What is the name of the side room off the atrium in a Pompeiian house?

The name of the side room off the atrium in a Pompeiian house is indeed "Ala." In Roman architecture, particularly in the context of domestic spaces like those found in Pompeii, the ala refers to a wing or side room that is typically located adjacent to the atrium. These spaces were often used for various purposes, such as storage or as small sitting areas.

The term "Aula" refers to a large hall or an open space in a building, rather than a specific side room. An "Apodyterium" is the changing room in a public bath, which is not relevant to the structure of a typical Pompeian house. Similarly, "Exedra" refers to a room or area designed for socializing, often found in larger public buildings or gardens, making it different from the function of an ala in a residential context.

Understanding the specific terms and their roles within the layout of a Pompeiian house provides deeper insights into Roman domestic architecture and how these spaces were utilized.