Colorado State Capitol Virtual Tour

Glossary of Architectural Terms Used

Acanthus -A thistle-like plant (common to the warm Mediterranean region) whose narrow and pointed-lobed leaves, when stylized, form the characteristic decoration of the Corinthian and Composite Orders of columns.

Arch - curved structure used as a support over an open space.

Architrave - beam resting directly on the tops of columns; the bottom section of the entablature.

Baluster - any of the singular posts of a railing.

Balustrade - row of columns supporting a railing.

Bracket - A supporting member designed to carry a projecting weight. Sometimes shaped like an inverted "L" often very decorative.

Coffer - decorative sunken panel in a ceiling or dome.

Colonnade - series of columns set at regular intervals.

Column - cylindrical support consisting of base, shaft and capital.

Corinthian - the most elaborate of the three orders of Greek architecture, distinguished by a bell-shaped capital with a design of acanthus leaves.

Cornice - the top section of the entablature; a horizontal molding projecting along the top of a building or wall.

Cupola - a small dome or similar structure on a roof.

Dome - roof formed by a series of rounded arches or vaults on a round or many-sided base.

Doric - the oldest architectural style of ancient Greece; characterized by simplicity of form; fluted, heavy columns and simple capitals.

Entablature - a horizontal superstructure supported by columns and composed of architrave, frieze and cornice.

Entasis -The very slight convex (curving out) curve used on columns to correct the optical illusion of concavity (curving in) which would result if the sides were straight.

Frieze - the horizontal band forming the middle section of the entablature; usually decorated with sculpture.

Ionic - Greek style of architecture characterized by ornamental scrolls on the capitals.

Lantern - open structure on a roof or in a tower or dome that admits light and air.

Parapet - a low wall or railing on a balcony or bridge.

Pediment - a low-pitched gable or decorative triangular piece on the front of a building above a doorway or portico.

Pendentive bracket - vaulting area that serves to connect an angle of a square area enclosed by four arches with a dome resting upon the arches.

Pilaster - a rectangular support projecting slightly from a wall, treated architecturally as a column.

Portico - a porch or covered walk consisting of a roof supported by columns.

Rotunda - the round hall or room surmounted by a dome.

Vault - an arched chamber.

Vestibule - small entrance hall of a building.

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last modified June 20, 2003