Architrave in classical architecture is the bottom part of a specific type of lintel called the entablature. It directly lies on the top of the vertical columns in a post-and-lintel structure and forms the bottom third part of an entablature.
Architraves in modern construction refer to the horizontal or vertical molding that is created around doors, windows, or other openings.
This article discusses the concept of architrave in both architecture and modern construction.
Architrave in Architecture
An entablature is a horizontal structure like a lintel with moldings, bands, and details in the upper portion of a building. The three parts of an entablature are:
- The architrave on the bottom
- The frieze in the middle
- The cornice on top
The main purpose of architrave elements in an entablature is to secure the stability of a structure. It lies directly above the vertical columns and forms the foundation of the entablature.
Architrave in the Modern Construction Industry
Architrave is an internal molding used to surround doors, windows, or other openings to conceal the joints between the walls or ceilings enclosing the opening. They are used to give the house openings a finished look.
Image Credits: Skirting Online
In most cases, the gap is left between the plasterboard and window or door framings to allow the building materials to expand and contract during temperature variations. These gaps are perfectly covered without defying the purpose for which they were provided.
Architraves can be made from hardwood, softwood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and other timber styles. MDF architraves are used in buildings susceptible to extreme hot or cold temperatures. The less common materials used for architraves are PVC, rubber, aluminum, and ceramic tiles.
These are not structurally necessary as they do not support a window or door frame.
Functions of Architraves in Building Openings
- Architraves conceal the joint between the wall and casing within the door, giving them a finished look.
- They permit any possible shrinkage movement between the wall and the opening.
- To provide extra depth to the design of a window.
Types of Architraves for Windows & Doors
| Architrave Styles | Description |
| Ogee |  |
| Torus |  |
| Bullnose |  |
| Chamfered |  |
| Pencil |  |
| Square Edge |  |
All architrave products are specified based on width, depth, and length per pack. The width specifies the thickness of the architrave running around the door, the depth specifies the thickness projecting out of the wall, and the length specifies the perimeter of the architrave around the door.
FAQs
Architrave in classical architecture is the bottom part of a specific type of lintel called the entablature. It directly lies on the top of the vertical columns in a post-and-lintel structure and forms the bottom third part of an entablature.
The main functions of architraves in building openings are
1. Architraves conceal the joint between the wall and casing within the door, giving them a finished look.
2. They permit any possible shrinkage movement between the wall and the opening.
3. They provide extra depth to the design of a window.
The different styles of architraves available for doors are ogee, torus, pencil, bullnose, chamfered and square edge.
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