Victorian Roof Terminology

A series or row of arches.

Victorian roof terminology. In the united states second empire or mansard was a victorian style popular from the 1860s through the 1880s. The highest pointed part of a gable. Roof shapes differ greatly from region to region. The italianate style has its origins in the picturesque movement of the uk an idea built around creating buildings fully in sync with their natural surrounds.

Usages vary slightly from region to region or from one builder or architect to another. Complex roof lines became the rage as architects worked to create designs that would pull the eye to the top of the house. New siding materials and ornate trim pieces gave way to fancier home designs. Characterized by its romantic vibe high square towers low roofs wide eaves and decorative brackets the style is heavily influenced by the italian renaissance hence no doubt its name.

The lowest part of the entablature the term is also commonly used to describe a moulded surround to a door or window opening. The main factors which influence the shape of roofs are the climate and the materials available for roof structure and the outer covering. Carved brackets at the eaves were common. Glossary of architectural terms.

Roof shapes became steeper in victorian homes. For this reason older buildings were often remodeled with mansard roofs. Today mansard style roofs are occasionally used in one and two story apartment buildings restaurants and neo eclectic houses.