Voussoir
|
| This image depicts the voussoir stones of an arch, including the keystone and the springers. |
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
The construction of traditional masonry arches and vaults is dependent on the arrangement of the bricks, blocks or stones over the opening. A tapered or wedge-shaped stone forming one of the units of the arch or vault is called a voussoir. Downward pressure on the structure has the effect of forcing the voussoirs together (in compression) instead of apart. Precision must be used when cutting voussoirs in order to ensure that this pressure is sufficient and uniform against the adjacent blocks.
Each unit in an arch or vault is a voussoir. The voussoir that is positioned in the centre of the arch is known as the keystone. The bottom voussoirs resting on the springing line are referred to as springers. The springing line is the point from which the arch starts to rise from its vertical supports.
[edit] Origins of the term
The term voussoir comes from the old French word vosoir, which has its origins in the Vulgar Latin word volvere (meaning to turn around or to roll). It is this reference, “to turn or roll”, that relates to the action of the wedge-shaped voussoir. Each voussoir rolls to the side to force it into place and create the supporting action needed to distribute weight.
[edit] History
Early voussoirs appeared in 16th century arches found in Italian Mannerist architecture. The technique created a stylistic departure from traditional Renaissance structures. They were also used with dramatic effect in other parts of the Mediterranean, sometimes created using red and white stones arranged in alternating patterns. This effect was also used in Romanesque architecture.
By the 18th and 19th century, bricks and mortar were used to create a new type of voussoir. British bricklayers found they could use standard bricks by thickening vertical mortar joints to produce an arch that was sufficiently supportive.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.