THE ARCHISUTRA

THE ARCHISUTRA

The handbook’s final chapter

MIGUEL BOLIVAR
Copyright © 2017

Text by Miguel Bolivar.

Diagrams copyright © 2017 by Miguel Bolivar.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be

reproduced in any form without written permission

from the publisher.

ISBN: 978-1530172450

www.thearchisutra.com

@thearchisutra
TABLE OF CONTENTS

62. FALLINGWATER

09 PREFACE 64. THE HIGH END

66. THE DOMESTIC

11 INTRODUCTION 68. THE IKEA SALE

70. THE POMPIDOU

13 MODULOR MANHOOD 72. THE PETRONAS

74. THE BRUTALIST

21 GENERAL ARRANGEMENTS 76. HUMAN FORMWORK

78. THE BOTTOMAN

80. THE BACK SEAT DESIGNER

22. LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS 82. THE CLASSICAL

24. TRUSS ME 84. THE NEO CLASSICAL

26. THE PILE DRIVER 86. THE CANTILEVER

28. THE FLYING BUTTRESS 88. EXTERNAL WORKS

30. EYEBALLING 90. OSCAR’S

32. TYPICAL WALL UP 92. GET AN EIFFEL

34. THERE’S NO I IN BEAM 94. EAMES IT IN

36. HARD FURNISHINGS 96. THE VERY GEHRY

38. THE REVERSE PILE 98. THE REAL FLEMISH BOND

40. THE VITRUVIAN 100. THE POSTMODERN

42. THE MAXIMUM RISER 102. PRAIRIE STYLE

44. THE PLATFORM LIFT 104. THE LAP JOINT

46. BACK TO THE DRAW

NIG BOARD 106. IN VITRA VERITAS

48. ON PILOTI 108. THE GAUDI

50. RANCH-STYLE 110. ROHE THE BOAT

52. THE SEATED CONNECTION 112. THE ENGINEER

54. WHEN IN BARCELONA 114. THE ALL NIGHTER

56. INTERNATIONAL STYLE 116. YOU-VALUE

58. THE CHAISER 118. THE TRELLICK

60. THE SCAFFOLD 120. THE GOLDEN RATIO

NOTICE

The information provided in this book is for educational

purposes only. By using the book you are participating at

your own risk.

Make sure you practice with enough free space around you.

Before any activity you should warm up properly and cool

down afterwards to avoid injury.

If you feel dizzy, light-headed, faint, or if you experience any

other discomfort, stop immediately and consult a medical

doctor. You are responsible for your condition during your

practice.

The measurements within the book are averages and are

given as a reference only.

None of the people, products or companies mentioned have in

anyway endorsed, supported, promoted or acknowledged

this book.
PREFACE

Swiss architect Le Corbusier coined the phrase ‘machines for

living’, within his book, ‘Towards an Architecture’ in 1923. Sex

plays a large role in society and everyday life. So, why is it so

often overlooked when an architect designs a building?

The Archisutra raises the question: How should we design for

sex?

In 1490 Leonardo da Vinci sketched the Vitruvian Man, a

diagram showing the proportions of man based on the writings

of Vitruvius in 400AD. The sketch of the Vitruvian Man depicts

the perfect male form as seen by Vitruvius. Vitruvius aimed to

discover the mathematical proportions of the human body and

use the findings to improve the function and appearance of

architecture.

In more modern times, the architect Le Corbusier devised an

anthropometric scale of proportions, a further development

from Vitruvius’ work. He called his system The Modulor. The

Modulor, was a standard model of the human form used by

Le Corbusier to determine the correct amount of living space

needed for residents in his buildings.

The Archisutra follows on from the work of Vitruvius, da Vinci

and Le Corbusier and pushes the idea that buildings should be

designed around human life.

9
INTRODUCTION

The Archisutra gives anyone the chance to redesign their sex

life. The book contains the necessary information about the

human body with a selection of sexual positions ready to be put

into practice.

The detailed design information and annotated scale drawings

within the book, make it easier for you to design spaces or help

you convert an existing space.

11
 MODULOR MANHOOD

Taking the name from Corbusier’s Modulor, a way of designing

using the proportions of man, this chapter gives you the

necessary dimensions of the human body and provides some

dimensional context moving forward.

