Architectural Terms Beginning With "L"

Below are definitions and photographic illustrations of architectural term beginning with the letter "L".

# A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Lanai - A fully-furnished veranda used as a living room.

Lancet Arch - A pointed arch that is taller than it is wide.

Lantern - A structure on top of a room or dome, usually with windows or other openings to let in light and fresh air.

Lattice - A structure of regularly-spaced crossed wooden strips.

Layer Board - A tilted board laid next to the gutter on a sloping roof that supports the upturned edge of the gutter's plastic or metal lining.

Leader Head - The boxy top of a downspout connected to a gutter or a scupper.

Lean-to roof - A shed roof with the higher end attached to a larger building.

Linear Metal Ceiling - A drop ceiling made from narrow metal strips.

Link Dormer - A large dormer that connects two roof segments or holds a chimney.

Linoleum - A floor covering made by covering burlap or canvas with a mixture of hot linseed oil, powdered cork, rosin, and color pigments. What is commonly called "linoleum" today is actually vinyl sheet flooring.

Lintel - A load-bearing beam above a window or door.

Load-Bearing Wall - A wall that supports the weight of the structure above it.

Loggia - A colonnade inside a building's main block, usually on an upper story overlooking a courtyard or street.

Louver - An opening fitted with angled slats that allow air circulation but keep out rain and snow and provide privacy.

Louvered Ceiling - A drop ceiling with louvers shading the light sources mounted above it.

Lucarne - A dormer window set in a roof.

Lunette - The semicircular wall formed by an arch or vault, usually containing a window or painting.