Which term refers to a projecting window that is supported from the exterior by brackets?

• A. Bow window
• B. Oriel
• C. Dormer
• D. Bay window

Answer: (B)

An oriel window is a projecting window that extends from the wall on upper stories and is supported from the exterior by brackets or corbels rather than by interior framing. This exterior cantilevered support is the key distinguishing feature, giving the oriel its characteristic outwards projection. It’s often seen in historic architecture, where the window cantilevers from the wall, sometimes with a small ledge or balcony.

This differs from a dormer, which sits in the roof and has its own vertical wall; a bay window, which projects but is typically framed and supported as part of the interior and exterior wall structure to form a bay inside; and a bow window, which is a curved sequence of windows forming a rounded projection along the exterior wall without being specifically bracket-supported.