Paternoster accommodation (pronounced /ˈpætərnɒstər əˌkɒməˈdeɪʃən/) is a term used in the UK to refer to university accommodations that consist of a series of rooms accessed by a central staircase. The word "paternoster" comes from the Latin phrase "Pater noster" meaning "Our Father" which is the first line of the Lord's Prayer. The word has been used in this context since the 15th century and the spelling has remained unchanged. Despite its historical roots, paternoster accommodation is still a popular housing option for students in the UK.
Paternoster accommodation refers to a type of residential or commercial building characterized by its unique architectural design and layout. The term is derived from the Latin phrase "Pater Noster," meaning "Our Father," which refers to the Lord's Prayer traditionally chanted while using a set of beads of the same name.
Paternoster accommodation typically consists of a tall, narrow building with multiple floors that are arranged in a circular or helical fashion around a central vertical shaft. Each floor is connected to the shaft by means of an open-sided elevator platform or car that continuously moves in a loop. The occupants can step onto the elevator platform from any floor and ride it up or down to their desired level.
This type of accommodation is often found in densely populated urban areas where land availability is limited. Paternoster buildings offer a space-efficient and visually striking solution, allowing for a larger number of individual units within a relatively small footprint. Moreover, they provide an efficient means of vertical transportation, as the continuously moving elevators eliminate the commonly associated waiting times.
However, due to safety concerns and the potential risks associated with the open design, paternoster accommodation has become less common in recent years. Many countries have restricted the construction and operation of new paternoster buildings, citing potential accidents and difficulties in adhering to safety regulations.
In summary, paternoster accommodation refers to a unique architectural style characterized by a vertical loop of open-sided elevators, allowing for efficient and space-saving movement between multiple floors.
The word "paternoster" originates from Latin and is a combination of two words: "Pater" means "father" and "noster" means "our". In Christian liturgy, the term "Pater Noster" refers to the Lord's Prayer, which begins with the words "Our Father".
The term "accommodation" in this context refers to a place where people can stay temporarily, similar to a hotel or lodging. It is derived from the Latin word "accommodatio", which means "adaptation" or "provision".
When combined, "Paternoster accommodation" refers to a type of temporary lodging that is commonly found in university dormitories or office buildings. It consists of a series of small rooms connected by a central staircase or elevator, similar to how beads are threaded on a rosary.