Interior Courtyard

Who wouldn’t love the ultimate privacy of an interior courtyard in their home? Usually completely enclosed, an interior courtyard offers seclusion from the outside world without the eyesores of a fence or need for well thought out large scale landscaping.  A celeb who agrees is none other than Miss Britney Spears; she has purchased this beautiful home in California which happens to feature a private courtyard that offers an outdoor fireplace, and imported limestone fountain. You can see the scale of the courtyard from the aerial view.  Balconies offer wonderful light for each facing room, and no need for blinds, well, depending on who is visiting that is! I just love the weathered patinas on the pavers and stone details.

This courtyard was inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Spain.  The details on the deep-stained wood and glass doors offer a Moorish flare that is echoed in the arches and headers. The monochromatic palette offered in the stucco and cream and grey tones are timeless and create a true oasis appeal. 

Hidden Courtyards don’t have to look Tuscan to be hip, a contemporary courtyard like this one would be just as relaxing- with a few more seating and lounge areas of course. This L-shaped home by architect Roger Kurath may only have a partially enclosed courtyard, but it still gives the owners a bit of privacy and opens up some great views from the interior.  Simple and bold glass partition doors that span the entire courtyard-facing walls fold up accordion style to blur the line of inside verses out.  A continuous stretch of sleek railing provides a balcony feel. In the words of the architect, the courtyard provides: “A silent world where in the inhabitants can benefit of privacy and tranquility while living in an urban environment.”