BASICS Construction: Loadbearing Systems

Loadbearing Systems are the basis of any structure. In order to provide architecture students with an easily understandable introduction to the field of supporting structures, this volume begins with the fundamentals of loads and forces and then moves on to building components and finally to loadbearing systems, together with their characteristic attributes.  A systematic overview:  Loads; Forces; Structural building components; Supporting structures and systems; Presizing.

Alfred Meistermann, TU Braunschweig, architect based in Berlin (www.meistermann-schmaling.de).

BASICS Architectural Series:  At the beginning of one's architecture studies, there are many unknowns: what is really important? how do I brainstorm a design idea? how can this idea be depicted and ultimately implemented?  BASICS is a series that imparts fundamental knowledge in compact individual volumes as well as in topical compendiums. It offers precise, step-by-step discussions, systematically covering the most important material pertaining to a given topic. Tailored to the needs of students, the series addresses all key subject areas, including design, architectural presentation, construction, professional practice, building services, landscape architecture, and urbanism.