Expert: Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC) - 2/17/2008

Question
Dear Ted,
my house is of what I have seen called a cross gabled
design. You approach the house directly viewing the
connection of the two sections. The wall directly ahead has no windows, the wall on the right contains a window about 15 inches from the joining seam, and the entry door
is placed about 6 feet from the joining seam, next to the
window.

I would like to have the whole corner covered by extending the roof because this bare corner makes such an ugly first impression.

For the life of me I cannot picture what would be a pleasing shape for such a "porch" be. Hope you might be able to make some suggestions.

Thank you, Christine

Answer
Christine,

I believe I understand your dilemna.  It is generally good design to "announce" the entrance by providing elements of architectural significance, rather than having a door at random in a wall  (especially at an inside corner).  An appropriately-scaled entry porch is often a great and practical solution.

There are many factors to consider in designing this, including overall size, orientation of light, roof pitch of main house and of porch, materials, columns, etc.  It need not present a gable-end to the street,  but might instead be a simple shed roof, with columns and beam presenting a visual threshold as you enter under the eave.

I'm sorry that I can't be more specific with the information that you have provided; I suggest that you work with a local designer or design/build contractor to resolve the design to your liking.  

Good luck, and feel free to follow up with additional questions.  -Ted