Architectural Terminology
Kamryn Higdem
Arch
A curved symmetrical structure spanning an opening and typically supporting the weight of a bridge, roof, or wall above it.
Chair rail
A molding on a wall around a room to protect the wall from being damaged by the backs of chairs.
Portico
A structure consisting of a roof supported by columns at regular intervals, typically attached as a porch to a building.
Stucco
Fine plaster used for coating wall surfaces or molding into architectural decorations.
Chimney
A vertical channel or pipe that conducts smoke and combustion gases up from a fire or furnace and typically through the roof of a building.
Eaves
The part of a roof that meets or overhangs the walls of a building.
Finial
A distinctive ornament at the apex of a roof, pinnacle, canopy, or similar structure in a building.
Frieze
A broad horizontal band of sculpted or painted decoration, especially on a wall near the ceiling.
Molding
An ornamentally shaped outline as an architectural feature, especially in a cornice.
Pediment
The triangular upper part of the front of a building in classical style, typically surmounting a portico of columns.
Pillar
A tall vertical structure of stone, wood, or metal, used as a support for a building, or as an ornament or monument.
Tower
A tall narrow building, either freestanding or forming part of a building such as a church or castle.
Column
An upright pillar, typically cylindrical and made of stone or concrete, supporting an entablature, arch, or other structure or standing alone as a monument.
Cupola
A small dome, especially a small dome on a drum on top of a larger dome, adorning a roof or ceiling.
Facade
The face of a building, especially the principal front that looks onto a street or open space.
Lintel
A horizontal support of timber, stone, concrete, or steel across the top of a door or window.
Rafters
One of several internal beams extending from the eaves to the peak of a roof and constituting its framework.
Transom light
A crosspiece separating a door or the like from a window or fanlight above it.