Experimental Design in the Post-War Period (Research Data): Heinz Isler's (1926-2009) Contribution in the Perspective of the History of Engineering and Culture

In addition, it must be asked to what extent the perception of «progressive» engineering structures in general and of concrete as a building material in particular, which was also conveyed in the media, changed in the wake of the criticism of modernity from the 1970ies onwards, and whether this also explains the crisis of the «System Isler». Based on Isler's posthumous papers, which are kept at the gta Archives of ETH Zurich, the publication project examines Isler’s contribution to building production in the second half of the 20th century from a cultural and engineering history perspective.

To achieve a comprehensive embedding of Isler’s work in the historical context, his contribution has to be examined in the light of its contemporary field, also considering parallel, possibly conflicting developments and trends. This research will on the one hand provide new insights both into the professional exchange between engineers and architects in design and construction processes as well as into the building economy with its specific conditions.

On the other hand it will shed light on the public discourse on architecture and engineering in a time that significantly shapes the face of our built environment still today.