Did/do the metal stars present on the side of the building in the third and fourth photos from the top serve any function purpose or are those purely for aesthetics?
They are tie-rod brackets, that hold the walls together in masonry structures, which otherwise would have a tendency to bow outward. The stars are inspired by the US Flag in form, but are definitely functional. More utilitarian buildings will use simpler shapes like circles or squares.
Did/do the metal stars present on the side of the building in the third and fourth photos from the top serve any function purpose or are those purely for aesthetics?
They are tie-rod brackets, that hold the walls together in masonry structures, which otherwise would have a tendency to bow outward. The stars are inspired by the US Flag in form, but are definitely functional. More utilitarian buildings will use simpler shapes like circles or squares.
Thanks Chris!