What Is A Porte-Cochere?

Do you have any idea what a porte-cochere is or where you might see one? Initially seen in large homes and public buildings in the late 18th and 19th centuries, porte-cochere is a French term meaning door carriage. It essentially makes it easier to avoid unsightly weather and enter a home or building unscathed. Porte-cocheres can still be seen in luxury private homes and some public buildings, such as churches, hotels, and schools.

We offer 150+ house plans with porte cocheres in various sizes and styles. Explore whether a porte cochere is suitable for your home and your future build.

Located on the side or front of a home, these covered structures differ from carports because no vehicles are parked beneath a porte-cochere. Instead of being used as a covered way to enter the home from the car, a porte-cochere is not for parking but for driving under to enter the home and then continuing to the garage to park the car.

Reasons why you might want a porte-cochere in your new house plan:

• For convenience: The ability to enter the home unnerved by the weather
• For curb appeal: Create a more interesting and dimensional exterior with this covered structure
• For resale value: This elegant addition can appeal to buyers when you sell your home 

Porte Cocheres’ can be conveniently designed to be at the front of the home, like the one pictured below. This style of porte cochere offers more of a covered porch where you can drop off items, passengers, etc. This gives shelter for people entering and exiting the vehicle directly to the front of the home. 

If you love the uniqueness and convenience of a porte-cochere, visit our website to explore our full collection of house plans with one. You can also modify any of our house plans to include one. If this feature is a must-have in your home, you can learn more and request a modification quote from our team here.