Building Additions in Steel: The Architecture of Vertical Extensions

Steel as a building material has challenged conventional wisdom about construction, enabling designs of surprising lightness and span. Building Additions in Steel documents an interdisciplinary research project by architects, engineers, teachers, and students at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Institute of Constructive Design, exploring the largely ignored topic of steel additions in architecture and engineering.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 28 August 2019
Publisher: Park Books

Since the early twentieth century, the introduction of steel as a building material has revolutionized the construction industry, challenging conventional wisdom and enabling the design of remarkable structures of surprising lightness and span. Steel's ability to enable vertical expansion significantly transformed architectural possibilities, making it a symbol of the ongoing conflict between technological progress and the pursuit of architectural ideals. In more recent times, the incorporation of exposed steel elements in modern architecture has sparked a renewed interest in the transformative power of buildings.

Building Additions in Steel delves into the largely overlooked realm of steel additions in architecture and engineering, presenting an ambitious and interdisciplinary research project conducted by architects, engineers, teachers, and students at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Institute of Constructive Design. This comprehensive book offers a wealth of theoretical and technical information on a diverse range of outstanding steel additions, accompanied by over 100 illustrations, including plans and photographs.

The book begins by exploring the historical context of steel as a building material, tracing its development from its early applications in industrial structures to its integration into architectural design. It discusses the technical aspects of steel construction, including its strength, durability, and versatility, as well as the challenges associated with its use, such as corrosion and thermal expansion.

Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the topic of steel additions, highlighting their significance in modern architecture. It discusses the historical background of steel as a construction material and the evolution of its use in architectural design. The chapter also explores the benefits of steel additions, such as their speed of construction, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.

Chapter 2 delves into the theoretical foundations of steel additions, covering topics such as structural analysis, material properties, and design principles. It explains the principles of load-bearing, stability, and seismic behavior, as well as the methods used to design steel structures. The chapter also discusses the importance of considering the aesthetics and visual impact of steel additions in architectural design.

Chapter 3 presents a selection of outstanding steel additions from around the world, showcasing their innovative designs and technical achievements. The projects featured in the chapter range from small-scale residential additions to large-scale commercial buildings, each demonstrating the versatility and adaptability of steel as a building material.

Chapter 4 explores the technical aspects of steel additions, covering topics such as structural detailing, connection design, and fire safety. It discusses the various methods used to connect steel members, including welding, bolting, and screwing, and the requirements for fire resistance and smoke control in steel structures. The chapter also provides guidance on the maintenance and lifespan of steel additions.

Chapter 5 discusses the sustainability of steel additions, highlighting their environmental benefits and their potential to reduce carbon footprint. It discusses the use of recycled steel in construction, the energy efficiency of steel buildings, and the potential for steel additions to contribute to the overall sustainability of the built environment.

Chapter 6 concludes the book by discussing the future of steel additions in architecture and engineering. It explores the potential for further innovation and development in steel construction, as well as the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The chapter also suggests potential areas of research and collaboration that could advance the field of steel additions in the years to come.

In conclusion, Building Additions in Steel is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the largely ignored topic of steel additions in architecture and engineering. Through its multidisciplinary approach, the book offers a wealth of theoretical and technical information on a selection of outstanding steel additions, accompanied by over 100 illustrations, including plans and photographs. The book provides architects, engineers, and students with a valuable resource for understanding the potential of steel as a building material and for designing innovative and sustainable structures that reflect the changing needs of our society.

Weight: 538g
Dimension: 172 x 241 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783038601463