Architectural Decoration Research Articles

Western architectural ornamental art in traditional Chinese architecture: a case study of Tengchong City based on interdisciplinary approach

ABSTRACT This paper explores a previously unrecorded style of East-West architectural ornamentation in Tengchong, Yunnan Province, China, overlooked in historical architectural studies. The aim of this research is to both document and analyze this unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural elements, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. Initially, literary research identifies relevant sites, which are subsequently examined through field research to collect firsthand data on the local architectural decorations that exhibit this East-West synthesis. Employing an interdisciplinary approach that integrates concepts from biology and statistics, the study views these architectural decorations as a living organism. This perspective allows for a detailed examination of how different cultural elements are incorporated into local architecture, analyzed quantitatively and statistically. Through this research, a qualitative description of these hybrid architectural elements is developed, further enriched by a quantitative analysis based on statistical methods. The qualitative aspect of the study traces the historical evolution of this East-West architectural form, observing changes in themes and structures. In terms of quantitative findings, a detailed statistical profile of these local architectural features is established, which supports the qualitative insights. Overall, this research sheds light on a neglected aspect of architectural ornamentation, presenting a thorough analysis of its development and current state through an innovative mix of qualitative and quantitative research techniques. This study not only provides new data but also opens up fresh avenues for future research on similar topics.

Research on intelligent building decoration design and user experience based on VR technology

The continuous development of virtual reality (VR) technology has been widely used in all walks of life, bringing unprecedented design possibilities and user experience improvement to the field of architectural decoration design. This paper aims to explore how to use VR technology for intelligent building decoration design and evaluate its impact on user experience through empirical research. Firstly, through the review of relevant literature at home and abroad, the application status and development trend of VR technology in architectural decoration design is sorted out. Then, the design process and implementation scheme based on VR technology are introduced in detail, and the design framework suitable for different application scenarios is constructed. Then, through the design of the user experience evaluation index system, using the combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, the intelligent decoration design scheme based on VR technology is systematically evaluated. Finally, select a typical case for in-depth analysis, show the application effect of VR technology in actual projects, and summarize the feedback of users. The research results show that the intelligent building decoration design based on VR technology can not only improve the design efficiency and quality but also significantly enhance the user's sense of immersion and satisfaction, providing a new perspective and development direction for future architectural design. In addition, this paper also points out the challenges in this field and the possible research directions in the future, which provides a valuable reference for subsequent scholars.

ARCHITECTURAL DECORATION ON KHUMS FROM THE MEDIEVAL KAVAT-KALA

Abstract. The article is devoted to the study of ceramic production in the Middle Ages. However, at this stage, attention is focused on the architectural decoration of individual finds from Estate № 2 at Kavat-kala. Khums, as materials for household purposes, have various decorative elements, but the materials available in our case cannot be classified as widespread in terms of ornament and decoration. Some similarities in decoration are found among ceramic (the kashin) products of the Golden Horde period, and are only characteristic of glazed ceramics of the 13th-14th centuries. However, the available information from archaeological excavations at Kavat- kala allows us to judge the most developed forms of pottery production in the 9th-12th centuries. The article also examines the common features of cultural ties in agriculture of the ancient and medieval periods, identifies the cultures of the peoples inhabiting this settlement, and craft production on the basis of unique collected materials from research carried out on the caravan routes of the south of the Right Bank of Khorezm, including the southern and western foothills. Among them, it was established that in one of the medieval estates of Kavat-Kala, near the ancient Russian canal Gavkhor, vessels with richly decorated images of animals of hand-made ceramics have been preserved, dating from the era of the Khorezmshahs (11th-12th centuries) to the era of the Golden Horde (13th - 16th centuries). Today, no less interesting is the arched ornament located along the rims of the hums, which is almost traditional for the Kashin ceramics of the Golden Horde period, on the outside of the vessels.

