Archive for January, 2007

Restoration of a casa colonica.8

Nearing completion
Construction commenced in May 2006 and was substantially complete by November 2006, a time lapse of only six months. Credit for the achievement is due to Paolo, il capomastro. Paolo blends his knowledge of traditional construction techniques with an understanding of contemporary requirements and needs. He is also a very hard worker. The result has [...]

Vernacular architecture

 Demolition by neglect
Vernacular buildings were normally well constructed and of sound materials but become increasingly fragile if not cared for over extended periods of time.  
  This casa colonica was beginning to deteriorate because the clay mortar binding the stones was rapidly being eroded.  In a few more years the walls would have become unstable and fallen.  I chose to [...]