique system of flying buttresses to support the walls of the nave and choir.

St. Paul's Cathedral is a testament to the skill and ingenuity of Sir Christopher Wren and his team of
builders. The cathedral is also a reminder of London's rich history and culture.

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WHY I CHose sT. PaUl's CaTHeDRal
I picked St. Paul's Cathedral because it was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, who was one of my
favorite architects in the medieval period and was both a brilliant architect and a skilled engineer. Wren
was also a scientist, and he used his knowledge of mathematics and physics to design a cathedral that
was both structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. Hence, I believe St. Paul's Cathedral is a
particularly good example of the synergy of engineering and architecture.

Some other specific reasons that made me inclined to pick St. Paul's Cathedral in relation to the task
given and the symbolism it stands for are:
 St. Paul's Cathedral is a masterpiece of both engineering and architecture. The cathedral's
massive dome and flying buttress system are marvels of engineering, and its elegant proportions
and classical elements are a testament to Wren's architectural genius. The cathedral's dome is not
only a beautiful architectural feature, but it is also a structural necessity. The flying buttresses
help to support the weight of the dome and the cathedral's walls.
 St. Paul's Cathedral is a place of worship for millions of people around the world. It is a sacred
space that has been used for centuries for prayer, reflection, and celebration. Writing about the
synergy of engineering and architecture in St. Paul's Cathedral would be a way to explore the
intersection of science, religion, and spirituality.
 St. Paul's Cathedral is a testament to the human spirit. It was built after the Great Fire of London
destroyed the previous cathedral. The reconstruction of St. Paul's Cathedral was a symbol of
hope and resilience. Writing about the synergy of engineering and architecture in St. Paul's
Cathedral would be a way to celebrate the human capacity to overcome challenges and create
something beautiful and enduring.

enGIneeRInG analYsIs

As a result of Wren's careful design and engineering, St. Paul's Cathedral has survived for over 300
years, and remains one of the most structurally sound buildings in the world.

Here are some specific engineering features of St. Paul's Cathedral's design and their contribution to the
building's functionality and aesthetic appeal:

 Double-shell dome: The dome is made up of two shells, an

inner dome and an outer dome. The inner dome is made of
wood and plaster and is primarily decorative. The outer dome is
made of lead-covered timber and is responsible for supporting
the weight of the lantern and cross above. This adds to the
aesthetic appeal of the cathedral, as it creates a sense of
grandeur and beauty.
 Brick cone: The brick cone is a hidden structure that sits
between the inner and outer domes. It provides essential
structural support for the dome and helps to prevent it from
collapsing.

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  Brick piers: Brick piers are thick columns of brick that are
used to support the weight of a building. St. Paul's Cathedral
uses a series of brick piers to support the weight of its dome
and walls. This design is more efficient than using solid walls,
and it also helps to reduce the weight of the building. They
also add to the aesthetic appeal of the cathedral, as they create
a sense of rhythm and order.
 Flying buttresses: Flying buttresses are external arches that
support the walls of the nave and choir. They help to distribute
the weight of the roof and walls and prevent the walls from
buckling. The double-shell dome and flying buttresses work
together to support the weight of the cathedral's massive
dome and walls. This allows for a larger and more open
interior space, which is ideal for worship and other gatherings.
 Iron chains: Iron chains are used to reinforce the dome and
prevent it from collapsing. The chains are embedded in the
masonry of the dome and act like tension bands, holding the
dome together.
 Arches: Arches are curved structures that are used to support the weight of a building. St. Paul's
Cathedral uses a variety of arches throughout its design, including in the nave, choir, and crypt.
Arches are a strong and efficient way to support weight, and they also add to the aesthetic appeal
of the building. The arches in the nave create a sense of spaciousness and grandeur, while the
arches in the choir and crypt create a more intimate and contemplative atmosphere.

enGIneeRInG PRInCIPles ConTRIbUTIon To THe bUIlDInG's fUnCTIonalITY anD

aesTHeTIC aPPeal

1. Structural Stability: St. Paul's Cathedral employs various engineering techniques to ensure its
structural stability. The dome, for example, is supported by eight massive piers and a circular drum,
distributing the weight evenly and preventing any potential collapse. The use of arches and buttresses
also helps to distribute loads and reinforce the structure.

