Verandah

Verandah

Verandahs sit at a peculiar location in homes such as indigenous homes, bungalows and modern-day houses. It is part of the house but not quite, despite roofing. It is outside, but not there yet. It is within the property, but there is a much, much more private space indoors. 

These open-air galleries are usually enclosed with railings and are often located at the fronts and sides of homes. The word veranda sailed across the world from Europe, with its etymology coming from as far as France, Portugal, and Spain, and as near as the Hindi-speaking parts of the world: the Hindi word is varaṇḍā, while the Spanish roots are baranda.

The verandah partitions the home from inside and outside. For those of us who are homesick, the verandah could be the first glimpse of home. If we’re lucky, a loved one could be sitting out there, waiting for your return. 

Reference:

Taylor, Lisa. “Characteristics and History of the Veranda”. 06/27/19. https://www.thespruce.com/outdoor-spaces-what-is-a-veranda-2736767#:~:text=Veranda%20or%20Verandah%3F,by%20the%20English%20from%20India.

https://www.canva.com/design/DAEBxUuVi1E/3iViGxtbJizf2v7G-8mbBg/edit

Indigenous Architecture