Which type of truss is becoming less common in modern construction?

The bowstring truss is becoming less common in modern construction primarily due to changes in architectural design preferences and advancements in construction materials and techniques. Historically, bowstring trusses were favored for their ability to span large distances without the need for intermediate supports, making them ideal for warehouses, sports facilities, and auditoriums. However, with the evolution of building practices, other structural systems that offer improved efficiency, versatility, and aesthetic appeal have gained popularity.

Modern designs often utilize materials such as steel and reinforced concrete, which allow for different truss types that can achieve similar or better load-bearing capabilities. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of exposed structural elements has led to a preference for more modern truss designs, such as the parallel chord truss. This shift reflects a broader trend towards optimizing buildings for energy efficiency, sustainability, and flexibility in usage, further diminishing the prevalence of bowstring trusses in contemporary architecture.