Residential California adobe : mud form

Abstract

Northern California has a rich tradition of adobe architecture . Formed with earth, defined by site, climate and use, the adobe structures exemplify a building methodology in harmony with nature and the lifestyle of it's inhabitants. The use of adobe as a construction material is currently gaining in popularity. This thesis seeks to understand it's historic form and provide a framework for incorporating these principals in contemporary design. The foundation of this framework is built upon a detailed analysis of historic, non-ecclesiastical adobe buildings. Through observation and analysis of measured drawings, the principals which guided early builders are delineated. The framework is then expanded to suggest sensitive design innovations in consideration of modern technological opportunities and contemporary social requirements. The framework generated from the synthesis of the historic analysis and design exploration is used and tested in the design of an attached housing project sited in Cotati, California. It is concluded that the historic principals are well suited to contemporary adobe construction. Indeed, they are important lessons worth incorporating in design solutions using any material.