An urbanist can be defined as someone who believes in the practice of urbanism, which centres around the implementation and development of livable cities. Urbanists believe that sustainable and highly functional urban centres can be formed through urban design and community-focused planning. In the process, they support and lobby for measures that will improve the …
In stadium architecture, a ‘kop’ is a term used to describe a type of stand that’s located behind one of the goals and has a steep incline. Stands that are described as a ‘kop’ typically feature only one tier, which is because the word ‘kop’ comes from the Dutch word ‘kopje’, which translates as a …
Making sure buildings remain undamaged from the effects of all external forces is one of an architect’s main tasks. One of the main instruments they can employ to help with this task, particularly in high-wind or earthquake prone areas, is a Tuned Mass Damper (TMD). Tuned Mass Dampers are a cost-effective way of preventing buildings …
Prefabricated construction, often referred to as prefab construction, is becoming more and more popular in the building industry as a go-to method of construction. It involves the use of pre-manufactured elements that are built in a factory setting, before being transported to a construction site for assembly. Due to the nature of prefabricated construction, there …
As funny as their name may sound, ha-has, otherwise known as ha-ha walls, deer walls or sunken walls, play an important role in landscape architecture. Once a common feature of 18th Century English gardens, they were originally used as a way to segment different areas of a landscape without spoiling the wider view. Now, they …
In construction and civil engineering, the phrase ‘in situ construction’ is commonly used to describe a particular method of building and repairing construction elements. There are a variety of different ways that in situ construction is used, and it can refer to different elements of the construction process. Using the in situ technique can have …
A ribbed vault is a common feature of Gothic architecture. Found in constructions of many types, they form part of a roof or ceiling. Ribbed vaults can be made from a range of different materials, and are usually supported by piers or columns. They are most commonly used in conjunction with other construction elements to …
A purlin is an integral part of roof construction. They are featured in many different types of construction projects, and are often vital in ensuring the weight load between the roofs and walls of a building is balanced. There are multiple types of purlin, and they can be made from a variety of different materials. …
A flying buttress is a type of architectural device used to support a connecting structure. They are a common feature in gothic architecture, and are often used to strengthen the outer walls, roofs and ceilings of larger buildings, such as churches and cathedrals. Read our comprehensive guide to explore the full meaning of the term …
