Exedra
An exedra is a semicircular or rectangular architectural recess that has been equipped with seating. It may also be placed in a colonnade which is interrupted by the placement of a bench. The purpose of an exedra was to present seating options during conversation.
This type of structure was popular in the Hellenistic period and was also found in ancient Roman architecture. It was typically incorporated into public settings in the Ancient world.
The exedra was sometimes featured in Byzantine and Romanesque architecture, although it tended to appear in religious buildings. The exedra was also found in 18th century British gardens, where it served as an ornamental feature or folly. Some incorporated fountains or other decorative elements in their design.
[edit] Related articles in Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The benefits of writing articles for your organisation
How to create a profile for your organisation and publish for free.
No Falls Week. The importance of safe working at height
What to expect and what is on offer to avoid accidents.
Scottish Government action to reach net-zero targets
Retrofit expert group highlight critical actions needed.
A forward thinking, inclusive global community of members.
From engineered product life-spans, to their extension.
Circular economy in the built environment
A brief description from 2021. Where are we now?
Mental Health Awareness Week with ABS
Architects Benevolent Society programme of activity.
CLC publishes domestic retrofit competency framework
Roadmap of Skills for net zero.
May 13-19: Moving more for our mental health.
Understanding is key to conservation.
Open industry engagement survey seeks responses
Institutions and the importance of engagement.
National Retrofit Hub unveils new guide
Digital Building Logbooks and Retrofit: An Introduction.
Enhancing construction site reporting efficiency
Through digitisation and the digital revolution.
Noise in the built environment
BSRIA guide TG 20/2021.
17,000 people suffer conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work.
Turning down the noise: Auditory health
A pervasive risk with far-reaching consequences.
Getting the most out of heat pumps and heating
How heat pumps work and how they work best.
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.