Curtain-wall

/ˈkɜrtən wɔl/ noun

A non-structural exterior wall system that hangs from the building's frame like a curtain, typically made of glass and metal. It provides weather protection and natural light while allowing the structural frame to be independent of the facade.

The term emerged in the 1930s, literally describing how these walls 'hang' from the structure like curtains. The concept developed with steel-frame construction, where walls no longer needed to bear structural loads.

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