The Tower and the Bridge: The New Art of Structural Engineering

by David P. Billington

Book Overview

What do structures such as the Eiffel Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the concrete roofs of Pier Luigi Nervi have in common? According to this book, now in its first paperback edition, all are striking examples of structural art, an exciting form distinct from either architecture or machine design. Aided by a number of stunning illustrations, David Billington discusses leading structural engineer-artists, such as John A. Roebling, Gustave Eiffel,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 069102393X
• ISBN13: 9780691023939
• Release Date: December 1985
• Publisher: Princeton University Press
• Length: 328 Pages
• Weight: 1.09 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.0" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

Refreshing and still a classic

From my own experience, I've always been frustrated with the tendency of the architecture community to either completely overlook the aesthetic works of the great structural engineers or shamelessly claim them as their own. This book is beyond a simple consensus of great engineering works; it is Billington's clear and rational case for the distinction of the discipline of Structural Art - the engineer's means of expression - from that of Architecture. This book is just the thing any student or young professional in structural engineering should have along with their library of technical books. Instead of explaining the aesthetics and beauty of structures in vague architectural terms, Billington looks at them in terms of the technical (formwork, stress diagrams, material economy, etc.). When has an architectural critic discussed the elegance behind a moment diagram? I think anyone who loves architecture and great works of engineering will appreciate this book. If you like this, I would also recommend Billington's 'Robert Maillart and the Art of Reinforced Concrete' and Salvadori's 'Why Buildings Stand Up'.

Detailed exploration of Structural Art

Billington goes through the evolution of structural art/expressionism in great detail. It is helpful to have a preexisting knowledge about the various engineers/artist discussed in this text, however, it is not necessary. This book is very interesting and encourages the engineer to consider the aesthetic consequences of structures. It is an inspiring book to read (and re-read) and is packed full of historical bridges and other structures (like thin concrete shells). I highly recommend it to engineering students with an interest in structures.

wise author! master builders!

It is not a book only for engineerings, for all architects, artists and commen people, for those who cares about the decline of our man-made surroundings, itis quite worth to read! The thinking about the relationship between the structures and the democracy is also very believable.

Dynamic expansion of contemporary thought about Structures.

This book has engaged my artistic mind in the search for opportunities to become such a designer as the individuals biographed so explicitly by Billington. The unseeming artist, architect, or engineer is left believing that even he/she has the potential to add to the realm of amazing structures. An inspiring read.

Revolutionary commentary on the aesthetics of engineering.

Billington adds a whole new dimension to engineering by interpreting a scientific discipline in a subjective light. He offers criteria for aesthetic appreciation and brings forth the subtleties in an otherwise inaccessible field. Well written and unintimidating to even the most science-phobic reader.