search

Types of Vaults in Architecture: Structure and Architecture Style

Throughout history and timeline of periodic styles, we have witnessed numerous Types of Vaults in Architecture. Vaulted ceilings refer to architectural designs where the ceiling is arched or curved, creating a series of arches, domes, or other curved structures. Permutations of various geometries of their upward curvature that depend on the timeline of a typical architectural style are characteristic feature of these Types of Vaults in Architecture. Vaulted ceilings can take various forms and have now become a strong precedent in the history of modern architecture.

Historical Evolution of Vault Architecture

The evolution of vault architecture spans diverse cultures and historical periods. Beginning in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, corbel arches and simple barrel vaults were part of structures like ziggurats and tombs. Further, the Romans perfected the use of vaults, as seen in structures like the Colosseum, demonstrating their engineering prowess. As seen in Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, the Byzantine Empire also adopted vaulted ceilings with intricate mosaic designs.

Meanwhile, in India, Islamic architecture, with its Persian and Byzantine influence, embraced vaulted ceilings with bulbous domes and intricate vaulting, as seen in the Taj Mahal. Taking it forward in the Gothic era, Europe saw the widespread use of ribbed vaults and pointed arches in cathedrals like Notre-Dame in Paris. During the Renaissance period, Filippo Brunelleschi’s design of Florence Cathedral’s dome in Italy also exemplified vaulted ceilings. The Baroque and Rococo periods in Europe witnessed the return of elaborate vaulted ceilings in palaces and churches.

In the 20th century, modern architects experimented with new materials and forms, integrating vaulted elements into contemporary structures.

Types of Vaults: On The Basis of Structure

1. Barrel Vaults

Types of Vaults in Architecture
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Barrel vaults are a type of architectural vault characterised by a continuous, unbroken, and elongated semi-circular or pointed arch. They resemble the shape of a barrel or tunnel, which covers a wide expanse of space, providing structural support and architectural distinction. Barrel vaults are effective in distributing weight and providing structural stability over a wide area. Ideal for interior spaces like long corridors, hallways, or living rooms in residences.

2. Dome Vaults

Types of Vaults in Architecture
Image Credits: constructor.org

Dome vaults are a distinctive type of architectural feature that involves the use of a rounded or hemispherical structure to cover a space. Domes are present across various architectural styles and historical periods, offering both structural stability and aesthetic grandeur. Dome vault ceilings feature a rounded, often hemispherical-shaped structure. Commonly found in religious buildings, mosques, and palaces, dome vault ceilings serve as central focal points in interior spaces.

3. Groin Vaults

Image Credits: theglobeandmail.com

A groin vault forms from the intersection of two barrel vaults at right angles. This intersection creates a cross-like or X-shaped pattern, and the space where the two vaults meet is known as the groin. Groin vaults offer several structural advantages and have been utilised in various architectural styles throughout history. Groin vaults can cover rectangular, square, or even irregularly shaped spaces, making them a versatile choice in architectural design. Taking inspiration from the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, they are currently suitable for interior spaces with expansive footprints, such as grand halls or churches. They create large and open areas with heightened architectural drama.

4. Ribbed Vaults

Types of Vaults in Architecture
Image Credits: Bindley Hardware

Ribbed vaults are a type of architectural vault characterised by the use of ribs or arches that extend across the vaulted surface. These ribs not only serve decorative purposes but also provide additional structural support, distributing the weight of the vault and allowing for more intricate designs. From the grand cathedrals of medieval Europe to modern interpretations, ribbed vaults continue to captivate with their beauty and engineering ingenuity. Ideal for churches, cathedrals, or Gothic-inspired structures, rib vaults create visually striking designs.

5. Fan Vaults

Types of Vaults in Architecture
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Fan vaults are a distinctive type of architectural vault characterised by a series of concave ribs spreading out from a central point, creating a fan-like or radiating pattern. This architectural feature is a characteristic feature of English Gothic architecture, known for its intricate and decorative design. Fan vaults reached their height of popularity during the late Gothic period in England, particularly in the 15th and early 16th centuries. Their use in religious or historically-inspired settings imparts a sense of awe and architectural opulence to the interior environment.

