THE COURTYARD IS the first design element that catches the eye, when you look at the architecture of a house. It gives a certain elevatio...
THE COURTYARD IS the first design element that catches the eye, when you look at the architecture of a house. It gives a certain elevation to the architectural design and is also very functional. The architectural features of a courtyard are varied. If you look around the globe, you can source designs from different civilizations and nations. Like the Chinese, Moroccan, Pagoda style or if you have a yen for Indian architecture, the Chettinad and Kerala style looks very traditional and can be made to look stylish.
The traditional 'Nalukettu', which is the type of architecture found in courtyards in Kerala, have a close resemblance to East Asian gabled structures. If you fancy this type of a courtyard for your home, you can even plan an inner courtyard that opens up to the sky. The enclosed roof can protect the rooms from direct sunlight, keeping them cool even on the hottest of days. The Moroccan style on the other hand is also quite contemporary.
A secluded patio garden dotted with container plants can be given a touch of Moroccan magic to transform it into a cosy Mediterranean courtyard that's perfect for entertaining.
The central feature of the landscaped garden can be made to look large with an octagonal, sunken, seating area. This can be covered with intricate Moroccan tiles which are a key inspiration for the garden. The seats can be sunken into the ground with a low wall at the back providing privacy. A rectangular pond, complete with delicate trickling fountain placed opposite the steps will create a pleasing sound and provide a cooling effect as traditionally used in Moorish courtyards. The waters of the pond also reflect the surrounding planting. A small veranda can be made to lead from the house to the patio area. This is covered with coordinating tiles to fit in with the overall design.
A formal patio area can be built between this veranda and the seating area. This can have a tiled floor to coordinate with the rest of the garden and surrounded by a low hedge of pyramid and ball box trees. The table and chairs will offer a pleasing place to eat al fresco.
The Chettinad style of architecture for the courtyard is also very pleasant. The door leads into the open air courtyard, with pillared corridors running on each side leading into individual rooms.
