Clerestory

A clerestory window is a large window or series of small windows along the top of a structure's wall, usually at or near the roofline. Used to improve the insolation of the room. At the same time, the usable wall area for furniture and decor items is maintained. A clerestory wall often rises above adjoining roofs.

Originally, the word clerestory referred to the upper level of a church or cathedral. The Middle English word clerestory means "clear story," which describes how an entire story of height was "cleared" to bring natural light to sizable interiors.

View the design of this contemporary house with horizontal clerestory windows.

Or this modern house plan with clerestory windows under the shed roof.