top of page
courtyard residence
Project team
Courtyard homes have served as architectural icons throughout history, from the grand domus of Ancient Rome to the serene siheyuan of China and the timeless structures of Egypt. Their core function has always been to create a communal gathering space within the privacy of a home, offering a harmonious blend of family unity and natural daylighting. This remarkable home, originally constructed in the 1940s with a subsequent addition in the 1960s, embodies this historic typology but had a courtyard that was underutilized. The existing layout featured a corridor leading to the living room, effectively cutting off natural light to the bedrooms and diminishing the potential of the courtyard.
Gary Wang, AIA, Principal Architect
Sonam Tsering
​
Way Consulting Engineers, Structural
Cash Custom Homes, Contractor
Modern elements now grace this revitalized home, including large folding glass doors that open to a beautifully designed backyard. The courtyard, now a central feature, offers an inviting space perfect for entertaining. Its seamless integration with the back patio and kitchen access bar, where guests can comfortably sit outside, makes it an ideal setting for social gatherings.
Our design intervention reimagined this space by relocating the primary suite to the former living room, creating a new family room that flanks the courtyard. This strategic move not only maximizes natural light throughout the home but also establishes a cohesive flow, terminating the public procession into the home just before reaching the primary suite.
before
after
In our schematic design process, we employ a color-coding system in drawings to clearly delineate public and private spaces. This technique was instrumental in redefining the home's spatial dynamics, enhancing both functionality and privacy.
before
The transformation of this 1940s courtyard home marries historical charm with contemporary living, creating a sanctuary that celebrates both past and present.
bottom of page