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Wavy walls use fewer bricks than a straight wall (2020) (twistedsifter.com)

638 points by caiobegotti · 1126 days ago · 264 comments on HN

Article summary

Wavy walls, also known as crinkle crankle walls, use fewer bricks than straight walls because they can be made thinner and still provide stability. The wavy design allows for a single layer of bricks, while a straight wall would require additional support or thickness to withstand lateral forces. This type of wall is commonly found in England and was also used by Thomas Jefferson in the United States. The wavy design provides stability and helps the wall resist wind and other external forces.

Main themes

  • wavy wall design
  • brick efficiency
  • stability and resistance
  • architectural history
  • material efficiency
  • aesthetic appeal

What commenters say

  • Wavy walls use more individual bricks than straight walls, but less material overall due to their thinner design.
  • The comparison between wavy and straight walls is misleading because it doesn't account for the necessary thickness of a straight wall to provide equivalent stability.
  • The wavy design allows for a stronger wall with less material, making it a more efficient use of resources.
  • The stability of wavy walls comes from their ability to resist lateral forces, such as wind, due to their curved shape.
  • Some commenters argue that the article's headline is misleading and doesn't accurately represent the benefits of wavy walls.
  • The use of wavy walls is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides a functional advantage in terms of stability and material efficiency.
  • The discussion around wavy walls highlights the importance of considering the context and requirements of a wall's design, rather than just comparing the number of bricks used.