View To The Porch

View to the Porch

There are few things I enjoy more than relaxing on my own porch after work.  I sit down and before I know it,  the kids have joined me and are swinging on the porch swing or chatting about school.  Soon my wife arrives to complete the group and we have a family get together.  This would never happen, knowing my family, on an open deck or inside our home.  Inside we all have our tasks or diversions keeping us busy and outside in the yard, we lack a focus unless we are playing a game.

There is no doubt in my mind that there is something psychologically unique about a porch.  We are neither inside nor fully outside and exposed; we are surrounded by the sounds and smells of nature while maintaining the comfort of home.

Invariably when adults gather on our porch, the conversations are fun and intense.  At some point a family member will bring out a board game and our attention is equally consumed there.  When the din of conversation quiets, the focus turns to the tableaux parading across the yard-usually the kids chasing the dogs or vice versa.

Now I’m not claiming that porches are the cure for the common cold, but I always feel my tensions ease as I spend time  on a porch.  If architects could prescribe home remedies, I assure you my first prescription would be: build at least one porch and have fun.

View From The Porch

View From the Porch

Photos by Rob Karosis  Curated Brochure by Crisp Architects: Portfolio

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About the Author: James Crisp

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James M. Crisp has been an architect for well over 30 years. His architectural firm, Crisp Architects, designs projects throughout New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Massachusetts. In April of 2007, Taunton Press published 'On the Porch' by James M. Crisp and Sandra Mahoney.

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3 Comments

  1. 035B57Bdeb7C0E212D2107752Da5Cba2?S=54&R=G
    Sarah M. Sasscer June 2, 2015 at 1:05 pm

    I love the insightful comments about the advantages of the porch, especially how it can enhance family interactions and provide cozy access to the outdoors. I also like your references to board games– another type of focal point for families.

  2. Aa2Cbf39867Dfccabe80558316A86802?S=54&R=G
    James Crisp June 2, 2015 at 1:23 pm

    Thank you very much! Porches are amazing.

  3. C229825E4Db3F98731B08A1A68D6C197?S=54&R=G
    Carol Rohde June 24, 2015 at 9:05 pm

    Love your porch also, Jimmy. It’s nice to sit in the swing.

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