  We consider shape optimization problems for elasticity systems in
architecture. A typical question in this context is to identify a structure of
maximal stability close to an initially proposed one. We show the existence of
such an optimally shaped structure within classes of bounded Lipschitz domains
and within wider classes of bounded uniform domains with boundaries that may be
fractal. In the first case the optimal shape realizes the infimum of a given
energy functional over the class, in the second case it realizes the minimum.
As a concrete application we discuss the existence of maximally stable roof
structures under snow loads.
