Courtyard concept of design

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The courtyard is defined as an open to sky area, enclosed by built spaces. The courtyard was included as an architectural feature in ancient planning and designing philosophies. It may have emerged as a doctrine towards religious practices or in response to climatic conditions.

Evolution

Ancient texts on Architecture emphasize the importance of the courtyard as a source of positive energy and vibrations in the centre of the house. The courtyard has been a recurring motif not only in Residential Architecture world over, but in medieval churches and cloisters as well. In Indian Architecture, courtyards have been incorporated as early as Indus Valley Civilization. With time, these courtyards changed from clustered to private in nature. In Chettinad houses or the Havelis of Rajasthan, the courtyard emerged as an affirmative response to the climate. The inward looking plans of hot dry climates or use of courtyards as rain water harvesting schemes evolved accordingly.

Design Considerations

With all the given advantages of a courtyard, there are some design considerations too. Drainage is one of the primary concerns while positioning a courtyard. If the courtyard is on mother earth, drainage can be facilitated through the top soil. But if the courtyard is over a basement roof, then due protection towards additional structural loads due to earth filling, adequate water proofing and drainage solutions should be thoroughly worked out. While choosing plant material in the courtyard, appropriate study of sun and shade loving plants with respect to the orientation of the courtyard should be factored in. Insects may be another issue to be addressed either through herbal sprays or other natural methods.

Apart from the few odds discussed above, the advantages of integrating a courtyard into the spatial design far outweigh the demerits. Today, with reorientation towards active healthy life styles, green architecture and positive energy cycles, the courtyard has made a comeback in Contemporary Architecture and is here to stay. So, go ahead and enjoy a spot of sunshine along with a breath of fresh air in the comfort of your own space!