The Power of the structure: the “BBK” Auditorium

Abstract

The most recently work of Álvaro Siza, in Spain, shows us the merits of the structural system in the composition of its forms and spaces, its overhangs and the movement in the alignment of its façades; the creation of the architectonic space and its envelope. The BBK Auditorium consists of a structural system of layered walls, mixed structural slabs (steel, concrete) and reinforced concrete slab foundations on augercast piles. The position and dimensions of the spaces with no intermediary supports and the characteristics of the overhangs create discontinuous transmission of actions, which require strong reinforcements in limited sections of the concrete, implying complexity in its execution and performance in response to concrete shrinkage. Architecturally, the structure goes entirely unnoticed in the architecture, characterized by its visual simplicity within an intricate spatial and constructive arrangement, where the nuances of natural light play a basic role in the definition of the spaces.