Towards a Study of the Architectural Decoration of Public Buildings in Parion During the Early Roman Empire

Parion was one of the principal centers of the Roman province of Asia, and the remains of several public buildings adorned with intricate architectural decorations have been uncovered and partially explored. Among these structures are a theater, an odeon, and thermae, all dating to the Roman Empire. In addition to these edifices, other public buildings in the central part of Roman-era Parion remain undiscovered, raising im-portant questions about the organization of public space and the architectural character of the city’s core during the Early Empire. One of the most promising areas for further exploration is the “Agora” sector, bordered to the south by the odeon and to the north by the theater and thermae. This article offers an architectural and histori-cal analysis of the Corinthian order details found in this sector. The architectural elements discussed were un-covered during archaeological excavations conducted between 2015 and 2022 (Figs. 1-6). Although the availa-ble materials are insufficient to definitively identify the specific structures to which these decorative elements belonged, their forms, ornamentation, dimensions, and modules exhibit notable similarities to the architectural details of the southern façade of Hadrian’s Gate in Ephesus. This resemblance suggests a commonality in their architectural compositions and, by extension, the types of structures they adorned. Consequently, it is plausible to infer that these architectural elements were part of a portico associated with a building complex in the Agora. The design of this complex (or at least part of it) likely reflects Hadrian’s extensive building program in the Ro-man province of Asia.

Historical Examination and Contemporary Conservation Challenges of the Architectural Decorations of Traditional Folk Houses of the Mulao People in the Hechi Region of China

In the southern regions of China, the Mulao ethnic group is regarded as one of the most ancient ethnic communities. This group possesses a long-standing history and a rich cultural heritage, making it a crucial component in the study of regional ethnic histories. It holds a significant place in the historical evolution of China's ethnic diversity. The traditional residential architecture of the Mulao people, along with its decorative elements, forms a vital part of the cultural heritage of the Mulao community. These structures serve not merely as places of residence but also as venues for cultural transmission and practice, reflecting the profound historical and cultural depth of the Mulao people. As carriers of history, these buildings document the culture, art, and spiritual qualities of the ethnic group, playing an indispensable role in the preservation and development of Mulao culture. This paper conducts an in-depth study of the historical evolution of traditional Mulao residential architectural decoration, aiming to explore its traditional features and modern innovations while, the dissertation examines the various challenges currently faced by conservation efforts. The study extensively compares the traditional features and modern innovations of Mulao residential architectural decoration, showcasing unique styles in form, color, and patterns. Through case analysis, successful preservation practices are identified, providing valuable experiences.This provides invaluable experience and profound insights for future cultural preservation efforts.This research contributes to a better understanding and respect for Mulao cultural heritage, offering substantial support for the continued preservation and evolution of Mulao traditional architectural decoration.

Investigation of an Ancient Wooden Cantilever Covered Bridge in China: Construction Form and Mechanical Properties

Wooden cantilever-covered bridges are typical Chinese constructions due to their structural style and architectural decoration. Yanzi bridge, an ancient wooden cantilever-covered bridge with more than 220 years of history in Anhua, China, has attracted increasing attention in recent years. In this study, its construction form and cultural background were investigated, and the structural components, original materials and mechanical behavior of the bridge were investigated in detail. First, the same type of raw material used for the Yanzi bridge, namely, pinus koraiensis, was tested to better understand its mechanical properties. Then, a finite element model was built to simulate the mechanical behavior of the bridge, and the stress state and internal forces of the cantilever system were obtained. According to the numerical results, when the loads are transferred downward and evened by the beams in the same layers of the cantilevers, the maximum deflection of the bridge of 12.8 mm meets the requirements of not exceeding L/600 in the specification, and the maximum normal stress of 1.35 MPa is much less than the ultimate tensile strength of the wood. This indicates that the structural safety performance of the ancient wooden cantilever-covered bridge is acceptable. Finally, a small amount of tiny damage of the bridge was observed and presented in the paper. This damage is not severe enough to cause brittle collapse, but care and maintenance are necessary to preserve this old historical bridge.

