STOREFRONT SPANDREL

The low panels made of wood, metal or masonry that create a wall below the shop windows are called spandrels. Other terms for this space include kneewall and bulkhead. Sometimes, the spandrel contained small windows to let light into the basement.

Guidelines for Storefront Spandrel

Spandrels should be as low as possible; their design should relate to the architectural style of the building.

When the original spandrel exists and is in good condition, it should be repaired, repainted and insulated from the interior.

If the original spandrel is in poor condition or is missing, it can be replaced with wood, tile, or metal over masonry. A wood spandrel design should include stiles and rails at the top, bottom and sides; a brick spandrel should match the masonry of the building.

Do not make the spandrel higher than it was originally designed to be and as a result infill the window opening.

Do not use modern materials which are continuous, smooth and shiny.

SHOP WINDOWS

The traditional storefront was designed to be as transparent as possible with large, clear, plate glass windows that allowed shoppers to see the merchandise inside. These large glass windows and transoms also let in lots of natural light, an important feature in days prior to electric lights.

The plate glass window may have been divided into two or three panels, but in Stoughton windows would not have been divided into small 6 x 6- inch “colonial” panes.

Guidelines for Shop Windows

Where original glazing and window frames exist and are in good condition, they should be retained; frames should be caulked and painted.

When the frames are missing or deteriorated, replace with simple metal frames which can be painted and easily maintained.

To improve energy efficiency, install interior glazing rather than replacing windows. Replacing the original glazing with insulated glazing for energy conservation may involve installation of new frames that may alter the appearance of the storefront. If it is necessary to install new insulated windows, the new frames should be unobtrusive in profile and should be painted to harmonize with the architectural features of the building. Frames for new windows should be divided to match original window divisions, or should be based on divisions typical to that building type.