Lamella Roof

2.14. Contemporary examples

In this section, we will discuss some examples of reciprocal architectures realized in the last century in Europe and Japan. These two geographical areas are compared because they represent two visions of reciprocal architecture: where Europe is seeking technological innovation, Japanese architecture uses the language of reciprocal structures to promote expression.

Organization of a lamella structure49

Lamella roof structure 50 2.14.1. In Europe

a. Lamella Roof In 1920, Friedrich Zollinger, a German architect, developed a system called lamella roof in response to the housing crisis caused by the First World War. Initially composed of wood, it proposes economic constructions adapted to the reconstruction of the country.48 This system is based on reciprocal structures and allows a short and simple assembly of large covers from small joists. This structural principle consists of an intertwined pattern of relatively short arches. These are linked together by hinges to form a nested diamond structure. The ingenuity of the device is twofold, first an efficient joining method reduces the number of joints required, resulting in a quick assembly, secondly it results in good strength thanks to the network of elements.49