Roman houses speak to me. The ancient ones -- oriented inwards, rooms open and peristyled around lush courtyard gardens. From the street, only a discrete door, tucked into plain, windowless walls, hinted at comforts within: A world apart. Romans weren't alone in this -- centric focus is common among Japanese and Middle-Eastern dwelling styles -- but the classic Roman example resonates most.
It's the opposite of traditional American neighborhood ambiance, where stylish home entries face each other invitingly, picture windows frame interior glimpses, front porches offer social venues, and landscaped front yards reflect local character. A friendly concept ... just so yesteryear.
American development currently favors the snouthouse, with its anonymous, garage-door facade. Homes still ostensibly open out, streetward, but entries are tucked aside, porches (decks now) have moved to the backyard, and any surrounding landscaping is kept minimal. A Roman house wannabe.
No comments:
Post a Comment