Porch? Perhaps not the largest project! But main entrance design is critical to quality. How? Well because the main entrance is the location of first impressions. Also it is part of both the exterior and interior spaces. Therefore a porch influences the lasting perception of the entire building. Whilst mediating the transition from outdoors to indoors.
Before
Space between the outer and inner doors is too shallow. Consequently it’s impossible to occupy it without both doors open. Leading to loss of heated indoor air.
Designed porch
The extension enables independant door opening. Therefore the porch is a functional air-lock. Furthermore it enables adequate storage. A glazed gable illuminates the deeper plan.
After
The client prefers less glazing in the door. As well as a more traditional appearance. Generally speaking this is a most satisfactory realisation of the design.
Another successful collaboration
This is one of three projects built by TKM Construction. Heres another. And the third. A tidy site, efficient management of trades-people, and clear construction drawings. All adding up to a happy outcome. In which my client is delighted. Evidence for which is clear. In kind words for their experience of the whole design and construction process. This enhancement exactly matches their original vision.
Key takeaways from this porch project
A simple architecture is best. For example when there’s just enough likeness to show organic growth from the parent building. And the porch doesn’t dominate. Therefore a gable repeats. And the “soldier course” brickwork parades along both existing and new openings.
A porch must be deep enough to contain precious heated air. Meaning the outer door can be closed before the inner one.
Decide early on storage of objects. Then tailor the design to accommodate them. We need transparency for natural light. But some concealment of objects is also a need.
Design carefully the changes in level between outer paving, the porch floor itself, and the ground floor finished level. Here there is one level throughout. Leading to careful design and installation of a weather bar. Not to mention exterior drainage.
