Belt Course

Definition

A belt course is a horizontal board across or around a building, usually made of a flat member and a molding.

Purpose

The belt course serves both aesthetic and functional purposes in architecture. Visually, it provides a decorative element that can break up the monotony of a facade, adding interest and enhancing the building's overall design. Functionally, a belt course can mark the division between floors, helping to define the structure's proportions and emphasizing horizontal lines in the architecture. It can also help to protect the lower portions of walls from water runoff.

Examples of Use

1. Residential Homes: In traditional and classical homes, a belt course often runs around the exterior, providing a visual break between the first and second floors.
2. Commercial Buildings: Belt courses are used in historic commercial buildings to add decorative detail and mark different sections of the building.
3. Public Buildings: In public architecture, belt courses can be found in courthouses, libraries, and schools, contributing to the building's visual rhythm and structure.
4. Restoration Projects: When restoring historical buildings, belt courses are often replicated or preserved to maintain the original architectural style.

Related Terms

1. Cornice: A decorative molding at the top of a building wall or column, often used in conjunction with belt courses.
2. Stringcourse: A similar architectural feature to a belt course, but typically narrower and sometimes extending around the entire building.
3. Molding: A strip of material with a decorative profile, used to cover transitions between surfaces or for decoration.
4. Facade: The front or face of a building, where belt courses often contribute to the design.
5. Water Table: A projecting ledge, molding, or stringcourse along the base of a building, intended to throw off rainwater.

Notes

• Belt courses can be made from various materials, including wood, stone, brick, or concrete, depending on the building's design and structural requirements.
• The design and placement of a belt course should be carefully considered to complement the building's overall architectural style.
• Belt courses may also serve as ledges or platforms for exterior decorations, such as planters or sculptures.