2. Material Selection: The choice of materials in St. Paul's Cathedral's construction plays a crucial
role in its functionality and aesthetic appeal. The primary material used is Portland stone, known for
its durability and ability to withstand weathering over time. This material not only provides structural
strength but also gives the cathedral a visually pleasing appearance.

3. Geometric Design: The use of geometric design principles is evident throughout St. Paul's
Cathedral's architecture. The dome, for instance, follows a spherical shape with a diameter of 34
meters, creating a visually striking feature that adds to the building's grandeur. Additionally, the
symmetrical layout of the cathedral enhances its aesthetic appeal.

4. Natural Lighting: Engineering principles are employed to maximize natural lighting within St.
Paul's Cathedral while maintaining structural integrity. The dome features large windows known as
"oculi" that allow sunlight to enter the interior space, creating an ethereal atmosphere inside the
cathedral during daylight hours.

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5. Acoustic Design: Engineering considerations were given to optimize sound propagation within St.
Paul's Cathedral for religious services and musical performances alike. The design incorporates
vaulted ceilings and carefully positioned surfaces that enhance sound reflection and diffusion,
ensuring clear audibility throughout the space.

6. Ventilation System: To maintain a comfortable environment inside the cathedral, engineering

principles were employed in designing an effective ventilation system without compromising its
architectural integrity or aesthetics. Hidden air vents were strategically placed throughout the
building to allow proper airflow while minimizing visual impact.

7. Accessibility: While not originally part of its design, accessibility has been incorporated into St.
Paul’s Cathedral over time through engineering modifications such as ramps and elevators without
compromising its historical significance or architectural beauty.

aesTHeTICs analYsIs
St. Paul's Cathedral's aesthetics are characterized by its grandeur, symmetry, intricate details, fusion of
architectural styles, and skillful use of light. This timeless beauty continues to inspire admiration among
visitors from around the world.

HaRMonY anD beaUTY

One of the key aesthetic qualities of St. Paul's Cathedral is its grandeur and imposing presence. The
cathedral's dome, which stands 365 feet (111 meters) tall, dominates the London skyline and
commands attention. Its impressive size and scale create a sense of awe and majesty, drawing visitors
in and evoking a feeling of reverence.

The architect, Sir Christopher Wren, achieved a sense of harmony

through his meticulous attention to detail and careful proportioning
of elements. The cathedral's facade features a symmetrical design
with balanced proportions, creating a harmonious visual
composition. The use of classical architectural elements such as
columns, pediments, and pilasters further add to the overall sense of
balance and beauty.

Wren also incorporated various decorative features that enhance the

aesthetic appeal of St. Paul's Cathedral. Elaborate carvings, intricate
stonework, and ornate sculptures adorn the exterior and interior
spaces. These decorative elements not only add visual interest but
also contribute to the overall sense of beauty within the cathedral.

Light plays a crucial role in enhancing St. Paul's aesthetic qualities.

The architect utilized large windows throughout the building to allow
ample natural light to flood into the interior spaces. This creates an
ethereal atmosphere within the cathedral while highlighting its
architectural details and enhancing its overall beauty.

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Furthermore, St. Paul's Cathedral exhibits a seamless integration between form and function. The
architectural design not only serves as an expression of beauty but also accommodates practical
considerations such as acoustics for worship services or structural stability for longevity.

In conclusion, St. Paul's Cathedral possesses numerous aesthetic qualities that contribute to its
harmonious and beautiful appearance. Through careful proportioning, attention to detail, decorative
embellishments, skillful use of light, and integration of form with function, Sir Christopher Wren
successfully created an architectural masterpiece that continues to captivate visitors with its timeless
beauty today.

enGIneeRInG anD aesTHeTICs InTeGRaTIon

From an engineering perspective, the cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the late 17th
century with careful consideration of its structural stability. The dome, which is one of the most
iconic features of St. Paul's, required innovative engineering techniques to ensure its stability. Wren
used a double-shell design, with an inner dome made of brick and an outer dome made of stone, to
distribute the weight evenly and provide additional support. This engineering feat allowed for a large
open space inside the cathedral without compromising its structural integrity.