Male Scale

Average male body measurements:

The average male body is 1750mm or 5’ - 9” tall

Average shoulder height is 1460mm or 4’ - 9”

Average chest height is 1315mm or 4’ - 4”

Average groin height is 865mm or 2’ - 10”

Average hand height is 780mm or 2’ - 7”

Average knee height is 515mm or 1’ - 8”

Average shoulder width is 355mm or 1’ - 2”

14
15
Female Scale

Average female body measurements:

The average female body is 1610mm or 5’ - 3” tall

Average shoulder height is 1340mm or 4’ - 5”

Average chest height is 1205mm or 3’ - 11”

Average groin height is 820mm or 2’ - 8”

Average hand height is 730mm or 2’ - 5”

Average knee height is 465mm or 1’ - 6”

Average shoulder width is 310mm or 1’ - 0”

16
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18
19
GENERAL ARRANGEMENTS
LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS

Typical Location: Mixed Use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

The first arrangement will give you a good introduction to The

Archisutra and the mastery of this position will help you with

the more complex positions later in the book.

To perform this position, she lays down on a flat surface with

her knees bent and her lower legs at a 50 degree angle to the

floor. A quick way for her to determine the correct angle is to

position her feet 450mm or 1’-6’’ away from her. He lays on top

of her so that they are face to face adjusting the angle between

them.

Best Practice: Lifting her legs higher or adding a pillow to

her lower body will alter the angle and allow for more up and

down movement. This is commonly known as the ‘CAT’ or coital

alignment technique.

22
23
TRUSS ME

Typical Location: Mixed Use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Based on the ‘Warren Truss’ patented in 1848, this position

uses a diagonal arrangement working with both tension and

compression. The load acting on the elements is focused

towards the centre. In this position he acts as the bottom chord

tying the truss together.

The angles within this position are key to its success. It is

normally performed on a firm, flat surface with some bounce for

assistance. To begin, he lies flat on the ground while she sits on

top of him resting her weight in his lap. Her lower legs should

be at 90 degrees to her thighs and as she leans back, one hand

should be placed on her knee and one on the floor. Her careful

positioning provides a stable platform for rotational movement,

for further stability he can take hold of her thighs.

Best Practice: This position relies on her correct angular

arrangement, if performed without due care and attention there

is a risk of injury.

24
25
THE PILE DRIVER

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

The Pile Driver takes inspiration from the piling machines used

to bore deep into the ground to form foundations. Like a piling

rig, the force is focused to particular area, however in this case

the angle is altered to make the position more achievable.

To begin, he kneels down with the main part of his body

perpendicular to the floor. Then, starting in a horizontal position

she manoeuvres herself up his body until she is at a 40 degree

angle. He can assist by holding her thighs to allow her to get

into position.

Best Practice: Using a pillow for support can help to achieve the

most effective angle and relieve pressure on the body.

26
27
THE FLYING BUTTRESS

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

The form of this position resembles buttresses used in medieval

architecture, most often associated with gothic churches. The

buttress was used to support the vertical building elements and

reinforce them against lateral movement.

This position is similar to The Pile Driver , but there are a few

subtle differences. In this case he acts as the vertical element

supported by her body. She wraps her legs around his chest as

she pushes and pulls herself towards him.

Best Practice: She should use her arms to pull and push him

back and forth.

28
29
EYEBALLING

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

The act of Eyeballing something in is done without the use of

any measuring device, this position follows a similar method.

To start, both participants stand facing each other about an

arms width apart. They then take a step forward with opposite

legs and come together into a kneeling position.

Best Practice: Both parties should kneel down in synchronicity

and in perfect alignment. This takes time to practice and should

be done in complete darkness when mastered fully.

30
31
TYPICAL WALL UP

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Designed to be practiced on any wall, the Typical Wall Up

requires strength and dexterity.

Both parties start approximately 285mm or 0’-11” from the wall.

Once facing each other, she raises her less dominant leg and he

takes hold of it. She then jumps off the ground using her other

leg and wraps it around his midriff. He holds the other leg and

push her gently on to the wall.

Best Practice: This position is best carried out on a solid

external wall to reduce sound transmission.

