Research-Based Design : Membrane Structures

Abstract

This course is one of the few academic in-depth investigations into the planning of membrane structures, drawing on an interdisciplinary collaboration between architects and specialist planners. Before drawing the first sketch this translates into nothing less than formfinding. Model experiments as well as wide-ranging research on new rendering and calculation programmes preceded the concept. Upon completion of this course students will be able to: explain the building history of membrane stractures by using relevant examples, broaden their knowledge in form-finding, use of materials, construction details and building components, define planning parameters and quality standards for tensile structures, work in an interdisciplinary fashion with those parties involved in the construction and planning, pursue the classical route of inventing, designing and developing technical objects