Courtyards

Monte Cassion Abbey 

Image from wikimedia.org

 What makes a courtyard?  Immediately my mind conjures up an image of an Italian courtyard.  I think of Spain and possibly Mexico.  I often see them in hotels.   But, did you realize the courtyard can be very humble.  It is just basically an area partially or completely surrounded by a building or walls.  

Image Southernliving.com

Most of the time I think of a courtyard being at the back of the house but it can be on the side or the front of the home.  

Image from concierge.typepad.com

A courtyard is usually tucked away where the beauty is just for the privileged few.

Image from courtyard.in

Image from southernaccents.com

Image from southernaccents.com

New Orleans French Quarter

Image lamaisonfou.blogspot.com

Perfect for intimate entertaining. 

Image from garden2wish4.co.uk

It is all about serenity.

A private room to enjoy nature.

Courtyards are one of my favorite things.   We are starting with a clean slate behind our home after some major remodeling.  The courtyard is starting very humbly and hopefully will grow even more humble and charming.

I am linking this to Cindy's Show and Tell Friday at her site My Romantic Home. 
And, Laurie's My Favorite Things at her site Bargain Hunting and chatting with Laurie.
I will also link to Melissa's Inspired by Fridays at The Inspired Room.
I will also mention I am having a $50 CSN Giveaway at my blog.
Click here to go to the giveaway post.
I will try to get around to everyone and tell you.