The Courtyard
Home Design's Oldest, Simplest and Most Affordable Luxury
It had been a difficult day at work. The boss was upset. Your co-workers were being difficult (as usual) and business was slow. But at last, it was time to go home and leave the headaches of your job behind. So...finally...after enduring a messier-than-usual traffic jam in front of the Parthenon, you arrived home and parked your chariot, anxious to change out of your work toga and relax in the peaceful, private surroundings of your home's courtyard.
Wait a second... Yes...right along with the peaceful, private surroundings of your home's courtyard.
Times may have changed since chariots were grid-locked in front of the Parthenon, but courtyards -- then and now -- have always provided a pleasant outdoor living space to chill-out with fresh air and sunshine at the end of a long, hard day.
Traditionally, courtyards have been associated with house plans that are designed in Mediterranean or Southwestern styles. Today, however, these peaceful, semi-secluded "outdoor rooms" can be found in a wide variety of house plan styles. Furthermore, courtyards can be found in house plans of any size because their design does not contribute to a home's overall square footage.
The primary function of a courtyard is to provide a comfortable outdoor living space that is semi-secluded -- usually surrounded by at least three walls. This is especially appreciated when houses are constructed in close proximity to one another. A courtyard, unlike a patio, porch or deck, affords a greater degree of privacy from the neighborhood.
Courtyards can be found at the front, side, rear, or even center of a home's exterior. Front courtyards have traditionally provided a private setting, near or adjacent to a home's front entry. Often, however, courtyards access a home directly and are designed to expand the practical use of a dining room, breakfast area, great room, or even master suite.
The charm of a courtyard is often enhanced with weather-resistant tiles, stonework, pavers, planters and landscaping details. Courtyard fireplaces or even outdoor kitchens can expand a home's entertaining options -- practically to the point where family and friends won't want to come back inside. To be sure, these age-old living spaces are well-loved for their enticing atmosphere. But additionally, a courtyard can be the most economically constructed area of a home's design, from a cost-per-square-foot standpoint.
So, as you ponder the features of one house plan after another, don't forget to consider the inclusion of a courtyard. Historically, it's one of home design's oldest, simplest and most affordable luxuries. And of course, it's the perfect place to kick back in your favorite toga, protected from the prying eyes of the neighborhood.
Check out our other blogs
Why Builders Should Have A House Plan Library
Having a large library of house plans is a valuable tool for builders. Not only does it provide more options for clients and allow for customization, but it can also help to save time and reduce costs. Here are the top six reasons why builders should have a large library of house plans: 1 - It allo...read more
Best Pool House Plans For 2023
If you're lucky enough to have a pool on your property, a pool house can be a wonderful addition. Not only does it provide a convenient spot to change clothes, but it can also serve as a place to relax and entertain guests. In this blog, we'll show you some of the benefits of building a pool house a...read more
The Complete Barndominium Guide for Beginners 2023
It seems like year after year there are certain trends that come and go when it comes to home design. Over the last few years we’ve seen the rise in styles such as Modern Farmhouse, Modern Cottage, Modern and even Cottagecore (more on that one later). While those styles are certainly still pop...read more
The Best Things To Do With Your Spare Bedroom
A spare bedroom is a valuable asset in any home, but it's easy for this space to become cluttered and unused if it's not utilized wisely. If you have a spare bedroom in your home, here are some smart ways to make the most of this space and turn it into a functional and enjoyable part of your...read more
The One Thing Designers Always Do Before Buying Furniture Online
It’s a familiar story. You spend months scouring the internet for the perfect sofa, coffee table, or accent chair. You decide to pull the trigger and click “complete purchase,” officially starting the six-month countdown to delivery. That fateful day finally&...read more