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This work aims to study the trajectory of the architect Frei Otto (FO) using an exploratory analysis of his projects, which pays special attention to the conceptual and chronological temporal evolution, the type of structures designed, and the relationship with his partners for his built and unbuilt projects. In the latter case, the projects developed, not requested, that are not part of his built works have been approached (i.e., not considered under competition). The main results indicate that FO's architectural trajectory, from a chronological point of view, was intense, which is generally reflected throughout the years. The 1950s–1970s were very productive. In addition to the large number of projects, there were innovative designs for quantity and structural innovation in Germany and other countries (e.g., France and Saudi Arabia). The analyses that were carried out made it possible to ascertain FO's professional and academic influence, which has been reflected in his projects. Likewise, his relationships with his collaborators have been long-lasting in some cases. Practical Applications: This work aimed to study the work of the architect and engineer Frei Otto (FO), of recognized prestige by the awards received and his colleagues. Some mention the scarce diffusion of his work. The interest of this work lies mainly in making known to professionals, academics, and the general public, in a short format, such as that used in scientific papers, the design of his structures, built and unbuilt. As Félix Candela mentions about FO's career, he is a typical and outstanding example of architectural innovation who concentrated his vocation and efforts on the study and research of tensile structures. His international projection and toward the citizen, give Frei Otto academic interest. This work is developed from different perspectives, which include chronological, type of structure, the location and function of the project, and the collaborators he worked with, with whom he shared his innovation and construction activities. Attention has been paid to a collection of unpublished or little-known projects by FO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trend of twisted-form buildings, driven by advancements in analysis and drawing methods, material technology, and construction techniques, keeps growing. As buildings reach greater heights, the rotation of floor slabs relative to the previous slab creates diverse and intricate twisted forms. While twisted buildings offer novel design possibilities, they also pose significant challenges. In this study, an overview of the geometrical features and parameters that define twisted buildings are introduced, and their architectural advantages and disadvantages are discussed. The impacts of twisted forms on the structural system, considering both the positive and negative effects, are analyzed and several types of structural systems are presented as examples of buildings with twisted forms. Through case studies of twisted buildings, the problems encountered during their design and construction, and the solutions devised and applied by designers to address these challenges, are investigated. Consideration is given to the applicability and sustainability of twisted-form buildings while adhering to the rules and guidelines of today's regulations. Ultimately, this study provides a comprehensive evaluation related to twisted-form buildings and aims to offer valuable insights for architects, engineers, and contractors engaged in the design and execution of twisted buildings by examining various aspects of their structural behavior and construction process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last century, a modern seismic design concept has emerged, which is based on different mechanisms, such as reducing and dispersing the seismic input concerning the building or active interaction with the movement of the building. From the past to the present, a wide variety of seismic control methods have been found and applied, together with the modern understanding of seismic design. Using seismic control in buildings increases the functionality of the building and prevents extra structural requirements. This philosophy constitutes an alternative to the conventional seismic design approach, which relies on consuming earthquake energy on its own. With the changing approach, the concepts of seismic design philosophy have changed, and architectural design has been affected from many points by these concepts. Therefore, architects/designers should examine how the decision to use seismic control methods that concern building design decisions from the preliminary design phase will affect the architecture. This study, starting from the historical development of base isolation and energy damping systems, which are widely used among seismic control methods, focuses on new buildings, and new concepts emerging with the modern seismic design approach and their effects on architectural design are discussed in detail. The study's methodology involves evaluating data from existing literature works, building codes, professionals, and practices. As a result, the architectural design of new buildings in the context of base isolation and energy-damping systems is evaluated in terms of the seismic device–building form relationship, planning and location, architectural details, aesthetics, and user comfort, and knowledge and recommendations are presented to architects/professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]