We look forward to seeing you in Verona! Hall 10, in the “Maromac Meets Academies” booth. From Sept. 26-29, 2023, the 57th edition of Marmomac, the leading global event entirely dedicated to the natural stone processing supply chain, covering the entire process from quarry to finished product, as well as the technologies, machinery and tools used, will be held. Originating within one of Italy’s main districts specializing in the mining and processing of natural stone, Marmomac is currently the international focal point for all the players in this sector. This fair provides an invaluable platform where business combines with professional development, creating an ideal environment for innovation and education. We will exhibit within the pavilion dedicated to national and international universities the project conceived by Bari Polytechnic University undergraduates, led by Prof. Arch. Giuseppe Fallacara. The six students involved are:

• Sara D’Adamo,

• Teresa Lanzetta,

• Clara Rosa Romano,

• Clelia Santovito,

• Andrea Sgherza,

• Joseph Tota.

The object on display is the innovative prototype of a facade system with multiple peculiarities, resulting from the intrinsic properties of the materials used and the geometry of the wall. This cladding features the use of semi-bearing modules made of stone from Minervino Murge, a choice that reflects a deep consideration of the qualities of this stone, which, with its solidity and durability, has earned an outstanding reputation in the Trani basin and beyond. Its dense structure and unique mineralogical composition give this stone remarkable resistance to atmospheric adversity, allowing it to preserve its elegance unchanged over the years. To the stone structure, a dimension of versatility and creativity is introduced through the use of optional panels made of thin quartzite slabs. The use of thin onyx slabs within the façade results in various design and functional possibilities. Onyx in fact, mineralogically speaking, is a variety of chalcedony, which is a form of quartz present in compact microcrystalline mass. Its hue ranges from opaque to slightly translucent in appearance. This material is known for its fine delicacy, being simultaneously transparent and very compact. A distinguishing feature of onyxes is their ability to be backlit, an aspect that adds an additional level of charm and versatility to their use in facades. Extraordinary plays of light and shadow are created on the surface of the building, turning the elevation into a living work of art, especially in the evening hours. This lighting effect can be exploited to create unique and eye-catching atmospheres. The combination of these two stones provides an extraordinary architectural solution that defies the elements and captures attention with its beauty. From a functional point of view, the wall itself contributes to the regulation of direct air, thus improving indoor ventilation. This feature plays an important role, especially in hot and humid climates such as the Mediterranean, where proper air circulation proves to be essential to ensure the well-being of the occupants. That’s not all. Stone is an extraordinary material that offers multiple benefits when it comes to building insulation. One of its most relevant features is its density, which plays a key role in increasing thethermal efficiency of buildings. This is especially valuable in regions with extreme climates, as the stone can absorb heat during the day and gradually release it at night, thus helping to stabilize the building’s interior temperature. At the same time, during cold seasons, the stone is able to retain heat, keeping the interior of the building warm and cozy. Its qualities are not limited to thermal insulation; in fact, its ability to absorb and dissipate sound waves makes it a material of choice for the‘soundproofing. This is especially beneficial in situations where you want to create a quiet environment, such as in a music room, recording studio, or bedroom, where quiet and privacy are essential. The stone acts as an effective sound filter, minimizing the transmission of unwanted noise and creating a quieter, more relaxing environment. In addition, stone is known for its durability and resistance to weathering, making it an outstanding choice for exterior insulation of buildings. “ARX ETEREA PETRAE” is the name given to the work and indicates the eternal beauty of the stone that defies the centuries. In conclusion, stone is a versatile and reliable material for building insulation, offering a number of benefits beyond simple thermal control. Its density, sound insulation capacity, weather resistance and durability make it an excellent choice for improving building comfort and energy efficiency.

Why, then, is such a sustainable material not used in architecture as it used to be?

This is the question posed by the above-mentioned young people who are addressing this very issue in their thesis path. At present, we can do nothing but look forward to their evaluations and conclusions in this regard. It is a critical time when their research and analysis will be evaluated and a new perspective on this issue may emerge. We remain looking forward to further developments and are eager to be updated on the results that emerge from their work. Research is often the engine of progress, and their efforts could lead to greater awareness and use of sustainable materials in modern architecture.