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Even though Americans have many good reasons to reduce their dependence on automobiles, our love affair with cars rages on, along with a reinvigorated interest in garages that goes beyond the need for covered, secure parking; tool storage; and dad's workbench.
According to NAHB, the percentage of new homes with a three-car garage has doubled since 1991. For buyers of high-end homes, storage requirements often exceed that.
Yet the average lot size has decreased by an average of 15 percent nationally, posing a design dilemma. How do builders and architects reconcile bigger, bulkier garages with the need to create an aesthetically pleasing home façade?
Garage doors and home elevations do not always make a happy marriage. The Portland, Ore., City Council was so offended by single-family homes with front-loaded garages that it voted unanimously to outlaw them in 1999. The reason? They were considered a blemish on the otherwise aesthetically friendly neighborhood fabric.
The ruling underscores the need for creativity in garage design. I'm surprised how many large, expensive houses fall back on the front-loaded garage formula. As long as there are no restrictions, why not do something interesting? For example, in many old Chicago neighborhoods, garages are detached and located at the rear of the lot. Some architects borrow this idea and take it further by creating an interior motor court and even carving out extra living space above the garage. Another option is to turn the garage to the side so the front elevation isn't dominated by garage doors.
Undoubtedly it takes more time, effort and money to sensitively integrate garages into a home's design. But the finished product speaks volumes about your thoughtfulness and attention to detail.
630/288-8194, susan.bady@reedbusiness.com
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