This article analyzed the formal, functional, and structural aspects of the Museum of Contemporary Art Niterói in Brazil, by identifying the criteria associated with architecture and physics; this is to establish the importance of the analysis of the architectural project to obtain the basic skills of the architect. A mixed methodological framework was used, the quantitative phase was developed from a questionnaire under a non-probabilistic sample allowed to recognize the formal, structural, and functional aspects of the work under study, the qualitative phase used an interview that established the value represented by the recognition of the application of physics in architecture. As a relevant finding, it is highlighted a basic understanding of the physical elements applied to architecture, specifically in the case of Museum of Contemporary Art Niterói, Brazil, and that they recognize the importance of the analysis of architectural works as a pedagogical tool that favors obtaining the basic skills of the architect.

The Alamillo’s bridge by Santiago Calatrava was studied, who develops projects and structures with morphological, sculptural, and conceptual aspects associated with physics and contemporary architecture, through experimentation with forms of nature, the movement of the human body and, materials such as steel and reinforced concrete. The methodological framework corresponded to a documentary study that determined the importance of the bridge from its historical context as part of the infrastructure of the 1992 Universal Exposition in Seville, as well as the analysis of the physical concepts used in its design and construction; and, a quantitative-descriptive study applied to the seventh semester students of the Architecture program of the Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander, Colombia, which determined their level of recognition of the physical concepts of this project. As a finding, it is highlighted that this bridge applied physical concepts such as: aerodynamics, torsion, compression, tension, traction, and gravitation, in compliance with its formal-aesthetic design criteria, and those students recognize the physical concepts, design and technical characteristics-formal, typical of the project. Likewise, it was determined that this urban landmark represents a comprehensive solution that solves the structure and form through solutions associated with the field of engineering, architecture, and physics.