When I’ve given presentations about local architecture, or led walking tours of the downtown, I’ve often been asked two questions. First, is there a particular architectural style that “defines” York? Second, what is the most common architectural feature on local buildings?
My answer to the first is Colonial Revival. Because of our Revolutionary War history, York has been embracing the colonial era for well over a century. This is evidenced by the preponderance of Colonial Revival homes constructed in early 20th century neighborhoods as well as the commercial and domestic architecture still being built today.
My answer to the second question is oriels.
Frequently I’m greeted by confused expressions, as minds begin to think about black and orange birds or a certain professional baseball team to the south.
An oriel is a projecting bay window that does not extend to the ground. In the late 19th century, York’s architects and builders became quite enamored with them.
The word “oriel” derives from the Latin term oriolum, and Old French oriol, which both refer to a porch.
Oriel windows are cantilevered or corbelled out from the main façade of a building. A corbel is a piece of stone or brick that juts out from a building to carry weight. In the image above, the dark green oriel on the far right is cantilevered (weight supported on one end) while the light colored oriel immediately to its left is corbelled.
Architecturally, oriels were found in Gothic and Tudor architecture, as well as their subsequent revivals. Oriels were also found on Chateauesque buildings. Locally, York City features many blocks of Queen Anne rowhomes embellished with oriel windows.
Not only does this architectural feature create more space on the interior, it also allows more light into a building than a traditional bay window. Some oriels sit atop decorative corbels while others rest upon sculptured elements – like this woman’s head on South Beaver Street. Local legend tells the story of builders who were so inspired by the beauty of a neighbor, who would sit on her front stoop every morning and let her long, flowing hair dry, that they created her likeness under the oriel of the house they were building.
Oriels add character to buildings. Some feature sunburst or molded patterns on their undersides while others are colorfully painted to stand out. A lovely example of Victorian oriels can be found on Locust Street. While most windows have clear glass, there are also several examples of decorative leaded glass in oriels around town.
So there you have it: my ode to oriels. The next time you are in York City, be sure to pay attention to the buildings around you. Find the oriels, and then look underneath to see if any decorative elements are present. Better yet, park your car and take a walk – York’s treasures aren’t buried, they are readily visible to anyone who takes the time to look for them!
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Ode to Oriels
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