32
33
THERE’S NO I IN BEAM

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

This position requires both parties to be synchronized. The

position works best when forces are equal and opposing.

To start, he lies flat on the ground and she lies on top of him

placing her feet either side of his head. They pull each other

closer and then release, repeating the motion and remaining in

sync.

Best Practice: It is easier for her to start sitting on his lap

before both lean back into the position.

34
35
HARD FURNISHINGS

Typical Location: Commercial

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

Using furniture as a platform for sex is nothing new. This

position can be performed on dining tables, workbenches, desks

etc. Your old furniture could take on a whole new function.

To begin, she sits close to the table top edge leaning back at

an angle of 60 degrees. He then pulls her closer as he moves

towards her.

Best Practice: The perfect height for this position is dependant

on the dimensions of the participants. It is recommended to

shop around for correctly sized tables.

36
37
THE REVERSE PILE

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

The Reverse Pile also stems from a piling rig, however this

position places her in control from a seated position.

He lies flat and manoeuvres his upper body into a 45 degree

angle using his arms as supports. She then lowers herself onto

him, using her legs as balancing tools. Up, down and radial

movements complete the position.

Best Practice: She should place one foot approximately 200mm

or 0’-8” in front of the other to accomplish more complex

movements.

38
39
THE VITRUVIAN

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

Named after the Vitruvian Man, a drawing by Leonardo da Vinci

from around 1490, this position is based on the similarities

of ideal human proportions and geometry as described by

Vitruvius. Vitruvius believed that the ideal body should be

eight heads high and that the human figure could be used to

determine the proportions of classical architecture.

To perform this position, she stands upright with her arms

outstretched perpendicular to her body. He then stands behind

her and widens his stance, lowering his body to the required

height.

Best Practice: It is easier when both parties are a similar

height, but books, boxes and beds can be used to get a better

alignment.

40
41
THE MAXIMUM RISER

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

The staircase can be used to conduct a variety of positions. The

Maximum Riser takes its name from the vertical element in each

step.

To perform this position, first find a suitable staircase. To start,

she chooses an appropriate step to kneel on - usually the third

from the bottom. She then bends forward, resting her hands on

the step above, while he stands at the bottom of the staircase

and holds her waist at a 35 degree angle to himself.

Best Practice: Remember that building regulations vary between

private and public staircases. Public stairs offer the preferred

shallower angle.

42
43
THE PLATFORM LIFT

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

This position bears resemblance to the action of a platform lift

used in building construction. It is one of the more advanced

positions in The Archisutra and should be performed with the

utmost care and attention.

The begin, she places a pillow on the ground before laying down

with her shoulders resting on it. She adopts the position shown

by thrusting her hips into the air, supporting her body initially

with her arms. He then moves into position above her, taking

hold of her ankles. Once he is in position she lays her arms flat

on the ground for stability.

Best Practice: He should support his own body weight

throughout to prevent injury.

44
45
BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD

Typical Location: Commercial

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

Inspired by the classic but soon to be obsolete drawing board,

this position is a test of both strength and balance.

The position begins by first setting the appropriate angle of the

table and lowering the seat to a comfortable height. He then

adopts the position shown by lying on the table and lowers

himself on to the chair. She then positions herself on top of

him, holding on to his legs to prevent her falling forward.

Best Practice: For beginners it is recommended to start with the

table angled at 10 degrees and move on to a steeper angle once

well practiced.

46
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ON PILOTI

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

On Piloti is named after the first of Le Corbusier’s five points,

which included the use of piloti to raise a building off the

ground. Using piloti creates a light and free space beneath a

building.

This position requires strength and a strong grip from both

participants. Starting in a standing position, he lifts her to the

required level. Once in this position she tightly wraps her legs

around his waist making the position more comfortable.

Best Practice: Practice in an area with a soft landing.

48
49
RANCH-STYLE

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

Ranch-style architecture, characterised by a long, low profile

and a wide open layout, was popular in middle class

post-war America.

To adopt this position, both participants begin by lying opposite

each other. She lifts both legs and places them either side

of his waist. Pulling each other closer, he grips her below her

knees and she holds onto his hips.

Best Practice: He can bring his knees together to tighten

his grip.

