Putting the Arch in Architecture

 The use of arches in architecture has existed for centuries, and can be dated all the way back to the 2nd millennium B.C.! It started with the Romans who incorporated arches into their buildings both for aesthetic purposes and as an engineering element. Since then, many different cultures have used arches in their building designs. It’s more than safe to say the arch has taken on a somewhat iconic status in the world of architecture over the years. 

Today, many homes and businesses incorporate arches into their design, as it’s certainly a classic, timeless look that commands attention. If you’d like to know how you can incorporate arches in your home, or design arches for your business, our architects in NJ can help. Working with an architect helps you understand the art of the possible, and architects have experience with many different design styles and can recommend what will look and work best in your space. 

How to Incorporate Arches in Your Home 

  • Front doorways: An arched front doorway looks elegant and classic. And even though arched front doorways may conjure up images of big mansions, they can actually work well with many different sizes and styles of homes. 
  • Windows: Arched windows are often tall and allow for a lot of natural light, which is desirable for both homes and businesses. They’re also eye-catching because they’re different from traditionally-shaped rectangle windows, and you can incorporate interesting colors in the window trim. 
  • Doors: An arched front door is a refreshing change from a typical rectangular front door. Depending on the style of your home and your existing entryway, adding an arched front door can be a somewhat easy project and can be done quickly. 

How to Design Arches for Your Business

If you’re a business owner who wants to design arches for the outside or the interior of your business, there are several ways that commercial architects can incorporate archesthroughout:

  • Arched open doorways: You’ll see this most commonly in restaurants, where you go from one room to the next through an open arch with no actual door. It’s seamless, chic, and sophisticated and it’s a great choice for restaurants and cafes with multiple rooms. 
  • Large arched windows: Always opt for as much natural light as possible, and as mentioned above, arched windows allow for the maximum amount of light to get in. Libraries, shopping malls, classrooms, and many other businesses can benefit from large arched windows.
  • A “false wall” with arches: Many businesses are working with limited space, and in that case an architect can create a false wall featuring several arches. Think of it as an accent wall, but instead of a different color it has a row of arches going across. It’s a fun way to decorate your space a little differently. 

For more information about how to use arches in your home or business, or if you have any other renovation questions, please contact our team at Seth A. Leeb Architect or visit our website at: https://leeb-architecture.com/

This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/putting-the-arch-in-architecture/

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