Clerestory
A clerestory is a type of window that is usually found at or near the roof line. It often takes the form of a band of windows across the tops of buildings that allow natural light in without compromising privacy or security.
In Roman architecture, clerestories were often used to light large halls where the interior walls were far apart from the structure’s exterior walls. Semi-circular windows were often built above the side roofs using groined vaults.
While clerestories were common features during the Roman and Gothic periods of architecture, they are still found today in large buildings such as halls, train stations, gymnasiums, and so on. In domestic buildings, they may take the form of a narrow band of windows along the top of a wall.
NB Short Guide, Scottish traditional shopfronts, published, on 18 April 2017 by Historic Environment Scotland, defines a clerestory as the: ‘Upper part of a shop window which may be decorated with stained or painted glass or opaque glass. May also be used for display of names or products.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The act of preservation may sometimes be futile.
Twas the site before Christmas...
A rhyme for the industry and a thankyou to our supporters.
Plumbing and heating systems in schools
New apprentice pay rates coming into effect in the new year
Addressing the impact of recent national minimum wage changes.
EBSSA support for the new industry competence structure
The Engineering and Building Services Skills Authority, in working group 2.
Notes from BSRIA Sustainable Futures briefing
From carbon down to the all important customer: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
Principal Designer: A New Opportunity for Architects
ACA launches a Principal Designer Register for architects.
A new government plan for housing and nature recovery
Exploring a new housing and infrastructure nature recovery framework.
Leveraging technology to enhance prospects for students
A case study on the significance of the Autodesk Revit certification.
Fundamental Review of Building Regulations Guidance
Announced during commons debate on the Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 report.
CIAT responds to the updated National Planning Policy Framework
With key changes in the revised NPPF outlined.
Councils and communities highlighted for delivery of common-sense housing in planning overhaul
As government follows up with mandatory housing targets.