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Considering the large span of the roof, there was really only a few feasible choices for the structural system of the terminal: a steel framed structure, reinforced concrete beams and columns, a catenary structure, a tensile fabric structure, or some combination of these systems.
A steel framing system would have cost significantly less, but would not provide the sculptural look that Saarinen was aiming for. Reinforced concrete beams could have been used to span the roof, but again would not have provided the sculptural look. The concrete beams would certainly not appear as "light" as the selected system. This would have worked against the intention that the roof would seem to hover above the ground. A tensile fabric structure would provide the lightness that Eero was attempting to create, but tensile structures (in my opinion) do not "float." They always appear to be what they are: strapped down. This leaves a catenary structure. The contrast of the large, heavy, reinforced concrete columns with the thin concrete roof makes the roof appear to be extremely delicate and light. In addition, concrete was an excellent choice for creating such a fluid and sculptural form.
The floor of the main concourse is supported by reinforced concrete beams. Below this structure and above what I can only assume is a lay-in tile and grid ceiling system, must be the location of a majority of the mechanical and electrical systems. Placing these components in this cavity allows the main concourse to remain as sculptural in appearance as the outside of the building. Hiding these systems also allows for flexibility in the location of the ductwork, and allows the system to be designed for optimum efficiency. Exposing the mechanical and/or electrical systems in this building could possibly detract from the sculptural aesthetic of the building.
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