Cupolas

A cupola is an architectural element that serves as both a functional and decorative purpose. Cupolas are typically shaped like a dome or even like a hexagon, octagon or even a square. Cupolas are usually perched or built on top of another roof or dome-like structure.

Sometimes, a cupola can be a single room that can be only be reached by stairs through the roof area. Other times, cupolas are created to disguise ventilation areas for a building. Depending on some history of architecture you read, sometimes cupolas were used as hidden lookouts.

Whatever the reason is you want a cupola, you have several different options to get one for yourself. First of all, you can construct your own cupola. There are free cupola plans on the internet, but you can just as easily find cupola designs in various woodworking books and such at the home improvement store. In fact, you might want to check for woodworking plans for a cupola through those books.

Of course, you can also find cupola kits on the market as well. The Stephenson Cupola is one of the best brands around. You will find that these cupolas come in a variety of shapes and sizes that will suit a variety of different buildings. After all, a cupola size suited to a large barn will not work for a home and vice versa.

Building a cupola on your own will take some woodworking know-how as well as knowledge of roofs. A cupola DIY is all fine and good; just be sure to do your research before installing any cupolas on your roof. Your roofing and cupola designs may not exactly mesh, so be sure that what you want will suit your existing structure.

Besides the structural integrity of cupolas, you want to make sure that the style matches that of the rest of the house. For instance, a Georgian house with a cupola may not exactly be the same as a Victorian or ranch-style home. In addition, some materials may work better than others for certain structures. For instance, a copper cupola may not be the best bet for a Victorian home but it would work great for a modern log cabin look.

Don’t forget! Cupolas can be functional instead of just decorative. If you are building a home, consider cupolas as an extra, a special surprise. Cupolas add character to any home or structure.