Spaces-The Courtyard

Some of our fondest memories are from childhood, the time spent playing with grandparents in our village home.One of the architectural elements that always stood out has been the courtyard. A simple space in the centre of the home, the courtyard was the centre of our world. We played, bathed, slept, ate food while the older ladies cooked and gossiped going about the mundane everyday household chores.

Traditionally, Indian houses followed the principles of Vastu Shastra. One of the most accepted Vastu principles called hindu-brahmasthan is used while designing a courtyard. Hindu-brahmasthan states that all spaces emerge from a single point, i.e. the centre of the house. This is also the reason why the courtyards were designed in the center of the house and centrally located courtyards gained importance in traditional Indian architecture.

Architectures across the globe have the courtyard concept.Courtyard homes have been designed and built throughout the world with many variations depending on the climate, culture and spiritual use etc. Ancient Greeks and Romans built courtyard houses too. In China houses with inner courtyards were very popular for a long time. Arabs lived in courtyard houses since olden times.In India, courtyard houses are still prevalent all over the country.

Above are examples of how we can incorporate the benefits of the traditional courtyard concepts in our house designs! 
Adding a bit of colour, a few plants and some floor cushions or garden furniture they can be perfect relaxation corner for the family and friends over endless cups of tea and gossip!:)

Photo courtesy: JA kazuhiko kishimoto;gnana;renemariacrystal