Question
what were the three levels to a clerestory
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A clerestory is an architectural feature used in large buildings, particularly in churches and cathedrals, to allow natural light to illuminate the interior. While the term itself does not refer to a specific structure with three defined levels, it can be understood in terms of the general arrangement and components involved in clerestory design:
1. **Lower Level (Nave or Main Space):** This is the primary area where the congregation gathers in a church or the central area of a building. The clerestory windows are placed high above the main wall of this space to provide light without obstructing the view or the space below.
2. **Clerestory Level (Light-Providing Windows):** The actual clerestory itself, which consists of a series of high windows that are designed to bring light into the interior. These windows are typically situated above the upper walls of the nave and may feature various decorative elements such as stained glass. This level is crucial for achieving the desired illumination and often serves both functional and aesthetic purposes.
3. **Upper Level (Roof or Vaulting):** The uppermost part of the building which can be the roof structure or vaulted ceiling above the clerestory windows. This area helps to support the clerestory walls and can sometimes include additional architectural features such as trusses, ribs, or other structural elements that enhance the overall design of the space.
In summary, while the clerestory itself functions primarily as an upper level of windows for lighting, it is part of a broader architectural system that includes a lower level (the main space) and an upper level (the roof or structural supports).
1. **Lower Level (Nave or Main Space):** This is the primary area where the congregation gathers in a church or the central area of a building. The clerestory windows are placed high above the main wall of this space to provide light without obstructing the view or the space below.
2. **Clerestory Level (Light-Providing Windows):** The actual clerestory itself, which consists of a series of high windows that are designed to bring light into the interior. These windows are typically situated above the upper walls of the nave and may feature various decorative elements such as stained glass. This level is crucial for achieving the desired illumination and often serves both functional and aesthetic purposes.
3. **Upper Level (Roof or Vaulting):** The uppermost part of the building which can be the roof structure or vaulted ceiling above the clerestory windows. This area helps to support the clerestory walls and can sometimes include additional architectural features such as trusses, ribs, or other structural elements that enhance the overall design of the space.
In summary, while the clerestory itself functions primarily as an upper level of windows for lighting, it is part of a broader architectural system that includes a lower level (the main space) and an upper level (the roof or structural supports).