6. Cloister Vaults

Image Credits: PxHere

A cloister vault is a distinctive type of vaulted ceiling often found in cloisters, which are covered walkways surrounding a courtyard, typically attached to a monastery or cathedral. The cloister vault consists of intersecting barrel vaults, forming a grid pattern that covers the open galleries of the cloister. The ribs of the vaults create an intricate network, adding both structural support and visual interest. Examples of cloister vaults can be found in Renaissance architecture and in European cathedrals and monasteries. Presently, they are ideal for interior spaces like courtyards, grand entrances, or covered walkways.

Types of Vaults: On The Basis of Architecture Style

1. Islamic Vaults (Muqaranas)

Types of Vaults in Architecture
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Islamic architecture is renowned for its intricate and decorative vaulting, known as Muqarnas. These are ornamental elements that resemble honeycomb-like structures. Muqarnas are traditionally crafted from materials such as brick, stone, or wood and covered with plaster or tiles. The geometric patterns in muqarnas also often symbolise the infinite nature of God in Islamic theology. They are found in mosques, palaces, and other significant structures.

2. Egyptian vaults (Nubian Vault)

Image Credits: Dezeen

The term “Nubian Vault” refers to a specific type of vaulted construction technique that has been traditionally used in Egypt. The vault is constructed using locally sourced materials, such as mud bricks or adobe, along with wooden or bamboo beams for structural support. At the same time, the Nubian vault resembles the shape of a V or U, where adobe or bricks are layered one after the other to form the desired curvature. The Egyptians use this indigenous knowledge to create sustainable and culture-friendly structures.

3. Romanesque Vaults

Types of Vaults in Architecture
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Romanesque architecture, prevalent in Europe from the 10th to the 12th centuries, featured various types of vaults like the barrel, groin, cross-groin, rib vaults, and a few others. They played a crucial role in the development of medieval European architecture, providing both structural support and decorative elements. At the same time, the use of these vaulting techniques allowed for the creation of grand cathedrals and churches like the Durham Cathedral in England and many others.

4. Gothic Rib Vaults

Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Gothic architecture, which flourished from the 12th to the 16th centuries in Europe, is renowned for its use of ribbed vaults in cathedrals. Vaults were a formation of a framework of ribs or arches, where the ribs had both structural and decorative purposes. Pointed arches, a hallmark of Gothic architecture, were used in the construction of these ribbed vaults. Gothic architects employed intricate combinations of ribbed vaulting systems to create visually stunning and structurally sound ceilings. These vaults also made the construction of tall and expansive cathedral interiors possible, with an emphasis on verticality and lightness.

5. Byzantine Dome

Types of Vaults in Architecture
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

In Byzantine architecture, domes played a significant role, and various types of dome vaults were employed to create grand and visually striking spaces. Byzantine domes, like the dome at Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, are often hemispherical, creating a sense of vastness and height in the interior space. The domes often served both structural and symbolic purposes, representing the celestial dome of heaven and contributing to the overall majesty of Byzantine churches and buildings.

6. Renaissance Vaults

Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

During the Renaissance, spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, architects revived interest in classical art, culture, and architecture, signalling a departure from the preceding Gothic styles. They designed Renaissance vaults with hemispherical domes, typically situated on drum-like structures. Renaissance architects also employed various other vault types as well, including barrel, groin, cross, and fan vaults. The proportionate design of Renaissance vaults featured stucco ornamentation and frescoes, portraying classical themes or symbolic motifs.

7. Baroque Dome

Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

In Baroque architecture, vaulted ceilings were largely popular because of their exemplary domes. There were other vaults as well, but the domes in hemispherical, elliptical, or round shapes became a hallmark of this typical style. They featured intricate frescoes, sculptures, and elaborate decorative elements. The use of rich ornamentation and dynamic forms in Baroque vaults contributed to the theatricality and splendour of the architecture of this period.

8. Rococo Vaults

Types of Vaults in Architecture
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

In Rococo architecture, which emerged in the 18th century as a more ornate and playful extension of the Baroque style, vaulted ceilings continued to be a prominent feature. Rococo vaults often featured shell-like or conch-like forms, resembling scallop shells or sea motifs. Rococo vaults were characterised by irregular shapes and arrangements, creating a sense of movement and whimsy. The emphasis on intricate ornamentation and light, playful designs distinguished Rococo architecture from its predecessors.

