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24 pages, 12741 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Historical, Geometrical, and Constructive Analyses of the Rotonda Roman Baths in Catania (Sicily)

by Carola Tardo, Laura Floriano, Mariangela Liuzzo, Anna Maria Gueli, Giuseppe Stella and Giuseppe Margani

Buildings 2025, 15(4), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15040515 - 7 Feb 2025

Viewed by 693

Abstract

One of the main icons of the Roman civilisation are thermal baths, built as public places for personal hygiene, body and mind relaxation, recreation, social encounters, and sport. In Sicily, there is evidence of several thermal buildings dating back to the time of [...] Read more.

One of the main icons of the Roman civilisation are thermal baths, built as public places for personal hygiene, body and mind relaxation, recreation, social encounters, and sport. In Sicily, there is evidence of several thermal buildings dating back to the time of the Roman Empire. Notably, the “Terme della Rotonda”, in the city of Catania, have always attracted strong interest due to their intricate and fascinating architecture. However, at present the dating of the building remains within the complex is still uncertain, and diverse assumptions have been advanced on their original use. In this framework, this study presents the findings of a multidisciplinary research initiative aimed at advancing knowledge of this thermal complex. To this end, a 3D integrated survey of the complex was carried out, and architectural, typological, and construction analyses were conducted to examine the primary building elements. These investigations enabled us to provide detailed insights into the materials and construction techniques used, leading to a new hypothesis on the original layout of the thermal rooms. Additionally, a virtual platform of the archaeological site was developed to serve as a spatial information database, facilitating both scientific research and the dissemination of knowledge about the complex. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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25 pages, 9363 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Globalization and Architecture: Urban Homogenization and Challenges for Unprotected Heritage. The Case of Postmodern Buildings with Complex Geometric Shapes in the Ensanche of San Sebastián

by María Senderos, Maialen Sagarna, Juan Pedro Otaduy and Fernando Mora

Buildings 2025, 15(3), 497; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030497 - 5 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1327

Abstract

Globalization has profoundly impacted architecture by promoting urban homogenization, where global styles and materials overshadow local character. This shift prioritizes standardized functionality and energy efficiency over cultural identity, erasing regional architectural distinctiveness. In historical urban centers, globalization-driven interventions—such as ventilated facades or external [...] Read more.

Globalization has profoundly impacted architecture by promoting urban homogenization, where global styles and materials overshadow local character. This shift prioritizes standardized functionality and energy efficiency over cultural identity, erasing regional architectural distinctiveness. In historical urban centers, globalization-driven interventions—such as ventilated facades or external thermal insulation systems (ETISs)—often simplify original compositions and alter building materiality, texture, and color. The Ensanche of San Sebastián serves as a case study highlighting this issue. Despite its architectural richness, which includes neoclassical and modernist buildings primarily constructed with sandstone from the Igeldo quarry, unprotected buildings are at risk of unsympathetic renovations. Such changes can distort the identity of what is considered “everyday heritage”, encompassing the residential buildings and public spaces that shape the collective memory of cities. This study presents a replicable methodology for assessing the vulnerability of buildings to facade interventions. By utilizing tools like digital twins, point cloud modeling, and typological analysis, the research establishes criteria for interventions aimed at preserving architectural values. It emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts with urban planning authorities and public awareness campaigns to safeguard heritage. Ultimately, protecting architectural identity requires balancing the goals of energy efficiency with cultural preservation. This approach ensures that urban landscapes maintain their historical and social significance amidst globalization pressures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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18 pages, 1016 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can ChatGPT AI Replace or Contribute to Experts’ Diagnosis for Renovation Measures Identification?

by Juan Maria Hidalgo-Betanzos, Irati Prol-Godoy, Jon Terés-Zubiaga, Raúl Briones-Llorente and Alexander Martín-Garín

Buildings 2025, 15(3), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030421 - 28 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1064

Abstract

Building energy renovations demand expertise from professionals to guide processes, including diagnostics, project planning, interventions, and maintenance. The emergence of open-access AI, like ChatGPT in November 2022, offers new possibilities for improving these processes by assisting or potentially replacing human experts. This study [...] Read more.

Building energy renovations demand expertise from professionals to guide processes, including diagnostics, project planning, interventions, and maintenance. The emergence of open-access AI, like ChatGPT in November 2022, offers new possibilities for improving these processes by assisting or potentially replacing human experts. This study explores the effectiveness of ChatGPT in diagnosing energy renovation measures. Initial assessments involve basic queries to the AI, followed by the inclusion of additional data and secondary questions to gauge its full diagnostic potential. An existing building case from the literature is given to the AI to define the best energy renovation measures. Expert evaluations and comparisons with research-backed solutions assess the AI’s performance using different degrees of questioning details over 60 repetitions. The results indicate that ChatGPT can provide valuable insights and generate comprehensive lists of feasible measures and preliminary cost calculations and payback, but, in general, it lacks depth and quality without specialized input and preparation. A significant quality improvement was found between the tests with 2023 and 2024 AI versions. Open-access AI proves capable of enhancing renovation diagnostics but remains a complement rather than a replacement for building renovation expert judgment. This research underscores the potential of mainstream AI to democratize access to knowledge, albeit with limitations tied to its dependence on quality inputs and contextual expertise. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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24 pages, 9840 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seismic Failure Assessment Using Energy Outputs of Finite Element Analysis: A Strategy for Complex Heritage Masonry Structures Modeled with Concrete Damaged Plasticity Material

by Anna Remus, Selman Tezcan, Jiacheng Sun, Gabriele Milani and Renato Perucchio

Buildings 2025, 15(3), 318; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030318 - 22 Jan 2025

Viewed by 712

Abstract

The structural assessment of masonry construction often requires the use of nonlinear 2D and 3D finite element analysis. This work describes a strategy for using energy outputs from such analyses to accurately assess failure conditions precipitated by increasing lateral load. The methodology relies [...] Read more.

