For the holistic design of transparent shells, the designer needs not only sound theoretical knowledge on the load bearing behavior, but also sound geometric knowledge about form and topology, as well as the certain understanding of powerful computers and the latest programs.
The fundamental geometric principles that establish homogeneous structures are explained, the mathematical and geometric basics of which are easy to understand. Maximum transparency and lightness is reached when the entire structure is subjected to static and geometric optimization. Latest methods of form-finding on the basis of the Force Density Method (force-density method) or dynamic relaxation are explained. The paper concludes with the Holistic Design, which is a complex interaction between geometry, topology and structural calculations in order to achieve specified optimization targets.