The evolution of architectural form and the formulation of mechanics

Abstract

From the beginning of civilization humans built structures, initially for shelter in established communities and later structures of worship. The materials available and the cumulative empirical knowledge of successive generations of masons determined the architectural form of the structures. Throughout human history there are many examples of such structures. Mathematics, initially geometry, was the next step in the ability of the architect to materialize his ideas. Later, mathematical analysis brought together the strength of materials and the geometrical distribution of mass to build greater and safer structures. Finally, in today's immense computerized capabilities, the human imagination and new materials can only limit the architectural form. This paper describes the side by side evolution of architectural form and the formulation of mechanics from the early days of civilization to the present day achievement of high rise towers.