Geltaftan Process

The Javadabad School is one of several buildings designed according to the Geltaftan system. The construction of the school is based on a system whereby the entire earthen structure is treated as a kiln and fired to form a monolithic mass. The Geltaftan system, literally meaning clay-firing, aims to renew traditional methods of kiln firing and at the same time encourages the use readily available, traditional earth architecture as inexpensive, comfortable and durable. The architect also intended to improve the structural weakness of indigenous architecture, to improve its resistance to climatic and seismograph conditions, and to increase the hygienic conditions of the earthern structures.The school was originally designed to house facilities both for boys and girls as well as a common administration building. (The existing facilities house girl's secondary school only.) The structure incorporates traditional features of Iranian architecture: arcades, barrel vaults, domes, and small openings. The village mason played an important role in the development of the project. The foundation is built of lime-clay and brick supports the adobe structure. A kiln like structure is created by loosely placing bricks on a layer of clay and straw. Doors and windows are temporarily blocked. The structure and floor are baked by a torch located in hole in the centre of the room. The fire may last for up to a complete day at a temperature of 1000C.Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture