catwalks

Catwalks are raised walkways or narrow elevated passages used for access, display, or performance. The term covers architectural, theatrical, maritime, and fashion contexts.

In architecture and industry, catwalks are elevated, often slender, spanning spaces above floors or machinery. They provide access for inspection, maintenance, or monitoring. Construction materials include steel grilles or reinforced concrete; they are fitted with guardrails and anti-slip surfaces; safety standards govern span length and load.

In theaters, catwalks are the overhead walkways that support lighting and rigging equipment. They enable technicians to reach lighting rigs, sound equipment, and scenery. Access is controlled with harnesses and fall protection.

In fashion, the term catwalk commonly refers to a narrow elevated runway on which models display garments during fashion shows. The runways vary in length and can be straight, curved, or multi-directional. The modern fashion catwalk evolved with early 20th-century fashion shows, becoming a dominant presentation format by mid-century. The term is colloquially used, though runway is also common in American usage.

In maritime and other contexts, catwalks may appear on ships or industrial installations for crew movement and observation, usually with rails; their design must consider vibration, weather, and corrosion.