nonstructural
Purely cosmetic element
Nonstructural describes elements that don't bear weight or provide essential support to a building's framework.
Nonstructural walls can be removed without compromising stability; nonstructural damage after an earthquake affects finishes and fixtures rather than the building's skeleton.
The term extends beyond architecture to anything peripheral rather than fundamental: nonstructural proteins, nonstructural reforms.
Offering help and reassurance
- auxiliaryGiving additional support
- secondaryLesser in rank
- peripheralExternal computer add-on
- subsidiaryOf lesser importance
complementary · incidental · accessory · adjunct · backup · collateral · contributory · supplementary
Barrier separating spaces
- claddingOuter protective layer
- facadeDeceptive outward appearance
- infillMaterial closing gaps
- sheathingProtective outer layer
siding · drywall · paneling · trim · molding · veneer · finishing · insulation
supportive
Offering help and reassurance
- auxiliaryGiving additional support
- secondaryLesser in rank
- peripheralExternal computer add-on
subsidiary · complementary · incidental · accessory · adjunct · backup · collateral · contributory · supplementary · add-on
partition
Barrier separating spaces
sheathing · siding · drywall · paneling · trim · molding · veneer · finishing · insulation · weatherproofing
decorative
Serving to beautify
- aestheticConcerning beauty or art
- ornamentalFor beauty, not function
- surfaceOutermost boundary layer
finish · paint · polish · embellishment · detailing · gilding · inlay · appliqué · filigree · stucco
adaptable
Able to adjust readily
malleable · resilient · ductile · supple · yielding · pliant · springy · tensile · stretchable · deformable
nonstructuralstructural
Relating to building framework
load-bearing · supporting · weight-bearing · foundational · skeletal
structure, instruction, construct, construction, instruct, destruction, obstruct, infrastructure, obstruction