Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses general structural guidelines of the structural system, and concerns the tectonics of masonry structures. It contains structural guidelines and case studies about stone, brick, adobe and timber masonry. The book explains structural guidelines about the techniques of making larger openings and analyses two case studies in relation to the subject. It discusses structural guidelines concerning adding and subtracting parts from frame systems. The book covers structural guidelines and case studies about truss, 3D truss and space-frame structures. It concerns hybrid structural systems that integrate different types of structures in order to achieve the tectonic qualities demanded by architecture. The book finally discusses the usefulness of the concepts of structural guidelines and tectonics in order to achieve a more practical and artistic approach to structures in architecture.