TRADITIONAL HAUSA MUD ROOFED ARCHITECTURE:

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Date
1984-01-25
Authors
ARADEON, SUSAN B.
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Abstract
As a basis for a fuller appreciation of the qualities of Hausa architecture, this study establishes a provisional classification of the traditional Hausa structural systems for supporting mud roofs and their resultant ceiling patterns. The limitations of an architectural technology based on the use of mud and azara (planks of split palm trunk) have significantly influenced the nature of Hausa architecture. The linear azara serve as a permanent formwork, both for the beams and arches and for the ceiling/ roofs. Hausa master masons consider 1.80m (61) the safe span for the azara. In domes, the azara must be even shorter to ensure a uniformly curved dome. These limitations on the dimensions of the azara force master masons to subdivide their soffits. The structural systems supporting these subdivisions and the ceiling patterns they generate constitute the basis for this classification. Flat ceiling/roofs and domes have been treated separately in order to account for the more complex problems encountered in designing and erecting domes. In response to problems ensuring a smooth transition from square walls to the domical form and maintaining a uniform curvature for each dome, the master masons have designed a great variety of aesthetically pleasing structural solutions, greater than for slab roofs. Hausa master masons have created larger clear spans than is common in mud-roofed architecture. Their reinforced-mud arch based on cantilever action is the distinguishing feature of Hausa architecture. It has made possible the design of spans as large as 8.00m (26'3") square and the design of lofty domes despite the limitations of the available materials. The master masons have perfected three basic types of arch configurations: arches meeting at the crown, arches forming central coffers and arches abutted by half arches. Hausa master masons have also fully exploited the aesthetic potential inherent in their structural systems. The articulation and embellishment of the soffit permanent formwork and the beam or arch configuration in ceiling/ roof structures demonstrate that Hausa architectural designs are based on a conceptual integration of structural and aesthetic considerations.
Description
A thesis submitted to the Postgraduate School, Ahmadu Bello University, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, Department of Fine Arts (Art History) Faculty of Environmental Design Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. 25 January, 1984
Keywords
TRADITIONAL,, HAUSA,, MUD ROOFED,, ARCHITECTURE,, PROVISIONAL,, CLASSIFICATION,, HAUSA,, STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS,, RESULTANT,, CEILING,, PATTERNS,, VOLUME I.
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