50
51
THE SEATED CONNECTION

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

Named after a steel connection with the same name, this

position is one of the more intimate positions within The

Archisutra . The angles of both participants are fixed and the

position relies on a pushing and pulling motion.

The Seated Connection is performed as he sits down on a flat

surface with his torso at 90 degrees to his legs. She then lowers

herself on to his lap, moving her legs around his waist and

leaning back at a 30 degree angle. He reaches behind and pulls

her closer by holding on to her legs. She maintains a firm grip

on his shoulders.

Best Practice: He should not be tempted to wrap his arms

around her but instead allow the intensity of the position to

increase gradually.

52
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WHEN IN BARCELONA

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

This positions is inspired by the Barcelona chair, designed

by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in 1929. This famous chair was

originally designed for Spanish royalty at the opening ceremony

of the International Exposition.

The position begins with both parties facing in same direction at

the front of the chair. He stands behind her as she fixes herself

in the centre of the seat with her hands clasping the back rest.

He takes hold of her hips and with a slightly bent knee, angles

her over the edge of the chair.

Best Practice: If you do not own a Barcelona chair, a similar

chair or sofa can be used. For best results you should replicate

the angles of the original chair.

54
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INTERNATIONAL STYLE

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

The International Style was first defined by American architects

Henry-Russell Hitchcock and Philip Johnson in 1932. Focusing

on aesthetics, its characteristics include rectilinear forms and

surfaces stripped of ornamentation. The style has an emphasis

on open interior spaces with a weightless visual quality.

To emulate this style, he lies on his back and lifts his legs

forming a right angle with his knees. She intersects him by

positioning herself in a deep squat above him, his legs slot

between her thighs and her underarm.

Best Practice: It is important to maintain each angle with

precision so that she appears weightless in her squat.

56
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THE CHAISER

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

A chaise lounge or sunbed is required for this position, along

with a substantial amount of flexibility and strength.

In this position, he creates a platform using the backrest to

support his upper body. She then positions herself as shown,

leaning on his chest for support. He wraps his arms around her

upper legs and at this moment she lifts her legs to form a V

shape with her body.

Best Practice: The angle of the back support is key to the

success of this position, to avoid unnecessary pressure on both

participants.

58
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THE SCAFFOLD

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

Scaffolding is a temporary structure erected to aid the

construction process of a building. This position tests his core

strength and requires stability.

To perform The Scaffold , he assumes a bridge like form as she

slots into his lap at a 70 degree angle.

Best Practice: She should squat in the position shown but

should be careful not to exert her full weight to avoid injury.

60
61
FALLINGWATER

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Fallingwater is the name of one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s

most famous dwellings, completed in 1939 in Southwestern

Pennsylvania. Inspired by Japanese architecture, Wright

designed the building with an emphasis on creating harmony

between man and nature.

He positions himself beneath the flow of water with his legs

in front and his back angled at 70 degrees to the ground. She

kneels on all fours with her knees and arms positioned at either

side of his legs.

Best Practice: If you don’t have a waterfall nearby, you can

practice in the shower. The water should fall equally between

his chest and her back.

62
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THE HIGH END

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

The classic Eames Lounge Chair was the first chair Charles

and Ray Eames designed for a high-end market. Herman

Miller highlighted the versatility of the chair which featured in

apartments and townhouses designed for the super wealthy.

In this position, he sits fully back in the chair with his feet off

the ground. She sits on top with a straight back and her arms

stretched to his shoulders.

Best Practice: Add the ottoman to prop up his feet for a first-

class experience.

64
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THE DOMESTIC

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Domestic appliances and white goods within the home are often

fixed at waist height, providing a perfect platform for carrying

out this position.

She perches herself on top of the chosen appliance with her

legs raised at a 65 degree angle to her body. He stands with his

torso perpendicular to the top of the appliance and his hands

positioned on both her legs and her back.

Best Practice: For higher intensity use an appliance with a

strong vibration, such as a washing machine on a full spin cycle.

66
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THE IKEA SALE

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

A tribute to the world’s largest furniture retailer - IKEA, this

position has been designed to be practiced on a pair of chairs,

tables or any other flat-pack furniture. The dimensions of all

IKEA products are available from their website and should be

considered before commencing.

