Redefinition of architecture by means of pneumatic principles

Transparency, flexibility and sustainability are terms that are more considered today in architecture. Material technology and structural stabilization principles play an important role in creation of buildings that are able to respond to new architectural ambitions. A pneumatic structure provides unique advantages in comparison to many structural types due to use of air as main structural principles. Since there are no supporting columns inside the structure, and as the whole awning of the structure is produced from light translucent materials, pneumatics can present a flowing and multifunctional space. Pneumatics also reduce the negative environmental impact of the buildings by increasing efficiency in the utilization of building materials and energy. This paper by examining major pneumatic structures evaluates their potential in the creation of flexible architecture. This paper also evaluates how the application of pneumatics helps designers to integrate architectural skins and structural elements in the creation of sustainable architectural spaces.