ONLINE ELECTIVE

NAME : HRISHIKESH MOZE

STUDIO : 20
ROLL NO : 20021
LECTURE 1 :- INTRODUCTION TO STRUCTURE, FORM AND
ARCHITECTURE
Structure :- Construction or framework of identifiable elements (components , entities ,
factors, members, parts, steps, etc.) which gives form and stability and resists stresses and
strains.
Form : The visible shape or configuration of something.
Architecture : The art or practice of designing and constructing building.

Example :-

Modern structures like Zaha Hadid's museum, Burj Khalifa, and classical designs such
as the Taj Mahal, Louvre Museum, and pyramids highlight the synergy between form,
structure, and architecture.
The synergy between form and structure is essential, as one influences the other.
Design involves balancing aesthetic form creation and structural stability.

To make the design comprehensive, stable, and capable of achieving the desired outcome,
we need to think holistically. This involves considering the form that gives identity to a
structure and the structural elements that support it. Together, they create architecture that
is both functional and visually appealing.
 Understanding Form and Structure Through Examples
The relationship between form and structure can be better understood through examples. For
instance, consider the human skeleton and the external appearance of the body. The skeleton
provides stability and functionality, while the external form represents beauty and identity.
Without the internal structure, the external form would collapse.
This concept extends to architecture. For example, the Statue of Unity is a monumental
sculpture with a striking visual form. However, beneath its surface lies a complex structural
system made up of beams, columns, and other components that ensure its stability and
durability.
Another example is the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing, which was inspired by the intricate
form of a bird’s nest. While the form represents the natural and artistic aspects, its
execution required precise structural engineering. The irregular alignment of beams and
columns, designed to mimic the randomness of a nest, is a testament to the synergy
between form and structure.

Architectural Inspiration from Nature

Nature has been a consistent source of inspiration for architectural forms:
1. Bird Nests: Birds create intricate nests to protect their eggs and offspring. The overlapping
fibers give the nests stability, which can inspire the design of lightweight yet robust
structures.
2. Honeycombs: Bees construct perfectly hexagonal cells to maximize strength while
minimizing material usage. This principle is often applied in structural engineering to
optimize efficiency.
3. Spider Webs: These natural tensile structures are both lightweight and strong, inspiring
cable-supported roof systems in modern architecture.
4. Golden Ratio Forms: Found in shells and other natural spirals, these proportions are
aesthetically pleasing and structurally efficient, influencing designs like spiraling staircases
and curved facades.
 Man-Made Structural Innovations
Humans have also created innovative forms that integrate structure and function:
1. Igloos: Dome-like structures made of ice blocks, designed to provide insulation and stability
in extreme climates.
2. Wigwams: Cone-shaped shelters that are simple yet effective in protecting inhabitants from
the elements.
3. Suspension Bridges: Engineering marvels like the Golden Gate Bridge rely on tensile
cables for stability while maintaining an elegant form.
4. Lotus Temple: This shell structure mimics the petals of a lotus flower, demonstrating how
architectural beauty and structural efficiency can coexist.

Key Considerations in Design

When selecting structural forms, several factors must be considered:
Space Requirements: Define the spatial and functional needs.
Environmental Constraints: Adapt designs to earthquake-prone areas, flood zones, or other
challenging environments.
Purpose of the Structure: Whether for residential, commercial, or public use, the purpose will
influence the design.
Material Selection: Choose materials that balance strength, aesthetics, and sustainability.
Technological Integration: Incorporate advancements in construction
technology.
Economic Viability: Optimize cost without compromising quality
or safety. Structure
Execution and Maintenance: Ensure precise implementation
and plan for long-term upkeep.
Synergy Between Structure, Form, and Architecture

A proper synergy will: Form

Ensure user safety and comfort.
Fulfill functional requirements and optimize resources.
Achieve aesthetic appeal while solving the design purpose.
Architecture
 Process
Articulation of spaces though application of art , science and technology.
An integration between Idea, Technology and Control.
Fulfilling the Requirements.
Satisfying the needs and desire of end users.

