Terracotta Research Facility

This project revisits the Moroccan Funduq by envisioning a contemporary research facility dedicated to innovating terracotta production. A mechanistic building is generated by the assemblage of extruded terracotta elements. The fractal geometry within the facade creates a dynamic, semi-permeable barrier responding to meteorological conditions. A set of vaulted terracotta structures sits atop the building, this is where the researchers working at the facility live. These vaults consist of precast terracotta elements, assembled and post-tensioned on site. An analysis of the stresses within these vaults, allows for a terracotta element arrangement and geometry, limiting the stresses between individual elements to tension and compression. The absence of shear and bending allows for thinner sections, less post-tensioning, and simpler fixings.