Spandrel (Noun)
Meaning
An approximately triangular surface area between two adjacent arches and the horizontal plane above them.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- The architect carefully designed the spandrel to complement the rest of the building's facade.
- In Gothic architecture, the spandrel is often decorated with intricate carvings or ornate plasterwork.
- The construction team focused on reinforcing the spandrel area to support the entire arched structure.
- As the light shone through the windows, the spandrel cast a unique triangular shadow on the floor below.
- The spandrel on this particular bridge design helped to reduce the overall stress on the arches during strong winds.