CoccioPesto Explained
In an era where sustainability holds paramount importance in architecture and design, there has been a notable resurgence in the adoption of ancient techniques. Among these age-old techniques stands CoccioPesto. With origins dating back to antiquity, CoccioPesto represents a testament for the enduring wisdom of past civilisations in harnessing natural resources for sustainable construction.
In today's context, as the urgency to embrace sustainable practices intensifies, CoccioPesto emerges as a compelling solution for architects and designers seeking environmentally friendly alternatives. In this article, we delve into the significance and modern-day relevance of CoccioPesto, exploring its unique attributes and transformative potential in shaping a more sustainably built environment.
What is CoccioPesto?
CoccioPesto is a versatile building material with ancient origins, revered for its sustainability and durability. Derived from a mixture of crushed ceramics, lime and natural aggregates, CoccioPesto has been used since ancient times in various architectural applications, ranging from flooring and wall finishes to structural elements. Its name, which translate to "cooked stone" in Italian, reflects the process of preparation, where the ingredients are meticulously mixed and compacted to form a dense, durable material.
How is CoccioPesto made?
The production process of CoccioPesto begins with the preparation of ceramic fragments, sourced from recycled and reclaimed materials, which are crushed into small pieces. These ceramic pieces are then mixed with lime and natural aggregates, such as sand or crushed stone, in carefully controlled proportions. Water is added gradually to achieve the desired consistency, and the mixture is throughly mixed to ensure the uniform distribution of the ingredients. The resulting mixtures then compacted into a mould to eliminate air voids. After compaction, the CoccioPesto is left to cure and harden over time, during which the lime component undergoes a chemical reaction to strengthen the material. Once cured, the surface can be finished to achieve desired texture and appeareance.
What can CoccioPesto be used for?
CoccioPesto is a versatile and durable material that can be used indoors and outdoors. This ancient building material is commonly utilised for high-traffic areas. Additionally, CoccioPesto can be precast into panels for indoor and outdoor cladding, providing visually striking facades. Its mouldable nature extends its use to furniture pieces, kitchen countertops, flooring and decorative wall finishes, adding warmth and elegance to interior spaces.
What are the sustainability benefits of CoccioPesto?
Piercy&Company architecture studio (photo by Jack Hobhouse)
