COLUMN: Gail Mayhugh

DEAR GAIL: I want to convert a large entryway into a small courtyard. What would be the best and most cost-effective way of doing this? -- Neil

DEAR NEIL: Courtyards have been around since early Roman times. They were developed to provide privacy from the outside world, and a garden area for entertaining and relaxing.

During the past three years, I have seen an abundance of courtyard designs in homes in all price ranges. We all like to relax, and being outdoors in a tranquil setting can help lower blood pressure and close the door on the day's work.

Courtyards increase the usable square footage of a home and incorporate the great outdoors. They accommodate many uses and exist in various shapes and sizes.

Depending upon the size, courtyards can be a wonderful place for entertaining or enjoying a change of scenery.

There are a couple of options you can investigate. However, as with any home improvement project, you can save money by doing it yourself, but know your limits, especially if there will be any construction involved.

Your first step would be to determine how large of a courtyard you want and where it will be placed in relation to your home's entry. Its shape and location need to relate to the house's shape -- you want the courtyard to appear as if it is an extension of your home, not a second-thought addition.

Courtyards do not have to be surrounded by walls. Of course, that would be the ultimate for privacy and security, but it is not the most cost-effective option. Besides, depending upon the amount of space you have, you do not want to turn your entry into a fortress.

One way to create privacy without walls is with plants, furniture and a water feature. To expand the walkway, remove the concrete path and pour a new slab, or add to the existing path with paver stone, flagstone or concrete. Try to make the shape free-flowing instead of square or rectangular. It's more attractive and interesting, much in the same way that a winding path is more welcoming than a straight sidewalk.

If you plan to stay with concrete, I suggest that you stain or paint it to make it feel more like a living area. Tiling it is also an option, but with added costs.

Next, look to see where you are going to enter and make it stand out. You could use a free-standing arched trellis for a dramatic effect, or you could add two large pieces of sculpture or oversized plants for a private, welcoming feel.

With your flooring in place and entrance set, purchase large plant containers with substantial foliage. They will act as partial walls and provide privacy. Don't surround yourself with them, but use enough so that when you're sitting there, you feel secluded from the street and your neighbors.

Next, add a focal feature. This could be a fountain, outdoor fireplace, artwork or a unique piece of furniture. Every room, whether indoors or outdoors, needs to have a focal point.

Add furniture that is comfortable and attractive in conversation areas, as well as in separate sitting and dining areas if you have the space. Follow the basic rules of design, and keep the conversation area no larger than 8 feet around. Also, do not line the perimeter of the area with furniture. Instead, bring those items into the courtyard and don't be afraid to angle them.

You might also want accent lights on the plants and, if you plan to read or dine in the courtyard, you'll need adequate lighting for those activities.

Another way to provide a feeling of privacy is to add an overhead feature, such as a trellis draped with hanging plants, vines and lighting, or add trees that have large umbrella flairs at the top.

Of course if you want to spend a little extra, you can build a free-standing tower, loggia (open-sided, roofed or vaulted gallery) or wall. Partial walls also can be brought out from your home.

Courtyards are quaint and secluded sanctuaries that allow us to have a welcome respite from our busy days. I hope that you enjoy yours.

Gail Mayhugh, owner of GMJ Interiors, is a professional interior designer and author of a book on the subject. Questions may be sent by e-mail to: gail@gmjinteriors.com. Or, mail to: 8170 S. Eastern Ave., Box 4-275, Las Vegas, NV 89123. Her Web address is: www.GMJinteriors.com.

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