Evaluation Method and the Influence of Visual Comfort of Ceramic Tiles in Indoor Environment—A Study Based on the Delphi and AHP

People spend most of their time indoors, and the visual characteristics of indoor building materials affect not only the quality of the indoor environment, but also the well-being of individuals. Ceramic tiles are widely used in interior decoration of buildings due to their aesthetic appeal and ease of maintenance. However, there is currently a lack of a comprehensive framework for assessing the visual comfort of ceramic tile design. This study established an evaluation system using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Delphi method to collect perceptual words, extract evaluation indices, and calculate weights. A visual comfort scale for ceramic tiles, comprising three dimensions and twelve indices, was developed. A total of 342 questionnaires were analyzed using six types of tiles, and the multidimensional visual comfort scores of the various ceramic tile samples were statistically examined. An analysis of variance was conducted to investigate the effects of tile brightness, texture, and participant gender on visual comfort. The findings indicate that tile brightness and texture significantly affect the overall visual comfort score (p < 0.001; p < 0.001), with light-toned, non-textured tiles providing higher visual comfort (3.949). Although gender did not significantly affect the overall visual comfort scores, it did influence the evaluation scores in certain dimensions. Men rated the aesthetic comfort of tiles lower than women (p = 0.035), but they rated the emotional comfort of medium-toned and non-textured tiles higher (p = 0.003; p = 0.017). In terms of theoretical significance, the establishment of this evaluation model can expand the research content and methods of ceramic tiles, which are crucial architectural decoration materials. In terms of practical significance, this study provides an evaluation method and partial evaluation information for designers, enabling them to assess and enhance the visual experience of tiles based on the specific needs of interior spaces and the characteristics of the visual subject.

Impact of adding Na2SiF6 on the crystal phase and copper valence state in glass ceramics made from leftover granite for use as architectural ornamentation

Abstract The accumulation of granite waste can result in the occupation of a considerable amount of land resources. Using granite waste as glass ceramics for architectural decoration represents a potential solution to this issue. The microstructure, valence state, and crystalline phase of copper ions were examined by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The findings demonstrated that the concentration of Na2SiF6 affects the valence condition of Cu ions in crystallized glass. The crystalline phases of the sample containing 1.84 wt% Na2SiF6 consisted of forsterite (MgSiO3) and diopside (CaMgSi2O6), and the Cu+ accounted for 39.9% of the total Cu ions in the sample which showed a grey-black color. For the sample containing 3.67 wt% Na2SiF6, the crystalline phases consisted of richterite (Na, F) syn (Na (Na, Ca) Mg5Si8O22F2), cuprite (Cu2O), and forsterite, its Cu+ accounted for 39.9%, and the sample appeared orange-red. With the increase of Na2SiF6 content, the percentage of Cu+ in the total Cu ions showed an increasing trend, and the corresponding red color of the samples gradually deepened.

A Recognition Technique for the Generative Tessellations of Geometric Patterns in Islamic Architectural Ornaments; Case Study: Southern Iwan of the Grand Mosque of Varamin

A Recognition Technique for the Generative Tessellations of Geometric Patterns in Islamic Architectural Ornaments; Case Study: Southern Iwan of the Grand Mosque of Varamin

The Ambiguity of Ornament in Architecture: Is It a Substantive or Surface Issue?

This article deals with the ambiguity of ornament in architecture, the historical tensions that have characterized its use, and the factors that have led to its return today. In an architectural panorama marked today by the excessive use of parametric and kinetic patterns, many architects, historians and theorists are trying to find a theoretical basis justifying a tendency to an obsession with the patterns. The systematic link between what today adorns the envelopes of parametric architecture projects is made without reference to this history full of tensions. The Grasshopper and Dynamo plug-ins operate excessively in a total break with the thinking of William Morris, John Ruskin, Gottfried Semper, Alois Riegl or Alberti. Modernist architecture has made a break that has generated a collective amnesia about the essence and purpose of certain architectural practices, particularly those relating to ornament. The reflection, therefore, engages in a genealogical investigation to trace the intimate relationships that have linked ornament to architecture. It reveals how these positions of rejection and admission have been motivated more by the technical and technological implications and the capitalist desires that carry them than by artistic impulses.

