How do you retain the pleasures of suburban living on a small lot in the heart of town? This plan, designed by Tulsa architect Jay Sparks provides one good answer. Courtyard House maintains a sense of privacy and offers pleasant garden views by turning inward around a courtyard. Comprising about 1,800 square feet of heated space, with overall dimensions of about 42 x 76 feet, the house might be built on lots similar to those found in many older city neighborhoods-essentially leftover spaces with narrow frontages. The design may also be adapted for a zero lot line development by removing the windows on the side wall. Finally, by rotating the plan, the house could be used on a conventional, wide suburban lot. The traditional exterior features gabled rooflines, clapboard siding, and multipaned windows. The house folds around the central courtyard, which is accessible from the living room, kitchen/dining area, and the master bedroom. A small entry court, tucked into the L-shaped area formed by the foyer and living room, extends the living space farther. The living room is spacious and appealing, with a vaulted ceiling illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows and a clerestory window in the gable end. A freestanding fireplace divides living room and study. The dining area, between the island kitchen and central courtyard, performs double duty as a breakfast area and formal dining space.

An Exclusive Design for Sunset by Jim Phaffman