Mechanical Systems, Structural Systems, "Logic of Materials"

Mechanical and technical systems are often complex and closely mirror their design problem. The design goes through a number of stages of rationalisation and simplification. The resultant forms can be extremely attractive. The designer can use them to create new elements mimicking their forms, to mold them into sculptural forms, and for other playful transformations.

Despite the ideal of a beautifully engineered element, the magic is hidden in most designs not targeted for presentation and exposure. Most architectural fixtures are post-designed to reveal the beauty of the designs, organise and systematise features, and apply acceptable finishes. Mechanical elements can be thought of as extensions of "atomic depth" to include entire systems of atoms.

[]Centre Pompidou in Paris

Truth to Structure

The Window Shade