Title:
Integrated Design of Lightweight Structures
Abstract:
Lightweight structures and façades, such as cable nets, grid shells, and membrane systems, offer expressive and efficient design solutions. However, their performance depends on precise coordination of geometry, fabrication, and construction constraints. These complex and non-traditional structural systems coupled with a variety of atypical design constraints necessitate an experienced design team that works in a truly collaborative manner.
Given their technical complexity, successful lightweight structures require an "integrated design" approach among the design team including architect, engineer, and fabricator. This presentation outlines core principles of integrated design of lightweight structures, showing how coordinated workflows enhance efficiency and constructability. Case studies, including well-known cable nets, grid shells, and glass structures, that were designed by the authors illustrate how geometry shapes both architecture and structure. Simplified design aids are introduced to promote intuitive understanding of structural behavior, enabling rapid exploration of geometric concepts early in schematic design and supporting creativity grounded in structural feasibility.
Bio:
Joshua Schultz, PhD, PE (CA, WA), LEED AP is a licensed professional engineer with nearly two decades of experience designing, teaching, and researching lightweight structural systems, (particularly structural glass and mass timber). Currently, he is an associate professor of architectural and structural engineering in the department of civil engineering at Gonzaga University and a guest lecturer at Cambridge University. Previously, Joshua worked at both Stutzki Engineering and Skidmore Owings and Merrill (SOM) as a structural engineer for a number of lightweight, high-profile, high-rise buildings around the world. Joshua is an American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) ExCEED Fellow as well as the recipient of the inaugural AISC Innovation Scholar Fellowship. As a practicing engineer, he maintains senior- level positions at a variety of AEC companies, including currently serving in senior roles at several engineering companies. He is the author of Structural Design of Lightweight Architecture published by Routledge 2026.
Cost:
$20 Members, $25 Non-Members, $10 Students
