947. Champs d'Aviation d'Orly

Dear David,

"...Modern technology lead to a new concept of construction, where each part of the parabolic form of the roof becomes an active vehicle of energy. Here the traditional architectural form of the box has been overcome in favor of a dynamic form of open space and in totally different way... — a new form of dynamic open space had replaced the traditional limitations of
architecture."
( Udo Kultermann. Architecture in the 20th Century)

I hope you'll enjoy this vintage postcard mailed back in 1925

Best.
R  

287. Orly. Les Hangars a Dirigeables

Dear Jennifer,

Freyssinet's airship hangars at Orly were parabolic
(a funicular arch shape) in section and relied upon
pre-tressed members. Between arches, continuous
light openings allowed getting plenty of natural light
within the gigantic interior space. In this manner these
spaces resembled somehow the same atmosphere of
a large gothic cathedral.

All the best.
R