Varying production requirements mean that industry has to make use of customised and above all flexible architectural forms and structures. An industrial building made of steel offers immense, well-lit internal areas. It can be constructed in a short space of time and is easily converted or enlarged in line with changing requirements.
In the last few decades, the focus of the relationship between industry and architecture has shifted from large-scale to medium-sized industries. This proves that advanced design does not always mean high costs. In fact, it can lead to greater productivity and efficiency. If the building is also constructed with care, and is functional in use and aesthetically pleasing, it becomes an impressive communication tool in its own right.
The use of steel allows us to create major structures such as industrial buildings and bridges, sports centres and ski jumps – true masterpieces of architecture and engineering that often symbolise their times and become icons of their locations.