The chronological evolution of Felix Candela’s geometric-structural contributions for single-family homes

Abstract

This research aims to descriptively analyze the geometric contributions of architect Félix Candela's design and construction of single-family homes. The methodology proposed to study different models, subdividing them into two different levels of geometric and structural evolution: the 1st level (1939-1949) uses flat roofs (sloping and horizontal), beginning with the homes of the Santa Clara neighborhood (Chihuahua-1939). The 2nd level (1949-1968) includes innovations in two groups; group one, homes with simple curvature shells that begin with a «minimum house with a funicular vault» (1949, San Bartolo Naucalpan, State of Mexico); his first design for a laminar structure with catenary arches; then the Romero home and Diario Novedades's homes 1-2 and 3. Subsequently, group two is described, with warped structures of double curvature using the geometry of hyperbolic paraboloids: the Almada home, Novedades's homes 4-5; the San Ángel home, the Cuauhtémoc neighborhood (Monterrey-Mexico), the Tlacopac home, Candela's private residence (Mexico City) and the Rebaque home. The results allow us to characterize and chronologically rank transformations of geometric and structural concepts materialized in different forms of single-family homes. In conclusion, a complicated timeline is determined with different geometric-structural domain degrees in Candela's single-family homes, with shells of simple and double curvature for different chronological periods. This article highlights the Research line: Research, development, and innovation processes for assimilation and technological mastery; Postgraduate in Research and Development Management, Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences, Universidad Central de Venezuela