Transom
Transoms are members that form horizontal divisions between units of a window, door, screen or glass curtain wall. Together with vertical members known as mullions they provide rigid support to glazing.
The smaller window above a door or window can also be known as a transom window. A transom window can be fixed or operational.
Transoms mechanisms can include:
- Bottom-hinged transoms with latches and chains that require a pole to pull the latch open.
- Side-hinged transoms that open like doors.
- Top-hinged transoms with fixed lifts that can be hand-operated.
- Automated opening mechanisms.
The purpose of a transom window can be to provide ventilation or additional light. Larger transoms windows are sometimes designed to provide the illusion of door height, without the need to produce extra-large door sizes especially, in higher ceiling areas. Transom windows can also be decorative and ornate.
Historically, transom windows were popular as an architectural feature, with stained-glass, decorative details or art deco styling. Modern transoms windows are commonly made from materials such as timber, aluminium, steel and UPVC.
Transom windows can be formed and installed in many different shapes. It is popular in Mediterranean style architecture to have fan-shaped transoms. Transoms can range from rectangular to circular and asymmetrical shapes.
In door frames with transom windows, the transom can provide similar structural properties as a lintel. It can provide strength and support to both the door and window frame.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
70+ experts appointed to public sector fire safety framework
The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework from LHC Procurement.
Project and programme management codes of practice
CIOB publications for built environment professionals.
Sustainable development concepts decade by decade.
The regenerative structural engineer
A call for design that will repair the natural world.
Buildings that mimic the restorative aspects found in nature.
CIAT publishes Principal Designer Competency Framework
For those considering applying for registration as a PD.
BSRIA Building Reg's guidance: The second staircase
An overview focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Design codes and pattern books
Harmonious proportions and golden sections.
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.
Quick summary by size, shape, test, material, use or bonding.
Types of rapidly renewable content
From forestry to agricultural crops and their by-products.
Terraced houses and the public realm
The discernible difference between the public realm of detached housing and of terraced housing.
Looking back at the influence of climate events
From a designer and writer: 'There are limits to growth but no limits to development'.
Terms, histories, theories and practice.
Biophilic design and natural light
Letting in the light and natural elements into spaces.