definition
strict definition
ornamental rail
A building's architectural summit formed by a decorative roof or ridge fence, normally of metal.
An ornamental rail is a decorative fence along a ridge or on a roof. It is normally made of metal, and is distinguished from a balustrade which is a sculpted railing made of masonry.
The fence can run along a ridge or elsewhere on the roof. It must form the highest architectural element to describe the building's summit.
A balustrade has closely spaced molded posts and is a separate form. The ornamental rail is normally metal, although that material is not stated as mandatory.
Related definitions
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architectural framework
A building summit formed by an open arrangement of decorative beams, trusses, or poles integral to the architecture. -
architectural signage
A building summit formed by an advertising feature that belongs to the architectural design. -
balustrade
A building summit formed by an ornamental railing of closely spaced molded posts, typically stone but also other materials. -
cornice
A building summit formed by a projecting lip, usually overhanging the edge of a roof or setback. -
emblem
A building summit formed by a meaningful symbol used as an architectural adornment. -
finial
A building summit formed by a vertical decorative post, small spire, or sculpted element on a ridge or edge. -
flat roofplate
A building summit formed by a flat roof plate without a projecting edge lip, parapet, or higher architectural feature. -
lantern
A building summit formed by an architectural light fixture or lantern pavilion, excluding utility warning lights. -
masonry chimney
A building summit formed by a masonry-enclosed passage for steam, smoke, or other gas. -
parapet
A building summit formed by a small projecting wall along a roof or setback edge, with a straight or irregular ridgeline. -
projecting wall
A building's highest architectural element formed by a vertical or diagonal slab projecting above its roof. -
roof peak
A building summit formed by the narrowing of an enclosed space at a point or a line. -
sculpture
A building summit formed by a three-dimensional artwork belonging to the architectural design. -
spire
A generally unoccupiable upright decorative element, sharp or blunt, forming a building's architectural summit. -
suspension beam
A building summit formed by a raised beam from which suspension cables are held. -
weathervane
A building's architectural summit formed by a decorative feature that rotates to indicate wind direction.