erkeres

An erker is a type of bay window that projects outward from the wall of a building. Unlike a standard bay window, which often has a polygonal shape, an erker typically has a rectangular or square projection. Erkers can be found on various types of buildings, particularly in German-speaking countries and Central Europe, and are often seen in historical architecture. They serve to increase interior space, admit more light, and provide a wider view of the surroundings.

The construction of an erker usually involves extending the floor and wall of the room outward, creating a small additional space. This space can be used for seating, a small desk, or simply as a decorative architectural element. Erkers are typically found on upper floors of buildings, though ground-level versions also exist. They can be single-story or extend across multiple floors. The design of erkers can vary widely, from simple projections to more elaborate structures with detailed ornamentation. They often feature windows on one or more sides of the projection. The term "erker" is of German origin and is commonly used in architectural discussions.