Concrete On Paper

While the practice of combining gravel, sand, and a mineral binder such as clay or lime for construction dates back millennia, the invention of Portland cement in 1824 was the catalyst necessary for the revival of concrete as a construction system by the late 19th century. Concrete on Paper follows concrete’s reintroduction, first through scientific papers on hydraulic materials and specialized imitation stone products in the late 18th century to popular do-it-yourself house building manuals of the mid-19th century.

As with any new material and construction process (reinforced concrete was both), concrete’s reception was shaped first by practical and aesthetic concerns about its use and treatment. With the rise of the cement industry, professionals demanded material standards, and the industry was keen to comply, creating a plethora of commercial literature and trade journals for suppliers and users. As the material rose in popularity, engineers and architects required textbooks, and contractors needed manuals to properly design and execute the work, while the public sought advice through the many popular shelter magazines that advocated concrete as a modern choice for modern living.

Concrete is here to stay. As the industry explores more sustainable production and high performance building practices, including material recycling, the vast volume of existing concrete structures and infrastructure demand our attention, through both retention of the everyday and preservation of the exceptional landmarks.

Curated by Frank Matero and Irene Matteini with graduate assistants Daniel Alonso Saldaña Ayala, Kate Gunn Whitney-Schubb, and Siqi Zhao. 

Special thanks to Tesselle for building the concrete blocks used in the exhibition space. 

View Philadelphia Concrete Icons Map

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