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CONCLUSIONS 209carefully integrated with building function, for example, by articulatingspaces for circulation. It will often play a role in introducing daylight intoa space and modifying some of the qualities of light. Success with the bigpicture is achieved where structure relates to all aspects of the design,down to the smallest structural detail.Within each area of architecture the contribution of structure can takeone of many possible forms. Consider the large number of examplesillustrating different structural details or ways that structure interactswith daylight. Diversity also abounds given the number of structuralsystems available. For example, designers can chose between threedimensionalsurface-structures such as at the Saint MassimilianoChurch, Varese (see Fig. 6.10), spatial frameworks like those at thePortland Building, Portsmouth (see Fig. 6.16), and essentially twodimensionalsystems like structural walls. As well as a choice of structuralmateriality, designers also have a huge diversity of structural scaleat their disposal – members that vary in size from 10 mm diametercables to trusses over 5 m deep.Given the huge number of structural possibilities, designers have considerablefreedom of choice. This sets the scene for innovative and creativestructural designs. But because of the goal that structure shouldactively reinforce the design concept, each structural decision requiresto be thought through strategically. Future technological advances instructural materials and in analysis and design techniques will inevitablycontinue to increase both the diversity of structural options and theirarchitectural implications.The impacts of structure upon those who experience it are alsodiverse. One structure, exuding a sense of tranquility, soothes emotions.Another sets nerves on edge. A raw and inhospitable structurecontrasts with one that welcomes and expresses a sense of protection.As outlined in Chapter 9 especially, structures are also capable ofconveying an enormous range of meanings to passers-by and buildingoccupants.IMPLICATIONS FOR THE ARCHITECTURAL ANDSTRUCTURAL ENGINEERING PROFESSIONSWith its emphasis upon structure as an architectural element this bookencourages a broad, creative and critical stance towards structure. Itpresents an alternative approach to some current practice where themost expedient structural engineering solution is adopted unless itsimpact upon the architectural concept is considered to be disastrous.For structure’s potential as an enlivening architectural element to be