Architectural Elements I

Standard Students will identify components related to the design process. Demonstrate an understanding of architectural and building styles.

Arcade A series of arches supported by columns or piers, either free-standing or attached to a wall.

Arch Arch is a set of wedge-shaped blocks (usually of stone) spanning an opening and to support loads from above.

Ashlar Thin, squared and finely cut stone laid horizontally on the façade of a wall

Balustrade A row of balusters (or small posts) topped by a rail, usually found on edge of stairs or roof

Bargeboard Richly decorated carved or cut-out designs that hang under a gable

Bay Window Window projecting from the wall to form an alcove of a room; usually created with 3 windows

Bonneted Window Dormer with an arched roof, normally has an arched window.

Bracket (Corbel) Wood, stone, or metal projection from a wall to support a weight; typically serves a decorative purpose

Buttress An exterior, projecting support for a wall to either strengthen it or resist a side thrust from an arch or roof

Casement Window Windows with hinges on the sides, opens outward or inward along its entire length (like a door)

Clearstory (or Clerestory) Windows between two roof levels that let in light and/or ventilation

Columns - Doric One of the oldest columns, found in classical architecture, they are the most plain of the three main types of columns

Columns - Ionic Identified by its large paired spiral scrolls and it has the tallest base of the three types of columns.  

Columns - Corinthian The most ornate, slender and sleek of the three types of columns

Cornice Molding at the top of the walls of a room, between the walls and ceiling House eaves may also be called "cornices" if they are finished with decorative molding

Cupola Small structure, usually domed, on the top of a roof for observation or decoration