A look through pattern books of pre-war houses is a
reminder that most homes of the period had only one porch, at the front,
typically 8 feet deep. Back then, the front was a more desirable location for
outdoor space. A front porch invited visitors and allowed for chance encounters
with neighbours and friends. The backyard, on the other hand, was utilitarian
with a garage, and even earlier, a stable or barn.
BEFORE
Credit: James Wentling
Post-war designs reversed that
arrangement, with the garage in front and a usable porch in back, for more
privacy. In that transition, we’ve lost the real porch. Often, that space is
now only 5 feet deep and lacks steps, railings, and the other features that
made the porch a fine place to spend time. Consumer tastes, however, have
caused us to hang onto the front porch, even if it remains merely
decorative—and puny in size.
New Urbanist trends and
planning initiatives have encouraged designers to return to the historical
standard, where the front porch is once again usable, and the garage is set
back to emphasize living space over automobile storage. Well-detailed front
porches are promoted as a requirement of traditional neighbourhood designs.
AFTER
Credit: James Wentling
It’s a step
in the right direction. But good porches can be made better with strong design
elements—distinctive columns and railings, masonry bases, upgraded roof lines,
and steps with handrails. Appealing
seating and dining setups and a porch swing help integrate the porch into the
home design, and add curb appeal. The Phoenix Group will make sure that we
integrate furnishings into your drawings so you can see how these spaces will
actually live!