To initiate this position, he kneels on one IKEA product and

faces the other. She fixes her head firmly on the second object

while raising her legs on to his thighs. A strong core is required

to bridge the distance between the furniture, so it is advisable

to practice this position on the floor first.

Best Practice: Start by assembling the two pieces of furniture in

close proximity. With practice, they can be moved further apart

to increase the distance spanned by the position.

68
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THE POMPIDOU

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Taking inspiration from the Centre Pompidou in Paris, this

position mimics the form of the building’s iconic staircase, one

of it’s most striking features.

To start, he lies with his back on the floor and his head raised.

She lowers herself on to him, kneeling with her head at a 30

degree angle to his feet and her hands fixed to the ground at

either side of his legs.

Best Practice: This position is best practiced on a smooth

surface to avoid risk of injury.

70
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THE PETRONAS

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

The Petronas Towers in Malaysia, are an impressive pair of

skyscrapers linked by a small bridge on the 41st and the 42nd

floors. This position replicates its form as both bodies connect.

To perform The Petronas , both parties begin by standing

opposite each other. She starts by lifting one of her legs over

his shoulder, using it to pull him towards her. The position

requires a high level of flexibility.

Best Practice: If you are attempting this position for the first

time she should try to wrap her leg around his waist.

72
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THE BRUTALIST

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

The Brutalist style, popularised between 1950 and the 1970s

is characterised by the use of large concrete forms with a raw

appearance. The Brutalist position aims to follow some of the

characteristics of the style.

This position is designed to be carried out on a concrete wall

and floor. To begin, he manoeuvres his legs so that they are

perpendicular to his body, which is touching both the wall and

the floor. She then squats over him and faces the wall, holding

his legs with her hands.

Best Practice: A rough wall should be reserved for the more

experienced, to begin with find a smooth concrete wall.

74
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HUMAN FORMWORK

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Named after the temporary moulds into which concrete or other

similar materials are poured, Human Formwork uses his body to

dictate her position.

He begins by lying or sitting down, before she lays on top facing

him. He then adopts his chosen position, manipulating her form

as he does. By angling his torso at 55 degrees he can take hold

of her arms and pull her body closer.

Best Practice: This position is best performed on a low-friction

surface, as her weight will make it hard for him to adjust his

position.

76
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THE BOTTOMAN

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

An often overlooked piece of furniture, the ottoman can be put

to great use. It originated from the Ottoman Empire and was

brought to Europe in the late 18th century.

To begin, she lies on her back on top of the ottoman with her

head hanging over the edge. He kneels on the opposite side

holding her lower thighs. He then lifts her legs to rest on his

chest. Ottomans are usually padded to giving an extra bounce

when performing this position.

Best Practice: If your ottoman has a storage section, it should

be filled with books or other heavy objects to prevent it from

sliding.

78
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THE BACK SEAT DESIGNER

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

Named after co-workers who peer over your shoulder, stare at

your screen while you are trying to work or give you unwelcome

suggestions, these are the back seat designers.

In this position, he sits on an armchair of choice with his back

straight. She sits on his lap and leans forward until her palms

touch the floor. She then uses her knees and arms to move

herself up and down.

Best Practice: Depending on the size of your armchair, it works

best if he perches on the front end of the chair so that he can

ensure a firm grip.

80
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THE CLASSICAL

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

The Clas s ic al is voted the world’s favourite year on year, it’s one

that everyone knows, but the correct angles and dimensions will

help you perfect it.

In this position, she kneels on all fours with her back parallel to

the ground. He then positions himself behind her, with his body

bent forward 15 degrees and his hands holding her hips.

Best Practice: Although this position is a classic, it can be

performed in any location for a more unconventional twist.

82
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THE NEO CLASSICAL

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

The Neo Class ical is a simple modern reinvention of the previous

position, revived just as Neoclassical Architecture has been

throughout history. Design revivals can sometimes be perceived

as controversial, however this straightforward position is sure to

be around for some time.

This position takes a similar form to The Clas sic al , however he

stands upright with a slight bend in his knee. She is on her feet,

with her body bent at a 30 degree angle and her hands flat on

the floor. This variation allows for a larger range of movement.

