Aesthetic Appraisal of Antenna Towers

Abstract

The very rapid increases in telecommunication and advancements in the field of communications technology have resulted in many different structures to support antennae. Exponential growth in cellular telephone networks has given rise to numerous new masts and towers spread all over the landscape, especially in large cities. Although everybody wants a mobile phone, nobody wants an antenna tower in their neighborhood. Recently, local authorities, nature conservancy organizations, etc., in Europe have set forward requirements to reduce the impact of new antenna masts and towers on the landscape. As a result, telecommunication companies are paying more attention and concern toward the aesthetic layout and design of new antenna supporting structures. In the future, we may have antenna supporting structures that do not look like masts and towers that are used today. This paper gives a brief history of antenna towers, an introduction to the problem, and a discussion on a new approach to design based on aesthetics. Examples and illustrations are presented showing new designs and innovative ideas.