Overhang (architecture)

**Historical Significance of Overhangs in Architecture**:
– Overhangs seen in Tibetan architecture from 1649
– Common in Mughal architecture of the 16th–18th century
– Adopted by Indo-Saracenic architecture during the British Raj
– Incorporated in early Buddhist architecture
– Became part of American colonial architecture in the 17th century

**Architectural Examples of Overhangs**:
– Indoor-Outdoor Living design in contemporary home in California
– 15th century timber-framed houses in Thaxted, England
– Overhangs in the Diwan-e-khas in Fatehpur Sikri, Mughal architecture
– McIntire Garrison House in York, Maine from the late 17th century
– Lahore Museum in Pakistan showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture

**Related Architectural Features**:
– Catslide roofs in buildings with eaves continuing over an ell
– Eaves in architecture
– Five-foot way architectural feature
– Cantilever structural design element

**References and Further Reading**:
– Margaret Prosser Allen’s work on Hindu shrine in Muslim Rule
– Peter Gössel’s book on Architecture in the twentieth century
– Hugh Morrison’s book on Early American architecture
– John Frederick Kelly’s chapter on The Overhang in Connecticut architecture
– Various references on ornamentation in Indian, Japanese, and medieval English architecture

**Geographical and Temporal Spread of Overhangs in Architecture**:
– From Tibetan architecture to American colonial architecture
– Influence in Mughal, Indo-Saracenic, and early Buddhist architecture
– Examples in various regions like California, England, Pakistan, and Maine

Overhang (architecture) (Wikipedia)

In architecture, an overhang is a protruding structure that may provide protection for lower levels. Overhangs on two sides of Pennsylvania Dutch barns protect doors, windows, and other lower-level structures. Overhangs on all four sides of barns and larger, older farmhouses are common in Swiss architecture. An overhanging eave is the edge of a roof, protruding outwards from the side of the building, generally to provide weather protection.

Overhang on 16th century Tomb of Salim Chishti, Fatehpur Sikri, India

Definition from ChatGPT:

Overhang (architecture):

In architecture, an overhang refers to a horizontal projection of a roof or floor beyond the vertical wall below it. Overhangs serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing protection from the elements, shading, and creating architectural interest.