Selected Bibliography Architecture - Form Space and Order | Page 26

LINEAR ELEMENTS

Linear members that possess the necessary material
strength can perform structural functions. In these three
examples, linear elements:
• express movement across space
• provide support for an overhead plane
• form a three-dimensional structural frame
for architectural space

Caryatid Porch, The Erechtheion, Athens, 421–405 B.C., Mnesicles.
The sculptured female figures stand as columnar supports for the
entablature.

Salginatobel Bridge, Switzerland, 1929–30, Robert Maillart.
Beams and girders have the bending strength to span the space
between their supports and carry transverse loads.

Katsura Imperial Villa, Kyoto, Japan, 17th century.
Linear columns and beams together form a three-dimensional framework for architectural space.
P RIMARY ELEMENTS / 1 1