|
Architectural Cupola
 Cupolas have been fixtures on buildings for hundreds of years. Although early American architecture is often cited as one of the sources of modern cupolas, these small towers have been found on European castles. Regardless of time period or location, however, architectural cupolas have often been large enough to allow at least a single individual to walk inside and look out. In a sense, such architectural cupolas are essentially lookout points on castles and homes. Over the past 100 years, however, cupolas evolved from functional into ornamental, and while they are still incorporated into the architecture of some buildings, they are often installed separately onto roofs at a later date.
In terms of practical uses for cupolas, these small towers, which could be as tall as eight feet in some cases, were added to coastal homes in the 18th and 19th centuries in the United States. Originally built with windows and used as lookout points, such architectural cupolas were eventually added to inland homes as vents for air circulation. Perhaps considered an early precursor to modern air conditioners, such cupolas were built into the roofs of homes and matched the rest of the structure. In the present, however, architects looking to go green with their properties will add one or more cupolas for this purpose.
In the present, and for a significant portion of the 20th century, cupolas became ornamental and shut off from the interior of the structure. While symbols of ascent and success, cupolas now need to be installed directly onto the roof of a building. Available in vinyl or wood and topped with a copper roof, cupolas from HG Lifestyle simply need to be angled correctly and mounted to the tops of any homes, barns, or sheds. With the appearance of architectural cupolas, our fixtures can blend in with your home or structure.
Back to 'Articles' Page
|
