The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) has published Structural Design for Architecture: The Work of Frank Newby by renowned architectural historian and engineer David Yeomans, the first major study to bring together Newby's professional work, personal archives and design philosophy in a single volume.
At a time when the built environment must accelerate its response to climate change, enhance resilience and reduce its reliance on new materials, Structural Design for Architecture explores the work of one of the twentieth century’s most influential structural engineers. Frank Newby’s pioneering projects and collaborative design philosophy highlight enduring lessons in material efficiency, adaptability and the importance of design principles that are increasingly critical as the sector prioritises the reuse, retrofit and transformation of existing buildings.
Offering valuable insight for today’s architects and engineers, Structural Design for Architecture demonstrates how structural innovation can shape architecture that is sustainable, resilient and enduring, achieving design excellence through intelligent use, adaptation and stewardship of resources. Working alongside architectural pioneers such as James Stirling, James Gowan, Cedric Price and Eero Saarinen, Newby helped shape some of the most innovative and influential buildings of the twentieth century.
Drawing on previously unpublished personal papers, sketches, calculations and archival material, Yeomans presents the most comprehensive study to date of Newby's career, methods and influence.
The book reveals how Newby helped redefine the relationship between architecture and engineering, demonstrating how structural engineers can contribute not only technical expertise, but also creative vision throughout the design process.
As the profession increasingly embraces integrated design teams, digital innovation and performance-driven design, Newby's approach feels remarkably contemporary. His work highlights the value of early collaboration, engineering ingenuity and creative problem-solving, principles that remain central to addressing the challenges facing the built environment today. Through a series of landmark case studies, unrealised concepts and innovative structural solutions, the book offers rare insight into Newby's work.
Author David Yeomans said:
"Studying Frank Newby's sketches and calculations reveals a designer whose influence extended beyond the engineer's drawing office. He possessed a rare ability to see architecture and structure as parts of a single creative endeavour, and it was this outlook that enabled him to make such a lasting impact. His work demonstrates that the most successful projects emerge from dialogue, trust and shared ambition between architects and engineers. Decades after many of these buildings were conceived, Newby's ideas continue to inspire a new generation who recognise that engineering excellence is measured not only by efficiency, but also by imagination."
More than a historical account, Structural Design for Architecture offers a powerful reminder of the role structural engineers play in shaping the future of our cities and communities. As the industry seeks solutions that balance sustainability, resilience, functionality and design quality, Newby's legacy demonstrates how engineering excellence and architectural ambition can work together to create lasting impact.
Simon Allford, Executive Director at Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, describes the book as a compelling portrait of a designer whose influence extended across generations:
"David Yeomans' well-written book tells a tale of the encounters, friendships and projects that shaped Frank Newby's life and career. Newby's grounding in mathematics, his feeling for the forces of engineering dancing with those of gravity, and the pleasure he took in challenging and defining his architects' architecture are clearly revealed. Newby the 'designer', as he was famously described, discreetly exerted a powerful influence over all whom he encountered."
As the structural engineering profession continues to tackle some of society's most pressing challenges, Structural Design for Architecture highlights the enduring value of creativity, collaboration and technical excellence in delivering the buildings and infrastructure of the future.
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About the book
Structural Design for Architecture: The Work of Frank Newby
Author: David Yeomans
Publisher: The Institution of Structural Engineers
Publication Date: September 2026
Formats: Print, PDF, and ePUB
Price: £45 (£31.50 for IStructE members)
Available now from the IStructE Bookshop.