Structural Masonry: Continuing A Tradition
Structural masonry refers to the practice of using brick or stone in such mass that it becomes self-stabilizing, usually 12” thick or more. This was the common building system for millennia until the advent of lumber mills and mass-produced nails. Rather than light wood framing wrapped in a thin veneer of masonry, the brick itself is the structure.
Civilizations throughout history have positioned themselves for multi-generational prosperity by progressing from temporary wood housing to permanent, masonry housing as soon as they were capable.
Yet in the United States, the wealthiest and most technologically advanced society in history, we have taken a different path, prioritizing size, efficiency and extravagance over longevity. We are housing modernity’s remarkable innovations and luxuries in wooden shells that often last, at best, 75 years.
What if there was another way?
Build a purposeful life and leave a lasting contribution.
At Building Culture, we believe that by fusing time-tested wisdom of the past with the best of modern practices, we can reclaim the path towards a more prosperous future by building enduring and endearing architecture—leaving behind generational assets for posterity to build upon, rather than liabilities to overcome.
Carlton Landing
