British cathedral fan-vaults, Catalonian tile-vaults, and Mexican adobe structures – these three enduring methods of construction in thin-shell masonry each have their own associated structural theory and constructional praxis. Masonry experts from the ETH, University of Cambridge, and Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) will lead seminars in vault construction, where structural principles will be tested through hands-on experience with materials and methods. Based in Cambridge, UK, our excursions will include locations closed to the public: On the roof of King’s College Chapel, at Ely Cathedral, Peterborough Cathedral, and the Wren Library, abstract engineering themes will be translated from the scaffolding to the structure.

Prof. Dr. Philippe Block | Lara Davis

Seminarwoche HS 2010
12 - 15 Students
Category D: 751 - 1000 CHF (Incl. travel, accommodation, materials)

Collaboration with:
Prof. Michael Ramage University of Cambridge (UK), Dept. of Architecture

Prof. Dr. Matthew Dejong University of Cambridge (UK), Dept. of Engineering

Distinguished guest
Prof. Alfonso Ramírez Ponce Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (UNAM)