Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/83505
Title: The use of limestone as a traditional material in contemporary architecture in Malta
Authors: Cassar, Katja (2009)
Keywords: Building materials -- Malta
Globigerina limestone -- Malta
Limestone -- Malta
Building stones
Local building materials -- Malta
Issue Date: 2009
Citation: Cassar, K. (2009). The use of limestone as a traditional material in contemporary architecture in Malta (Bachelor's dissertation).
Abstract: This dissertation is a comprehensive discussion of the aesthetic quality portrayed by the application of a traditional material in contemporary architecture. The main design factors and elements which characterise this quality are considered, and the use of limestone as a traditional material in contemporary architecture is particularly studied. The strong connection of a traditional material to the social identity of a culture or nation, especially when it is a slow changing community, is recognised as significant in the design quality of the architectural expression of a society. In this work the author is especially interested in the material criteria which are subconsciously hidden in a person's mind to judge whether he or she likes or dislikes the application of such a material. Work on this dissertation was based on focus group discussions, whereby four groups of people, three of which were chosen according to their age group and another group of architecture students were asked to share their opinions on a number of issues regarding the contemporary use of limestone in the Maltese Islands. The results indicated that people strongly associate limestone as a traditional material and its uses are the inscribed perception of the material in people's minds. All the participants commented subjectively about their likings, however the five design aspects studied by the author were all noted as very important in justifying the use of limestone. In search for a solution regarding this subject, the author felt it necessary to interpret the results while considering the architecture students' perspective as the potential future architects. The students' judgement tended to reflect more the older generations' views in specific issues, while all groups tended to agree on other aspects. This confirms that the views of the public are vital and are not to be underestimated, since their perceptual understanding of a material still stands according to the criteria studied. In conclusion, the author states that in order to rationalise the use of limestone with the aim of safeguarding its use as a traditional material while keeping the Maltese Islands' character, the design aspects studied have to serve as design guidelines regarding the use of limestone and other materials for architects, MEPA and other relative entities.
Description: B.E.&A.(HONS)
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/83505
Appears in Collections:Dissertations - FacBen - 1970-2018
Dissertations - FacBenAUD - 1970-2015

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