There is a general lack of documentation which has been done on terra cotta production. Trends over the last several decades have shown that this industry is declining to the point where it could disappear completely. This project documents, through written descriptions and graphic illustrations, the process of terra cotta production in order to leave a record of what has been and what could be. Should the industry have a substantial resurgence to the extent that it is no longer in danger of extinction, or should general interest in the material develop further, this project will serve the purpose of an educational resource for the architect, preservationist, production industry and general public.It briefly covers the material and how it is formed, and how the way it is formed affects its limitations and durability. The project includes a history of the material from its most likely earliest applications to its current use. The history includes some of the major technological advances which have affected the material's production. A step-by-step guide to the production method involved in current terra cotta manufacture is included along with explanation of various related materials or processes which may not be commonly understood. Also included in this study is a look at the detection and correction of failures within terra cotta which is then outlined in a quick-reference tool for the preservation of terra cotta. The conclusion of the paper covers the outlook for the industry and the material along with ways for advancing both the knowledge of and desired use for terra cotta in new construction. / Department of Architecture

This project researches the history of a demolished building and its material that was later salvaged to formulate suggestions for reuse and interpretation within a new structure. The specific case examined was Indianapolis's Oscar C. McCulloch School No. Five demolished in 1986. The architectural glazed terra cotta was rescued from the wreckage and is the focus of this study.This creative project traces the historical and architectural significance of School No. Five, including a discussion on the general history of terra cotta, its use and manufacturing and construction techniques, and how it specifically applies to School No. Five.Next the salvaged terra cotta from School No. Five were assessed in an eight step process. The results of the assessment show the type and extent of deterioration observed on each piece, including a discussion on the various causes of deterioration, general repair, conservation techniques, and finally specific recommendations for the salvaged terra cotta. The project concludes with several design options and interpretations of the reconstructed facade of School No. Five. / Department of Architecture