In terms of aesthetics, St. Paul's Cathedral showcases exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The exterior facade features intricate carvings, decorative elements, and elegant proportions that give
it a sense of grandeur and beauty. The use of high-quality materials such as Portland stone adds to its
visual appeal.

Inside the cathedral, the integration of engineering and aesthetics is evident in various aspects. The
use of natural light plays a significant role in creating a serene atmosphere. Wren incorporated large
windows and strategically placed skylights to allow ample daylight to fill the interior space. This not
only enhances the visual experience but also reduces the need for artificial lighting.

The interior design also reflects a harmonious blend of functionality and beauty. The layout allows
for efficient circulation while providing clear sightlines to the altar from various points within the
cathedral. The use of ornate decorations, intricate mosaics, and detailed sculptures further enhances
its aesthetic appeal.

The integration of engineering and aesthetics in St. Paul's Cathedral is evident in the following ways:

 The double-shell dome is a marvel of engineering, but it is also a beautiful architectural feature.
The outer shell of the dome is decorated with a pattern of scallops, which adds to its aesthetic
appeal.
 The flying buttresses that support the weight of the dome and walls are also a beautiful
architectural feature. The flying buttresses are decorated with carvings and sculptures, which add
to the cathedral's overall aesthetic appeal.
 The brick piers that support the weight of the dome and walls are also a beautiful architectural
feature. The brick piers are arranged in a rhythmic pattern, which adds to the cathedral's visual
appeal.

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  The arches throughout the cathedral are a strong and efficient way to support weight, and they
also add to the aesthetic appeal of the building. The arches in the nave create a sense of
spaciousness and grandeur, while the arches in the choir and crypt create a more intimate and
contemplative atmosphere.

how St. Paul's Cathedral's engineering and aesthetics have been integrated to create a functional and
beautiful structure:

 The dome of St. Paul's Cathedral is one of the largest domes in the world. It is also one of the
most structurally sound domes in the world. The dome is supported by a complex system of
flying buttresses and brick piers. This system helps to distribute the weight of the dome evenly
and prevents it from collapsing. The dome is also covered in a copper sheet, which helps to
protect it from the elements.
 The nave of St. Paul's Cathedral is a vast and awe-inspiring space. It is flanked by two rows of
massive columns that support soaring arches. The arches help to distribute the weight of the roof
and walls of the nave evenly. The nave is also lit by a series of large windows, which fill the
space with natural light.
 The choir of St. Paul's Cathedral is a more intimate and contemplative space. It is separated from
the nave by a screen that is decorated with carvings and sculptures. The choir is lit by a series of
smaller windows, which create a more subdued atmosphere.
 The stained-glass windows of St. Paul's Cathedral are some of the most beautiful in the world.
They depict biblical scenes and figures, and they add a sense of color and light to the interior
space. The stained-glass windows also help to filter the sunlight, which creates a more
comfortable atmosphere for worship.

Overall, St. Paul's Cathedral stands as a testament to how engineering principles can be seamlessly
integrated with artistic vision to create a structure that is both functional and visually stunning. Its
enduring beauty continues to captivate visitors from around the world while serving as an important
place for worship and reflection.

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 InTeGRaTIon analYsIs
St. Paul's Cathedral is a remarkable example of how engineering and aesthetics have been effectively
integrated into its design. The architect, Sir Christopher Wren, successfully combined both aspects to
create a harmonious and visually stunning structure.

From an engineering perspective, St. Paul's Cathedral showcases innovative techniques and structural
advancements for its time. Wren employed a combination of stone and brick construction, which
provided strength and stability to the building. The dome, in particular, is a masterpiece of engineering.
It is supported by eight massive piers that transfer the weight of the dome to the ground efficiently.

