CATALAN VAULT

Catalan Vault is an architectural design exploration that reinterprets traditional vaulting techniques through modern computational tools and construction methods. The project focuses on the thin tile vault system, a historic technique known for its structural efficiency and lightweight construction.

The vault geometry was designed using Rhino Vault, where form-finding methods were applied to achieve an optimized structural shape. Structural analysis was carried out using dynamic relaxation on catenary chains of the mesh, ensuring stability and load distribution through natural force paths.

The final structure was constructed using the traditional Catalan vaulting technique in Valldaura, Barcelona. This hands-on execution demonstrates the integration of digital design with physical craftsmanship, bridging the gap between modern technology and traditional construction methods.

The project highlights how parametric design tools can enhance and revive historic architectural techniques, resulting in efficient, expressive, and structurally sound forms.