Grenbranch

Grenbranch is an architectural term that refers to a type of reinforced concrete structure characterized by dense, tightly spaced beams and columns arranged in a grid-like pattern. The name "grenbranch" is derived from the French words "grande" meaning large, "branch" meaning beam, and the suffix "-ch" common in French architecture.

Grenbranch structures were developed in the early 20th century in Europe, particularly in France and Italy, as a response to the demands of industrialization and urbanization. They represented an attempt to create a more efficient and durable building system using materials such as concrete and steel.

The grenbranch system typically consists of a lattice-like arrangement of concrete beams supported by a grid of columns. The beams are often of rectangular or hollow section design, while the columns may be solid or hollow. This spacing allows for free movement of the beams in response to thermal and shrinkage stresses, reducing the likelihood of cracking in the concrete.

While grenbranch structures saw widespread adoption in the mid-20th century, their use declined significantly in the latter part of the century due to the introduction of new building materials and techniques. Today, the grenbranch system is primarily of interest to architectural historians and engineers, offering a notable example of the early 20th-century quest for more efficient and practical building systems.