blind-story

blind-story

A blind-story is a windowless gallery in a cathedral.

Definition
  1. Noun (Architecture):
    • A story or floor without windows: "blind-story" refers to a level of a building, especially in churches or medieval architecture, that lacks windows or has only small, non-functional openings. It is often an intermediate floor or gallery used for structural or decorative purposes.
    • A vaulted or arcaded level without fenestration: In ecclesiastical architecture, a "blind-story" is a tier (such as a triforium) that is closed off from the outside, lacking windows for light or ventilation.
Usage Examples
  • (A floor with no windows, used for structural support.)
  • (A windowless level for aesthetic or architectural reasons.)
  • (An arcaded but windowless gallery.)
Advanced Usage

  • "blind-story arcade": a series of arches set into a wall that are purely decorative, not leading to an open space.

    • The blind-story arcade in the nave gives the illusion of depth. (A decorative row of arches without windows.)

  • "triforium as a blind-story": In Gothic architecture, the triforium (a gallery above the main arches) is often a blind-story because it has no windows to the outside.

    • The triforium serves as a blind-story, separating the clerestory from the arcade. (A windowless intermediate level.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Blind (adj): lacking sight; also used in architecture to mean "without openings" or "non-functional."

    • A blind window is a recess in a wall that resembles a window but is not glazed. (A decorative, non-functional window.)

  • Story (n): a floor or level of a building.

    • The building has three stories. (Three floors.)

  • Blind-arcade (n): a row of decorative arches that are not open to a passage.

    • The blind-arcade adorns the exterior wall of the chapel. (A series of non-functional arches.)
Synonyms
  • Windowless floor: a level without windows.
  • Solid story: a floor with no fenestration.
  • Closed gallery: a passage or level that is enclosed.
Related Idioms
  • "A blind-story in architecture": a term used to describe a hidden or non-functional level.
    • The architect designed a blind-story to hide the structural beams. (A concealed floor.)