architecture quiz

Gable Roof

A roof with 2 sloping sides that meet in the middle (creates a triangle shape called a gable)

Hip Roof

A roof with four sloping sides (creates a pyramid shape)

Cartouche

A panel/tablet used for an inscription or coat of arms

Clerestory Windows

A window/group of windows placed high on a wall (often b/t 2 roof levels)

Cornice/Cornice Eave

The part of the roof that extends out from the wall (overhang)

double hung windows

windows with both an upper and lower movable sash

Cantilever

Projected construction (ex a beam/slab/etc.) jutting out of a wall; only fastened at one end

Parapet

a portion of wall that extends above the roof (think medieval castle)

mullion

A horizontal/vertical divider between sections of a window (large)

muntin

A horizontal/vertical divider between sections of a window (smaller divisions)

Casing

The metal/plastic/wood etc. trim around a door

Jamb

The vertical portions of the casing i.e. the "sides"

threshhold

the raised part of a doorway on the bottom

Retaining Wall

A masonry wall supported at the top and bottom, designed to resist soil loads (not always supported @ top)

Soffit

a lowered ceiling, typically found in kitchens, halls, and bathrooms, to allow for recessed lighting or HVAC ducts

Tread

The flat, horizontal part of the step you "step" on

nosing

the rounded projection of the tread that extends past the face of the riser

riser

the vertical member of stairs between treads

Balustrade

the system of railings and balusters that prevents people from falling over the edge

banister

the handrail beside a stairway (part you hold onto)

Baluster

the smaller vertical posts that hold the banister up.

Newel

The end post of a stair railing, typically larger and taller than the baluster.

spandrel

the triangular space beneath the stairs

stringer

the diagonal structural member that supports the stairs (treads and risers)

Landing

The horizontal/flat area in between/at the end of staircases.