Metallic elements have been used in architecture and civil construction for hundreds of years, either as decorative elements, coverings or even to reinforce masonry structures. However, it is only in the second half of the eighteenth century that the first bridges emerge whose structure was entirely made of cast iron. A century later, iron was replaced by a more resistant and malleable alloy, still used today in architecture: steel.
Denser than concrete, the strength of steel subverts its weight and provides greater stiffness with less material – allowing for lighter and thinner structures than those made from other materials, such as wood or concrete. It is by no means the most used material in residential architecture, however, its use has made it possible to construct some interesting – and beautiful – examples of contemporary houses:
JG House / MPGARQUITETURA
Claudios House / Arquitetura Nacional
C.J. House / Andrade Morettin Arquitetos Associados
FS House / Andrade Morettin Arquitetos Associados
MT House / Telles Arquitetura
House in Mantiqueira / UNA Arquitetos
Casa Delta / Bernardes Arquitetura
LLM House / Obra Arquitetos
Casa Jardim do Sol / Hype Studio
Mirante House / FGMF Arquitetos
House in Lauro de Freitas / Jamelo Arquitetura
Jardim Paulistano House / GrupoSP
ARCA / Atelier Marko Brajovic
House Varanda / Carla Juaçaba
Casa Serrana / João Diniz