Cantilevers in Buildings HANGIN’ IN THERE

What is a cantilever??? A cantilever is a beam supported on only one end. The beam carries the load to the support where it is resisted by moment and shear stress. Cantilever construction allows for overhanging structures without external bracing. Cantilevers can also be constructed with trusses or slabs.

So how does it work??? The idea behind cantilevers is quite simple. A cantilever, which overhangs, will absorb shear stress at one particular point.

Cantilevers: Falling Water Frank Lloyd Wright (architect)

Frank Lloyd Wright Frank Lloyd Wright (June 8, 1867 – April 9, 1959) was one of the world's most prominent and influential architects. He developed a series of highly individual styles over his extraordinarily long architectural career (spanning the years 1887– 1959) and he influenced the entire course of architecture and building internationally. To this day, he remains America's most famous architect. Wright was also well known in his lifetime. His colorful personal life frequently made headlines, most notably for the failure of his first two marriages and for the 1914 fire and murders at his Taliesin studio.

Falling Water

Cantilevers can hold a lot of weight…

…and are used are used in some houses to provide a sleek futuristic look…