The structural assessment of masonry construction often requires the use of nonlinear 2D and 3D finite element analysis. This work describes a strategy for using energy outputs from such analyses to accurately assess failure conditions precipitated by increasing lateral load. The methodology relies on the analogy between plastic strains and fracture that is inherent to the concrete damaged plasticity (CDP) macro-model used to represent the quasi-brittle behavior of masonry material. At critical conditions, energy imparted to a structure by loading can no longer be completely stored as elastic strain energy and must be dissipated. This occurs with fractures in masonry, which are represented with plastic strains when using CDP material. The development of plastic dissipation energy can therefore be used as a measure for understanding the progressive collapse of a structure, as we illustrate with the following three case studies analyzed using Abaqus/CAE Explicit: the massive earthen pyramid at Huaca de la Luna (Trujillo, Peru), the Roman pozzolanic concrete vault of Diocletian’s Frigidarium (Rome, Italy), and the mixed-material triumphal arch of the San Pedro Apóstol Church of Andahuaylillas (Peru). The method is verified by other measures of failure and has particular applicability for seismic analysis of complex masonry and earthen structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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19 pages, 3115 KiB

Open AccessArticle

OnlineLino—A Website on Architect Raul Lino’s Built Heritage at Médio Tejo, in Portugal

by Anabela Moreira, Inês Serrano, Paulo Santos, Regina Delfino, Pedro Matos, Ana Gracio and Ana Xavier

Buildings 2025, 15(2), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15020290 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 739

Abstract

The cultural context and values of twentieth-century architecture and construction confirm the need to preserve them for future generations, given the multiple challenges to overcome. Raul Lino da Silva (1879–1974) is a celebrated Portuguese architect who worked throughout the twentieth century and whose [...] Read more.

The cultural context and values of twentieth-century architecture and construction confirm the need to preserve them for future generations, given the multiple challenges to overcome. Raul Lino da Silva (1879–1974) is a celebrated Portuguese architect who worked throughout the twentieth century and whose architectural legacy is scattered from the north to the south of the country. The aim of this paper is to present the development of the website OnlineLino, which is related to the architectural and construction heritage of Raul Lino in the Médio Tejo region, an inland Portuguese territory with low demographic density. This work is focused on integrating documentary information dispersed across different digital funds, by aggregating it on a website that will be made available for public access in the future. To this end, data were collected from different funds, and the information was aggregated and systematised so that it could be included in the digital database developed, the OnlineLino website. The work was carried out by a multidisciplinary team in an academic setting, involving the areas of architecture, civil engineering, computer engineering and design. We hope that this website will contribute to the dissemination of Raul Lino’s architectural legacy, especially for buildings that are less studied and known. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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27 pages, 4902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digitalization of the Workflow for Drone-Assisted Inspection and Automated Assessment of Industrial Buildings for Effective Maintenance Management

by Jorge Torres-Barriuso, Natalia Lasarte, Ignacio Piñero, Eduardo Roji and Peru Elguezabal

Buildings 2025, 15(2), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15020242 - 15 Jan 2025

Viewed by 953

Abstract

Industrial buildings are a key element in the industrial fabric, and their maintenance is essential to ensure their proper functioning and avoid disruptions and costly economic losses. Continuous maintenance based on an accurate diagnosis makes it possible to meet the challenges of aging [...] Read more.

Industrial buildings are a key element in the industrial fabric, and their maintenance is essential to ensure their proper functioning and avoid disruptions and costly economic losses. Continuous maintenance based on an accurate diagnosis makes it possible to meet the challenges of aging infrastructures, which demands a reliable data-based assessment for maintenance management implementing corrective and preventive actions, according to the damage criticality. This paper researches an innovative digitalized process for the inspection and diagnosis of industrial buildings, which leads to categorizing and prioritizing maintenance actions in an objective and cost-effective way from the inspection data. The process integrates some technical developments carried out in this work, aimed to automate the workflow: the drone-based inspection, the building condition assessment from the definition of a standardized construction pathology library, and a visual analysis of pathology evolution based on photogrammetry. The use of drones for digitalized inspection involves some challenges related to the positioning of the drone for damage localization, which has been herein overcome by developing a geo-annotation system for image acquisition. This system has also enabled the capture of geo-located images intended to generate 3D photogrammetric models for quantifying the pathological process evolution. Moreover, the assessment procedure outlined through multi-criteria decision-making methodology MIVES establishes a single criterion to automatically weight the relative importance of the damage defined in the library. As a result, this procedure yields the so-called Intervention Urgency Index (IUI), which allows prioritizing the maintenance actions associated with the damage while also considering economic criteria. In such a way, the overall process aims to increase reliability and consistency in the results of inspection and diagnosis needed for the effective maintenance management of industrial buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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14 pages, 9974 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study of Member Displacement According to Seasonal Climate of the Sungnyemun Gate, a Korean Wooden Architectural Heritage Site

by Hyowon Seo, Hana Lee and Sunghan Kim

Buildings 2025, 15(2), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15020217 - 13 Jan 2025

Viewed by 625

Abstract

This study analyzes the results of a displacement measurement of the Sungnyemun Gate’s structural members, such as column, girder, and hip rafter, carried out by the National Institute of Cultural Heritage for about 10 years from December 2013 to October 2022. Through this, [...] Read more.