Best Practice: She should bend her knees slightly and use the

edge of the bed as an extra support.

84
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THE CANTILEVER

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

A structural cantilever is used in construction to support an

overhanging element. This position draws upon this technique

allowing movement to occur from only one pivotal point.

To get into this position, she bends forward with her head lifted

off the floor and her arms reaching backwards. She grabs hold

of his arms as he takes hold of her, ensuring a strong grip from

both. She should be cantilevered over the floor by holding on to

his arms.

Best Practice: Try getting into this position one arm at a time,

trying to swing both arms around at the same time could cause

injury.

86
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EXTERNAL WORKS

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

Refer to drawing 031 .

Best Practice: The Clas sic al can be reimagined in any external

location. If privacy is a concern, the position should be

practiced on an uninhabited or overgrown site.

88
89
OSCAR’S

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

This position is a tribute to Oscar Niemeyer, a Brazilian architect

and a true admirer of the female form.

In this position, he sits on the floor with his arms on the ground

behind him and his body leaning back at 50 degrees. She sits

directly above him, pressing her form into his chest and holding

onto his thighs.

Best Practice: His body should provide a platform for her to lie

on and support her weight entirely.

90
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GET AN EIFFEL

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, constructed by Gustave Eiffel in

1889, Get An Eiffel recreates the iconic form of the tower using

the human body.

To achieve this position, she begins by performing a handstand.

He takes hold of her ankles to stop her falling as she lowers her

abdomen onto his knees. He bends his knees slightly and holds

onto her calves to give her a platform, as she grips her legs

tightly around his thighs for stability.

Best Practice: If you find doing handstands difficult try

practicing next to a wall for additional support.

92
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EAMES IT IN

Typical Location: Commercial

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

Based around the iconic Aluminium chair designed by Charles

and Ray Eames in 1958, Eames It In is the perfect position for

an office environment. In 1969, a ‘soft pad’ version of the chair

was released for increased comfort.

To Eames It In , the centre of the chair is placed approximately

725mm or 2’-4 ½” away from his starting position. She begins

by standing between him and the chair and bends forwards to

place her head on the seat. He then takes hold of one of her

ankles, lifting her leg into the air.

Best Practice: These chairs come with or without wheels. To

prevent injury, first attempt this position using the static version

and only when you have more experience you should use the

wheels.

94
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THE VERY GEHRY

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

Named after architect Frank Gehry, this position replicates the

unusual forms and structures found within his designs.

To get into this position, she lies flat on the ground, lifts her

lower body into the air and moves her knees towards her head.

Once she is in this position, he squats on top of the platform

she creates and leans forward 35 degrees to form a striking

shape.

Best Practice: This position might seem quite advanced, but can

be performed relatively easily.

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THE REAL FLEMISH BOND

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Typically bricks are laid using one of the following patterns:

English bond, Flemish bond, Stretcher bond, Header bond or the

Garden wall bond. The Real Flemish Bond is a position inspired

by the most common type of brick bond, used universally to

give a precise finish.

To begin, she lies on her front, lifting her torso slightly off the

floor with her arms. He then lowers himself into a seated squat,

keeping his back straight and his legs at a 45 degree angle to

the ground.

Best Practice: The Real English Bond was deemed too explicit

for publication.

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THE POSTMODERN

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Postmodernism emerged in the 1960s as a reaction against

the lack of variety in modern architecture. Like postmodern

architecture, this position offers complex forms, curves and

asymmetry.

In this position, she forms a bridge at a 10 degree angle to the

ground with a slight curve to her body. He gets into the kneeling

position shown and holds on to her hips.

Best Practice: To lessen the strain on her arms, the edge of a

sofa or bed could be used as a replacement for the bridge.

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PRAIRIE STYLE

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

Prairie Style, also known as the Prairie House Style, was popular

in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Midwestern America.

The style was characterised by strong horizontal lines evoking the

native prairie landscape.

In this position, he first sits down with his upper body

perpendicular to the floor and his back at a sharp 90 degree angle.

She stands over him before lowering her body to the ground with

her head falling between his feet.

Best Practice: She should try and hover off the ground by lifting her

feet off the floor and resting her elbows on his legs.

