Architectural Structural Elements - Arches, ceilings, columns, and windows

SRD

Architectural Structural Elements

Many of the differentiations between historical periods are in architectural structural elements. Among the main elements are arches, ceilings, columns, and windows. The integration of these architectural structural elements provides insight into the focus of variations in style and method.

Arches

Arches are a common type of architectural structural element originally used in underground structures such as tombs, drains, and vaults. The first recorded use of the arch was in the Indus Valley around 2500bc. The arch was used because of its strong design able to bear enormous loads. In general an arch is a semi-circular design of odd number parts coming to an apex at the keystone where the majority of the weight is applied. 2000 years after its first use the arch was brought above ground by the Greeks and Romans. The common uses were doorways and bridges. There are a number of arch styles including triangular, round, segmental, rampant, lancet, inflexed, and a number of others.

Ceilings

The ceiling is another important architectural structural element serving both the need for cover and stability as well as aesthetics. There are a number of ceiling styles including domed, cathedral, dropped, and coffered. Cathedral ceilings are any ceiling that is a term that refers to any high ceiling. A dropped ceiling tends to be constructed below the apex of the structure typically for aesthetics or for piping and ventilation. Coffered ceilings are barrel shaped ceilings divided into various panels typically for acoustics or aesthetics.

Columns

Columns are a common architectural structural element used for support as well as decoration. The first use of columns was in ancient Egypt beginning around 2500bc. The main categories of columns are divided into what are termed orders. There are five major orders including Doric, Tuscan, Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite. Columns can be erected as a single piece or in components. The Doric and Tuscan columns are similar and are the most common structural columns being basic cylindrical structures. Ionic columns tend to incorporate a fluted shaft and a scroll top. Corinthian columns are typically thinner and are more aesthetic than weight bearing with leaves carved in the top. Composites are a mix between Ionic and Corinthian columns.

Windows

There are a variety of window styles used as architectural structural elements that serve a number of purposes including airflow, increased light, and decoration. Common windows in the United States and Europe are sash windows. These overlap slightly at the edges so that they can be opened and closed. Some windows are in place mainly for light including bay and picture windows, skylights, and oriel windows. For decorative purposes stained glass can be used and this is found mostly in churches and cathedrals.

There are other architectural structural elements not mentioned here and a number of other variations of each of the aforementioned. Each culture and time period differentiates itself utilizing one or all of these elements.