Universal Principles of Design, Updated and Expanded Third Edition

178 Structural Forms

There are three ways to create rigid things: solids, frames, and shells.

Structures are assemblages of elements used to support a load or contain and protect things. In many cases, the structure supports only itself (i.e., the load is the weight of the materials); and in other cases, the structure supports itself and additional loads (e.g., a crane). Whether creating a museum exhibit, large sculpture, 3D billboard, or temporary shelter, a basic understanding of structure is essential to successful design.1

There are three basic types of structures:

1. Mass structures — Materials are put together to form a solid structure. The strength of a mass structure is a function of the weight and hardness of the materials. Examples ...