English Pro: Architectural Vocabulary

Key Vocabulary Terms

1. Facade

• Definition: Front exterior of a building
• Features: Often includes decorative elements, faces the street

2. Roofline

• Definition: Outline or shape of the roof from the ground
• Details: Where the roof edge meets the property wall

3. Eaves

• Definition: Part of the roof overhanging the property wall
• Function: Provides shelter, protection, and sometimes shade

4. Gable

• Definition: Triangular upper part of a wall at the end of a pitched roof
• Roof Type: Pitched (pointed or peaked)

5. Balcony

• Definition: Platform projecting from the wall of a building
• Common Locations: Often found in apartment buildings
• Features: Usually has a balustrade or railing

6. Portico

• Definition: Covered entrance with a roof supported by columns
• Styles: Found in classic, modern, Victorian, or colonial revival houses

7. Frieze

• Definition: Decorative horizontal band below the roof
• Common Locations: Found on ancient buildings like temples in Greece and Egypt

8. Cornice

• Definition: Decorative molding or projection crowning the top of a building or wall

9. Pillar/Column

• Definition: Vertical support holding up part of a building or structure
• Materials: Stone, wood, or metal
• Function: Often a decorative feature

10. Archway

• Definition: Curved or pointed opening in a wall
• Function: Supports the structure above
• History: Used since the second millennium BC

11. Windowsill

• Definition: Horizontal base at the bottom of a window opening

12. Sash Window

• Definition: Window with two movable panels that slide vertically

13. Dormer Window

• Definition: Window projecting vertically out from a sloping roof

14. Skylight

• Definition: Window set in a roof or ceiling
• Function: Allows natural light to enter

15. Parapet

• Definition: Low protective wall or railing along the edge of a roof, balcony, or terrace

16. Steeple

• Definition: Tall pointed structure on a roof (commonly found on churches)
• Symbolism: Points to Heaven

17. Foundation

• Definition: Solid base that supports the entire building
• Function: Prevents settling

18. Gutter

• Definition: Trough at the edge of the roof
• Function: Collects and channels rainwater away from the building

Conclusion

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