What is the term for the structure used around basement windows located below finished grade?

The term for the structure used around basement windows located below finished grade is known as a window well. This is specifically designed to provide space and drainage for windows that are set into the ground, allowing light to enter the basement while also preventing soil or water from blocking the window.

Window wells serve essential functions, such as ensuring proper drainage away from the window and maintaining the structural integrity of the surrounding earth. Additionally, they often have a safety feature to prevent someone from falling into the well. Having a window well in place is critical for basement egress windows that allow for emergency escape routes, thus enhancing safety.

Other terms like sunroom, window frame, and basement hatch refer to different structures entirely. A sunroom is a room with large windows designed for the enjoyment of sunlight, a window frame is the structure that holds a window itself, and a basement hatch is typically a cover for an opening that leads to the basement. None of these serve the specific function of providing an enclosure and drainage for below-grade basement windows.