This study analyzes the results of a displacement measurement of the Sungnyemun Gate’s structural members, such as column, girder, and hip rafter, carried out by the National Institute of Cultural Heritage for about 10 years from December 2013 to October 2022. Through this, we attempt to examine the behavior of wooden architectural heritage sites according to seasonal changes and infer the factors influencing structural deformation. As a result of the analysis, it was confirmed that the structural members of the Sungnyemun Gate, including the columns, girders, and hip rafters, continued to move and that the displacement of members was accumulated, and the structure was deformed. It was also confirmed that member displacements accumulated in a specific direction. In the case of the Sungnyemun Gate, the column leaning south, the hip rafters’ endpoint sagging, and the girders’ center deflecting were continuously observed. Furthermore, the behavior of wooden architectural heritage sites, where displacement accumulates as it undergoes repeated deformation and recovery according to seasonal changes, was also revealed in detail. The deformation of the Sungnyemun Gate’s members shows a pattern that reflects the mechanical properties of wood, which repeatedly increases and decreases displacement depending on the season. However, seasonal deformation did not appear the same in all the members. Even the same member has an uneven drying speed due to differences in the amount of sunlight it receives depending on its location, which leads to uneven distribution of deformation. The significance of this study is that it examined the behavior of a wooden architectural heritage site in detail based on the quantitative results of long-term measurements and prepared primary data for the future management of wooden architectural heritage sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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19 pages, 21264 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vernacular Wooden Architecture in the City of Puntarenas: First Steps Towards Its Recognition

by Kenia García-Baltodano and David Porras-Alfaro

Buildings 2025, 15(2), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15020182 - 10 Jan 2025

Viewed by 631

Abstract

In Puntarenas City, a historic and tourist port of Costa Rica, several vernacular buildings constructed in wood can be observed. Despite the prevalence of this architectural type in the area, there is an absence of comprehensive studies aimed at documenting this significant heritage. [...] Read more.

In Puntarenas City, a historic and tourist port of Costa Rica, several vernacular buildings constructed in wood can be observed. Despite the prevalence of this architectural type in the area, there is an absence of comprehensive studies aimed at documenting this significant heritage. This article seeks to identify the vernacular architecture in this city through the architectural characterization, quantification, and geolocation of existing buildings, as well as the preliminary recognition of the state of conservation of the group of buildings. The methodological process proposed a four-stage approach. The initial stage involved an examination of documentary sources to verify existing information and obtain a preliminary profile of architectural characteristics. A participatory workshop with the community enabled the validation of this profile. The second stage comprised fieldwork, which yielded a starting list of properties. In the third stage, a detailed examination of the listed properties enabled the verification of the profile of characteristics, the delimitation of the architectural typologies, and the selection of buildings that did not fulfill the preliminary profile or possessed significant modifications that affected their architectural legibility. The fourth stage comprised the development of an inventory of vernacular architecture buildings and the systematic data transference to a Geographic Information System. This study mainly obtained the following results: an initial list of 172 wooden buildings in Puntarenas City and a geolocated inventory of 75 vernacular wooden architecture buildings that exhibit considerable architectural legibility. Moreover, identifying the uses and architectural features of the inventoried buildings permitted their categorization into ten distinct typologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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16 pages, 13899 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Rehabilitation of the Punta del Este Shopping Center After Fire Damage

by Álvaro Leez, María Noel Pereyra and Patricia Vila

Buildings 2025, 15(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15020161 - 8 Jan 2025

Viewed by 587

Abstract

On 6 August 2022, a fire devastated 80% of the Punta del Este Shopping Center in Maldonado, Uruguay. Originating in the kitchen of a supermarket, the fire ravaged the shopping center for 72 h before being brought under control. This article outlines the [...] Read more.

On 6 August 2022, a fire devastated 80% of the Punta del Este Shopping Center in Maldonado, Uruguay. Originating in the kitchen of a supermarket, the fire ravaged the shopping center for 72 h before being brought under control. This article outlines the studies conducted to assess the fire’s impact on the building’s structure, as well as the strategies and rehabilitation project aimed at ensuring its stability and performance. An in-depth analysis of the concrete, reinforcements, and foundations was carried out using destructive and non-destructive testing. In total, over 150 concrete samples were collected for analysis, and the foundations were studied using indirect methods. Based on these analyses, actions were planned for each area, including structural repairs, reinforcements, or demolition. Due to the tight deadline for resuming commercial activity, special innovative structural solutions were designed to rehabilitate large severely damaged areas with the specific feature of avoiding demolition. This involved altering the static scheme of the structure, incorporating reinforcements and using slabs of the damaged structure as formworks. Complete demolition and subsequent reconstruction would have required timelines incompatible with the clients’ expectations, while the adopted solutions enabled the project to meet its objectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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18 pages, 5604 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empirical Study of the Relationship of Architectural Form Details to the State of Conservation of Modern Heritage Through Damage Maps

by Matheus Gregorio Kaminski, Paulo Henrique de Sá Aciole and Vanda Alice Garcia Zanoni

Buildings 2025, 15(1), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15010142 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 889

Abstract

The Sustainable Development Center of the University of Brasilia is one of the modernist buildings that make up the Darcy Ribeiro campus. The architectural project contains several recommendations for the execution of a flat roof waterproofing system, as well as details for rainwater [...] Read more.

The Sustainable Development Center of the University of Brasilia is one of the modernist buildings that make up the Darcy Ribeiro campus. The architectural project contains several recommendations for the execution of a flat roof waterproofing system, as well as details for rainwater runoff and drainage, which reveals the architect’s concern with watertightness. This research seeks to identify the relationship between the pathological manifestations recognized on the roof and the details of the semicircular shape of the building, assessing the state of conservation using damage maps as an auxiliary analysis tool. This study is based on a field survey using aerophotogrammetry with a drone, the application of vector drawing software for graphic representation and discussion of the possible causes, and the agents and mechanisms of degradation at work. The results show the importance of mechanical protection for the good performance of the waterproofing system, as well as the need for correct sizing of expansion joints to absorb and relieve the stresses caused by hygrothermal variations. The incorporated methodology proved to be effective and economical in diagnosing and monitoring pathological manifestations, making it possible to plan maintenance actions that extend the useful life and preserve the intrinsic characteristics of building systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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22 pages, 19379 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Building Standards in the Galapagos Islands: Definition, Simulation, and Implementation in Representative Living Labs

by Jorge Torres-Barriuso, Iñigo Lopez-Villamor, Aitziber Egusquiza, Antonio Garrido-Marijuan, Ander Romero-Amorrortu and Ziortza Egiluz

Buildings 2025, 15(1), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15010122 - 2 Jan 2025

Viewed by 786

Abstract

The Galapagos Islands are undeniably a highly attractive ecosystem for scientists worldwide. However, the energy efficiency and sustainability aspects of their building stock have not yet been studied in depth, which directly hinders the achievement of sustainability goals for the Archipelago, such as [...] Read more.

