Fractal objects and architecture

This study focuses on fractality and its possible use in architecture. This dissertation is based on the concept of fractal as a “design that is repeated indefinitely each time in a smaller scale” and the classical fractal sets are introduced. Fractality can also be appreciated in nature (e.g: a tree has a trunk, this is divided into branches, every of them into smaller branches and so on until reaching the leaves). In a similar way, this is used in architecture. Despite the fact that the “fractal” term was not registered until 1975 (Benoît Mandelbrot), throughout history, the human being has been using this idea in an intuitive way. That is how Carlos Ferrater starts using the resource in Barcelona Botanical Garden (1988-1999) as a tool for solving a functional program as well as in order to integrate the project into the surroundings. This architectural work, marks a turning point in his project’s geometry. From that moment, the architect keeps working in this direction, but without stopping in his evolution. As a result, Benidorm West Beach Promenade and Frontaura Winery are later designed.