Conclusion

Types of vaults in interior design and architecture inspire contemporary architects and designers, influencing modern structures and interiors beyond being relics of the past. Moreover, the intricate patterns and symbolic motifs found in various types of vaults in architecture continue to captivate. In a world where innovation often blends with tradition, the enduring allure of various types of vault architecture reminds us that the past can seamlessly integrate with the present. Meanwhile, how do you think the symbolism of various Types of Vaults enhances the atmosphere and aesthetics of modern architecture?

Content Writing And Research By: Ar. Ishita Jindal

A Modern Bali House With Timeless Tropical Charm | Biombo Architects

Located in the coastal village of Pererenan, Bali, House Terra is a contemporary response to tropical living, designed by Biombo Architects as a family retreat. The project balances built space and landscape, creating a strong connection between architecture and nature while offering shelter from the island’s monsoon climate. Editor’s Note: “House Terra, more than a […]

Read More

Minimal Home Interior Design That Honors Heritage in a 15′ Wide Plot | Dinterplay Architects

Located on a 15′ x 95′ ancestral plot in a pal village, Surat, India, this residence is designed for a multi-generational family of seven. This minimal home interior design solves light and space challenges within a narrow plot. The family wanted to stay connected with their community and preserve their cultural roots. The site has […]

Read More

This Bungalow Is A Poetic Take On Modern Exterior House Design | Sparc Design

“The sky’s ever-changing canvas, painted with hues of blues at dawn and greys and blacks at dusk, seamlessly weaves itself into the very fabric of this home’s architecture and interior.” Located in a comparatively narrow lane of bungalow plots, this modern exterior house design borrows its modern straight-line form and color from the sky. A […]

Read More

15 Courtyards in Houses: Designing Tranquil Spaces That Elevate Homes

Timeless architectural features, such as courtyards, are always associated with bringing the naturally public forms to the world’s heart, building the most peaceful, secluded outdoor areas. These outdoor spaces maximize the living experience with their private space feature, which gives one the option for leisurely relaxation, recreation, or gardening. Furthermore, it has also been a […]

Read More

The Residence Features An Exposed Brick Design That Enhances Its Street Presence | R+R Architects

The residence is sensitively designed and compatible with the neighborhood. Distinct from neighboring structures, the building creates a strong relationship to the streets by virtue of its large windows in facades. While there are dramatic and larger scale elements that define the building, it is also broken down into comprehensible human scale blocks with an […]

Read More

This Simple Contemporary House Design Harmonizes Craftsmanship and Nature | Karaagre Designs

This contemporary residence, covering 7500 square feet, combines modern design with timeless elegance to create a peaceful and luxurious retreat within a busy urban environment. The home is built around large frames that open up to nature, blending the interior with its surroundings. The design focuses on craftsmanship and harmony, making the simple contemporary house […]

Read More

Neuroarchitecture: Designing for the Human Mind

Imagine walking into a sunlit room with high ceilings, warm wooden floors, and a view of a leafy courtyard. How do you feel? Calm? Inspired? At ease? That’s not just your mood—it’s your brain responding to the space around you. Neuroarchitecture is an evolving domain that merges the understanding of neuroscience, psychology, and architecture to […]

Read More

Postmodernism Architecture: History, Elements & Famous Buildings

Architecture is more than just the construction of buildings, it is a reflection of our values, art, culture, and society. It is a movement towards new, promising, and philosophical design strategies. One such movement that significantly influenced the architectural landscape is Postmodernism architecture. In this research article, readers will find a comprehensive guide for Postmodernism […]

Read More

Mango Tree House is a Reflection of Traditional Modern Home Design | Offbeat Studio

Mango Tree House is an artfully designed personal residence that seamlessly integrates traditional architectural elements with the comforts of modern living, embodying the essence of traditional modern home design. Some houses are more than just structures; they hold stories, memories, and a deep connection to the land. Mango Tree House is one such space—one that […]

Read More

Modern Architecture Homes: 15 Trending Styles To Explore

What if the home of the future didn’t have walls? Modern architecture homes aren’t just about aesthetics – it’s a rebellion. A conscious break from tradition. In a world obsessed with innovation, our homes are becoming laboratories of design, sustainability, and radical thought. Modern architecture homes are sharp-edged, glass-wrapped, tech-infused sanctuaries that defy the standard. […]

Read More
  • Bridge Construction: Unveiling the Art in 10 Steps

    Transforming Spaces: 15 Painting Techniques for Walls to Inspire