A Proposal for Utilization of Vaults as Floor-slab Structures in Contemporary Architecture

Abstract

Vaults are among the oldest known engineering structures, and have escorted the history of architecture through thousands of years. Nowadays, construction industry rarely uses them, and doesn’t consider them as a general option to be used for floorslab structures, although they offer several opportunities. The presentation aims to re-introduce vaults into everyday usage, emphasizing their efficient shape, building technology and aesthetic values.