"A revival of interest in curvilinear structures is under way... es, vaults, and thin-shelled structures must be re-discovered. ...Why is there a revival in shell structures, and where might it lead? Cost factors, materials availability, labor supply, housing crises, solutions to domestic and Third World problems all play a part... With today's almost unlimited computer technology and the knowledge that can be gained from understanding s and vaults built both in the past and present, it is hoped that this work on the practical aspects of designing curvilinear forms will contribute to further exploration and encourage the application of thin shells..."