The atrium is an iconic architectural structure that has existed for centuries. With glass doors and windows, the modern versions of these units provide beautiful natural light for commercial spaces like offices, museums, and hotels. If you’re considering including this in your design, here’s more information about its rich history to get you even more excited about the project.

What Is an Atrium?

Translated from Latin, an atrium refers to “an open central court.” While some say the atrium is the original sunroom, it is technically an open-roofed part of a building, though modern designs will often include glass roofing for shelter.

The atrium has evolved throughout the centuries, but its basic design has remained the same. It is meant to bring outside elements like gardens, natural light, and fresh air into an enclosed space.

What Are Its Origins?

Originally popular in Roman architecture, atria were a way to allow light and ventilation into the home. They were initially designed for a functional purpose, with the open roof allowing air to circulate and rainwater to collect for human use.

In Medieval Times, atria were often found in churches and palaces, creating connections between indoor spaces and the sky.

With the industrial revolution in the 19th century, there were great advances in glass manufacturing. This played a major role in the modern atrium we see, adding glass doors and windows to the design to protect from inclement weather. Some famous atria of the modern era are the Opryland Hotel in Nashville, which has four large atria spanning nine acres in total, and The Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas, which contains the largest atrium in the world at 29 million cubic feet.

 

Shepard's Glass, Inc. is the one-stop-shop for all glass products in the Flathead Valley, MT, and the surrounding areas. They’ll help you pick the perfect material to suit your needs and provide installation and repairs. From glass doors and shower enclosures to custom pieces for frames and furniture, they provide a range of options. Give them a call today at (406) 755-4540 to discuss your project or learn more about their products online.