Mansard Roof

Definition: A Mansard roof, also known as a French roof or curb roof, is a four-sided gambrel-style hip roof characterized by two slopes on each of its sides. The lower slope is much steeper than the upper slope, often nearly vertical, while the upper slope is usually shallow and almost flat.

This design allows for a full or partial additional story of living space (known as a mansard or garret) to be created within the roof structure, making it a popular choice in both historical and modern architecture.

Types of mansard roof:

• Straight Mansard: This variant features a consistent angle on the lower slope, resulting in a more uniform appearance. It is commonly used in traditional designs.
• Convex Mansard: The lower slope of this variant curves outward, creating a more ornate, rounded appearance. This style is often used in decorative or historical buildings.
• Concave Mansard: In contrast, the concave Mansard roof features a lower slope that curves inward, creating a subtle, elegant curve. This variant is less common but adds a unique aesthetic touch.