Glossary of Architecture - A

A

Aisle

subsidiary space alongside the body of a building, separated from it by columns, piers, or posts.

Apron

1. raised panel below a window or wall monument or tablet.

2. open portion of a marine terminal immediately adjacent to a vessel berth, used in the direct transfer of cargo between the vessel and the terminal.

3. concrete slab immediately outside a vehicular door or passageway used to limit the wear on asphalt paving due to repetitive turning movements.

Apse

vaulted semicircular or polygonal end of a chancel or chapel.

Arcade

passage or walkway covered over by a succession of arches or vaults supported by columns. Blind arcade or arcading: the same applied to the wall surface.

Arch

a curved structure capable of spanning a space while supporting significant weight.

Architrave

formalized lintel, the lowest member of the classical entablature. Also the moulded frame of a door or window (often borrowing the profile of a classical architrave).

Arris

sharp edge where two surfaces meet at an angle.

Articulation

articulation is the manner or method of jointing parts such that each part is clear and distinct in relation to the others, even though joined.

Ashlar

masonry of large blocks cut with even faces and square edges.

Atrium

(plural: atria) inner court of a Roman or C20 house; in a multi-story building, a toplit covered court rising through all stories.

Attic

small top storey within a roof. The storey above the main entablature of a classical façade.