Wren also incorporated various architectural elements that served both functional and aesthetic
purposes. For instance, the flying buttresses on the exterior not only provide structural support but also
add visual interest to the overall design. The use of large windows allows ample natural light to enter the
cathedral while creating a sense of grandeur.

Furthermore, Wren's attention to detail is evident in the intricate carvings and decorations throughout St.
Paul's Cathedral. The elaborate sculptures, ornate ceilings, and intricate mosaics contribute to its
aesthetic appeal while showcasing the craftsmanship of skilled artisans.

The integration of engineering and aesthetics can also be seen in how Wren designed the interior space.
He carefully considered acoustics by incorporating specific features such as domed ceilings and curved
surfaces to enhance sound projection during religious ceremonies.

Overall, St. Paul's Cathedral stands as a testament to how engineering and aesthetics can be seamlessly
integrated into architectural design. Wren's ability to combine structural innovation with artistic beauty
has resulted in a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire awe and admiration today.

ConClUsIon

St. Paul's Cathedral in London is a remarkable example of the integration of engineering and aesthetics
in its design. The architect, Sir Christopher Wren, successfully combined both aspects to create a
harmonious and visually stunning structure. The cathedral showcases innovative engineering techniques
and structural advancements, such as the dome supported by eight massive piers. It also features a
symmetrical design, balanced proportions, and intricate decorative elements that enhance its aesthetic
appeal. St. Paul's Cathedral stands as a testament to the seamless integration of engineering and
aesthetics in architectural design.
I believe that St. Paul's Cathedral is also a success because it is a place where people come together. It is
a place where people of all backgrounds and faiths can gather to worship, to celebrate, to mourn, and to
support each other. St. Paul's Cathedral is a symbol of hope and resilience, and it is a reminder that we
are all connected.

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Some of the additional insights on St. Paul's Cathedral's success besides the architecture and engineering
are
 Religious significance: St. Paul's Cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the
United Kingdom. It is the seat of the Bishop of London and the cathedral church of the Diocese
of London. The cathedral is also a popular tourist destination and is visited by millions of people
each year.
 Cultural significance: St. Paul's Cathedral is also a place of great cultural significance. It has
been the site of many important events in British history, including the coronation of Queen
Elizabeth II in 1953. The cathedral is also a popular venue for concerts, exhibitions, and other
cultural events.

In conclusion, St. Paul's Cathedral is a masterpiece that exemplifies the synergy of engineering and
architecture. Its grandeur, imposing presence, and meticulous attention to detail create a sense of
harmony and beauty. The cathedral's innovative engineering techniques, such as the double-shell dome
and flying buttresses, contribute to its structural stability and aesthetic appeal. The integration of form
with function, the skillful use of light, and the incorporation of decorative elements further enhance its
visual experience. St. Paul's Cathedral continues to inspire awe and admiration as a timeless
architectural masterpiece.

RefeRenCe
 Architecture of St Paul's Cathedral. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://stpaulscathedral-
london.com/architecture-of-st-pauls-cathedral/
 Resurgam - London - St Paul's Cathedral. https://www.stpauls.co.uk/
 Royal Institute of British Architects. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.architecture.com/
 Saint, A. (2003). The Successful Synergy of Engineering and Architecture: A Case Study of
St. Paul's Cathedral. The Structural Engineer, 81(1), 26-30.
 St. Paul's Cathedral: https://cathedralsaintpaul.org/
 Watkin, D. (1977). The Significance of Shells and Domes in Christian Architecture. The Journal
of the Society of Architectural Historians, 36(2), 131-156.
 Watkin, D. (1980). St. Paul's Cathedral: Architecture and Symbolism. Barrie & Jenkins.
 Wren, C. (1717). St. Paul's Cathedral. W. Churchill.
 Zhang, M. (2023). St. Paul's Cathedral Dome: a synthesis of engineering and art. Retrieved from
https://www.myleszhang.org/

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