Tympanum
In classical architecture, the tympanum is the triangular or segmental area enclosed by a pediment on the exterior of a building. The area of a triangular pediment is defined by the horizontal cornice along the bottom and the raking cornice that slopes along the sides. The area of a segmental pediment is defined by the segmental cornices along the sides. It is usual for the tympanum to be decorated with religious imagery or intricate bas-relief sculpture.
Tympana (plural) developed in Roman architecture as the semi-circular shape between the lintel of a doorway and the arch constructed above.
In European Gothic architecture, tympana were included over church portals and had a more vertical shape, meeting at a point at the top.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The UK heating industry and the Brexit transition
An overview of the current state of the market.
UEFA guide to renovating football training facilities
Organisation offers best practices for construction and modification.
Heritage on the edge?
Prioritising tax considerations.
Reviewing the Double Diamond Design model
The four D creative process: discover, define, develop and deliver.
National Cyber Security Centre initiative is announced.
The impact of COVID-19 on global HVAC&R markets
Reviewing trends and projections.
Legislation will establish initiatives to move towards net zero.
Status determination statement
How to document contractor employment status.
Social distancing goes high tech
Tech tools to help manage people and space post-pandemic.
Eclectic Edwardian architecture
A style that ranges from mock Tudor to arts and crafts to the 'Wrenaissance'.
Free guide from Secured by Design.
Building Back Better: Circularity
BREEAM strategy for sustainability and the circular economy.
Free tool to improve the construction programming process.