What is the life expectancy of the structures we build today using modern materials and methods?

Reinforced concrete structures are typically designed for a service life of about 50 years, extendable to around 70 years with good detailing, construction quality, and maintenance. Steel and post-tensioned systems, while efficient, require stricter maintenance and may have comparable or shorter service lives depending on exposure.

In contrast, many structures built by our forefathers have stood for centuries—some for more than a thousand years. Examples include the Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, Hagia Sophia, and the Taj Mahal. These structures reflect a deep understanding of material behavior, geometry, and durability.

This raises a fundamental question: why are modern structures limited in lifespan, while historic masonry structures continue to perform over centuries?

At Nandadeep, this is addressed through research and technical consultancy focused on arches, vaults, and domes (AVD) using stone (or brick) masonry and hydraulic lime mortar. The approach is based on compression-only structural systems, where stability is achieved through geometry, not reinforcement.

Following are selected AVD and stone masonry projects designed by Nandadeep: