Which architectural element is generally flat or low pitched and often hidden behind a cornice?

Which architectural element is generally flat or low pitched and often hidden behind a cornice?

• A. Roofs
• B. Floors
• C. Walls
• D. Ceilings

Answer: (A)

Roofs are typically flat or gently pitched and often concealed by a projecting cornice at the top of the wall. This cornice hides the edge of the roof from view, giving the building a low, horizontal silhouette that emphasizes the façade’s upper decorative line. Floors are interior horizontal planes, walls are vertical enclosures, and ceilings are interior overhead surfaces—none of these are characteristically hidden behind a cornice on the exterior. So the element described is the roof.

Roofs are typically flat or gently pitched and often concealed by a projecting cornice at the top of the wall. This cornice hides the edge of the roof from view, giving the building a low, horizontal silhouette that emphasizes the façade’s upper decorative line. Floors are interior horizontal planes, walls are vertical enclosures, and ceilings are interior overhead surfaces—none of these are characteristically hidden behind a cornice on the exterior. So the element described is the roof.