Skeuomorphism
Skeuomorphism is a Greek term that refers to a design or structural element that is used ornamentally where it previously served a functional purpose.
Skeuomorphs can be deliberately used or may be the result of subtle cultural influences on design. A common example is the use of an envelope icon to represent emails. In terms of construction, common skeuomorphs include the use of plastic to resemble timber, and the use of vinyl sheets that are designed to resemble timber or stone flooring.
One of the earliest examples comes from Greek architecture, when construction made the transition from timber to masonry. Many Greek timber buildings featured ceiling rafters which would protrude from the top of the exterior. When starting to build with stone, the architects carved details that were intended to mimic the protruding rafters. Instead of serving a functional purpose, the intention was purely to provide a familiar aesthetic. In later years, Roman architects adopted the stone protrusions and called them dentils which can still be found in contemporary buildings.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Specifying rendered external wall insulation for fire safety
How to interrogate the evidence provided to the specifier.
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.