Surface- and mesh-based approaches towards a materialization of architectural catenoids

Besides a textile realization of Minimal Surfaces in architecture we can think of many different approaches in materializing spatially curved forms. In this regard patterns, subdivision, etc. play an essential role and cause geometrical, material and detailing questions. This paper presents a mesh-based method to subdivide any rotational-symmetric Minimal Surface Catenoid in soapfilm-analogy into planar surfaces without losing its exceptional structural and architectural qualities. This Examination was compared to surface-based approaches and always keeping both in mind - spatially curved spaces and plane elements, provided by the industry.