Matter, Clay, and Construction: The Use of Ceramic Brick in Chilean Architecture

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Although construction is primarily based on technical principles, which at first glance seem to follow only pre-established designs and specifications, there is a deeper dimension related to the nature and essence of the materials used. These materials do not only perform a utilitarian function; they also transcend their mere purpose, evoking the notion put forward by Pablo Neruda: "There is a rigor in materials that limits excessive whim and the struggle to infuse them with humanity."

Among the range of existing materials, there is perhaps none as universal as brick. Its versatility and aesthetic honesty have made it a widely used resource in the construction of diverse spaces worldwide. Within Chilean architecture, the broad possibilities this material offers have been highlighted, having been exceptionally utilized by numerous architects. Furthermore, it has gained renewed relevance in architectural discourse, as exemplified by the book "Arcilla. Materia y Obra en Arquitectura." This is reflected throughout the history of Cerámica Santiago and its joint collaboration with the Faculty of Architecture and Art at UDD to promote the Brick Architecture Prize.

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Cite: Tovar, Enrique. "Matter, Clay, and Construction: The Use of Ceramic Brick in Chilean Architecture" [Materia, arcilla y construcción: El uso del ladrillo cerámico en la arquitectura chilena] 06 Jul 2026. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1136376/matter-clay-and-construction-the-use-of-ceramic-brick-in-chilean-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884
Cortesía de Cerámica Santiago

材料、黏土与建造:智利建筑中的陶砖应用

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