CONICAL HOUSE
The Conical House
An experimental, artisanal, professional project that explores a conical form, integrating the concepts of roof and wall into a single element. It employs a simple, low-tech construction system, prioritizing materials sourced locally or from the surrounding region.
The roof is constructed from a 3 cm-thick mortar—a blend of cement, earth, and fibers.
Situated in a small valley, it complements the beautiful landscape of the town of Aiuruoca, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil.
The design is intended for deployment in areas recently struck by disasters, serving as either a temporary or permanent shelter. In emergency situations, it can quickly provide a comfortable space for people, thanks to its simple structure, rapid construction process, and adaptability to various terrains and materials—all while offering notable performance characteristics.
The project bridges the gap between bio-construction and conventional building methods, incorporating industrialized materials only when strictly necessary.
It will function as a research unit for alternative construction systems and will be open to the public for visits and workshops.
The site features a natural spring, and a narrow stream runs through the valley.
The grounds will also include a skate park, an organic vegetable garden, and a hiking trail through the woods.
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS:
Low Wind Resistance:
The conical shape is inherently aerodynamic; wind flows around the cone, minimizing air resistance.
There are no roof tiles that can be blown away, nor is there a risk of a roof collapsing overhead.
Sun Exposure:
The cone is perhaps one of the shapes that best facilitates the intake of sunlight and solar heat throughout the day and across all seasons of the year.
Seismic Activity:
In the event of an earthquake that destabilizes the structure, the radial poles—which form the primary framework—are designed to slide against one another. The low weight of the roof and walls can minimize the severity of accidents in such a scenario.
Supports at multiple points distribute loads, preventing critical, concentrated pressure.
CONCLUSION:
The construction of the conical house goes beyond merely fulfilling key conceptual requirements.
When deciding on the construction method, aesthetics and organic form carried enough weight to justify the system currently being developed.
Opting against a simpler, more predictable approach has introduced new challenges—yet it seems that only within this framework can we overcome the barriers that currently limit our freedom to design and build.
