FURNISHING AND INTERIOR DESIGN GLOSSARY

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EAVE - lower edge of a roof extending beyond the exterior wall
ECLECTIC - utilizing elements from multiple sources and styles
EIGHT-WAY HAND-TIED - coiled springs used in furniture construction, knotted with twine from front to back, side to side and diagonally, interlocking them to adjacent coils
EGRESS - vertical or horizontal means of escape from a building
ELEVATION - scaled drawing depicting details of an exterior or interior wall
EMBELLISHMENT - additional decoration or ornamentation
EMBOSSED - ornament with raised work or three-dimensional design impressed into a surface; fabric created by rolling goods between engraved cylinders
EMBROIDERY - needlework decorative designs with raised thread/s, either by hand or machine
ENAMEL - a hard, glossy surface finish
ENERGY - a source of usable heat or power
ENERGY USAGE - the amount of power required to operate and maintain electrical equipment
ENFILADE - linear arrangement of interior doors providing a vista when the doors remain open, and the French use the term to describe a low provincial buffet with 4 or more doors
ENTABLATURE - horizontal element resting on columns composed of an architrave, frieze and cornice
ENVIRONMENT - the area or surroundings in which one exists
EPERGNE - ornamental centerpiece with stand supporting several individual dishes for displaying fruit or flowers
ERGONOMICS - science analyzing human beings and how we function in conjunction with a variety of equipment, products, methods and circumstances to improve our health, safety and welfare
ESCHUTCHEON - protective decorative plate used behind doorknobs or keyholes
ETAGERÉ - tall, open shelving unit for displaying accessories
ETCH - design on metal, glass, etc. using wax or film created by revealing specific areas with a special needle or tool and applying an etching material for a frosted appearance
ETCHING - etched plate, drawing or design
ETHNIC - patterns influenced by the culture of other regions
EQUIPMENT - building hardware and accessories
EURO SHAMS - square pillow shams, typically 24" x 24" used in combination with other bed pillows
EXOTIC - unique dramatic elements native to another country
EXPOSED HINGE - visible hinge attached to a door and frame
EYELET - decorative embroidery; small holes created on fabric for cording or rings