String-course

String-course

String-course is an architectural term referring to a horizontal band or course of masonry, typically protruding slightly from the surface of a wall, that runs continuously around a building or along a portion of it. The primary function of a string-course is to provide visual emphasis and to break up the vertical expanse of a wall, adding a decorative element to the façade. String-courses can be made of various materials, such as stone, brick, or terra cotta, and often feature intricate carvings or moldings. They serve as a design element that helps to define the different levels or stories of a building, creating a sense of rhythm and proportion. In addition to their aesthetic role, string-courses can also serve practical purposes, such as acting as a water table to deflect rainwater away from the wall surface, or providing a level surface for scaffolding during construction or maintenance. The use of string-courses dates back to ancient architecture, with examples found in Greek and Roman temples, and has continued throughout various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Neoclassical. The placement, width, and ornamentation of string-courses can vary greatly depending on the architectural style and the specific design intent of the building

Architectural ornament, horizontal band, masonry course, façade decoration, water table, level marker, visual emphasis

— John Armstrong