Support system

Definition

A support system refers to a framework or structural element that provides stability and strength to a building, allowing it to withstand forces such as gravity, wind, and seismic activity. In architecture, support systems are essential for distributing loads and maintaining the integrity of the structure, enabling designers to create more open and expansive interior spaces. This is particularly relevant in the context of flying buttresses, which are external supports that transfer the weight of a roof or wall down to the ground, effectively countering lateral forces and allowing for the construction of taller and more light-filled buildings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flying buttresses were first widely used in Gothic architecture, allowing for taller buildings with larger windows.
2. They help to distribute the weight of the roof and walls outward and downwards, countering the lateral forces acting on the structure.
3. Flying buttresses are typically made from stone or brick and can be highly decorative, adding aesthetic value to the building.
4. The use of flying buttresses was instrumental in the construction of iconic cathedrals like Notre-Dame de Paris, which feature impressive stained glass windows.
5. Flying buttresses allow for thinner walls, making it possible to incorporate larger openings for light without compromising structural integrity.

Review Questions

• How do flying buttresses function as part of a support system in Gothic architecture?
  • Flying buttresses serve as external supports that carry the weight of roofs and walls down to the ground while counteracting lateral forces. They extend from the upper portion of a wall to a pier some distance away from the wall itself. This design allows for thinner walls and larger windows, enabling Gothic cathedrals to achieve impressive heights and intricate stained glass designs while maintaining stability.
• What role do support systems like flying buttresses play in architectural design beyond mere structural integrity?
  • Support systems such as flying buttresses play a critical role in architectural design by enabling greater creativity and flexibility in form. They allow architects to create open and airy spaces with expansive windows that invite natural light, transforming the interior experience. Additionally, these support systems can enhance the aesthetic quality of a building, as they often become integral design elements themselves, showcasing craftsmanship while fulfilling functional requirements.
• Evaluate how the introduction of flying buttresses influenced the evolution of architectural styles from Gothic to later periods.
  • The introduction of flying buttresses significantly influenced architectural evolution by allowing for innovations in building height and light-filled spaces. This capability led to the Gothic style's emphasis on verticality and intricate designs, which contrasted with earlier Romanesque structures that were heavier and more solid. As architectural styles progressed into the Renaissance and Baroque periods, while some elements of flying buttresses persisted, new support systems emerged that further emphasized symmetry and proportion, ultimately leading to a shift toward different aesthetic values where classical elements became prominent.

Related terms

Buttress: A buttress is a support structure built against a wall to strengthen it by counteracting lateral forces.

Arch: An arch is a curved structure that spans an opening and supports weight above it, distributing loads efficiently.

Load-bearing wall: A load-bearing wall is a wall that supports the weight of the structure above it, transferring that weight to the foundation.