The Galapagos Islands are undeniably a highly attractive ecosystem for scientists worldwide. However, the energy efficiency and sustainability aspects of their building stock have not yet been studied in depth, which directly hinders the achievement of sustainability goals for the Archipelago, such as reducing resource consumption, minimizing emissions, and improving overall comfort in buildings. Addressing these issues is critical to preserving the islands’ unique ecosystem, as current construction practices are unsustainable and exacerbate environmental pressures, causing over-consumption of local resources and upsetting the delicate ecological balance that sustains this fragile environment. In line with the National Energy Efficiency Plan promoted by the Government of Ecuador for the Archipelago, this study provides transparent and reliable information and data on the building stock of the islands. This work quantifies the impact of buildings on the use of resources and analyses the potential savings of different strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Various representative typologies are established based on the collection of architectural, construction, and usage information. For each of these typologies, various energy models are developed to establish the baseline and to analyse the demand and comfort of the buildings under different renovation scenarios in order to validate the sustainable construction strategies to be implemented. Moreover, new standards are also defined in order to reduce energy and water consumption and increase indoor air quality and comfort in buildings. In an attempt to generate evidence and facilitate the replication and implementation of sustainable construction standards, three Living Labs (LLs) are created to validate different strategies and technological solutions in different locations, according to the defined standards: a school in Santa Cruz, a hotel in Isabela, and a residential building in San Cristóbal. The findings highlight the effectiveness of specific energy-saving strategies and water conservation measures validated through Living Labs implemented in different locations across the islands. Furthermore, the knowledge generated is transferred through local training of the agents of the construction chain and administration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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18 pages, 136980 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Dynamic Monitoring of Post-Tensioning External Tendons: Temperature Effect Evaluation

by Luis Chillitupa-Palomino, Carlos M. C. Renedo, Jaime H. García-Palacios and Iván M. Díaz

Buildings 2025, 15(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15010069 - 28 Dec 2024

Viewed by 710

Abstract

Cables and tendons are crucial elements in bridge engineering but also are vulnerable structural elements because they are usually subjected to fatigue and corrosion problems. Thus, vibration-based non-destructive techniques have been used for external post-tensioning tendon assessment. Regarding continuous monitoring systems, tendon assessment [...] Read more.

Cables and tendons are crucial elements in bridge engineering but also are vulnerable structural elements because they are usually subjected to fatigue and corrosion problems. Thus, vibration-based non-destructive techniques have been used for external post-tensioning tendon assessment. Regarding continuous monitoring systems, tendon assessment is carried out through the continuous tracking of its natural frequencies and the subsequent estimation of the tension force, as this parameter is essential for the bridge’s overall structural performance, thus providing useful information about bridge safety. However, for long-term monitoring assessment, two main challenges have to be addressed regarding practical applications: (i) double-peak spectra and other spurious factors that affect the frequency estimation, and (ii) temperature dependency, which needs to be carefully treated since frequency/tension variation may be explained by temperature variation, thus masking potential structural anomalies. On this subject, this paper presents the experimental long-term monitoring of several post-tensioning external tendons in a high-speed railway bridge in which a sectorized weighted peak-picking frequency identification procedure is proposed for frequency estimation, alongside a cascade clustering process, which allows meaningful frequency estimates to be selected. Finally, the selected frequency estimates, which show variations from 1 to 2% for all analyzed frequencies, are used for the long-term assessment of the tension force. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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27 pages, 9092 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Transformation of a Former Pencil Factory Complex—A Case Study of ‘TOZ Penkala’ in Zagreb

by Iva Muraj and Lucija Sopina

Buildings 2024, 14(12), 3941; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14123941 - 11 Dec 2024

Viewed by 876

Abstract

The subject of this research is the former Zagreb pencil factory (‘TOZ’—Tvornica olovaka Zagreb), which manufactured pencils and pastels since 1937. During the 1970s and 1980s, it was one of the most important factories that produced school and office supplies. This paper investigates [...] Read more.

The subject of this research is the former Zagreb pencil factory (‘TOZ’—Tvornica olovaka Zagreb), which manufactured pencils and pastels since 1937. During the 1970s and 1980s, it was one of the most important factories that produced school and office supplies. This paper investigates frequent changes grouped into several time and development phases, which are determined according to the most important structural and purposeful changes. This paper presents the data obtained through archival and field research to review the past in detail, assess the current state, and its architectural, urban, and identity features, and look critically to the future. Since 2015, the factory has been closed. The factory is awaiting the realization of the ‘TOZ’ urban development plan adopted in 2009. The research data collection methods include observations, reviews of existing records, documentation, and SWOT analysis. This paper’s objectives are to explore existing site opportunities, address the potential and constraints, and evaluate the potential of the proposed urban development plan. This paper concludes with a look at the future of factory buildings. It faces technical, regulatory, and financial risks that might result in the site remaining neglected and unused for many years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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18 pages, 9147 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Deterioration and Failure of the Laminated Wooden Roof of a Covered Swimming Pool

by Javier Pinilla-Melo, Nelson Flores-Medina, Luis Javier Sánchez-Aparicio and Jose Ramón Aira-Zunzunegui

Buildings 2024, 14(12), 3794; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14123794 - 27 Nov 2024

Viewed by 708

Abstract

A swimming pool in Corrales de Buelna (Cantabria) was demolished in March 2017 due to the loss of mechanical performance of the laminated timber structure. The relevant deterioration was caused by rotting of the wood and corrosion of the metal connecting elements. The [...] Read more.

