ABSTRACT
Architectural terra cotta allows seamless integration of performance-driven form with aesthetic content developed as ornament. This chapter describes the basic methods of forming architectural components with illustrations from factory tours in the United States, Germany and Italy. Hand pressing clay into gypsum molds is described. The evolution of extrusion is outlined with examples of the full range of profiles that can be achieved by this predominant method. Varying techniques for drying and firing these shapes then follows. Hollow clay objects can be cast by pouring clay slip into gypsum molds and allowing it to solidify to a designed thickness. Clay shapes can also be ram pressed between two opposing mold faces.
Post processing of green clay allows new shapes to be made from formed components, adding them together or carefully altering them to make curves or corners. After firing, components can be cut, drilled and milled to produce final configurations. All of these processes provide the means to deliver sculpted forms as ornament. Primary examples are the incised and additive motifs of Louis Sullivan. Emerging digital technologies provide access to a new language of complex shapes, generated by parametric design and realized in clay.
