Tall Short explores the fascinating science and engineering behind verticality, examining how both nature and architecture achieve impressive heights.
The book bridges biology, engineering, and architectural design to answer a fundamental question: how is height achieved and sustained?
It reveals that structures, whether organic like redwood trees or man-made like skyscrapers, adhere to shared physical laws.
For instance, the book highlights how evolutionary pressures drive height in nature for resource acquisition, much like structural innovations enable taller buildings.
The book begins by establishing a foundation in biomechanics and structural engineering, explaining load-bearing, tension, and compression.
It then transitions to analyzing historical progressions of skyscrapers and evolutionary drivers in nature.
A key insight is the application of biomimicry, where nature inspires sustainable architectural solutions.
Through diagrams, case studies, and comparative analyses, Tall Short offers a unique, integrated perspective, revealing common ground between the natural and built environments, and appealing to students, architects, engineers, scientists, and design enthusiasts.
