Europe’s evolution of atrium houses

Architectural history thesis

Student report (2021)

Authors

S.F.G. van der Straaten Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

J.C. Edens Teachers of Practice / A - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment, Architecture and the Built Environment
Copyright: © 2021 Sem van der Straaten
More Info
expand_more

Published Date

12-04-2021

Language

English

Reuse Rights

Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.

Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

This thesis investigates the historical evolution of the atrium house in Europe. The origin and the climatic benefits of the atrium house were found by conducting literature review. Typological variants on the atrium house are determined by testing them to a set of criteria. The traditional atrium house developed in the Roman empire from Greek and Etruscan influences. The research shows four residential variants on the atrium typology in Europe, which are: the courtyard, cortile, patio and court. These typologies with enclosed outdoor spaces have impact by offering climatic benefits and a secluded outside space which stimulates social interaction. From an architectural perspective, this research emphasizes the benefits and history of the atrium typologies.