Abstract
Free-form geometries are very popular in today's architecture. Computer controlled fabrication methods allow for structures, which would not have been possible a few years ago. But how does one transfer 3D geometries into a load bearing structure without loosing the architectural vision of smoothly shaped building envelopes? An intense discussion is necessary to navigate architectural visions of elegant 3D shapes through the technical and economic constraints of realization. The role of the engineer is conceived as that of a mediator between the aesthetic ambitions of the architect, the budget of the client and the technical capabilities of the contractor. From the very early stages of form finding to the assembly on site, a consistent design process is absolutely necessary to achieve high quality free formed structures.
In this paper different examples are presented to demonstrate this. The projects vary from a single layer grid shell for Westfield's new shopping centre at White City, London and a large space structure in Frankfurt to a timber shell for a department store in Cologne
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