The craft of sustainable brick and dome construction
Architecture is a physical act of building. From mixing mud for handmade adobe bricks to the precise geometry of Rohtak domes, we craft spaces that breathe.
This video shows the hands-on process of making adobe bricks. We are brushing up on techniques both old and new, using natural stabilizers to create sustainable building materials.
I am in awe of the skill and craftsmanship involved in constructing this Rohtak brick dome roof, a technique used to reduce concrete.
A mason carefully lays the first course of bricks for a circular dome, a process that requires immense precision and expertise.
Wedge-shaped bricks are cut and arranged to form the central part of the dome's pattern, showcasing the geometry and craftsmanship involved.
Another view of the custom-cut bricks, ready to be placed at the center of the dome structure.
A worker carefully places the final central bricks of the dome, completing the intricate radial pattern.
The hands of a skilled artisan are essential in bringing these traditional building techniques to life.
Inspecting the finished brick dome from below, through the oculus that will soon become a skylight.
The view from inside a completed brick dome, looking up through the oculus at the sky and trees beyond.
A completed brick dome with a central skylight, seen from the inside during construction. The pattern is both structural and beautiful.
About Behind the Build: Our Process & Materials
We do not just design; we build with our hands to understand our materials. When we lay a brick dome, we are not just creating a ceiling; we are eliminating the need for excessive concrete while creating a naturally cooler living environment that feels solid and permanent.
Our studio focuses on construction techniques that prioritize sustainability and structural integrity. By using filler slab construction, we significantly reduce the volume of concrete required, replacing it with terracotta pots or brick units. This approach lightens the load and provides natural insulation, keeping your home comfortable throughout the year.
The Rohtak dome is another technique we frequently employ. It requires precise calculation and skilled labor to arrange bricks in a radial pattern without temporary shuttering. This is not just a visual choice; it is an engineering feat that adds height and volume to a space. We also prioritize compressed stabilized earth blocks for our walls. These are made with soil from your site or nearby, reducing the carbon footprint of transport and production. When you choose these methods, you are investing in a home that ages gracefully, developing character as the brick and oxide surfaces weather over time. We believe in being transparent about this process. If you are curious about how these materials will perform in your specific location in Bengaluru, we are happy to walk you through the structural implications.
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