4th year of Degree in Foundations of Architecture
6 ECTS – Compulsory diversifiable course
Link to the blog of the Workshop on brick vaults.
Description and objectives
In the workshop on brick vaults, students can learn more closely about a traditional construction technique and its background: brick vaults. In the workshop, a series of arches and vaults are constructed to demonstrate the ease and cost-effectiveness of this technique, which requires minimal formwork. Then, collapse tests are conducted to verify their enormous strength. The materials used are bricks and plaster. The formwork is made of cardboard. This technique is used in restoration as well as in new construction. The possible shapes are infinite.
The objectives of this workshop are:
- To introduce future architecture professionals to the technique of brick construction.
- To understand the basic ideas of masonry construction and its application to brick vaults.
- To expand knowledge about the possible types of vaults, both traditional and modern.
- To promote teamwork.
Course content
The workshop consists of the following subjects and activities:
- Introduction to the history and precedents of brick vault construction.
- Introduction to the theoretical foundations on which brick vaults are based.
- Balance and collapse of arches, vaults, and domes.
- Domes and thin shells. Ribbed vaults, churches.
Teaching planning (subject table, academic calendar, and exam schedule…)
Workshop instructor
Prof. Mercedes González Redondo