A home's entrance is more than just a doorway. It is the transition between the outside world and the space within, setting the tone for the architecture that follows. One of the most elegant ways to enhance this transition is with a thoughtfully designed portico.

For centuries, porticos have been used to create grand entrances, provide shelter from the elements, and add architectural character to homes of every style. Whether inspired by classical architecture or interpreted with a more contemporary approach, a well-designed portico brings both beauty and function to a home's exterior.

At FineHouse, we believe every outdoor structure should be designed with intention. A custom portico not only improves curb appeal but also creates a welcoming entrance that complements the home's overall architectural style.

What Is a Portico?

A portico is a covered entrance supported by columns or posts that projects from the front of a building. Unlike a full porch, a portico is typically designe...

So the client eventually settled on this design for the south side of the garden (the private side), but had not decided on a gate or materials yet. We proposed SynCore, our own composite material, Accoya, the premiere natural wood product with a 50 year warranty, or Sapele, a tropical hardwood like Mahogany, but less expensive.

The client ultimately decided on Accoya for all of the components, both for it's long life, and it's sustainability. Also, the decision was made to make everything white.

Arched Entry Scheme Selected for South Entrance

On the North side of the garden the owner wanted to make a more meaningful statement, as this was going to to be the public face of the garden. The gate decision was made here also, and we would be putting a matching garden gate at the South side as well.

 Public Facing Arbor with Gate

  Mid project a lower garden was added to the project along with additional picket fencing, a complimentary gate, and some architectural...

Welcome! My name is Rob Whitaker, I am the founder and "Chief of Design" at FineHouse, where we build Architectural Garden Structures in a modular format and have for the last 20 years. I intend to write about the use of structures in garden design, the nuances of construction, new and old materials & methods, and anything else that comes to mind in relation to the "Garden's Bones". 

For this, my first entry, I thought it would be appropriate to share a current project we are working on; The client has an existing stone wall entry to her vegetable/herb garden and wants to finish it off. She installed 6x6 posts while having the wall built so this is a starting point for us.

So our initial scheme with the client wishing to use pickett fencing. I like how it turned out, but will she?

Let me know what you think, and I will keep you posted.