Preface

Windows are an important feature in terms of the history of buildings: they reflect not only the changing architectural tastes and styles, but also social hierarchy, building economy, arts and crafts skills and technical developments. In addition, while influencing the characteristics of buildings as a single element, windows also influence the character of the whole region. The main purpose of this study is to discuss the windows of traditional buildings constructed in the Kirklareli Province of Turkey during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, within a context explaining the structural and stylistic characteristics of the windows; and, to present the findings via rich and detailed visual content. This eBook defines the term “window”; presents a literature review of studies of characteristics of late 19th and early 20th century windows of the anonymous architecture around the world and in Turkey; and classifies structural, stylistic and functional characteristics of windows representative of traditional Kirklareli architecture. To this end, these characteristics were used as the basis for the analysis of 103 traditional types of window design. As stated above, the eBook aims to serve as an important reference for future urban conservation and design-planning works.

This eBook was produced with the valuable contributions of many people. In particular, the window drawings were produced by drafts-men under the supervision of Mr. Izzet YUKSEK. We would like to thank, firstly, the people of Kirklareli, for allowing and assisting in the analysis of historical window styles; and the publication team of Bentham Science Publishers.