Arcade vs. Colonnade — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 13, 2024
An arcade is a series of arches supported by columns or piers, often used as a passageway, while a colonnade consists of a row of columns supporting a straight lintel or a series of arches, primarily used for decoration or structure.
Difference Between Arcade and Colonnade
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Arcades feature arches supported by columns or piers, creating a covered passageway or walkway that can be integrated within buildings or stand alone in structures like bridges. In contrast, colonnades consist of a sequence of columns supporting a straight lintel, often seen in classical architecture to adorn facades or define spaces within or outside buildings.
Arcades are often functional, providing shelter and pedestrian pathways in various settings, including shopping malls and public squares. Colonnades, while they can also serve a structural purpose, are frequently utilized to enhance the aesthetic appeal of buildings, such as those seen in ancient Greek and Roman architecture.
The architectural design of arcades allows for a rhythmic flow of arches, offering both architectural interest and practical benefits in terms of space and support. Colonnades, on the other hand, provide a grandiose and open visual alignment, promoting a sense of order and classical beauty.
Arcades are typically found in medieval and Gothic architecture but are also prevalent in modern designs where protection and pedestrian accessibility are essential. Meanwhile, colonnades are characteristic features of Neoclassical and Renaissance architecture, symbolizing power and cultural sophistication.
Culturally, arcades have served as social gathering spots throughout history, from ancient Roman aqueducts to modern shopping centers. Colonnades have played a significant role in representing strength and democracy, notably in governmental and cultural buildings around the world.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Structure
Arches supported by columns/pillars
Row of columns supporting a straight lintel or arches
Primary Use
Provides covered passageways or walkways
Decoration or structural support in buildings
Architectural Style
Common in medieval, Gothic, and modern architecture
Associated with classical, Neoclassical, and Renaissance architecture
Cultural Significance
Social gathering spaces in historical and modern contexts
Symbolizes power, order, and cultural sophistication
Visual Impact
Creates a rhythm with repeating arches
Offers grandeur and open visual alignment
Compare with Definitions
Arcade
Can be both functional and decorative.
The arcade not only looks beautiful but also protects pedestrians from the weather.
Colonnade
A row of evenly spaced columns supporting a lintel.
The museum's entrance is adorned with a majestic colonnade.
Arcade
Often serves as a pedestrian walkway.
The arcade provided a covered path between the shops.
Colonnade
Primarily decorative in modern architecture.
The new courthouse features a colonnade that evokes classical dignity.
Arcade
Historically used as social spaces.
Locals often gather at the arcade for evening strolls.
Colonnade
Symbolic of order and grandeur.
The government building’s colonnade represents stability and power.
Arcade
A series of arches supported by columns or piers.
The medieval town features a charming arcade along its main street.
Colonnade
Used to frame or enclose spaces.
The colonnade created a dramatic backdrop for the outdoor concert.
Arcade
Found in various architectural styles.
The modern building incorporated an arcade in its design for aesthetic appeal.
Colonnade
Integral to classical architectural styles.
The ancient temple’s colonnade has stood the test of time.
Arcade
A series of arches supported by columns, piers, or pillars, either freestanding or attached to a wall to form a gallery.
Colonnade
In classical architecture, a colonnade is a long sequence of columns joined by their entablature, often free-standing, or part of a building. Paired or multiple pairs of columns are normally employed in a colonnade which can be straight or curved.
Arcade
A series of arches employed for decorative purposes.
Colonnade
A series of columns placed at regular intervals.
Arcade
A roofed passageway or lane, especially one with shops on one or both sides.
Colonnade
A structure composed of columns placed at regular intervals.
Arcade
A commercial establishment featuring an array of large mechanical or electronic games, such as pinball machines or video games, that charge players money before each game.
Colonnade
A series of columns at regular intervals.
Arcade
A section within another establishment, as at a bowling alley or movie theater, that features such games.
Colonnade
A peristyle.
Arcade
To provide with or form into an arcade
Closed off and arcaded the narrow street.
Colonnade
A portico or stoa.
Arcade
(architecture) A row of arches.
Colonnade
A regular row of anything, such as trees.
Arcade
(architecture) A covered passage, usually with shops on both sides.
Colonnade
A series or range of columns placed at regular intervals with all the adjuncts, as entablature, stylobate, roof, etc.
Arcade
An establishment that runs coin-operated games.
Colonnade
Structure consisting of a row of evenly spaced columns
Arcade
(transitive) To cover (something) as with a series of arches.
Colonnade
A structure composed of a series of arches supported by columns
Arcade
A series of arches with the columns or piers which support them, the spandrels above, and other necessary appurtenances; sometimes open, serving as an entrance or to give light; sometimes closed at the back (as in the cut) and forming a decorative feature.
Arcade
An arched or covered passageway or avenue.
Arcade
A covered passageway; often between streets with shops or stalls
Arcade
A structure composed of a series of arches supported by columns
Common Curiosities
Can arcades be found in modern architecture?
Yes, arcades are incorporated into modern architecture, providing pedestrian pathways and aesthetic elements.
What is the primary difference between an arcade and a colonnade?
The primary difference is that an arcade includes arches supported by columns, whereas a colonnade involves a straight lintel supported by columns.
What is the main architectural function of an arcade?
An arcade provides a covered passageway or corridor that is both functional and decorative.
What structures typically use colonnades?
Colonnades are often used in classical, Neoclassical, and Renaissance buildings, particularly in facades and public spaces.
Can an arcade function as an architectural feature outside of buildings?
Yes, arcades can also function in external structures like bridges and aqueducts, providing aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
How do colonnades enhance the aesthetics of a building?
Colonnades add grandeur and a classical sense of order and beauty to building exteriors and interiors.
Are colonnades always decorative?
While colonnades are often decorative, they also serve structural purposes in supporting the roofs or arches above.
What cultural significance do arcades have?
Arcades have been central to social and commercial activities throughout history, from ancient Roman times to modern shopping malls.
How does the structural role of a colonnade differ from its decorative role?
Structurally, colonnades support the roof or arches above, while decoratively, they enhance the architectural beauty and symmetry of a building.
What historical periods are most associated with colonnades?
Colonnades are most associated with ancient Greek and Roman architecture, as well as the Neoclassical period.
Is there a symbolic meaning behind the use of colonnades in architecture?
Colonnades often symbolize power, stability, and democratic values, particularly in civic and cultural buildings.
Why might an architect choose to include a colonnade in a building design?
An architect might include a colonnade to evoke a sense of historical grandeur and to structurally support larger spaces within or outside a building.
What is the impact of an arcade on a building's functionality?
Arcades improve a building's functionality by providing additional covered space for pedestrian movement and interaction.
How does the design of an arcade benefit urban spaces?
Arcades offer covered walkways that enhance pedestrian traffic and protection from the elements in urban settings.
What types of buildings are likely to feature arcades?
Arcades are commonly found in shopping centers, educational institutions, and any architecture where covered pedestrian pathways are beneficial.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Saute vs. Satay
Next Comparison
Peel vs. ScrapAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