A swimming pool in Corrales de Buelna (Cantabria) was demolished in March 2017 due to the loss of mechanical performance of the laminated timber structure. The relevant deterioration was caused by rotting of the wood and corrosion of the metal connecting elements. The structure featured a barrel vault with five large tri-articulated arches enclosed on the sides by inclined facades formed by toral rafters and purlins. The corresponding diagnostic process involved data collection and structural assessments to verify the structure’s bearing capacity and serviceability. Data collection was carried out in December 2015 and consisted of a thermal camera inspection to determine the points of moisture accumulation and sampling openings, conduct environmental and wood hygrothermal measurements, and measure cross-sectional losses and deformations of the structural elements. Verification of the load-bearing capacity was carried out using matrix calculation structure software for both the original and deteriorated structure. The diagnosis indicated that the damage was caused by leaks in the joints of the aluminum composite roof panels and by the insufficient load-bearing capacity of the structure. The severity of the damage compromised the mechanical strength and stability of the building, leading to a recommendation that the use of the facilities be immediately discontinued. The degree of deterioration left the structure unrecoverable, making it very difficult to apply reinforcement measures. These factors led to the structure’s demolition to prevent its collapse. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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10 pages, 7666 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study of Mechanical Behavior of Dry-Stone Structure Contact

by Irieix Costa, Joan Llorens, Miquel Àngel Chamorro, Joan Fontàs, Jordi Soler, Ester Gifra and Nathanaël Savalle

Buildings 2024, 14(12), 3744; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14123744 - 25 Nov 2024

Viewed by 752

Abstract

Dry-stone structures are traditional constructions that are present everywhere around the world, with their stability working mostly by gravity. Contrarily to their in-plane behavior, their out-of-plane response is very brittle and is fully controlled by the geometry, as well as the contact properties, [...] Read more.

Dry-stone structures are traditional constructions that are present everywhere around the world, with their stability working mostly by gravity. Contrarily to their in-plane behavior, their out-of-plane response is very brittle and is fully controlled by the geometry, as well as the contact properties, between units (stones). Two main local failure modes of dry-joint contact are identified to lead to the global failure of the structure: (i) sliding and (ii) joint opening. Most of the existing studies investigated full structures to obtain the global response and/or couplet only, with the aim of only characterizing the contact. The present experimental work studies the effect of sliding and joint opening between stones at different scales: couplets, structures made of a few (up to five) blocks, and full walls, as well as varying the way the masonry units are assembled within a single structure. Different stones are employed to quantify potential differences. All the structures are loaded up to the collapse with a tilting table to induce out-of-plane actions. Repeatability tests are also conducted to better understand the effect of contact variability. This study unveils that the heterogeneity of the dry-joint contact, as well as the repartition of the blocks, affects the global response (both in terms of load capacity and failure mode). It also confirms that the most critical local failure mode is produced by the joint opening. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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24 pages, 28407 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methodology for 3D Management of University Faculties Using Integrated GIS and BIM Models: A Case Study

by César A. Carrasco, Ignacio Lombillo, Javier M. Sánchez-Espeso, Haydee Blanco and Yosbel Boffill

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3547; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113547 - 6 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1142

Abstract

Three-dimensional virtual modeling is one of the tools being rapidly implemented in the construction industry, leading to the need for strategies based on intelligent 3D models of cities and/or digital twins, which allow simulation by interacting with their real physical counterparts, anticipating the [...] Read more.

Three-dimensional virtual modeling is one of the tools being rapidly implemented in the construction industry, leading to the need for strategies based on intelligent 3D models of cities and/or digital twins, which allow simulation by interacting with their real physical counterparts, anticipating the outcomes of decision making. In practice, problems arise when creating and managing these twins, as different data, models, technology, and tools must be used, and they cannot all be combined as desired due to certain incompatibilities. On the other hand, today’s traditional building management demands a more optimized process to prevent errors and enable timely reactions to failures and defects. Managing and using a large amount of complex and disparate data are required, which is why the use of CMMS-type software is common (Computerized Maintenance Management System). However, such software is rarely designed for management in a 3D format, often due to the absence of three-dimensional models of the assets. This research aims to contribute to the technological development of the digitalization of the built environment, providing a simple methodology for generating and managing 3D models of cities. To achieve this, the tools and information useful for generating an integrated GIS 3D and BIM model, and for Computer-Aided Maintenance Management in a three-dimensional format (CMMS-3D), are identified. The final model obtained is used to optimize the three-dimensional management of a classroom building on the “Campus de Las Llamas” at the University of Cantabria in Spain. The results demonstrate that it is possible to integrate digital models with simple linking mechanisms between the existing tools, thus achieving an optimal three-dimensional management model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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21 pages, 985 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comprehensive Approach to Facade Design for Preventing Rainwater Penetration: Implementation in Spanish Regions

by José M. Pérez-Bella, Javier Domínguez-Hernández, Martín Orna-Carmona, Ángel Salesa-Bordanaba and Scott A. Orr

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3542; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113542 - 6 Nov 2024

Viewed by 749

Abstract

Rainwater penetration into building facades results in multiple issues, including material and structural degradation, reduced energy efficiency, and health-related concerns among occupants. Currently, the watertightness performance of building facades is assessed based on standardized tests, which simulate generic water supplies and pressure differentials [...] Read more.

