An exedra is a unique architectural feature that has been used throughout history for various purposes. It is typically a semi-circular or polygonal space with a flat back wall, often adorned with sculptures, mosaics, and other artwork. Exedras can be found in public spaces such as parks, gardens, plazas, and courtyards, and are often used as outdoor seating areas or lounging spots. They offer a protected seating area while still allowing for the presence of nature, making them ideal for contemplation, relaxation, and social gatherings. Exedras have a rich history, dating back to ancient Greek and Roman architecture. They were often used in public buildings such as libraries, schools, and forums, as well as in private residences. In addition to their practical uses, exedras were also seen as a symbol of wealth and status, as they were often adorned with expensive materials and decorations. One unique aspect of exedras is their versatility. They can be used for a variety of purposes, from providing a space for quiet reflection to serving as a focal point for social gatherings. They can also be constructed using a variety of materials, including stone, brick, marble, and concrete, allowing for a wide range of design possibilities. Overall, exedras are a fascinating architectural feature that have stood the test of time. They continue to be used in modern architecture, and their unique shape and versatility make them a valuable addition to any public or private space.
architecture, seating area, public spaces, ancient Greek, Roman, versatility
Exedra is a curved outdoor seating area that is found in many types of architecture. It is usually semi-circular, with a flat back, and a sloped seat that follows the curved line of the back wall. The exedra is often used as a focal point in public spaces, and is often decorated with sculptures, mosaics, and other artwork. It is also used as a gathering space for social occasions, or as a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Exedras can be made of stone, brick, concrete, or other materials, and can be found in parks, gardens, plazas, and other public spaces.
Outdoor, Seating, Semi-circular, Focal Point, Decorative.
Masonry exedra is a type of architectural feature that is defined by its semi-circular or polygonal shape and its prominent location within a building or outdoor area. This feature is typically found in a specific area that is meant to provide a space for contemplation or rest; in these cases, the exedra often serves as a kind of outdoor room. It is also commonly used to frame an outdoor view, such as a garden, or to define an outdoor space such as a courtyard. Exedra can be constructed using a variety of masonry materials, including brick, stone, marble, and even concrete. Though the shape of the feature is usually consistent, the scale and materials used in its construction can vary significantly depending on its purpose and the overall aesthetic of the space.
Semi-circular, Polygonal, Contemplation, View, Courtyard
Exedra is a noun, which can be defined as a partially open colonnade or semicircular portico, typically attached to a classical building. Synonyms of exedra include amphitheatre, arbor, court, forum, and terrace. Antonyms of exedra include boulder, castle, hill, and mountain. Cognates of exedra include Greek ἀξίδρα (axidra) and Latin exedra. Variants of exedra include exhedra and exedre.
Etymological origin, morphological structure, semantical analysis, linguistic history, lexicographic research, Indo-European languages
The term ‘Exedra’ is a Latin word which is derived from the Greek ἔξεδρα “sitting-out place”. It is a plural of the word έξέδρα, from the Ancient Greek έξειδειν “to sit out”. The origin of the word is associated with the Ancient Greek architecture and it is considered semantically related to the Latin word exedrae, which refers to a hexagonal-shaped hall for meetings or meetings with rhetoricians. Morphologically, the term is a composite of two different components: ex and edra, which are both derived from Latin. Ex- is the prefix which adds the meaning of “out” or “outside” while edra has the meaning of “to sit”. The combined meaning of the two components results in the modern term “Exedra” signifying “a sitting-out place”. As a lexical item, the Exedra is semantically used to refer to a large bench with a back for more than one person, an area for gatherings, or an arrangement for a special purpose, such as a garden or a place of reading. Pragmatically, it may also refer to a recess used especially in churches and other buildings.
Etymology, Morphology, Origin, Historical, Evolution, Pragmatics.
Exedra is a term used in architecture to denote a sunken area around a niche or small room, usually with a low wall to sit on. It is an ancient Greek architecture concept, also adopted by the Romans, and is an open, semi-circular or circular space, often with benches. These days, exedrae are used in many contexts, including public parks and other green spaces, schools, and libraries.
Equivalent words for exedra in other languages include abside (Italian), abside (Spanish), abside (Portuguese), absidiolum (Latin), exèdre (French), Exedre (German), exedra (Italian), exedra (Polish), apsis (Turkish), pikapikasi (Tupi), alcove (English),
An exedra is an architectural feature that consists of a partially enclosed space or room, usually semicircular in shape, with a flat back wall, which is often buttressed or curved. It is typically used as an outdoor seating area or as a lounging spot, due to its semi-enclosed shape, and is often found within larger structures such as courtyards, plazas, and gardens. It offers the benefit of both a protected seating area and the presence of nature. Exedras are often adorned with statues, fountains, and other decorations and are a common feature of public parks, sites, and squares.
Exedra, architectural feature, semi-enclosed space, outdoor seating area.
CITATION : "Lauren Moore. 'Exedra.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=192331 (Accessed on June 05, 2025)"
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