Combined studies on glazed ceramic bodies from the Middle and Neo-Elamite periods (1500–539 BCE)

The Elamites have assigned specialized names for different types of ceramics, signaling a specialized approach to ceramic production during the Middle and Neo-Elamite periods. They were pioneers in the use of glazed ceramics on the Iranian Plateau. This investigation focuses on the examination of 29 samples of glazed ceramic bodies originating from the Middle-Elamite (~ 1500–1100 BCE) and Neo-Elamite periods (~ 1100–539 BCE). The objective of this analysis, centered on the earliest instances of glazed ceramic bodies in Iran, is to obtain a comparative examination of the ceramic bodies. Such an approach can be useful for understanding the diverse production techniques used by Elamites in the Middle-Elamite and Neo-Elamite periods. To achieve this purpose, X-ray diffraction and petrography was used to determine the mineralogical characteristics of the ceramic bodies. Further insight into the chemical analysis of the samples was obtained through Electron Probe Micro-Analysis. The experimental data allowed the classification of the samples into four distinct groups. Particularly noteworthy in this categorization is the diversity observed in the Neo-Elamite samples. This diversity of Neo-Elamite ceramic bodies can be attributed to two primary factors. Firstly, the Neo-Elamite period witnessed a more varied array of techniques for producing glazed ceramic bodies compared to the Middle-Elamite period. Unlike the Middle-Elamite glazed ceramics, which were solely utilized for architectural decoration (glazed bricks) and were locally produced, the Neo-Elamite period marked the first instance of glazed ceramic vessels being used in the southwest of Iranian plateau, leading to a higher technological diversity. Secondly, the frequency of trade and importation of glazed ceramics from other regions to the southwest of Iran was notably higher during the Neo-Elamite period compared to the Middle-Elamite one. A notable distinction emerges in the Middle-Elam period, where exclusively quartz-based ceramic bodies were referenced, setting it apart from other sample types.

Architectural Decoration of Bioleached NiFeP Surfaces by Co3O4 Flowers for Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Generation.

In the quest for sustainable hydrogen production via water electrolysis, the development of high-performance, noble-metal-free catalytic systems is highly desired. Herein, we proposed an innovative strategy for the development of an electrocatalyst by refining the surface characteristics of a NiFeP alloy through microbiological techniques and subsequent enrichment of active sites by tailoring 3D hierarchical flower-like structures with intact and interconnected two-dimensional (2D) Co3O4. The resultant 3D Co3O4@NiFeP-5/24h has a porous structure comprised of intercrossed nanoparticles covering the entirety of the catalytic surface. This design ensures comprehensive electrolyte ion penetration and facilitates the release of gas bubbles while reducing bubble adhesion rates. Remarkably, the Co3O4@NiFeP-5/24h electrode demonstrates superior hydrogen evolution (HER) performance in an alkaline medium, characterized by its high stability, low overpotential (106 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm-2), and reduced Tafel slope (98 mV dec-1). Besides, the minimized interfacial contact resistance among the phases of electrode and electrolyte emphasizes the high HER performance of the 3D Co3O4@NiFeP-5/24h electrode. The innovative design and fabrication strategy employed herein holds significant potential for advancing the field of water-splitting electrocatalysis, offering a promising path toward the rational design and development of noble-metal-free electrocatalysts.

Semiotics of Mirror-tile Artwork Decoration in Iranian-Islamic Architecture

Mirror-tile geometric Artwork is considered the last innovation of Iranian artists in the group of the fine arts. That utilizes, for the interior architecture and decoration of buildings. The use of pieces of glass-mirrors and Mirror-tile artwork has economic origins and recycling roots. In the beginning, the Glass-mirrors, which had been brought to Iran from Europe, break during transportation. Iranian artists and Muslim Craftsmen found an innovative way to take advantage of these broken pieces and used them as Mirror-tiles. Being wasteful is an act that is abhorred in Islam. In traditional Iranian-Islamic art, the mirror element, besides that has been one subject of aesthetics for decorating the architectural built-space, includes deep cultural concepts that have not been considering for various reasons. This research looks at semiotic signs from an analytical point of view and explaining the use of the Mirror-tile art in Iranian-Islamic architecture by quoting information from the analysis to understand the quality of architectural built-space decorated with the Mirror-tile art. Aim to introduce the real and genuine aspects of mirror art as an influential architectural element through the thoughts of its creators as a result, in this research, first, the concepts related to semiotic ideas are dealt with descriptively, and, with an analytical approach, a connection established between various theories. Mirror-tile art also contains tremendous amounts of meaning - messages that words can never describe. For these craftsmen, that's at the core of their creation. Among the mystics, the inner language is the language of Spirit and Truth, and the tools of that language are the symbol and indication. With the aim of the influence of the Persian mystical thoughts about the mirror, this study cum the available historical and contemporary sources and analyzing them deals with the hidden meanings in Mirror-tile artwork. Reveal its connection with mystical thoughts through Persian literature.

