Understanding Steel Design

In order to understand how to design and build with steel from the perspective of its architectural applications, hundreds of steel structures have been observed, analyzed and appraised for this book. The resulting account is informed by many years of experience in teaching and providing continuing education. It opens up an innovative approach to the reality of working with steel: a new look both at the state of tried-and-tested techniques, and at potentials emerging in advanced projects that transcend national borders and limits imposed by standards. Steel detailing is looked at through innovative works by Daniel Libeskind, Frank Gehry, Antoine Predock, Norman Foster, Richard Rogers, Renzo Piano, Cesar Pelli, ARUP, Peter Rice/RFR, Atkins Architects, amongst others. Specialty topics include Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel, tension structures, combining steel with timber, steel and glass, diagrid buildings, curved steel and castings. The book includes over 550 full color images as well as detailed diagrams provided by steel fabricators associated with the projects and additional illustrations. The subject buildings provide an international look at innovation in contemporary steel.