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Feasibility

Diagrammatic Process

The main objectives of this course include:

Understanding the Relationship Between Structure, Form, and Architecture: Learn how to
create a synergy that ensures structural strength, functional optimization, and aesthetic
appeal.
Exploring Structural Forms and Behaviors: Study the fundamentals of various structural
forms and their applications in architectural design.
Analyzing Case Studies: Understand real-world examples of successful structural and
architectural integration to inspire innovative solutions.
Focusing on Resilient and Futuristic Architecture: Learn how to design structures that are
resilient to natural and man-made disasters while meeting future needs.
LECTURE 2 :- RELATIONSHIP OF STRUCTURE TO ARCHITECTURAL
BUILDINGS PART I
Structure: The part of a building that resists loads, preventing collapse (e.g., foundation, columns,
beams, slabs).
Building: An envelope that encloses and subdivides space to create a protected environment.
Structural Composition.

INTRODUCTION :
Foundation
Floor Slab
Wall
Beam
Column

A simple building consists of a foundation, vertical elements (walls, columns), horizontal elements
(beams, slabs), all working together to create a stable "skeleton."
Loads are transferred from slabs to beams, columns, and ultimately to the foundation and ground.

The Process
The articulation of space though application of art , science and technology.
An integration between idea , technology and control
fulfilling the requirements
Satisfying the needs and desire of end user

Architectural Concepts
The lecture categorizes concepts into four contrasting pairs, each playing a significant role in
shaping architectural design.
a. Order vs. Chaos
Order: Structures where elements are arranged systematically, creating harmony and predictability.
Examples include the Parthenon in Athens, with its symmetrical and aligned columns.
Chaos: Intentional randomness in design to evoke abstract or natural inspirations. Notable
examples are the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing, which mimics the randomness of a bird's nest, and
deconstructionist designs like the Royal Ontario Museum.
b. Stability vs. Instability
Stability: Visual perception of balance and security, such as pyramids or buildings with well-
grounded, symmetrical forms. Examples include the Pantheon in Rome or the Law Courts in
Vancouver.
Instability: Designs that visually challenge the idea of balance, often appearing precarious but
structurally sound. Examples include the Forum Barcelona Solar Plant and The Reactor, a
pivoting art structure.
c. Static vs. Dynamic
Static: Designs with a sense of permanence and stillness, characterized by straight lines and
regular forms. Examples include IIM Ahmedabad and the Hyatt Regency in Kolkata.
Dynamic: Designs that evoke movement or flow, using curves and irregular forms to suggest
energy. Examples include Zaha Hadid’s fluid designs and the Madrid Airport Terminal.
d. Grounded vs. Floating
Grounded: Structures that appear anchored to the earth, often emphasizing solidity and
connection to the ground. Examples include the Rolex Learning Centre and the Glass House.
Floating: Structures that seem to defy gravity, giving the illusion of weightlessness. Examples
include the Gas Natural Headquarters in Barcelona, with cantilevered sections, and designs with
minimal ground contact.
3. Structural Elements Supporting Architectural Vision
Achieving these concepts requires careful selection of structural systems and materials. The
lecture emphasizes:
The use of lightweight or innovative structural elements to achieve dynamic or floating forms.
Traditional or reinforced structures for stability and grounded designs.
Materials’ properties, such as strength and resistance, to align with the design's visual and
functional requirements.
4. Integration of Concept and Structure
The lecture stresses the importance of aligning design concepts with the right structural forms.
For instance, a dynamic concept requires lightweight and flexible materials, while grounded or
stable concepts might need heavier, more robust materials. The ability to match design intentions
with structural possibilities enables architects to create innovative and functional buildings.
5. Conclusion and Future Discussions
The lecture concludes by highlighting the importance of understanding material properties and
structural systems to support architectural creativity. This knowledge helps overcome limitations
and ensures the successful realization of complex designs. Upcoming lectures will explore
architectural qualities, their structural relationships, and the role of materials in detail.
This expanded summary captures the essence of the lecture, illustrating how conceptual design
and structural execution intersect in the field of architecture.
LECTURE 3 :- RELATIONSHIP OF STRUCTURE TO ARCHITECTURAL
BUILDINGS PART II
Simplicity: Achieved through straightforward, geometric designs and uniform materials.
Example 1: Villa Savoye, Paris
Simple rectangular and cylindrical forms.
Uniform ribbon windows, consistent materiality, and symmetry convey simplicity.
Example 2: One Boston Place
Despite being a high-rise, it achieves simplicity through vertical and horizontal structural lines, and
regular façade patterns.
Complexity: Created using intricate details, dynamic forms, or complex structural systems.
Example 1: Eiffel Tower
Symmetrical structure with intricate steel trusses and connections showcases structural complexity.
Example 2: Harbin Opera House, China
Complex curvatures and smooth transitions in the roofing structure.
The structural arrangement brings this challenging design into reality.

