Porch to Patio

We're fortunate enough to have both a porch and a patio but I can clearly see how use of one over another can easily change the dynamics of a neighborhood and be emblematic of larger trends.

The original essay entitled “From Porch to Patio” dates back to 1975 and explores the social implications of the architectural practice of building porches on the front of homes and its eventual abandonment in favor of patios.

A few excerpts from Front Porch Republic and the essay...

• As with any central feature in our built environment, this is more than merely a passing fashion trend or a meaningless design change: the transition from porch to patio was one of the clearest and significant manifestations the physical change from a society concerned with the relationship of private and public things - in the Latin, res publica - to one of increasing privacy.
• When a family member was on the porch it was possible to invite the passerby to stop and come onto the porch for extended conversation. The person on the porch was very much in control of this interaction, as the porch was seen as an extension of the living quarters of the family. Often, a hedge or fence separated the porch from the street or board sidewalk, providing a physical barrier for privacy, yet low enough to permit conversation. The porch served many important social functions in addition to advertising the availability of its inhabitants.
• By contrast, the patio reflected both new settlement patterns and the increasing desire for privacy and withdrawal from interaction with one’s neighbors. “In communities with high rates of mobility, one did not often want to know his neighbor. The constant turn-over of neighbors worked against the long-term relationships which are essential to a sense of belonging.” The patio, it was believed, was a symbol and practical expression of our independence, our liberation from the niggling demands of neighbor and community.

The distinction between porch and patio is just the tip of the iceberg as the article delves into the interconnection between a patio culture and our current political discourse. It's definitely an interesting read.