Breaking ground
Breaking ground is a phrase often used to describe the start of a project. The expression originates from around the 1670s where it was used more literally to mean to dig or plough the ground to plant or seed. From the 1700's it began to be used more figuratively as an idiom to express the commencement of a plan.
Breaking new ground, in a similar way might be used to describe any form of innovation as opposed to a specifically physical intervention, such as breaking new ground in scientific discovery.
In terms of construction the phrase can be used more formally to express the start of a construction project. In this context it may be accompanied by a celebration, where key stakeholders of a project might use a shovel to ceremoniously dig the soil on a construction site to mark the official start of their building project.
Breaking ground in a construction project may also have significance contractually as various building permissions such as planning permission would normally be in place. It marks the start on the construction phase of a project.
At the other end of a building project procurement process one might come across the term topping-out, which is sometimes also a ceremonial occasion that marks the completion of a construction project.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.