Thursday 7 February 2013

US: The origins of the porch

The ubiquitous American porch is a small, often enclosed area outside the building. For over a hundred years, it was as synonymous with American culture as apple pie. Traditionally, the origins of most elements used in American architecture can be traced back to Europe, especially the Greeks. In fact the porch is often mistakenly said to have originated from the verandas used as part of Greek Temple Architecture.  Though, the porch never featured as a part of local American Architecture well into the 18th century.



It was first introduced as part of the “shotgun houses” built by the slaves from West Africa. These houses got the interesting name since they were designed in such a way that a shot fired through the entry, would pass right through all the passages and doors through the back door. (all aligned in a line to the main door). The houses were usually one room wide and many rooms deep.



Architectural Signifance

Back in Africa, known for its tropical, hot and humid climate, the porch was devised to provide relief from the heat and facilitate cross-ventilation. Community gathering space is very important to African, American and Afro-American Cultures. The porch served as a space for families and neighbours to gather.


Due to the association of porches to American cultural history, recent decades have seen a revival of porch building.  

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