Native architecture and style
Jun 26, 2014 4:08:20 GMT
Post by bixaorellana on Jun 26, 2014 4:08:20 GMT
Recently I posted a photo of an art deco building in downtown Oaxaca. Casimira commented on its paint colors, as they're not what are usually associated with buildings of that era. Her comment made me remember that there was quite a discussion of building styles endemic to particular areas back in this thread. Lugg started the ball rolling at Reply #16 there by commenting on the similarity of the house styles in it to those of other parts of the US she'd visited. Interesting discussion ensued, again showing how far-flung are anyporters and how varied our experiences.
All through the forum are excellent threads showcasing the architecture of different places, and I imagine contributors to this thread will have occasion to link to those previous threads. So let's show and discuss architecture from our home places, where we live now, or where we've visited.
Obviously I get to go first.
The prevailing style of monumental buildings in Oaxaca has been described as "earthquake baroque", a reference to the relatively low massiveness of such structures and their 16th century religious ornamentation. But what about regular buildings -- businesses and homes? Some of the style can be attributed to what was brought from Spain. That, the need to withstand earthquakes, and the passion for using every inch of a lot has created a look that can only be described as boxy. Yes, boxes with fancy wrought iron, attractive stonework, and lively paint jobs, but boxes nonetheless.
Buildings are made of adobe or block covered with plaster. Adobe not covered will deteriorate badly over time.
Vigas -- beams -- are an attractive and typical feature.
The old Spanish, or I suppose really Arab influence can be seen in the very common style of houses encompassing patios. This lovely example is small, but there are much larger ones, often including a center fountain.
Profiriato-era (1876--1910) buildings have details similar to European buildings of the same era.
The church of Carmen Alta clearly shows different typical building and ornamental materials. The wall facing the camera is of adobe and brick. The columns are of the native green cantera -- quarry stone, & the bas reliefs above are of limestone.
Very common sight around town: the stairstep crack caused by earth tremors.
Here's a short stroll around part of downtown to show how self-expression and a lack of fear of strong color make for individuality and character within the confines of this earthquake architecture.
All through the forum are excellent threads showcasing the architecture of different places, and I imagine contributors to this thread will have occasion to link to those previous threads. So let's show and discuss architecture from our home places, where we live now, or where we've visited.
Obviously I get to go first.
The prevailing style of monumental buildings in Oaxaca has been described as "earthquake baroque", a reference to the relatively low massiveness of such structures and their 16th century religious ornamentation. But what about regular buildings -- businesses and homes? Some of the style can be attributed to what was brought from Spain. That, the need to withstand earthquakes, and the passion for using every inch of a lot has created a look that can only be described as boxy. Yes, boxes with fancy wrought iron, attractive stonework, and lively paint jobs, but boxes nonetheless.
Buildings are made of adobe or block covered with plaster. Adobe not covered will deteriorate badly over time.
Vigas -- beams -- are an attractive and typical feature.
The old Spanish, or I suppose really Arab influence can be seen in the very common style of houses encompassing patios. This lovely example is small, but there are much larger ones, often including a center fountain.
Profiriato-era (1876--1910) buildings have details similar to European buildings of the same era.
The church of Carmen Alta clearly shows different typical building and ornamental materials. The wall facing the camera is of adobe and brick. The columns are of the native green cantera -- quarry stone, & the bas reliefs above are of limestone.
Very common sight around town: the stairstep crack caused by earth tremors.
Here's a short stroll around part of downtown to show how self-expression and a lack of fear of strong color make for individuality and character within the confines of this earthquake architecture.
