Why don't we build like the ancient Romans anymore? (Blog 5)
The only surviving written work on architecture from ancient times is De Architectura by the architect and engineer Vitruvius, written around 25 BCE. In it, he wrote about the three main principles and aspirations of architecture: firmitas (durability), utilitas (utility), and venustas (beauty). At its purest form, architecture still strives to fulfill these three requirements. Well, where does the firmitas , durability, of ancient architecture come from, and why don't we build houses that can last for thousands of years anymore? From De Architectura by Vitruvius, 25 BCE. The Roman use of formwork and casting techniques laid the foundation for concrete construction, which, however, is significantly less long-lasting in modern times. The concrete used by the Romans and the secret to its durability have been studied, revealing self-healing mechanisms that, at best, could provide insights for the development of modern construction. Although the concrete produced today is practically...
