Is the secret to the sustainable future hidden in our prehistoric past? This research takes us on a journey from ancient dry-stone walss to modern brick constructions, proving that masonry remains the “gold standard” for sustainable structures. Far from being a relic of history, brick and stone are described as environmentally intelligent materials that provide natural temperature control and unmatched longevity.
By reviewing the evolution of masonry styles (from the Colosseum to the high-tech facades of nowadays) the authors demonstrate that choosing maronry isn’t just an aesthectic choice; it’s a strategy for reducing a building’s total lifecycle carbon footprint.
In a world of “disposable” architecture, the study invites us to return to the massive wall as a tool for creating a built environment that is resilient, energy-efficient, and capable of standing for centuries.
Learn more about this study here: https://doi.org/10.3390/su142214734
Reference
Almssad, A., Almusaed, A., & Homod, R. Z. (2022). Masonry in the Context of Sustainable Buildings: A Review of the Brick Role in Architecture. Sustainability, 14(22), 14734