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THE LAP JOINT

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

A lap joint is used in carpentry to join materials by overlapping

members. Inspired by this, The Lap Joint position creates a

strong connection between both participants.

In this position, she begins lying flat on the floor with a pillow

supporting her upper back. He lifts her legs above his pelvis at

approximately 15 degrees and kneels between them.

Best Practice: Try experimenting with different sized pillows to

find the angle that works best for you.

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IN VITRA VERITAS

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : High

Named after the Swiss furniture company, this position uses a

Vitra chair, but can also be performed on any similar chair.

In this position, he sits on a chair with his back pressing firmly

on the backrest. She sits facing him on his lap, leaning slightly

backwards. By wrapping his arms around her body she can

maintain the position for longer.

Best Practice: If you don’t have the luxury of owning a Vitra

chair, try to find a suitable alternative. For best results use a

chair with some flexibility.

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THE GAUDI

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Known for his very distinctive style, Spanish architect Antonio

Gaudi was most recognised as a practitioner of Catalan

Modernism. This position breaks away from normal arrangement

and form, something Gaudi is famous for.

To perform this position he lies flat on the floor as she lowers

herself on to him. Both participants begin facing forwards and

once in position she rotates her body 90 degrees.

Best Practice: She should move in a circular motion, adjusting

her movements in a rotational fashion.

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ROHE THE BOAT

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Named after German architect, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this

position resembles a rower and is performed using similar

actions.

In this position, he lies on the floor with his legs slightly spread.

She sits on top with her body leaning forward at 40 degrees

and her feet positioned inside of his legs. She can control the

motion using both her legs and her arms, with her hands resting

on his thighs.

Best Practice: She should move her hands back and forth down

his legs in a similar movement to that of a rower.

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THE ENGINEER

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Low

Structural and Civil Engineers are needed calculate the stability,

durability and rigidity of a construction. This position requires

precise alignment and collaboration.

For this position, both participants adopt a squatting position.

He gets into the squat first and once he is set up, she follows

suit and positions herself in front of him and on to his lap.

Best Practice: This position is best performed on a soft or

bouncy surface, allowing you to maintain the squat position

for longer.

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THE ALL NIGHTER

Typical Location: Commercial

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

Usually taking place the evening before a deadline, an all nighter

is an intensive period of work that continues throughout

the night.

This position is performed while at your desk. She starts lying

face down on the desk, keeping her feet on the ground at first.

He stands behind her at the edge of the desk and lifts up her

legs, keeping them bent upwards at a 45 degree angle.

Best Practice: Remember that you might have to work here in

the future.

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YOU-VALUE

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

U-Values measure the insulative properties of a material, used

in construction to test the environmental performance of

buildings.

In this position, he sits on the ground with his legs crossed as

she sits on his lap and wraps her legs around his back. She then

works her legs up his body until they are positioned at at 40

degree angle to her body and can be rested on his shoulders.

She can hold onto his knees for support.

Best Practice: If she starts to fall backwards she should hold

onto his shoulders, he can hold her in place using his arms.

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THE TRELLICK

Typical Location: Residential

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

The Trellick Tower was designed by architect Erno Goldfinger

and was completed in 1972. Its main feature is its lift and

service tower that connects to the main building using access

corridors. This advanced position mimics the structure of the

tower and should be performed with caution.

To get into this position, both participants begin by standing

upright, facing in the same direction. She bends forwards to

form a handstand position and fully leans backwards on to

him without extending her legs. Throughout the duration of the

position, he supports her by holding on to her thighs.

Best Practice: He should bend his knees to help maintain

stability, he should also hold on to her to prevent her from

falling backwards.

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THE GOLDEN RATIO

Typical Location: Mixed-use

S u s t a i n a b i l i t y : Medium

The Golden Ratio is named and arranged after the mathematical

ratio, which shows proportions which are believed to be

aesthetically pleasing. Many twentieth-century architects have

used this theory within their work.

For this position, she starts lying on the ground with her legs

either side of him in a kneeling position. She then wraps her

legs around his waist elevating her body as she pulls herself

towards him. Her forearms should be flat on the ground to

support her.

Best Practice: A pillow can be added to help support her and

maintain the golden ratio.

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