O azulejo na obra de Álvaro Siza

Abstract

This dissertation intends to study the tile as a construction material for architecture, focusing particularly on the works of the architect Álvaro Siza, which highlights the importance of tiles in Portugal. Beginning from a concrete theme, the dissertation goes through a methodologic path that identifies how the tile has been applied and gained identity in Portugal since the middle of the XVI century until nowadays. The main goal of this investigation is to analyze the importance of the tile in present day, selecting the works of Siza as the best example of its application in architecture. A careful selection of case studies allowed to characterize the way this material is incorporated on the works of this architect, not only on the design project but also on the finished work. The first chapter defines what the tile is, studying its general aspects through the understanding of its formal, chemical and physical-mechanical characteristics, as well as its behavior towards the main pathologies and anomalies in its application in architecture. The second chapter explains the identity of the material in Portugal, throughout its five centuries history until now, identifying the examples that stand out and show the innovation and expression of the tiles influence on national architecture. The third chapter analyzes tiles on the works of Álvaro Siza, understanding the different types of application and expression of the material. It is then sought to understand his strategy and how he materializes the tile in order to take advantage of its technical and aesthetic characteristics. All things considered, this work intends to widen the knowledge of the application of tile in architecture, both in interior and exterior coatings, opening opportunities for the use of this material, which is so characteristic and traditional of Portugal. On the other hand, this dissertation might as well be a source of information on the subject and help architects who might be considering or have some reservations towards the use of tile in their works.