What is the Side of a Building Called

The facade of a building, often referred to as its "side," is the outer surface or walls that form the structure's exterior. This term is commonly used in architecture and construction, providing a clear understanding of the building's appearance and design from various angles.

However, when speaking about a specific side of a building, architects and others in the industry may use more precise terms to describe its different faces. These precise terms can help avoid confusion, particularly when discussing complex structures with numerous sides or those with unique layouts.

Identifying the Sides of a Building

To accurately identify the sides of a building, consider the structure's layout, orientation, and cardinal directions. Though the process can vary, the following points provide a general guideline.

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Think of a building as having four primary sides, corresponding to the four cardinal directions: north, south, east, and west. These sides are often referred to as elevations, with each elevation representing a view of the building from one of these directions.

North Elevation

The north elevation of a building is the side facing toward the geographical north. It receives minimal direct sunlight throughout the day, making it a shady area that often remains cool even on hot days. This elevation is commonly used for shaded outdoor spaces, such as patios or gardens.

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North elevations can also be an opportunity for architectural elements like climbing plants or exterior art installations, which can add visual interest and contrast to the building's appearance.

South Elevation

The south elevation faces toward the geographical south and receives the most direct sunlight throughout the day. This orientation can be particularly useful for buildings designed to harness solar energy, such as those with solar panels or passive solar heating systems.

Careful consideration should be given to the building's design and the management of heat gain, as south elevations can become quite warm. Strategic use of shading devices, like overhangs or louvers, can help mitigate discomfort and energy loss.

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Additional Sides and Special Considerations

Beyond the primary north, south, east, and west elevations, some buildings may have additional sides or special considerations that require specific terminology.

For instance, a building with a central courtyard or atrium may have an inner elevation, which surrounds this internal space. Similarly, buildings with unique shapes or multi-story structures might have inner elevations that face inward toward a central core or an adjacent building.

East and West Elevations

East and west elevations experience a mix of solar exposure, with direct sunlight in the morning or afternoon, respectively. These sides can be ideal for overhanging balconies or shaded outdoor spaces, providing pleasant areas for occupants to enjoy throughout the day.

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East and west elevations may also benefit from thoughtful design strategies to manage sunlight and heat gain. For example, buildings facing east may employ exterior shades or reflective surfaces to mitigate the strong morning light, while those facing west might incorporate overhangs or deciduous trees to provide shade during the hottest part of the day.

Special Angles and Protrusions

Some buildings may have unique shapes, sloped roofs, or protrusions that create additional sides or angles. In these cases, architects and builders may refer to these unique elevations by their specific orientation or angle. For example, a roof overhang might be identified as the "southeast corner" or a sloped wall as the "northeast facade."

Precise identification of these special angles and protrusions can be crucial for accurate construction, proper installation of mechanical systems, and maintaining code compliance.

Understanding the terminology associated with a building's sides and elevations can significantly enhance communication among architects, builders, and other stakeholders. By using clear, consistent language, project teams can ensure the successful realization of their designs and the creation of successful, well-integrated buildings. As always, specific project requirements and local regulations may influence the use of certain terms and design considerations.