Falk-U (University) - Design Terms: Façade

Probably, most people know what a building façade is but would never use the word (unless they’re an Architect) in regular conversation. Architects use this word all the time, usually without stopping to make sure the person on the other end of the conversation is understanding! Even though we try to use common language when communicating our trade, we’ll admit we’re guilty of this one. The term means the outside faces of a building, especially the principal front the faces a street or public space. Origins of the word come from mid 17th century: from French façade, from face ‘face’, on the pattern of Italian facciata. Architects regularly create “elevation” or “perspective” drawings showing the design of a façade.

Assumption Church, Topeka Kansas - Façade drawing. Falk Architects designed a reconstruction of the towers, which will be rebuilt in the coming years.