Rome Re-visted

Looking back on a fabulous trip to Rome earlier this year. The Pantheon is always a must see but did you know that the concrete used in the dome over the Pantheon is a unique and highly durable material. Formed using pozzolanic concrete, which is a mixture of volcanic ash, lime, and water. The volcanic ash, or pozzolana, is a natural cement that reacts with the lime to create a hard, durable material. So durable in fact, that if you run your fingers over its surface, you’ll likely take a layer of off! The mix of pozzolana and lime used in the Pantheon's concrete created a material that was not only strong and durable, but also lightweight. The unreinforced dome of the Pantheon comes in at a whopping 43 meters in diameter! Another remarkable feature of the Pantheon's concrete is its use of a unique construction technique. The dome was built using a series of progressively lighter layers of concrete, with each layer decreasing in thickness as it approached the top of the dome (to safe on weight.) This technique allowed the builders to create a dome that was structurally sound and stable, even with its massive size. The durability of the Pantheon's concrete can be seen in the fact that it has survived for over 2000 years, despite earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters. In fact, the concrete used in the Pantheon is still considered one of the most durable building materials in history. Alan: Quay Architecture

Looking back on a fabulous trip to Rome earlier this year. The Pantheon is always a must see but did you know that the concrete used in the dome over the Pantheon is a unique and highly durable material. Formed using pozzolanic concrete, which is a mixture of volcanic ash, lime, and water. The volcanic ash, or pozzolana, is a natural cement that reacts with the lime to create a hard, durable material. So durable in fact, that if you run your fingers over its surface, you’ll likely take a layer of skin off! The mix of pozzolana and lime used in the Pantheon’s concrete created a material that was not only strong and durable, but also lightweight. The unreinforced dome of the Pantheon comes in at a whopping 43 metres in diameter! Another remarkable feature of the Pantheon’s concrete is its use of a unique construction technique. The dome was built using a series of progressively lighter layers of concrete, with each layer decreasing in thickness as it approached the top of the dome (to safe on weight.) This technique allowed the builders to create a dome that was structurally sound and stable, even with its massive size. The durability of the Pantheon’s concrete can be seen in the fact that it has survived for over 2000 years, despite earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters. In fact, the concrete used in the Pantheon is still considered one of the most durable building materials in history. 

Barcalona Pavilion: Trip 2023

Always wonderful to see The Barcelona Pavilion up close! Designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, is a perfect example of modernist architecture. Built in 1929 as the German Pavilion for the International Exposition in Barcelona, the Pavilion is an elegant and simple building that embodies the key principles of modernism. The Pavilion’s is famous for its design and uses clean lines and industrial materials such as glass, steel, and marble. In a stroke of genius, the building is surrounded by a shallow pool of water, creating a reflective and tranquil environment that emphasises the simplicity of the design. Inside, the Pavilion is divided into several distinct spaces, including a reception area, a central courtyard, and several smaller rooms. The furniture and accessories are carefully selected to complement the design of the building, with iconic pieces such as the Barcelona chair (just like the one that I have in my entrance hallway at home) and the Brno chair becoming synonymous with modernist design. The Barcelona Pavilion’s impact on modern architecture has been significant, inspiring countless designers in the years since its construction. Its use of simple forms and materials, attention to detail, and emphasis on function over ornamentation has become a hallmark of modernism. The Pavilion is now considered a cultural landmark of modern architecture and design. Its sleek lines and elegant simplicity continue to inspire, making the Barcelona Pavilion a must-see destination for anyone interested in modernist architecture. Each time I visit Barcalona, and see this stunning piece of architecture, it’s like the first time all over!

Sagrada Familia: Field Trip

Sagrada Familia: Field Trip

The amazing Sagrada Familia in Barcelona by Antoni Gaudi. Taking inspiration from nature, the internal structural columns are formed in the shape of great trees which extend high up until they reach the canopy of the forest at roof/ceiling level. The construction of this basilica began in 1882 and is still ongoing, making it one of the world’s longest-running construction projects. The most recent estimate on the completion date is 2026. The last time I visited Barcelona the main hall (Nave) had not been opened to the public so what a joy to be in this amazing space. Suffice to say that this visit did not disappoint. Truly breathtaking!