GENERAL DEFINITION OF THE TECHNIQUE CIRCULAR HUTS

GENERAL DEFINITION OF THE TECHNIQUE

Technique: CIRCULAR HUTS Definition characters description and diffusion The African hut anticipated circular-shaped architecture and pseudo conical-shaped vaults. General characters description and diffusion The variety of the shapes and the quality of the constructions still existing in Africa synthesize, with sobriety and purity, knowledge adapted to the places and social needs. The materials used vary from the well-known wooden and straw structures to the constructions wholly made of reeds, which anticipate the modern tensile structures, or of massive stone curtains more similar to tower dwellings than to huts. The bases are ornamented with projecting porches or cubic volumes inside which create a complex division of the space between the rooms and the circular perimeter. These constructions achieved their utmost evolution in the Ethiopian Coptic churches which were real basilica-huts. The basic pattern has been widespread since the most ancient ages as is proved by the circular-shaped dwelling of Mari with a central square space. This pattern is the basis of the megalithic structures, built up as stone huts, and of their derivations, from the cistern-wells and the water condensers to the tholos, trulli and nuraghi which represent the utmost evolution of the round shape and its aggregating potential on the territory. Advantages and sustainability Circular huts are made of local and sustainable materials while the shape has remained constant over time with smaller evolutions in the contstruction of the huts.  Images Deepening TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUE DATA Technique CIRCULAR HUTS Icon Cathegory E - Settlements, architecture and movable handworks Identification code E8a Local applications of the technique Success stories Innovative technologies and solutions RELATED TECHNIQUES Author: Ipogea Other authors: Reference: www.ipogea.org