Clerestory Architecture

November 15, 2024 Post a Comment

Clerestory architecture

clerestory, in architecture, any fenestrated (windowed) wall of a room that is carried higher than the surrounding roofs to light the interior space. In a large building, where interior walls are far from the structure's exterior walls, this method of lighting otherwise enclosed, windowless spaces became a necessity.

What does a clerestory look like?

Clerestory (pronounced “clear-story”) windows are large windows placed above eye level to illuminate an interior space with natural light. They're typically placed in a row right below the roofline, but they can also sit above roof lines or overhangs to maximize the amount of light in a given space.

What is the difference between a clerestory window and a transom window?

Interior transom windows are built over a door, while clerestory windows sit within a wall above eye level. In both cases, they allow inhabitants to retain privacy behind a closed door or wall while allowing natural light to flow in.

Why did Egyptians use clerestory windows?

One of the architectural solutions was the use of clerestory windows. In the temple's hypostyle hall, the raised central nave was lined with grilled windows. The high openings (280 feet above the hall's floor) allowed sunlight to enter the hall, while maintaining the privacy and secrecy of the space.

Which way should a clerestory face?

Clerestory windows should face north or south, depending on your climate. When facing east or west, it's because they're on every wall. Also, south-facing clerestories require overhangs. North-facing windows will receive less light but won't overheat a room.

Where did clerestory originate?

Ancient world The technology of the clerestory appears to originate in the temples of ancient Egypt. The term "clerestory" is applicable to Egyptian temples, where the lighting of the hall of columns was obtained over the stone roofs of the adjoining aisles, through gaps left in the vertical slabs of stone.

Why do old houses have windows above doors?

Transoms historically were used to allow passage of air and light between rooms even when doors were shut. They make perfect sense in row houses, which typically have long, narrow floor plans with windows only at the front and back.

What is that overhang above windows called?

An awning or overhang is a secondary covering attached to the exterior wall of a building.

Why do old houses have small windows?

Those panels of glass you'll still find on old homes are called transom doors. Their main purpose was to let in natural light in the front hallways and interior rooms before electricity became the norm. Today, they still allow in natural light, but they're more aesthetic than functional.

What is the key disadvantage of clerestory windows?

Clerestory windows – like roof windows or skylights – can cause serious overheating and heat loss problems - much more than common windows. Clerestory windows can have a negative trade-off. They can be a source of energy loss (even with the best glazing) and can produce unexpected glare and overheating.

Should clerestory windows face north or south?

Clerestory windows are ideal for providing daylighting and warmth in rooms where natural daylight and solar heat would otherwise not be available. Clerestories help to even out interior temperatures and give north facing or interior spaces rich, natural daylighting that is typically enjoyed only in south facing rooms.

What do you call the roof over the aisles below the clerestory?

triforium, in architecture, space in a church above the nave arcade, below the clerestory, and extending over the vaults, or ceilings, of the side aisles.

Who first introduced clerestory?

One of the most important designers was American architect Frank Lloyd Wright who introduced them into modern homes.

What is a row of arches called?

arcade, in architecture, a series of arches carried by columns or piers, a passageway between arches and a solid wall, or a covered walkway that provides access to adjacent shops.

Why was Egyptian art so flat?

If an artist were to use a three-dimensional perspective to render human proportions in a realistic scene with a foreground and background, it would go against this principle. The other reason for depicting many objects on a flat, two-dimensional plane is that it aids the creation of a visual narrative.

How tall should clerestory windows be?

What is the recommended height for clerestory windows? In terms of clerestory window dimensions, there are no set rules. The height of a 2' x 2' window may keep the glare inside the room down, even if it's small, letting in plenty of natural light.

Is it better for windows to face east or west?

North-facing windows receive the least light and are the weakest and coolest. East-facing windows receive light in the morning and are weak and cool. West-facing windows receive light in the afternoon and are strong and hot.

Why are south-facing windows better?

When it is cold outside, south-facing windows are awesome. They help keep the entire house snug and warm and let in tons of light. In fact, south-facing windows are best for daylighting. They let in the light all day long, and don't have as many problems with glare and heat as east- and west-facing windows.