Cover Skin Vs Support Bones

Cover Skin Vs Support Bones

Cover Skin vs Support Bones is a fundamental architectural and structural design concept that explores the relationship between a building's exterior envelope and its internal structural framework, drawing parallels with biological systems found in nature. This dichotomy represents two essential components of architectural design: the protective, aesthetic outer layer (cover skin) and the load-bearing internal structure (support bones). The concept emerged from biomimetic design principles, where architects and designers draw inspiration from natural organisms that demonstrate this clear distinction between external protection and internal support systems. In architectural applications, the cover skin typically comprises the building envelope, façade systems, and weatherproofing elements that protect the interior from environmental factors while also defining the visual character of the structure. The support bones, conversely, consist of the structural framework, including columns, beams, trusses, and foundation elements that provide stability and load distribution. This dual-system approach has revolutionized modern architecture by allowing greater freedom in façade design while maintaining structural integrity, leading to innovative solutions in sustainable architecture and energy efficiency. The relationship between these two systems has become increasingly sophisticated with technological advancement, enabling the creation of complex geometric forms and intelligent building skins that can adapt to environmental conditions. This design philosophy has been recognized in various contexts, including the A' Design Award competition, where projects demonstrating innovative applications of cover skin and support bones concepts have been celebrated for their contribution to architectural advancement. The integration of these systems requires careful consideration of material properties, thermal performance, structural efficiency, and aesthetic objectives, often resulting in buildings that are both functionally superior and visually striking.

architectural structure, biomimetic design, building envelope, structural framework, facade systems, load-bearing elements, environmental protection

— Lucas Reed

CITATION : "Lucas Reed. 'Cover Skin Vs Support Bones.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=471979 (Accessed on March 17, 2025)"