Preparation of diopside-augite-based glass ceramics derived from magnesium slag and fly ash

Magnesium slag (MS) and fly ash (FA) are industrial wastes that must be utilized in a clean, effective, and massive method to avoid environmental pollution. In this study, the preparation of diopside-augite-based glass-ceramics was theoretically analyzed and experimentally conducted by disposal of MS and FA with chromium oxide (Cr2O3) as a nucleating agent. The thermodynamics analysis first indicated that pyroxene could be the main crystal phase of the target glass-ceramics for the co-utilization of both wastes. The experimental results indicated that the main phase in prepared glass-ceramics samples was diopside ([Ca(Mg, Fe, Al)(Si, Al)2O6], and the degree of glass network polymerization was enhanced with the FA in raw material increasing from 50 wt% to 65 wt%. Plus, the crystal size of the prepared glass-ceramics was gradually refined by increasing the FA. The optimized conditions were given as controlling nucleation at 790 °C for 2 h and crystallization at 929 °C for 2 h of the parent glass that derived from 40 wt% MS and 60 wt% FA as raw materials, 1 wt% Cr2O3 as nucleating agent. The resulting glass-ceramics had excellent properties and chemical stability, such as a density of 3.11 g cm−3, bending strength of 101.98 MPa, acid resistance of 98.34 %, and alkali resistance of 99.53 %. This study provided a route to produce eco-friendly glass-ceramics material for architectural decoration by high-efficiency utilization of MS and FA.

KAJIAN PELESTARIAN BANGUNAN CAGAR BUDAYA MASJID HUNTO SULTAN AMAY GORONTALO

Abstract: Study on the Preservation of the Cultural Heritage Building Hunto Sultan Amay Mosque in Gorontalo. This research aims to examine and identify the significance of Islamic architecture, including architectural elements that form the building's character and Islamic architectural elements, and to analyze and determine the direction of preservation for the Hunto Sultan Amay Mosque. The methods used in this research include three approaches: descriptive analysis method, evaluative method (weighting), and development method. The identification results of the significance of Islamic architecture in the Hunto Sultan Amay Mosque are based on the original plan, which measures 12 x 12 m², including elements such as the dome, mihrab, and Islamic architectural ornaments such as calligraphy, floral, and geometric patterns that form aesthetics and characteristics similar to the Nabawi Mosque in the Middle East. The preservation directions for the Hunto Sultan Amay Mosque building are classified based on low, medium, and high potential levels. Based on the potential level determination, conservation directions for the building elements are then established according to their condition. There are seven high-potential elements and four medium-potential elements. The preservation directions for the Hunto Sultan Amay Mosque building are divided into preservation directions for four elements: columns, dome, mihrab, and arches; conservation directions for six elements: doors, walls, ornaments, ceiling, roof, and minaret; and restoration direction for one element: windows.

Architectural decoration of the mausoleum no. 1 of the khan necropolis nearby the village of Lapas in the Astrakhan region

This article continues a series of scientific works aimed at the study of the central mausoleum of the Khan necropolis nearby the village of Lapas in the Astrakhan region. It deals with one of the elements of architectural decoration – a tile-lintel, most often found and having a wide variety of types. The article examines the genesis of this type of tile and the ways of its appearance in the Lower Volga region. A wide range of analogies at the sites of medieval architecture of Central Asia is engaged. The authors made a technological analysis of this group of items, examined in detail all the types of revealed ornaments, and determined a scheme for recording the sizes of the findings. For the first time, a detailed typology has been developed for the tiles-lintels, including all the samples known on the site to date. In addition to architectural and artistic features, tiles-lintels have a chrono-marker function, allowing, together with other information sources, to date the construction time of the mausoleum.

Architectural Features of Churches in the Kaštela Coastal Area between 1492 and 1918

This paper aims to synthesize recent knowledge about the churches built between 1492 and 1918 in the Kaštela area and present its characteristics obtained by research in the doctoral thesis of the first author. The research covered 18 churches located in the coastal area. Fourteen churches have been preserved, two were pulled down, while the existence of two other churches was detected on old maps and in written documents. After a genealogical and catalogue study, a typological and stylistic analysis of the churches has been made. The longitudinal aisleless churches as a dominant shape vary in dimensions, type of construction, construction solutions and elements of architectural decoration.

