Trans Structures: Fluid Architecture and Liquid Engineering

Trans-structures are building elements with the response-ability to change according to external conditions in order to maintain stability in terms of structure and/or energy. In this type of building, any effect (structural or thermal load) would generate an immediate affect (a response of the structure). Energy and weight would be counteracted and on a total scale, change would not occur. Such buildings are always in transition from one state to another, unlike conventional structures. This approach is basically the opposite of conventional design methods in engineering when a worst-case scenario is applied to the designed structure. The benefits of trans-structure are not only energy-saving and better thermal comfort, but also create a more innovative and cost-effective building as well. This approach to stability represents a completely new paradigm for sustainability, based on the assumption that strong structures are not truly stable, because real stability comes with response-ability. This book is compromised of two main parts: theoretical essays and an introduction of constructed prototypes. The former lays down the framework of trans-structure and is also accompanied by photos and diagrams of the laboratory tests. The constructed prototypes are each discussed in one or two interviews with a key designer of the project and then discussed with a further analysis of the design. Theoretical essays are written by Matyas Gutai (JSPS Postdoctoral Researcher at The University of Tokyo, designer of Water House pavilion and inventor of patented Allwater panel technology). The interviews include project architects and engineers from the Kengo Kuma Architects and professors from universities in Japan, USA and Europe.