Designing and constructing openings
The first volume of the SCALE series - Open Close - examines a simple
but effective building element, the Opening, illuminating the path from
idea to realization in its various facets.
The concept of Open Close includes not only elements such as windows,
doors, gates, loggias and skylights, which communicate between exterior
and interior space, but also the structure of the building itself.
Because Openings define and determine the relationship of the building
to public space, they also determine the character of the site. The
analysis of conception, form and construction of opening elements is
supplemented and illustrated by international examples of best
applications.
The SCALE series provides practical tools for architects and students of
architecture. Each volume analyses the construction process from the
first design idea to the call for bids, covering the fundamental design
principles and concrete details. The series title, SCALE, signifies that
the perfect detail is the result of a process through various levels of
conception and design, from the abstract to the particular.
Although the focus is on communicating hands-on constructional know-how,
SCALE's innovative presentation does not just simply show solutions, but
demonstrates how to develop them.
Each volume presents essential information for design and
implementation, from the first sketches to details of connectors in a
scale of 1:10. Consistency in the plans and drawings, clear hierarchies
in the headings and structure, and a clear, easily readable layout with
helpful captions simplify the search for specific information, and make
SCALE volumes ideal for quick, targeted consultation.
SCALE is conceived as a series of practical textbooks which can be used
independently of each other, but also supplement and build on each other
to constitute a reference work on construction design.
