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Subject Semester HS20 in the Field of Historic Building Research and Conservation (IDB, Prof Holzer)
Fachsemester HS20 im Bereich Denkmalpflege und Bauforschung (IDB, Prof. Holzer)
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:36:00
Abstract
The subject semester (to choose out of two topics) includes the individual, independent processing of a specific task, whereby the relevance of the respective discipline is examined with regard to the specific architectural and design aspects of the task.
Objective
The subject semester includes the individual, independent processing of a specific task, whereby the relevance of the respective discipline is examined with regard to the specific architectural and design aspects of the task.
Content
TOPIC 1 (to choose from): Baroque period alterations to late Gothic vaults in Bavaria and Upper Austria Analogous to the construction principle of a wedge arch, masonry vaults are only stable when they are finished and closed. Opening a vault - for example for renovations or repairs - is therefore a delicate operation in which the stability of the entire structure is at stake. Nevertheless, such interventions were carried out in earlier centuries with the technical means available at that time. Methods and techniques that were used in historical vault conversions can be examined using a group of late Gothic churches in southeastern Bavaria and neighboring Upper Austria. These churches, which were built in the 15th century, are characterized by a common architectural feature: a pillar arranged in the central axis of the nave forms the central support of the vaults. This central pillar, which stood in the line of sight in front of the choir room and the high altar, was perceived as disturbing in the Baroque period, so it was removed in some cases. The vaults were usually not completely replaced, but only around the pillar removed and then - with a significantly larger span - closed again. How exactly such an operation took place has not yet been clarified and will be investigated as part of the semester through building research at several churches. To do this, the geometry of the vault is first recorded using a 3D laser scan. Traces of the renovation are documented in drawings and photographs. Insightful Findings can be found mainly on the top of the vault, i.e. in the attic of the church, e.g. Iron slugs with which the newly inserted vault was suspended from the wooden roof. A comparison of the different vaults should clarify to what extent the methods of the baroque master builders differ from case to case. Explanation of the findings from the investigation in a written paper (approx. 20 pages, plans, illustrations). Building research on the vaults: approx. Three work campaigns, each lasting several days. Objects of investigation: Churches of Anger and Tacherting, Spitalkirche von Braunau, Church of Hochburg-Ach. Information: Clemens Voigts [email protected] . TOPIC 2: The roof structure of the parish church of St. John the Baptist in Bernhardzell SG The parish church in Bernhardzell SG, consecrated in 1779, is the main work of the Vorarlberg master builder Johann Ferdinand Beer (1731–1789). This church, consecrated to John the Baptist, stands out from the typical St. Gallen country churches of saddle-roofed hall buildings in two ways: firstly, it is a central building and secondly, it is covered by a mansard roof. The aim of the semester is to thoroughly examine and document the almost 17 m wide roof structure of the Berhandzell Church. This includes an outline of the planning and construction history based on the published research literature. The history of the restoration of the church in the 20th century is to be processed using the tangible files in the archives. In addition to a detailed description, a 3D model of the roof structure including the cross arms is created, which is to serve as the basis for cuts along the main trusses. For individual nodes, such as the head and foot zones of the mansard construction and the hanging columns, isometric exploded views are to be created, at which the hidden carpentry-like connections and the built-in iron elements can be seen. In addition to the system of symbols, the various traces of processing and manufacturing on the wood are meticulously documented. The aim of the work will also be to didactically process the complex construction using the 3D model, plans and photos in order to make the roof of the church in Bernhardzell familiar to a wider audience.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| independent project |
Fachsemester HS20 im Bereich Denkmalpflege und Bauforschung (IDB, Prof. Holzer)
Permission from lecturers required for all students.
Selbständige Arbeit.
Belegung nur nach Absprache mit dem Professor.
Besprechungen nach Bedarf und nach Absprache mit der Professur.
|
|
400 h semesterly |