Oriel Windows Have Early Gothic Roots

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Windows can serve many practical purposes: bringing in light, controlling ventilation, and assisting with temperature control. The other important aspect of windows is the design and character they can bring to a building.

Oriel Window Background

Take the oriel window, for example. The origins of the unique oriel window can be traced all the way back to 1327, when it graced the front of Oriel College in Oxford. The college, which was obviously named after the window, was known for its unusual architectural feature. The shape of the oriel bay allowed students to bask in its comfort while observing the world outside.

Distinct Appearance

The oriel window has gothic roots and has been a distinct way to bring style to a building since the early 14th century.  From the bay family, the oriel projects from the side of a building in the shape of a half-prism. Normally, it consists of three panes, with the top and bottom meeting in a peak.

Purchasing Your Own Oriels

Oriel windows have been a design favorite for hundreds of years. What better way to add something so unusual than through a unique window? You can work one into any area of your home, but they will definitely be most appreciated in a prominent location. Include a window seat to maximize the effect. Most window manufacturers offer the option of purchasing an oriel window. Even if not readily available, they have the ability to be custom built. In most cases, such a window must be custom-built because of its unusual dimensions.

As with most custom windows, installing an oriel window requires a fair amount of skill. Be sure your contractor has experience in this area to ensure a quality installation. Request free estimates from prescreened window contractors in your area today.

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