The term „fanlight” emerged around the year 1770, denoting the semi-circular window situated above a door. Its unique design, with panes radiating outward like a fan from a central floret, soon became iconic. Originally, the primary purpose of fanlights was to let light into dim hallways. However, as their aesthetic potential was realized, they evolved into both a functional and decorative feature for entranceways.

The transformation of fanlights into decorative elements was facilitated by advancements in production methods. The earliest glazing bars for these windows were crafted from wood. Over time, materials transitioned to lead and wrought iron, granting designers a broader canvas for intricate designs and pattern variations.

Wooden fanlights took inspiration from prominent carpentry forms of the era, with designs reflecting the Chippendale, neo-Classical, and neo-Gothic styles. Particularly, the Adam brothers, renowned architects of the time, incorporated fanlights prominently in their townhouse designs. An emblematic „Adam Style” fanlight boasts radiating spokes that converge into a central orb. Each segment might be adorned with festoons, garlands, and intricate patterns such as rosettes intersecting each spoke or palmette designs marking the start and end of loops.

The Adam brothers’ influence was profound. Their designs spurred the use of cast iron for delicate patterning in fanlights. As their popularity surged, manufacturers began publishing catalogues showcasing a plethora of fanlight patterns, fostering a steady stream of innovative designs.

In England, this decorative window trend is distinctly Georgian, originating shortly after King George I’s accession in 1714 and waning early in Queen Victoria’s reign (1837-1901). Meanwhile, in Ireland, fanlights remained a sought-after architectural element, seamlessly transitioning from the Georgian to the Victorian eras. The 18th century saw a boom in fanlight installations in Dublin, with the trend persisting into the 19th century, especially in the developing Rathmines area.

The quintessential design of a classical fanlight, reminiscent of a sliced orange hemicycle with repeated patterns, laid the foundation for endless original designs. To this day, numerous unique fanlights can be admired in the Rathmines Township, standing testament to their enduring charm and appeal.