definition
strict definition
special distinction
A generic or civic designation conferred on an object which places it in some special class.
A special distinction is a classification of an object as belonging to some narrow or elite class. Unlike an award or recognition conferred by a private person or organization, its application is generic and derives from either public recognition or its own inferred status.
The distinction follows a publicly recognized or inherent status. It can concern a civic designation or a characteristic such as the intended portability of the construction.
An award bestowed by a private person or organization has a different basis. A special distinction need not result from an award competition or selection by a private jury.
More specific definitions
11 sub-definitions-
UNESCO landmark
A structure inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site or belonging to a larger site on that list. -
design competition winner
A building or plan whose architectural design was selected as the winner of a competition with multiple entries. -
landmark status
Official government protection of a built object for its public value, with legal force varying by locality. -
portable construction
An object built with the intentional possibility of relocation to different sites. -
prefabricated
A construction method in which a structure is assembled quickly from large components manufactured off-site. -
religious distinction
A recognized designation of a religious site within a religious hierarchy or classification system. -
replica
A structure which is a clear or acknowledged re-use of a design previously built elsewhere. -
temporarily closed to the public
A place that is normally open to the public but is currently not accessible. -
temporary construction
A built object whose eventual demolition or other destruction is already intended when it is constructed. -
twin building
A structure whose appearance is almost identical to that of a neighboring structure. -
well known
An object that is widely recognized for its architecture, visibility, popularity, or historical reasons.
Related definitions
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architectural property
A particular physical element or characteristic belonging to a structure, usually distinct from its overall form. -
green feature
A special property of a structure which contributes to its energy efficiency or environmental sustainability. -
mechanical feature
Components of a structure's mechanical systems that improve usability, comfort, safety, or internal transportation. -
ornamental feature
Integral decorative elements of a structure's design, including functional elements shaped for aesthetic purposes. -
policy
Rules, permissions, prohibitions, or requested behaviors governing use of a property or part of it. -
public amenity
A feature of a structure which benefits the public at large, and does not only serve its own tenants. -
safety feature
Permanent characteristics or installed amenities protecting an object, its occupants, users, or immediate surroundings. -
tenant amenity
A feature of a structure designated for the benefit of its tenants or customers. -
transportation feature
A feature that enhances an object's connection to any kind of external transportation network or route. -
unit amenity
Features enjoyed privately within individual building units, distinct from shared tenant or public amenities.