Architectural Curvilinearity – Analysis of the Harbin Opera House Structural Solutions

Abstract

Curvilinear architecture has a rapid development in many countries of the world. This research article briefly describes the methods for forming curvilinear building structures indicating its advantages and disadvantages. It analyses the structural solutions of one of the most unique works of contemporary architecture – Harbin Opera House, designed by the Chinese architect Ma Yansong. After more than five years of research, the result shows that the level of technical skills, particularly relating to the construction of complex, unique objects, unfortunately, is still low. Huge opportunities for creating curvilinear architecture forms were not used. The traditional approach to the architectural design, including contemporary form creation methods, is absolutely wrong. The curvilinear architecture, as any other, requires development of its own, individual structural solutions.