Oriel windows are upper-story bay windows that project outward, creating extra interior space suspended above the street and typically supported by corbels, brackets, or small columns. They originated as architectural elements in historic styles such as Tudor and provided practical cooling by capturing breezes to improve airflow before mechanical air conditioning. Oriel projections add a sculptural element to a facade, break up flat walls, and increase visual interest, making a home feel more grand and architectural. Inside, an oriel creates a cozy niche for seating, reading, or people-watching, enhancing both function and curb appeal.
In short, oriel windows are a type of bay window that projects outward from the upper stories of a building. Unlike a traditional bay window, which extends all the way down to the ground, oriel windows are suspended above the street or yard, usually supported by corbels (a type of architectural bracing), brackets, or small columns. Think of them as a room's extra pocket of space that just happens to hang off the side of the house.
'Oriel windows stand out because the visual statement they make on a home's exterior is unmatched by flat windows,' says Isfira Jensen, CEO and principal interior designer at Jensen & Co. Interiors, a New York City-based design firm. 'Their projection on the facade [of a home] adds a sculptural touch to the exterior because, unlike standard windows, they break up flat walls. This creates visual interest and makes a home feel more grand and architectural.'
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