Rainwater penetration into building facades results in multiple issues, including material and structural degradation, reduced energy efficiency, and health-related concerns among occupants. Currently, the watertightness performance of building facades is assessed based on standardized tests, which simulate generic water supplies and pressure differentials that do not reflect the specific exposure conditions of each facade. Consequently, practitioners’ decisions regarding facade design often rely on qualitative and imprecise criteria that do not align with the actual climatic loads. In this article, a comprehensive approach to facade design for preventing rainwater penetration is described, incorporating specific methodological refinements for reliable and practical implementation across various Spanish regions. In this approach, the parameters surpassed during any watertightness test (defined by the magnitude and duration of the water supplies and pressure differentials) are correlated with the recurrence of equivalent climatic exposures at the facade (determined by the climatic conditions of the site, facade height, and surrounding environment), thereby quantitatively characterizing the facade watertightness performance. The findings used to refine this method for implementation in Spain are illustrated and validated using selected case studies, and a comprehensive database is provided to enable its application at 360 locations distributed across various regions of the country. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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19 pages, 3023 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring the Influence of Industrialization in Deep Energy Renovations: A Three-Case Study Utilizing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

by Juan G. Secondo-Maglia, José Luis Alapont-Ramón, Marco De-Rossi-Estrada and Santiago Sánchez Gómez

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3448; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113448 - 29 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1190

Abstract

Existing buildings in the European Union account for 40% of its energy consumption. To significantly reduce this impact, annual deep energy renovation rates should triple by the end of the 2020s. However, the lack of automation in the construction industry has hindered energy [...] Read more.

Existing buildings in the European Union account for 40% of its energy consumption. To significantly reduce this impact, annual deep energy renovation rates should triple by the end of the 2020s. However, the lack of automation in the construction industry has hindered energy renovation efforts. Horizon Europe’s INPERSO project (Industrialised and Personalised Renovation for Sustainable Societies) aims to create a user-centered energy rehabilitation method based on industrialized technologies and systems, enhancing efficiency and building performance. To bridge the gap between predictions and real-world outcomes, the 22 project partners—using a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) process—devised a list of key performance indicators (KPIs) for evaluating rehabilitation based on economic, energy, environmental, social, and technological factors. Adopting a human-centric approach, these project partners aim to minimize the technologies’ environmental impact while optimizing users’ comfort and experience. The indicators are designed to evaluate performance at every stage of the renovation process, enabling continuous feedback and user engagement and ultimately ensuring that projected energy savings are met throughout the building’s lifespan. The KPIs selected for INPERSO provide a solid framework for evaluating and monitoring sustainable renovation. However, challenges such as administrative reluctance and user disruption must be addressed to further boost the adoption of deep energy renovations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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20 pages, 15919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Unified Virtual Model for Real-Time Visualization and Diagnosis in Architectural Heritage Conservation

by Federico Luis del Blanco García, Alejandro Jesús González Cruz, Cristina Amengual Menéndez, David Sanz Arauz, Jose Ramón Aira Zunzunegui, Milagros Palma Crespo, Soledad García Morales and Luis Javier Sánchez-Aparicio

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3396; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113396 - 25 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1247

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to propose a workflow for the real-time visualization of virtual environments that supports diagnostic tasks in heritage buildings. The approach integrates data from terrestrial laser scanning (3D point clouds and meshes), along with panoramic and thermal images, [...] Read more.

The aim of this paper is to propose a workflow for the real-time visualization of virtual environments that supports diagnostic tasks in heritage buildings. The approach integrates data from terrestrial laser scanning (3D point clouds and meshes), along with panoramic and thermal images, into a unified virtual model. Additionally, the methodology incorporates several post-processing stages designed to enhance the user experience in visualizing both the building and its associated damage. The methodology was tested on the Medieval Templar Church of Vera Cruz in Segovia, utilizing a combination of visible and infrared data, along with manually prepared damage maps. The project results demonstrate that the use of a hybrid digital model—combining 3D point clouds, polygonal meshes, and panoramic images—is highly effective for real-time rendering, providing detailed visualization while maintaining adaptability for mobile devices with limited computational power. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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12 pages, 5237 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of the Rustic Bamboo Envelope Construction Technique on the Thermal Performance of Vernacular Housing in the Ecuadorian Coastal Region: The Case of El Carmen-Manabí

by Rodrigo Carpio, Fernanda Valarezo, Eduardo Aguirre-Maldonado and Cristian Balcázar-Arciniega

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3368; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113368 - 24 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1371

Abstract

Bamboo, particularly Guadua Angustifolia cane, offers significant thermal benefits for construction in warm, humid climates and has been a key material in Ecuador for over 9500 years due to its low cost, versatility, and low thermal conductivity. In the coastal region, including the [...] Read more.

Bamboo, particularly Guadua Angustifolia cane, offers significant thermal benefits for construction in warm, humid climates and has been a key material in Ecuador for over 9500 years due to its low cost, versatility, and low thermal conductivity. In the coastal region, including the settlement of El Carmen, traditional architectural techniques have evolved to incorporate local materials like Guadua cane. A common method involves using crushed cane as wall cladding, where longitudinally split bamboo is applied, creating openings in the structure. These openings, often viewed as a construction defect, influence passive cooling systems. This study investigated the impact of these irregularities on indoor thermal comfort by documenting the construction systems and climatic conditions of the area. Computational models were reconstructed and tested through CFD simulations to assess thermal behavior. The findings highlight the thermal implications of the vernacular construction system, revealing how wall openings affect passive cooling strategies and overall indoor comfort in the housing typologies of El Carmen. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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14 pages, 9767 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Vernacular Housing in the Dominican Republic Using Simulations

by Letzai Ruiz-Valero, Virginia Flores-Sasso, Esteban Prieto-Vicioso and Gabriela Fernández-Flores

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3365; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113365 - 24 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1187

Abstract

Dominican vernacular architecture, based on the Spanish-influenced indigenous bohio, is built with natural materials. This housing model has remained practically unchanged for five centuries, responding adequately to the tropical Caribbean climate. However, it is necessary to characterize this behavior to verify the indoor [...] Read more.

