Structure and Architecture

Summary

Angus J. Macdonald explores how structures do more than support buildings: they also influence architectural expression, spatial organization, building proportions, and construction methods.
The book introduces structural requirements and materials, examines how structural form relates to efficiency, and compares complete structural arrangements. It also encourages critical appraisal of structures, helping readers understand the relationship between technical performance and architectural quality. The third edition expands and updates the discussion with extensive illustrations.
It is especially valuable for architecture students who want to develop structural intuition and communicate more effectively with structural engineers, without treating the book as a substitute for structural calculations or professional engineering design.

Key takeaways

• Structural systems influence both the technical performance and architectural character of buildings.
• Structural requirements include strength, stability, stiffness, durability, and serviceability.
• Structural materials have different mechanical properties and design possibilities.
• The shape and arrangement of a structure influence how loads are transferred.
• Structural efficiency depends on geometry, material properties, span, loading, and support conditions.
• Compression, tension, bending, and shear are fundamental to understanding structural behavior.
• Structural systems should be selected in response to building use, spatial requirements, and architectural intent.
• Long-span structures can create large, unobstructed interior spaces.
• Structural grids influence room layouts, façade composition, circulation, and flexibility.
• Structural expression can contribute to a building's visual identity.
• Structural efficiency and architectural quality should be considered together.
• Different structural materials and systems offer different construction and maintenance implications.
• Understanding structural behavior helps architects develop more realistic concepts.
• Early coordination between architects and structural engineers can reduce redesign and improve integration.
• Structural decisions must ultimately be verified through appropriate engineering analysis and applicable codes.

Practical application

Concept design: Explore structural grids and load paths alongside the initial building form.



Span planning: Compare column-and-beam, truss, arch, shell, and other systems according to the required clear span.



Material selection: Understand the architectural implications of steel, reinforced concrete, timber, and masonry.



Spatial coordination: Align structural grids with room layouts, circulation, parking, and façade modules.



Façade integration: Coordinate columns, beams, floor edges, and structural movement with the building envelope.



Structural expression: Decide whether the structure should remain visible, be partially expressed, or be concealed.



Design communication: Prepare structural concept diagrams showing grids, spans, supports, and load paths.



High-rise design: Coordinate lateral stability, core placement, structural grids, and architectural planning with the engineering team.



Bangladesh application: For projects in Bogura and elsewhere in Bangladesh, coordinate architectural concepts with structural engineers considering applicable BNBC provisions, soil conditions, wind and seismic actions, materials, and construction practices.



Professional practice: Use the book to improve design discussions, but obtain project-specific structural calculations and approval from qualified engineers.

Good to know

Who it's for: Architecture students, architects, structural engineering students, civil engineers, architectural technologists, and design researchers

ISBN: 9781315210513

Topics

Structural Systems Structural Design Architectural Structures Structural Materials Structural Form Load-Bearing Systems Structural Efficiency Reinforced Concrete Steel Structures Timber Structures Masonry Long-Span Structures Tension Structures Compression Structures Structural Stability Tectonics Architectural Expression Building Engineering