The article deals with modern trends in the development of folded structures in architecture. The periods of emergence and development of folded structures in foreign and domestic design practice have been studied. In the process of writing the article various methods were used to study and analyze folded structures (FR): a comprehensive analysis of design materials, photofixation, review of professional literature, publications. The objects of Soviet and Russian design experience and objects of foreign practice were selected for the analysis. The total number of objects of analysis is more than 40; the objects presented in the article are 26. On the basis of this study the task was set: to determine the directions in the development of SC in architecture for the near future.
At present, the interest in the folded structures has been revived. As a result of studies of SC in differ-ent time periods, from the beginning of their appearance to the present day, we can say that the folded structures "fashion returns". There are two trends in modern design with the use of SC. The first trend: a new round in the development of SC of long-span roofs and walls, and now there is a powerful basis in the form of programming complex structures to implement the creative potential of SC in the archi-tecture, there are innovative building materials and technologies for the implementation of the object. The second direction is related to the use of folded structures as façade folding elements, working ex-clusively to create a unique appearance of the building. Buildings using folded structures and elements become examples for a variety of contemporary styles in architecture. It is safe to say that folded structures are relevant in contemporary architecture. The use of folded structures and architectural folding elements provides great scope for the implementation of bold architectural ideas and the crea-tion of unique, individual architectural forms, volumes of buildings and structures for buildings of dif-ferent functions.