This publication explores the vital dialogue between architects and structural engineers, emphasizing their expert and creative exchanges. Werner Sobek, a prominent figure in this field, brings a wealth of experience from his diverse career, which includes experimental design, construction, and teaching. At the Institute for Lightweight Structures and Conceptual Design (ILEK) at the University of Stuttgart, he leads an interdisciplinary team that pushes the boundaries of construction. Sobek's work extends beyond academia; he collaborates with renowned architects on groundbreaking concepts and undertakes his own projects, gaining recognition for his innovative designs. His company, established in 1992, exemplifies world-class engineering, design, and sustainability, with offices in Stuttgart, Dubai, Frankfurt, Cairo, Moscow, and New York. The firm is known for its high-quality designs grounded in exceptional engineering and intelligent concepts aimed at minimizing energy and material use. Sobek partners with leading architects like Norman Foster, Zaha Hadid, and Dominique Perrault on various high-profile projects, including high-rise buildings, airports, office spaces, and museums.
Werner Sobek Book order






- 2010
- 2007
Glass Construction Manual
- 352 pages
- 13 hours of reading
The book explores the innovative use of glass in architecture, highlighting its versatility and advancements over the past two decades. It serves as a comprehensive reference, detailing the history, technical foundations, and cutting-edge applications of glass in construction. Key topics include thermal insulation and solar protection, complemented by practical examples that illustrate contemporary design possibilities. This revised manual is essential for planners aiming to leverage glass's high-performance qualities in ambitious architectural projects.
- 2004
Show me the future
- 164 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Werner Sobek ist Ingenieur. Ein begnadeter Ingenieur, ein Spezialist für leichte Strukturen, der Stoffe benutzt, wo andere Beton gießen würden, der Glas schweben lässt, wo andere es in Stahl rahmen würden. Er ist auch Architekt und er hat mit einigen der wichtigsten Architekten gebaut – Helmut Jahn, Christoph Ingenhoven, Dominique Perrault, Hans Hollein, um nur einige wenige zu nennen. Werner Sobeks Arbeit vereint seine außergewöhnlichen Fähigkeiten als Ingenieur mit seinem Talent als Architekt. Seine Vision der gestalteten Umwelt richtet sich auf den minimalen Einsatz von Ressourcen, auf Nachhaltigkeit, auf den maximalen Einsatz von Tageslicht – immer die Umwelt respektierend. Seine Arbeiten sind grazil und elegant; sie zeichnen sich durch höchste Gestalt-qualität aus und bewahren gleichzeitig eine menschliche Dimension.
- 2002
R 128
- 96 pages
- 4 hours of reading
This title documents the experimental single family house designed by Werner Sobek. The author explains the architectural design, describing supporting structures, the technology used, the temperature control system, concluding with what it must be like to live in such a futuristic building.