Monday, July 19, 2010

Taxonomy of Vernacular Thatch

(click for larger view)

This taxonomy of vernacular thatch documents the structural components, techniques, and methods of application found in a variety of thatched roofs around the world. The research is presented in an exploded axon that describes the similar sequencing of layers found in most thatched roofs, beginning with the substructure and extending to the ridge and finish. The chart is a work in progress and is used as a visual reference of our ongoing research and as a design tool to help us think about the application of traditional thatching techniques to a modern design and context.

Initial research into thatching techniques led to a focus on the traditional roofs of northern England. The two types of thatching predominant in this area - Norfolk reed thatch and wheat straw thatch - are well documented both in literature and on the internet. An overview of the materials, tools, and methods used in these two types of roofs are organized and explained in the following pdf document.

(click on image below for pdf file)

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Background:

Thatch is a method of construction that has been widely used for roof applications in vernacular architectures in both tropical and temperate climates. Known for its water shedding and insulating qualities, widespread use of thatch was also attributed to ease of assembly and economy. In the last few decades, knowledge of thatch-work has dwindled to only a few tradesmen; their clients are often either institutions or wealthy patrons, interested in preservation or the desire to apply a rustic style to their properties.

However, there are reasons for a nascent resurgence and interest in thatch as a construction practice. In recent years, grasses have been reassessed as building materials based on their rapidly renewing harvest cycle. Other biodegradable materials such as straw bales, when stacked, have the ability to perform as simply supported structure similar to masonry.

The interest to research thatch as a material process is two-fold: 1) To better understand the traditions of thatch making and devise a notional system by which to describe its construction sequence and methodology, and 2) Combined with computer aided technology, to explore beyond traditional thatch design to exploit the material and tectonic properties of thatch in the realms of geometry, structure, and porosity.

To view the initial project proposal, click here for the pdf.

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