Simplicity Complexity
Open Form : Open forms prioritize interaction with the surrounding environment through visual
and physical openness. They are often characterized by large windows, open terraces, or
transparent materials.
Examples and Applications:
Modern homes with glass walls that blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Public spaces such as lobbies, courtyards, or airport terminals where openness encourages
accessibility and fluid movement.
Structural Considerations: Open forms often require lightweight materials, such as steel or
reinforced glass, and advanced structural systems like cantilevers or space frames to ensure
openness without compromising stability.
Closed Form : Closed forms are enclosed and inward-looking, often with minimal external
connectivity. These forms are designed for controlled environments where privacy or
preservation is prioritized.
Examples and Applications:
Museums (e.g., the Bihar Museum in Patna or the Spanish museum mentioned in the lecture)
where artifacts need to be protected from sunlight and external elements.
Sanctuaries or meditation spaces designed to create introspection and focus.
Structural Considerations: Closed forms involve robust walls, minimal openings, and often rely
on heavy materials like concrete or brick for thermal insulation and durability. Skylights are
sometimes used for natural lighting without disrupting the closed aesthetic.
Lightweight Structures : Visually light structures use slender elements, often appearing airy or
translucent. Their primary focus is creating expansive, obstruction-free spaces.
Examples and Applications:
Airports: Large roofs supported by trusses or space frames allow clear sightlines for
passengers while enabling maximum natural light.
Stadiums: Tensile membrane structures supported by cable systems, as seen in Olympic
stadiums, provide shade and protection with minimal material usage.

Structural Considerations:
Achieving lightweight structures requires advanced engineering solutions like:
Trusses or Space Frames: Efficiently distribute loads over long spans.
Membrane Structures: Use tensioned fabrics or cables for roofing, creating large spans with
minimal visual weight.
Translucent Materials: Polycarbonate or ETFE allow natural light while being structurally
efficient.
Heavy Structures : Heavy structures are characterized by solid, massive elements, emphasizing
permanence, stability, and monumentality.
Examples and Applications:
Libraries or Museums: Large concrete or stone walls convey durability (e.g., St. John University
Library with its tree-like supports).
Brutalist Architecture: Buildings using exposed concrete with a focus on bold, monolithic forms.
Structural Considerations:
These require dense materials like reinforced concrete, thick masonry, or large timber
elements.
The structural design must account for the added weight and ensure stability under gravitational
and lateral loads.

Soft Forms : Softness is achieved through flowing, curvilinear shapes that evoke natural
movement and harmony.
Examples and Applications:
Tama Art University Library (Japan): Double curvature in both plan and elevation creates
smooth transitions.
Wave-Shaped Apartments in Denmark: The flowing roof design emphasizes softness and
fluidity.
Structural Considerations:
Curvilinear forms often use materials like steel, aluminum, or thin-shell concrete, which can be
molded into organic shapes.
Advanced computational design tools are often employed to calculate load paths in complex
geometries.
Hard Forms : Hard forms are characterized by bold, straight lines and rigid geometries that evoke
strength and structure.
Examples and Applications:
Holy Redeemer Church (Spain): Straight, uninterrupted lines give the building a stark and bold
appearance.
Art Museums: Minimal openings and blocky forms emphasize solidity.

Structural Considerations:
Hard forms often use concrete or stone, emphasizing simplicity and stability. Straight lines and
minimal detailing contribute to the visual impact.

