Beginnings...

This blog is centered around an investigation of timbrel (Catalan) tile vaulting, a centuries-old Mediterranean construction technique that has renewed interest due to its formal flexibility and ability to construct geometrically complex surfaces and structures.

The main body of research will be carried out on Mfangano Island, Kenya between June and August, 2013 and culminate in a collaborative construction with a team of local craftsmen of a small structure that employs the tile vaulting technique.

This structure will be a demonstration of a traditional construction method being used through an informal design process and how architecture can help achieve broader social aims. Upon completion, the structure will serve as Africa’s first entirely wind/solar-powered radio station.

Research Team:

Jonathan Dessi-Olive

Master of Architecture Candidate (2014)

School of Design - University of Pennsylvania

Kelly Berger

Master of Architecture Candidate (2014)

School of Design - University of Pennsylvania

Kordae Henry

Master of Architecture/Master of Landscape Architecture Candidate (2015)

School of Design - University of Pennsylvania

Erik Leach

Master of Architecture Candidate (2015)

School of Design - University of Pennsylvania

Advisors:

Lindsay Falck

Lecturer, School of Design - University of Pennsylvania

Fernando Vegas

Lecturer, School of Design - University of Pennsylvania

Camilla Mileto

Lecturer, School of Design - University of Pennsylvania