Oriel
Rise and shine with this upper-level window that comes in many shapes
An oriel, or oriel window, is a type of bay window that is located at an upper floor of a building. An oriel projects from and is attached to the side of the building and has no supporting foundation. Rather, an oriel typically looks as if it is supported by brackets. An oriel can be just about any shape, from a box to a circle.
Interestingly, the Western oriel is thought to originate from the Arabic mashrabiya, which is a traditional upper-level projection over the street below, forming a place from which to view the street in safety and without being seen.
Interestingly, the Western oriel is thought to originate from the Arabic mashrabiya, which is a traditional upper-level projection over the street below, forming a place from which to view the street in safety and without being seen.
An oriel can be circular in shape and provide protection from the weather when placed at a home's entrance. Whatever the shape, an oriel typically contrasts with the main house structure in material and color.
An oriel can be shaped as a box bay and supported by brackets. While the stone structure of this main house speaks to permanence and solidity, the wood structure of the oriel appears impermanent and transitory. The oriel gives the home the appearance of a history.
An oriel can be large and made of masonry to evoke a grand past. Because an oriel can be such a distinctive element, it can draw attention to the entrance of the home when located nearby.