Do architects understand the building structure?
No – said my engineer, so loudly I could hear him from here.
But the correct answer is – Yes, absolutely.

Architects may not perform structural calculations themselves, but they possess a solid understanding of how structural elements function. This knowledge is essential, especially when collaborating closely with structural engineers, often forming lasting professional partnerships.

Structure as a Design Element
Often architects will use the structure as the main element to form the design of the building.
And at times, even use the structure as an element of beauty.
But this is a modernist idea, it hasn’t been like that for the years prior. The architecture styles prior used decoration to hide or disguise the structural elements instead of using them as part of the built form or the intention behind the final building.
If we look at buildings such as the Opera National de Pari – Palais Garnier, the structure is understood as the bones of the building and the facade as a decorative element that wraps around it.

How did the Modernists use the structure in buildings?
Moving on to the modernists, they decided to reveal the structure and use it as the main element that shape the building’s form and its beauty. The modernists were quite proud of the structural achievements of a new material – the reinforced concrete.
They saw the reinforced concrete as a free-form material that could achieve incredible shapes, which were before limited by the more ridged brick and mortar.
Given all the freedom of structural achievement, some architects used structural capability as the main drive for their design ideas.
Brazil is at the forefront of the modernist movement and some of the best buildings of the period are in Brazil designed by Oscar Niemeyer, Lina Bo boardi, Lucio Costa and others.

Let’s have a look at a couple of projects that demonstrate how the modernist architects worked with the structural elements in buildings.

1. Cathedral of Brasilia by Architect Oscar Niemeyer- 1970 – This stunning hyperboloid structure serves both a functional and symbolic role, showcasing how design can elevate a building’s significance. The design features 16 curved concrete columns that rise to form a hyperboloid shape, resembling hands reaching toward the sky.

2. Portuguese Paviliion by Architect Alvaro Siza – 1998 – is a remarkable example of modern architecture that beautifully celebrates the capabilities of tensioned concrete

3. Opera House in Sydney by Architect Jorn Utzon – 1973 – The building’s geometry is a complex interplay of curves and angles, creating an organic form that stands out against the skyline.

4. The Alvorada Palace in Brasilia by Architect Oscar Niemeyer – 1968 – The palace features clean lines, a minimalist design, and large glass panels that create a sense of transparency and openness. Its structure is characterized by elegant columns and a unique roof that gives it a distinctive silhouette.

As evident in the examples above it is difficult to separate what is structure from what is building and even a decorative element.
Would you say the colonnades of Oscar Niemeyer work more as a structural element or as a decorative element?

I would say it is both.

The modernist movement redefined how architects engage with structure, shifting the narrative from concealment to celebration. By embracing structural elements, modernists not only transformed architectural aesthetics but also influenced future generations’ perceptions of the relationship between design and engineering. In doing so, they established a legacy that continues to inspire contemporary architecture.

How does it translate to the design of houses today and how architects work with the structural elements in houses?

Houses are designed in a similar way. Architects will come up with a concept that has a certain shape, then define how they want the structure and material selection to work with that shape.

Certain designs will be better suited to a reinforced concrete structure, where others will require steel and so on.

The architects will then brief the engineers that will do their best to work within the guidelines of the architectural project.

Structural engineers and architects will work together to adjust the elements and have the best outcome for the project.

Either by concealing the structure or celebrating it, architects will define the role the structure will play.
Once engineers have calculated, sized and confirmed the location of structural supports, the architect will then coordinate this information back into the main design.

It is a very collaborative process and one that I personally enjoy.