Structural cladding /clad structures: studies in tectonic building practice

With point of departure in the present challenges found in the construction industry, which concern a reduced use of energy in buildings and consumption of material resources – this paper forms a tectonic inquiry into contemporary building practice. The aim is to look at specific performative tendencies, which can be traced in the use of materials, the structural features and the construction details of building systems in selected architectural works. With a particular focus at heavy constructions made of solid wood and masonry, and light weight constructions made of wooden frame structures and steel profiles, it is the intention to analyze, compare, and discuss how these various construction solutions point out strategies for development based on fundamentally different mindsets. The research questions address the following issues: How to learn from traditional construction principles: When do we see limitations of tectonic maneuver; how does the performative logic challenge the heavy building constructions.