8 Residential Architecture Terms Every Homeowner Should Know

Floor Plan

This is a bird's-eye view of a building, showing the layout of rooms, walls, and other features. It helps homeowners visualize the spatial organization of their home.

Facade

The exterior face or front of a building. It includes elements like windows, doors, and architectural details that define the building's aesthetic.

Foundation

The base on which a building stands. It supports the structure above and transfers its load to the ground. Different types include slab, crawl space, and basement foundations.

Roof Pitch

The steepness or slope of a roof. It affects the roof's appearance, drainage, and attic space. Common pitches range from flat or low slope (nearly flat) to steep (high slope).

Elevation

A scaled drawing of the exterior of a building, showing its height, materials, and design features from different angles. Useful for visualizing how a home will look from outside.

HVAC

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems. These systems control indoor climate, providing heating and cooling, as well as maintaining air quality and humidity levels.

Load-Bearing Wall

A wall that supports the weight of a structure above it. Knowing which walls are load-bearing is crucial for renovations and structural modifications.

Zoning Laws

Regulations that govern land use and construction within a municipality or area. They specify where residential, commercial, and industrial buildings can be located and what size and height they can be.