Structural Materials and Construction Methods

Cheyanne Mayes
2 days ago
2 min read

Romans were known for how they solved problems with their architecture. From the beginning they used many techniques that led to making many incredible things. But some of these techniques they adopted from others, like the Etruscans. An example of this is the stone arch. The Romans may not have invented it, but they seemed to perfect it. This detail is seen all over Rome. The colosseum, the aqueducts, bridges, vaults, and so many more places all use these arches. One thing the Romans did to be able to take their buildings so far was the invention of Roman concrete. It allowed them to make many different shapes and sizes of things they needed based on the job. Not to mention it was much stronger due to the volcanic ash they mixed into it.

Not only were things very structurally sound, but the Romans made things look extravagant. In many places they used marble or precious stone to line the floors and walls. But because everything was made to look a certain way, what do you do when work needs to be done? Well, modern designers and historians are very careful with how they handle this matter. Many churches these days have added speakers, so that all the congregation can hear easily. But a large speaker box in a beautiful church can be an eye sore. So, they make them small, fit them into corners, and even make them mimic the material behind them. Even the wiring is covered and made to mimic the step it was on. Some churches do this better than others though. One church we visited had a fan plugged into an extension cord and ran across the apse.

Another thing that they tend to keep hidden is scaffolding. When repairs or restorations were happening inside a building, it was always hidden. Usually behind a cover that was made to look like whatever was being restored. This is so that upon first glance you may not notice anything. That is until you wonder where all the noise is coming from and take a closer look. Even on the outside of the buildings they did this about fifty percent of the time.