Dominican vernacular architecture, based on the Spanish-influenced indigenous bohio, is built with natural materials. This housing model has remained practically unchanged for five centuries, responding adequately to the tropical Caribbean climate. However, it is necessary to characterize this behavior to verify the indoor comfort conditions of this housing typology. The aim of this research is to evaluate the behavior of a vernacular house located in Villa Sombrero, Peravia Province, Dominican Republic, using a simulation model. For this purpose, a bohio was selected, which has a simple rectangular volume. Simulations were carried out using Design Builder software, considering the passive strategies incorporated in the bohio. The results indicate that indoor ambient temperature remains within the comfort range throughout the annual cycle. It was confirmed that the highest solar gain through exterior windows occurs in the warmer months. Lighting consumption varies between approximately 195 kWh and 220 kWh, with a more stable behavior during the middle months of the year. CO₂ emissions followed the same behavior as lighting consumption since it was the only energized element in the bohio. This research demonstrated that passive strategies implemented in the vernacular dwelling work correctly, except for the minimum illuminance level, which needs to be improved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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14 pages, 12141 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Repair of Beam End Joints Using Steel Rods and Wood Prosthesis in Heritage Buildings: Implantation in the Structure of the Zabala Palace in Ordizia (Basque Country, Spain)

by Josu Benito-Ayúcar, Pablo González-Serna, Daniel Luengas-Carreño and Ekaitz Uribe-Rus

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3363; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113363 - 24 Oct 2024

Viewed by 928

Abstract

This paper presents the methodology developed in the repair of three oak beam ends in a protected heritage building: the Zabala Palace in Ordizia (Basque Country, Spain). It describes the structural assessment, design, calculation and execution process, as well as the experimental tests [...] Read more.

This paper presents the methodology developed in the repair of three oak beam ends in a protected heritage building: the Zabala Palace in Ordizia (Basque Country, Spain). It describes the structural assessment, design, calculation and execution process, as well as the experimental tests carried out in the laboratory to verify and validate the structural capacity of the repair method. The intervention consisted of cutting and removing the beam ends degraded by fungi and replacing them with wooden prostheses. These elements were connected to the beams by means of threaded steel rods and epoxy resin. Calculations based on standards and the literature were verified by laboratory tests where aspects such as the fluidity, filling and pull-out resistance of four commercial epoxy resins were tested. Once the epoxy resin was selected, three samples of the reinforcement design were also flexure tested. The results of the different tests show capacities much higher than those resulting from the application of the calculation procedures in the current bibliography and standards. The implemented solution allowed the conservation of most of the original patrimonial timber, following the criteria of minimum intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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17 pages, 5705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Indoor Environment in Kindergartens Located in the North of Portugal: Evaluation of Thermal Comfort and Carbon Dioxide Concentration

by Eva Barreira, Ricardo M. S. F. Almeida and Joana Guimarães

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3360; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113360 - 23 Oct 2024

Viewed by 966

Abstract

Adequate school buildings are essential for the development of children, young people, and adolescents, as they must provide conditions that support their well-being and health. A healthy and comfortable indoor environment is critical for students’ performance in the learning process. This study aims [...] Read more.

Adequate school buildings are essential for the development of children, young people, and adolescents, as they must provide conditions that support their well-being and health. A healthy and comfortable indoor environment is critical for students’ performance in the learning process. This study aims to evaluate the indoor environment in kindergartens located in northern Portugal, with a primary focus on thermal comfort and indoor air quality. To achieve this, five buildings with varying construction characteristics were monitored, with temperature and relative humidity measurements taken in classrooms of different orientations over time. Additionally, the outdoor climate was also monitored. Based on the collected data, thermal comfort was evaluated using the adaptive model defined by the European standard EN 16798. Continuous monitoring of carbon dioxide concentration was also conducted in three of these buildings. The results reveal significant heterogeneity among the buildings, demonstrating the influence of construction characteristics on the interior thermal conditions. The recorded temperatures ranged from 10 °C to 27 °C, highlighting a substantial variability in performance across the different buildings. Particularly, the orientation and size of glazed openings, together with the lack of thermal insulation in the building envelope, especially in the roof, were found to have an important impact on the thermal comfort of the occupants. Furthermore, a relationship was observed between the daily maximum carbon dioxide concentration and the outdoor temperature, as a result of users’ efforts to minimize uncontrolled air infiltration, by limiting the opening of doors and windows, with consequences in the air exchange between the interior and exterior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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20 pages, 11486 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preventive Preservation of Rammed Earth Historical Heritage Through Continuous Monitoring, Architectural Inspections, and Data Fusion

by Esther Puertas, Fernando Ávila, Enrique García-Macías and Rafael Gallego

Buildings 2024, 14(10), 3294; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14103294 - 18 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1376

Abstract

Rammed earth construction, an ancient and sustainable building technique, faces significant preservation challenges, particularly in historical contexts. This study aims to enhance the preventive preservation of rammed earth historical heritage through a comprehensive methodology combining continuous monitoring, architectural inspections, and data fusion. By [...] Read more.

Rammed earth construction, an ancient and sustainable building technique, faces significant preservation challenges, particularly in historical contexts. This study aims to enhance the preventive preservation of rammed earth historical heritage through a comprehensive methodology combining continuous monitoring, architectural inspections, and data fusion. By integrating nondestructive testing techniques such as ultrasound, thermography, and ground-penetrating radar with operational modal analysis and modeling, the proposed approach allows for early detection and assessment of structural vulnerabilities. This methodology was applied to the Tower of Muhammad in the Alhambra of Granada, Spain, demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying and quantifying damage and predicting structural health. Using multi-source data (documentation, inspections, nondestructive tests, and continuous monitoring), a finite element model was built, calibrated (achieving an avg. error in modal frequencies of 1.28% and a minimum modal assurance criterion value of 0.94), and used to develop a surrogate model able to predict the modal properties of the tower in 0.02

s

, becoming compatible with continuous system identification. The presented results highlight the importance of continuous data acquisition and advanced diagnostic tools for safeguarding rammed earth structures against environmental and anthropogenic threats. This study advocates for the adoption of digital twins in historical preservation, facilitating informed decision-making and sustainable management of cultural heritage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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25 pages, 92073 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seismic Vulnerability Indices of Facades of Colonial Houses in the Historic Center of Morelia, México

by Bertha A. Olmos, José M. Jara and Guillermo Martínez

Buildings 2024, 14(10), 3148; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14103148 - 2 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1094

Abstract

Evaluating the seismic vulnerability of facades of historic masonry buildings is essential not only for their significant historical and heritage value, but also to evaluate the safety of this type of construction. This work applies a simplified methodology to assess the seismic vulnerability [...] Read more.

