Scholarly record

CONTEMPORARY USE OF TRADITIONAL MATERIALS IN URBAN ARCHITECTURE

M. Halirova, E. Machovcakova, H. Sevcikova

Abstract

First mentions of the glass as a material appear in prehistoric times. There is evidence of conscious use of obsidian as natural glass in this period. Glass is a traditional full-value building material that has been proven for centuries. Glass is one of the few building materials that is transparent and translucent, which is an important feature in architecture. We use these features in modern contemporary buildings, but also in renovations and in historical parts of cities. This article discusses the possibilities of using glass in urban furniture. It evaluates the types of glass suitable for exterior use e.g. for railings, for additional protective small structures designed at bus and tram stops, etc. The glass used in these constructions does not disturb the perception of the architectural space of the site despite their size. The railing separates tram passengers from road for personal and goods traffic. The glass-filled construction prevents the contact of persons moving on the platform and motor vehicles running at higher speeds. Urban traffic, particularly in the confined space of the city center, pulsates throughout the day at any time during the year. The transparency of this material allows us to make eye contact between the pedestrian and the driver, thus enhancing the safety of all actors. An unrestricted view of the surrounding built-up area, including historically valuable objects, is the added value.

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