Courtyards

Aesthetic, Social, and Thermal Delight

Courtyards Aesthetic, Social, and Thermal Delight Courtyards is an artful, informative exploration of courtyards, from their origins in early civilization to contemporary design concepts. Architects and landscape architects will repeatedly turn to the detailed guidelines for reference, gain a greater sense of balance between building and garden, and cultivate optimal green space by using the practical planting tips. Over one hundred photographs and drawings illustrate the concepts written about by an authority and passionate scholar in his field.

Evolving and popular aspect of design

Courtyards are special areas that allow the inside and outside to mingle; where rain, wind, daylight, night darkness, and sound can be showcased; and, simply, they are niches of beauty and solace. Since at least 3000 b.c., courtyards have been incorporated into the architecture of the day as a significant part of the physical and cultural landscape. Today, the courtyard continues to be an evolving and popular aspect of design through which landscapers and designers can create privacy amidst increased property development.

Courtyards incorporated into the architecture

Courtyards presents a survey of courtyards, contemporary design guidelines, and a diverse selection of examples. Readers will acquire a basic understanding of the balance that must exist between garden and building, including practical advice for planting.

History of courtyards

First, a brief history of courtyards is presented, including itemized accounts of topics such as placement within a building, orientation, exposure, common activities in and around courtyards, and the promotion of temperate conditions within the courtyard. Next, an ample section of examples follows, generously supplemented with over fifty full-color photographs from Spain and Latin America. These exquisite images are accompanied by temperature charts, solar diagrams, and other key technical information about courtyards. Finally, an extensive section of planning and design guidelines highlights factors for consideration, such as daytime/ nighttime temperature ranges, zoning regulations, proportions, and innovative proposals incorporating driveways and uses of rainwater.
Architects, landscape architects, and urban designers and planners will find this an ideal starting point for creating or renovating any courtyard. Students of all these disciplines can use Courtyards as an inclusive, easy-to-use reference.

John S. Reynolds

John S. Reynolds is a professor of architecture at the University of Oregon. Reynolds is actively involved in the American Solar Energy Society and the Society of Building Science Educators. The recipient of numerous fellowships and grants, John S. Reynolds' research has focused on the relationship between environment, inhabitants, and energy usage.

Courtyards

Courtyards: Aesthetic, Social, and Thermal Delight by John S. Reynolds
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 0471398845

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