Eduardo Torroja (1899–1961)

Torroja was one of the greatest structural engineers of the 20th century, a pioneer of reinforced concrete, particularly its use for thin-shell domes and vaults. What makes him so significant was his ability to push engineering beyond the theoretical limits as understood at the time, and in doing so to create structures with considerable aesthetic appeal.

This autobiographical book compiles short details of numerous projects, with Torroja's sketches. It offers plenty of inspiration to the structural engineer or student, as Torroja explains the structural principles of his work very clearly. While many of the structural forms he used (particularly thin-shell structures) are no longer likely to be economic, they still offer plenty of scope for re-imagination.

His sketches are excellent, and there are plenty of photos too for structures like the classic Madrid Racecourse stands of 1935 and his brilliant pelota halls of the same year.

It's a great shame it's long out of print, but well worth searching for secondhand.… (mehr)