Over the years architects have worked hard to perfect ovoid shaped designs, creating some really incredible commercial architecture in the process. The oval shape is favoured because of the efficient strength. This lies in the arc and exceeds what can be achieved with many other shapes.
The development of ovoid buildings took a huge leap forward with advancements in concrete. The plasticity it offers is crucial. It allows the oval to take shape and sets to be incredibly hard and durable. Without it many of the buildings would remain concepts to this day or not be true ovals.
There are a number of examples of iconic ovoid commercial architecture around the world. The Egg in Albany, New York is one of them. The design for the performing arts building was revealed in 1966 and it took until 1978 to finish. The egg sits on a pedestal and has a stem that stretches down six storeys. A concrete girdle allows the building to hold its shape and effectively transfers the weight so it doesn’t collapse.
The National Centre for the Performing Arts is a much newer egg shaped building. It was built between 2001 and 2007 but used a titanium frame and transparent glass.
James Law is one of the leading names when it comes to egg shaped commercial architecture. He has spent many years exploring the shape and how innovation, technology and creativity can result in greater designs. The ovoid shape could conceivably be used to create buildings that optimise light and promote better air circulation. Both of these factors would make the buildings more eco-friendly and sustainable.
It may have been advances in concrete that helped to push egg shaped designs at first but it is now glass that is taking it further. The material can be shaped effectively to create even more free flowing shapes. Both materials really make the properties stand out though, ensuring they all remain examples of commercial architecture that stand out.
The future could certainly see more egg shaped buildings, both in terms of commercial and public properties and homes. Explorations into the designs will continue and developments into materials will help to support them.