archihive architects’ Post

Have You Heard of Dragon Ties in Historic Buildings? When we think about historic buildings, we often admire their charm and beauty, but behind the scenes, there’s some incredible engineering that keeps them standing. One fascinating feature found in older timber-framed buildings is the dragon tie. So, what is a dragon tie? It’s a diagonal timber beam used in the corners of buildings, particularly in medieval and Tudor timber-framed houses. Its purpose is to support the structure where walls meet at right angles, helping to distribute the roof load and strengthen the frame. Think of it as an early (and elegant) form of reinforcement! Dragon ties allowed builders to achieve larger overhangs – those striking jettied upper floors that give historic buildings their iconic look. As we work to preserve these structures today, it’s a reminder of how traditional building techniques still inspire modern solutions. Does anyone know why they are referred to a dragon ties? There are a few theories…….. #HistoricBuildings #Architecture #TraditionalCraftsmanship #TimberFrame #BuildingConservation #Engineering

Did you know? The Inca builders used a technique called "ashlar masonry", where stones were cut to fit perfectly together without the use of mortar. The stones, which could weigh several tons, were cut using simple tools like hammers and chisels made of harder stones. No mortar was used in the construction of the walls, yet the stones fit so precisely that even a knife blade cannot fit between them. #didyouknow #ancienthistory #construction #constructionhistory #architecture #ganimcompany

Masonry is a versatile design element, that combines beauty and safety in one. There are a multitude of ways to use masonry to capture a fantastic design while preventing natural disasters from completely destroying your property. Wind and fire resistant, mold and insect resistant, not to mention the many other properties masonry offers, why build with anything else?

The Significance of Arches in Construction Arches are a fundamental architectural element that have been used for centuries due to their unique structural advantages. When a flat roof or surface is transformed into an arch, it can effectively support greater loads. Arched structures offer several key advantages in construction: 1. Enhanced Load Distribution: The curved shape of arches allows forces to be transferred along the curve, distributing weight more efficiently than flat surfaces. 2. Increased Strength and Stability: Arches incorporate triangular forms, which are inherently strong, allowing them to withstand greater stress and resist deformation. 3. Versatility in Design: Arches can be built using various materials and adapted for diverse architectural styles, adding aesthetic appeal to structures. 4. Space Efficiency: Arches create larger open spaces without the need for excessive support, making them ideal for bridges, cathedrals, and other expansive buildings. 5. Historical Significance: Arches have been a staple in architecture since ancient times, demonstrating their enduring effectiveness and appeal. The functional and design benefits of arched structures have made them a pivotal element in the world of architecture and engineering, contributing to the construction of iconic landmarks throughout history. Note: I apologize if I inadvertently shared copyrighted content without proper attribution. Please DM me for Credit or removal. #Arches #Architecture #StructuralEngineering #LoadDistribution #SpaceEfficiency #CivilEngineering #Sitework

Combining laser scanning with photogrammetry gives you a visual layer of materials and design elements in an orthographic view. No single camera view can produce this result which can be highly valuable in preservation of key historic elements. This is the rear wall of a residence originally built in the late 1800s. #architect #architects #architecture #architettura #historichomes #historichouse #historicpreservation #architecturalheritage #architecturalpreservation #heritagebuildings #historicrenovation #architecturelovers #renovation #oldhouselove #elevation #elevations #architecturalphotography #residentialarchitecture #traditionalarchitecture #brick #redbrick #bricks #brickwall #architecturaldetail

🪨🌱🪨 Natural stone, when used in architecture shows... Ancient builders had deep knowledge about environmental conditions and the physical needs of humans in their search for shelter. Regardless of technological advances and the evolution of our perception of the world around us, this kind of knowledge and relationship with our surroundings can still be applied today and adapted to our current context. Natural stone, when used in architecture shows just that, as we explore its many different styles and applications. 🪨🌱🪨 #design #stone #construction #residential #architecture #interiordesign

Why build with anything else. Masonry provides a unique build with versatile design options and incomparable safety and environmental benefits. With the ever changing dynamics we are facing every day, from hurricanes to wildfires to tornadoes, masonry is by far the superior building material...

How Water Damage Shapes Architecture Over Time Did you know water damage has influenced the way buildings are designed? From ancient times to today, water’s sneaky ways have forced architects to get creative. Here are some fascinating facts: ⚙️ Gargoyles Did More Than Look Scary: Those creepy stone creatures weren’t just for show. Gargoyles were part of medieval drainage systems, directing rainwater through their mouths and away from walls and foundations. Functional and spooky! ⚙️ Romans Pioneered Gutters: The Romans invented gutters to redirect water, keeping their famous structures standing tall. ⚙️ Sloped Roofs Save the Day: Steep roofs became popular in rainy regions to let water roll off quickly—smart, right? Water has shaped not just architecture but also the way we think about protecting our homes. Whether it’s a modern leak or ancient-level water woes, Restoration 1 of Humble has the tools and expertise to restore your home. #WaterDamage #restoration1ofhumble #ArchitectureFacts #HomeCareTips #NorthHoustonHomes

What distinguishes architecture from construction? Nicholas Povsner, wrote "A bicycle shed is a building. Lincoln Cathedral is an architectural creation." But today, in a contemporary view, this distinction is not unequivocal. Renard Rodofsky described in his book "Architecture Without Architects" a wide field of buildings designed by ordinary people into the world of architecture. and in particular residential buildings, and buildings for religious and worship purposes. Architecture, according to Vitruvius: every good and aesthetic building is architecture. Meaning, what is not aesthetic or good is not architecture (or bad architecture). Nowadays, it is customary to define architecture according to what the architect does (for better or for worse in terms of personal taste and aesthetics, style and influences). www.eframeiri.co.il #efrat_meiri #israeli_archtecture #newarchitecture #new_house #green_architecture #betterliving #betterhomes

This morning in a packed room at the 28th International Wood Construction Conference (IHF) in Innsbruck,Valéry CALVI and Gaëtan Genès shared their meticulous work on restoring Notre-Dame de Paris’s timber roof structure after the devastating 2019 fire. Their approach, which combined traditional carpentry techniques with modern engineering, highlights how historic wood structures can be faithfully rebuilt even after catastrophic loss. For British Columbia, increasingly affected by wildfires, this work serves as a reminder of the importance—and possibility—of rebuilding our own unique wood structures when lost to fire. By integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, we can preserve the identity and heritage of our wood architecture while planning for the future. #IHF2024 #WoodConstruction #TimberRestoration #NotreDameRestoration #HeritagePreservation #WildfireRecovery #TraditionalCraftsmanship #ModernEngineering #BritishColumbia #ArchitecturalHeritage