Recreating Saracen Chimneys using modern cutting techniques

Saracen chimneys are a real eye-catcher, whether seen as remnants of fierce warriors or the joyful creations of artistic masons. 

From the ground, their sculpted "mitres" look distant and out of reach. Like miniature models of sacred or symbolic buildings, they resemble abbey steeples or castle towers rising behind the rooftops, blending into the distant horizon.  

But once you reach them through the roof, their true nature is revealed: complex, heavy, and imposing architectural forms. 

The Feux semblant project, created for the Campagne Première collective exhibition in Revonnas, drew inspiration from the architectural language of Saracen fireplaces. Using modern construction techniques such as timber-framed walls and waterjet cut bricks. It blended tradition and contemporaneity to create a complex yet captivating structure. 

The structure adopted the design language of industrial chimneys; ventilation grilles, metal bands, a solid base, conical shaft, and crown. At the same time, it echoed the look of Saracen fireplaces and the large suspended pyramidal hoods typical of Bresse farmhouses. 

‘We are delighted to be part of this unique project where we produced precise openings in the bricks using waterjet cutting technology and GMA ClassicCut™, while preserving the integrity of the material, Morgane Bliguet from Ciba Ouary said.  

‘During the cutting process, we adjusted the cutting speed according to the height of the bricks and the cavity positions.’ 

‘Be sure to wear earplugs. The noise caused by the resonance in the brick cavities is extremely loud!’