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Tubular Structures in Architecture

Subject
The mutual relationship between the technology of
Tubular Structures and Architectural design and detailing
Goal
A multi-language publication from the national steel
associations to popularize the use and development of
tubular structures in architecture
Expected Results
An international practice overview on tubular technology
and contemporary architecture in minimum 5 languages
and minimum 25.000 copies
Researcher
Supervisor
Program/Subprogram
Host University
Mick Eekhout / a.c.j.m.eekhout@tudelft.nl
Prof. Jaap Wardenier
Zappi / Industrial Building
Delft University of Technology / Faculty of Architecture
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Tubular Structures in Architecture
Mick Eekhout
Delft University o Technology, Faculty o Architecture, Department o Building Technology,
Chair o Product Development, Delft NL, m.eekhout@octatube.nl
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Subject
A book on the contemporary technology, composition and architectural appearance of steel tubular
structures in architecture.
Goals
Inspirational texts and illustrations form current international practice and descriptions on topics re-
lated to the use of tubular structures in architecture as an inspirational source for readers: architects
and architecture students. How has the recent tubular technology influenced contemporary architec-
ture? How will future developments influence future architecture further?
Research Question
What is the special appearance of tubular structures in architecture, what is their unique contribution
to architectural quality and how is this appearance realized? What future developments from tubular
technology and influential on architecture are expected? How is futuristic architectural design origi-
nating new developments in tubular structures?
Strategy
The first edition of this book was published in 1996 in 5 languages; English, German, French, Spanish
and Dutch and was printed 25.000 copies. Sold out after 2 years. The times have changed and the
tendencies for tubular structures now also encompass free form design. The text has to be rewritten
and most of the illustrations have to changed and updated.
Expected Results
A new book co-edited by Cidect, Geneva, in more than the original 5 languages for popularization of
tubular structures amongst architects and structural engineers, for architectural students and struc-
tural engineering students. Size around 140 full color pages.
Preferred Partners Applications / Sponsors
Cidect (Comit International de tudes sur des Constructions Tubulaires) and an international publis-
hing house for architecture.
Prime Publication / Prototyping
Reconstruction of the original texts and rewriting 2007- publication end of 2008
Research Period
2007-2008