Elegant Forms : Elegance is achieved through smooth, polished surfaces, rhythmic designs, and
seamless transitions between elements.
Examples and Applications:
Felix Candela’s Designs: Thin-shell concrete structures with parabolic forms create lightweight
elegance.
Mumbai International Airport Terminal: The column-to-roof transition is smooth, creating a
sense of grace and harmony.
Structural Considerations:
Precision in design and execution is crucial for elegance, as imperfections can detract from the
aesthetic.
Materials like glass, polished steel, or thin-shell concrete are often used for their ability to
create refined and sleek finishes.
Rough Forms : Roughness emphasizes texture, unfinished surfaces, and a raw aesthetic that
contrasts with traditional finishes.
Examples and Applications:
Skissernas Museum (Sweden): Weathered steel and exposed concrete create a rugged
appearance.
Seashore Library: Rough-textured concrete finishes evoke a sense of natural ruggedness.
Structural Considerations:
Materials like weathered steel, raw concrete, or natural stone are used to achieve a textured
look.
Rough finishes must be intentionally designed and treated to ensure durability and prevent
structural degradation.
 LECTURE 4 :- LOADS ON STRUCTURES
Load
A structural load refers to forces, deformations, or accelerations applied to a structure, resulting
in stresses, deformations, or displacements. Understanding loads is crucial for designing stable,
functional buildings.

Types of Loads
Static Load: Constant over time.
Examples include the self-weight of the structure, permanent fixtures, and furniture that does
not move frequently.
Dynamic Load: Changes with time and includes forces like wind, earthquakes, or vibrations.

Examples include seismic activity, wind pressure, and impact loads (e.g., a vehicle colliding
with a structure).
Dead Load: Immovable and permanent components of a building, such as beams, columns,
walls, and roofs.
Live Load: Movable objects and elements that change over time, such as people, furniture,
and vehicles.
Thermal Load: Caused by temperature variations, leading to expansion or contraction of
materials. Expansion gaps, like those in railway tracks, account for such loads.
Snow and Rain Loads: Snow accumulates on roofs during certain seasons, while improper
drainage can lead to water accumulation, creating additional stress on structures.
Vibration and Impact Loads: Vibration from activities like drilling or machinery can propagate and
resonate, potentially damaging structures.
Impact loads result from sudden forces, such as hammering or collisions.
Groundwater Pressure: High water tables can exert hydraulic pressure on a building's
foundation.
Load Classifications :
Point Load: Concentrated force applied at a specific location.
Distributed Load: Force spread over a surface, which can be uniform (UDL) or varying.
Permanent vs. Temporary Load:
Permanent loads are static and include dead loads.
Temporary loads include live loads, imposed loads (e.g., human activity), and dynamic loads.
LECTURE 5 :- SYNTHESIS OF ARCHITECTURAL AND STRUCTURAL
FORM
Forms:
A form is a three-dimensional shape that integrates architectural aspects like space creation,
arrangement, and structural configuration.
Architectural form primarily refers to a building’s external outline or shape, which includes size,
color, texture, and visual stability.
Structural form focuses on the visually dominant structural system supporting a building, ensuring
strength and stability.
4 S’s of Structure:
Strength: Capacity to bear loads. STRENGTH
Stiffness: Resistance to deformation.
Stability: Resistance to collapse under forces.
Synergy: Harmony between architectural and structural forms.
SYNERGY STRUCTURE STIFFNESS
Key Concepts of Structural Design:
Structures must exhibit strength (resistance to breaking), stiffness
(preventing excessive deformation), stability (preventing collapse),
and synergy (effective integration of materials and design).
STABILITY

Synthesis of Forms:
Architectural and structural forms work together to create functional and
aesthetically pleasing designs.
Shell Structures: Thin, curved surfaces that efficiently distribute
loads, often used in large-span roofs.
Fabric Structures: Flexible materials tensioned over a
framework, providing lightweight and adaptable enclosures.
Catenary Structures: Forms shaped by natural hanging chains or
cables, utilized for their efficient load-bearing properties.
Ribbed Structures: Frameworks resembling skeletal systems,
offering both strength and aesthetic appeal.
Arches: Curved structures that transfer loads through
compression, commonly used in bridges and gateways.
Folded Plate Structures: Assemblies of flat plates connected
along their edges, forming rigid surfaces capable of spanning
large areas.
Framed Structures: Combinations of beams and columns
forming a skeleton, prevalent in modern building construction.
Wall Structures: Load-bearing walls that serve both structural
and partitioning functions in buildings.
Integration of Structural and Architectural Forms:
Synergy: Achieving harmony between structural integrity and architectural aesthetics.
Design Considerations: Balancing factors like material selection, load distribution, spatial
requirements, and environmental impact.
Case Studies: Analyzing examples where structural forms have been effectively integrated into
architectural designs to enhance both function and form.
THANK YOU