Vault vs Arch is a fundamental comparison in architectural structural systems that highlights distinct approaches to spanning space and distributing loads. An arch is a curved structural element that spans a space while supporting weight above it, typically forming a semicircular or pointed profile that transfers loads laterally to vertical supports at its ends through compression. A vault, by contrast, is essentially an extended or continuous arch, creating a three-dimensional curved structure that can cover larger spatial areas. While both elements work primarily in compression, vaults offer more complex spatial possibilities by extending the arch principle along a linear axis or by intersecting multiple curved surfaces. The historical evolution of these forms traces back to ancient civilizations, with the Romans perfecting the arch and developing various vault types including barrel, groin, and dome configurations. The key mechanical difference lies in their load distribution patterns: arches channel forces along a single curved plane to their supports, while vaults distribute loads across their entire surface area to their supporting walls or piers. This distinction has profound implications for architectural design, as vaults can create more expansive, uninterrupted interior spaces compared to sequential arches. The development of these structural elements has been celebrated in numerous design competitions, including the A' Design Award's architectural categories, where innovative interpretations of these classical forms continue to emerge. Contemporary architectural practice has expanded upon these traditional forms through digital design and advanced materials, enabling more complex geometries while maintaining the essential structural principles that have proven effective for millennia.
structural engineering, load-bearing construction, architectural elements, spatial design, compression forces, building systems
CITATION : "Lucas Reed. 'Vault Vs Arch.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=468073 (Accessed on June 24, 2025)"
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