Architecture & Building

Annexes refer to an additional or supplementary building or structure that is attached or adjacent to a main building. It can serve various purposes, such as providing extra space for specific functions or accommodating overflow from the main building. 

Annexes are commonly found in different contexts: 

• Educational Institutions: Schools and universities may have annexes to accommodate additional classrooms, laboratories, or administrative offices. 
• Government Buildings: Government offices often have annexes to house specific departments or agencies. Especially when the main building is already at full capacity. 
• Hospitals: Medical facilities may have annex buildings to provide specialized care or house specific departments. 
• Hotels: In the hospitality industry, hotels may have annex buildings to provide extra rooms or facilities. 
• Residential Properties: Sometimes, homeowners may construct an annexe to their house for various purposes, such as a home office, guest room, or a separate living space for family members. 
• Corporate Offices: Large corporations may have annex buildings to accommodate expansion or to house specific departments. 

Annexes are designed to complement the main building and are usually located nearby or connected through a covered pathway. The term can also be used more broadly to refer to supplementary sections or additions to documents, treaties, or agreements. 

Types of Annexe: 

• Horizontal Annex: This type of annexe is built on the same level as the main building and is usually connected by a corridor or walkway. Horizontal annexes are commonly used in educational institutions and government buildings. 
• Vertical Annex: Vertical annexes are constructed as additional floors above or below the main building. This type of annexe is prevalent in urban areas where land availability is limited. 
• Adjacent Annex: An adjacent annexe is a separate building located next to the main structure, with a clear demarcation between the two. It may be connected through a pathway, but the buildings remain distinct. 
• Integrated Annex: An integrated annexe is designed to seamlessly blend with the main building, often incorporating similar architectural elements and design features. 

In summary, an annexe is an auxiliary structure that expands the capabilities or capacity of a primary building or serves a specific function that complements the main facility.