THE ARCHITECTURE OF SCARCITY: THE LOW-COST HOUSING OF SANT CUGAT DE SALT IN 1956

Abstract

The low-cost housing that began to be constructed in the middle of the 20th century in post-war Spain was characterised by its simple construction. Our objective is to demonstrate the relationship between the lack of materials available in post-war Spain (1940- 1960) and the spatial, urbanistic and architectural qualities of these houses. Above all, our objective is to research the constructive possibilities of the vaulted ceiling. This study’s methodology is both theoretical and practical. Collecting planimetric information on the urban complex and the existing building typologies has allowed us to understand, first hand, the houses’ architectural characteristics. The system of construction employed to build the houses stands out for its use of vaulted hollow brick ceilings braced with cables. This design makes the houses inexpensive to build, accommodates a range of compositional possibilities and has proven durable. This technology has gained respect for the structural integrity created by the complex of this grid of structural spaces.

Keywords

• casas baratas
• viviendas sociales
• techo abovedado
• estructura ligera