Grotesque
In architecture, a grotesque, also known as a chimera, or boss, is a fantastical or mythical figure used for ornamental purposes. Regional variations of the term include 'hunky punk' and 'onigawara'.
In common parlance, they are referred to as gargoyles, although the strict architectural usage of that term refers to those features that also serve as a waterspout.
The word is derived from grotteschi, the Italian term for the Roman grottoes that contained such decorations. They were revived as an ornamental feature in the Renaissance and became popular throughout Europe, being used most frequently in the decoration of frescoes.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
IHBC NewsBlog
Remains of ‘high-status’ Roman villa and bath-house found in Scarborough
One of the most stunning Roman finds ever unearthed in Britain has been discovered on the site of a new housing development in a village near Scarborough.
IHBC’s newest Context: Tackling ‘Urban Design’
The latest issue (no.167) of the IHBC’s membership journal Context is now out, boasting a tight focus on Urban Design, with a distinctly international take.
Europa Nostra announce Europe’s 7 Most Endangered Heritage sites 2021
Europa Nostra has announced the list together with its partner, the European Investment Bank Institute.
Virtual Bradford will ‘clone’ the city to create navigable online world
Work is underway on an ambitious project to virtually ‘clone’ Bradford city centre, as a ‘Digital twin’ will open the door to a 3D world with virtually endless possibilities.
Canal River Trust secures funding to create waterway roles for young people
The support will create dozens of opportunities in heritage repair and construction and waterways management, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions.
2021 Building Conservation Directory published
The 2021 edition of the Building Conservation Directory, also available online, has been published. Find skilled trades specialising in work to historic and traditional buildings.
BT dials up ‘Adopt a Kiosk’ scheme
BT has revealed that almost 4,000 of its iconic red phone boxes across the UK are available for local communities to adopt for just £1.
Watch IHBC’s webinar on ‘Retrofit of Traditional Buildings’
On 26 March the IHBC, led by Prof. John Edwards, hosted a free one-hour CPD webinar ‘Introduction to Building Survey for Retrofit’ for sector professionals.
Has the world left Europe behind?
Greg Clark, writing an opinion piece for RICS, explores how good governance in cities pays dividends.
AHF on ‘Transforming Places through Heritage’
The Architectural Heritage Fund has issued a report on the first year of its ‘Transforming Places Through Heritage’ grants programme, funded by DCMS.