The Art Of Reading Buildings Practice Test

What is the term for an exterior construction feature on a building's wall that is used to alter its visual appearance?

Facade Cornice Window Portico

Correct Answer:

Facade

Explanation:

This question is about the outer face of a building—the exterior wall that defines its overall look. The term for this exterior wall surface, which is designed to alter and express the building’s appearance, is the facade. It encompasses the materials, color, texture, and any ornamental treatments on the exterior. A cornice is a decorative band at the top edge, not the whole wall. A window is an opening for light, not the exterior face. A portico is a covered entrance supported by columns, affecting the entry area rather than the entire wall’s appearance. So the facade best captures the concept of the exterior wall surface used to shape visual appearance.

Access more questions from this quiz

Continue to The Art of Reading Buildings Practice Test for more practice questions and the full quiz experience.

Access More Questions