Characteristics of structural and architectural integration as identified by U.S. Architectural practitioners

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Abstract

This paper presents the results arid analysis from an interview study conducted with architectural practitioners to investigate structural integration with the aim of delineating its characteristics. The first step toward specificity is to identify and categorize what practitioners view as important in integrating structure and architecture. Interviewing was chosen as the data-collection method rather than surveying because it allows for a wider range of responses. An analysis and classification of the responses led to the creation of an introductory framework of structural integration with three themes: Working together, physical articulation of structure, and wholeness. The first theme encompassed the process of design and the relationship between the architect and the structural engineer. The second theme focused on the role of structure in design, which ranged from the size and placement of a member to an innovative structure enabling a building project to move forward. The third theme encompassed how the architects viewed design holistically, with structure envisioned as a single element among many components, just one part of the whole. Together, these themes represent how an integrated structure is conceived and designed, the goals of structural integration, and the position of structure in architectural design. The identification of the particular characteristics of structural integration will lead to better implementation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)258-270
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Architectural and Planning Research
Volume32
Issue number3
StatePublished - Sep 1 2015

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Architecture
  • Geography, Planning and Development
  • Environmental Science (miscellaneous)
  • Urban Studies

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