Evaluating the seismic vulnerability of facades of historic masonry buildings is essential not only for their significant historical and heritage value, but also to evaluate the safety of this type of construction. This work applies a simplified methodology to assess the seismic vulnerability of the facade of masonry buildings in the historic center of Morelia, Michoacán, México. The historic center of Morelia was declared a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991. On the facades, there is ornamentation with sculptural and vegetal decorative elements. The methodology involved conducting visual inspections to identify the location, type of structure, construction materials, doors, windows, balconies, cornices, ironwork, pediments, niches, and sculptures, among other characteristic elements of colonial architecture. The seismic demands were determined specifically for the city’s historic center based on a recent seismic hazard assessment of Morelia. Based on the methodology and the compiled database, characterized vulnerability indices were defined for the different damage scenarios that buildings may present. Results indicate that earthquakes with intensities greater than VIII on the Modified Mercalli scale risk collapsing heritage masonry buildings’ facades. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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19 pages, 10249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Characteristics of a 1950s Heritage Building: A Comparison of Original Design Methods and Modern Techniques

by Fernando Peña and Joel Ramos

Buildings 2024, 14(9), 2944; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14092944 - 18 Sep 2024

Viewed by 894

Abstract

Research on design rules and methods for architectural heritage is an important aspect of conservation practice. Nevertheless, efforts to recover and divulge design methods for Modern Heritage remain limited. This paper is related to the recent structural assessment of a 15-storey heritage building [...] Read more.

Research on design rules and methods for architectural heritage is an important aspect of conservation practice. Nevertheless, efforts to recover and divulge design methods for Modern Heritage remain limited. This paper is related to the recent structural assessment of a 15-storey heritage building built in 1950, during which a document describing the original seismic analysis of this structure was identified. The methodology employed is of particular interest, as it involves the application of pioneer concepts of dynamic analysis in the design of the first tall buildings in Mexico. The primary aim of this paper is to review the seismic design criteria for the case under study in order to contribute to the state of the art in Modern Heritage. The review includes a comparison between the dynamic characteristics estimated during the design and the results of recent ambient vibration tests and numerical modeling. Several sources of error among the design criteria were identified. Notably, the fundamental period estimated during the design was 38% larger than the experimental value due to an underestimation in stiffness, which introduces significant uncertainty into the design. Overall, the review shows the evolution of seismic analysis over time and provide valuable insights for the study of similar buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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20 pages, 39048 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Underwater Inspection of Submerged Elements in Masonry Bridges and Other Old Civil Structures Using Drones

by Rubén Rodríguez Elizalde

Buildings 2024, 14(9), 2788; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14092788 - 5 Sep 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1147

Abstract

In previous studies, drones have been used to carry out visual inspections of heritage elements. To complement the information obtained with common drones, a new underwater drone model is proposed for the specific case of old bridges. The aim is to verify the [...] Read more.

In previous studies, drones have been used to carry out visual inspections of heritage elements. To complement the information obtained with common drones, a new underwater drone model is proposed for the specific case of old bridges. The aim is to verify the applicability of underwater drones for inspecting submerged elements of old heritage bridges, given the large number of bridge disasters and collapses linked to failures in their foundations. To this end, we carried out an underwater inspection of the visible submerged elements (submerged but not buried) of three old bridges crossing different rivers. The different locations and characteristics of these bridges allow us to draw some initial conclusions. The results of the operations carried out show that underwater drones are not only useful for this type of inspection, but also the work is much safer than with the means currently used (underwater divers). In addition, the use of drones makes it possible to study certain parameters that can anticipate subsequent foundation problems affecting the entire bridge, such as the settlement or rotation of piers or abutments. This is the main innovation and contribution of this research: the possibility of inspecting submerged elements of masonry constructions using unmanned vessels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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16 pages, 14018 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Stabilization of a Hellenistic City Square (Plaza) at the Kınık Höyük Archeological Site, Niğde Province, Türkiye

by Deniz Üçer Erduran, Burak Yolaçan and Lorenzo d’Alfonso

Buildings 2024, 14(9), 2719; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14092719 - 30 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1031

Abstract

In recent years, at the Kınık Höyük archeological site in Niğde province in Turkey, a city square (plaza) located in the town’s acropolis was discovered. Context and spatial finds indicate that this stone-paved plaza dates to the Hellenistic era. It is made of [...] Read more.

In recent years, at the Kınık Höyük archeological site in Niğde province in Turkey, a city square (plaza) located in the town’s acropolis was discovered. Context and spatial finds indicate that this stone-paved plaza dates to the Hellenistic era. It is made of a large cobblestone masonry structure made of local amorphous units that were fixed only with compacted earth. The conservation plan concentrated on enclosing the unbound free edges by using new pavement and a retaining wall to stop the ongoing decay because the plaza had already lost its integrity before the discovery. To distinguish between the original application and modern interventions, new cladding was designed and installed lower than the ancient pavement’s level using smaller stones from the same source. Additionally, a retaining wall was planned and built to be plastered to achieve a plain surface, where the pavement’s texture created contrast and highlighted neat craftsmanship. For this consolidation application, a hydraulic lime-based binder was combined with local earth for compatibility with the older application. The application’s suitability and durability were demonstrated after it was observed for a few years while being subjected to atmospheric impacts without any protection. Therefore, the examination confirmed that the suggested method is safe to apply in situations where similar stabilization needs arise. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the REHABEND 2024 Congress)

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