232. roof caps

Roof caps can effect the overall feeling of the building by crowning the roof, adding detail and connection to the sky. To finish buildings with a human touch, choose a natural way to cap the roof, keeping with the construction and meaning of the building, with their main function being decorative. Roof Cap examples include the pediments on Greek buildings; pinnacles of the trulli of Alberobello, the top of Japanese Shrines; the venting caps on barns. (Alexander 1977)

Alberobello, 'Pattern Language' Christopher Alexander

Alberobello

Puglia, Italy

The pinnacles on top of the trullo cone have a primitive origin as it was believed the stones fell out of the sky from the sun. This is why they are linked to the worship of the sun as the roundish head of the pinnacles is meant to represent the link with the solar sphere.

The roof caps of Alberobello are fascinating for their primitive origins. However their purpose is for mythological and religious reasons and thus replicating such decorative features in modern architecture may not have the same cultural significance. Although the roof caps of Alberobello may not improve the visual quality of today's buildings, other patterns such as Efficient Structure may be applied to enhance quality of space.

Pinnacles of Trulli