Broadband sound absorption cellulose/basalt fiber composite paper with excellent thermal insulation and hydrophobic properties

Cellulose-based materials find extensive applications in sound absorption due to their high porosity, biodegradability, and cost-effectiveness. However, these materials also suffer from some limitations such as hydrophilicity and low thermal stability that restrict their applicability and lifespan. Herein, we report a cellulose/basalt fiber (CBF) broadband sound absorption composite paper with excellent thermal insulation and hydrophobic properties fabricated by wet forming and silane vapor treatment. Benefiting from the introduction of eco-friendly basalt fibers, the composite paper has an adjusted pore structure and thermal conduction pathway, leading to enhanced sound absorption and thermal insulation performance. Particularly, the composite paper with 50 wt% basalt fiber shows remarkable sound absorption coefficient (0.71 on average) and ultralow thermal conductivity (0.034 W/m·K). As a novel application of eco-friendly materials for sound absorption, the CBF composite paper is an ideal candidate for indoor architectural decoration.

Study on Traditional Architectural Decoration Patterns of Temple of the Three Sus

Temple of the Three Sus, which was first established during the Yuan Dynasty, features a natural, unrestrained, and classically elegant garden architectural style. This paper discusses the multiple characteristics and meanings of traditional architectural decorative patterns at Temple of the Three Sus from a semiotic perspective. First, it analyzes the denotative aspects of these patterns, including their stylistic forms, structural frameworks, and craftsmanship techniques. Second, the paper classifies the traditional architectural decorative patterns of the Temple of the Three Sus based on the types of sources of these patterns and interprets the implied meanings of each. Finally, the paper explores the application of these traditional decorative patterns in modern urban design, specifically in Meishan City, discussing the inheritance and innovation of these patterns in contemporary urban design and emphasizing the importance of integrating tradition with modernity.

Quantitative study on the color of traditional dwellings in Jianxi River Basin, Fujian Province, based on the lab color space model

ABSTRACT The color palette of traditional dwellings is intricately shaped by the characteristics of the geographical environment and the long-standing lifestyle of residents, thus constituting a vital component of rural culture. However, the rapid development in recent years has resulted in the dilapidation of rural features, including haphazard colors employed in buildings. With the advancement of science and technology, the studies of color have transitioned from a qualitative to a quantitative approach. Through a comprehensive comparison of RGB, HSB, CMYK, and Lab color spaces, as well as an evaluation of color card comparison method, software analysis method, and instrument measurement method; this paper reveals that employing the instrument measurement method in conjunction with the Lab color space enables independent assessment free from subjective influence. This approach facilitates more objective and accurate collection of color data while ensuring seamless and lossless transmission between devices. Therefore, to safeguard and enhance the authenticity of traditional dwellings and preserve the architectural style of traditional villages, this paper focuses on investigating the color palette of traditional dwellings in the Jianxi River Basin. The CM-700d spectrophotometer is employed for color data collection, while quantitative analysis is conducted using the Lab color space to unravel the color logics in this region. The findings reveal that earth yellow (average Lab (50.35,7.40,19.63)) constitutes the main color of rammed earth walls, complemented by dark brown (average Lab (38.72,2.97,8.58)) tiled roofs and gray-brown (average Lab (41.95,4.30,12.75)) stone wall bases as accent color; additionally, gray-yellow (average Lab (49 .82,1 .93,10.98)) brick gatehouses serve as accent colors. The integration between these colors and nature is harmonious; however, the absence of distinct color layers and highlights in the traditional dwellings necessitates incorporating bright architectural decorations along with arrangements of flowering plants. This paper conducted a quantitative analysis on the color of traditional dwellings with three main objectives. Firstly, to establish a comprehensive color database that can effectively preserve and promote regional traditional dwelling colors, while aiding designers in capturing regional color characteristics. Secondly, by collecting precise color data, this paper lays the groundwork for future applications of digital color technology. Lastly, it aims to explore the regional color logic and its potential integration with future studies on color evaluation to uncover preferred color combinations among the public for dwellings.