Derived from the Greek word ‘Pronaos’, and translating as “before a temple”, portico has passed into modern parlance as the upmarket name for a porch sheltering the entrance to a building. It also encompasses those that are extended as a colonnade, with a roof structure over a walkway supported by columns, while their use over the generations is reflected in the different options to be found today. Haddonstone, the cast-stone specialist, continues to create grand and attractive entrances for homes, hotels and even historic properties.
Northamptonshire-based Haddonstone is reporting a revival of interest in porticos as they serve both practical and aesthetic purposes in architectural design. For an existing building or a new build, cast stone porticos can be incorporated to visually transform any entrance. They can also be styled to complement other key elements to a façade such as window surrounds, cornices and wall dressings like entablatures, to create an integrated design. Sensitively executed, they can enhance the kerb appeal or wow-factor of a building.
Around 70-80% of the company’s orders involve totally bespoke castings, which means very accurate and individual moulds are fabricated in arguably the most skilful part of the process by the company’s craftsmen. Before this, though, specification requirements and design ideas from the architect can be received as CAD files before the timber, fibreglass or rubber mould are made, from which the cast stone components are produced. Haddonstone, furthermore, keeps all the moulds for at least three months after the product is despatched in case additional castings are required.
Overall, porticos represent a practical addition to any style of property from terraced apartments in busy urban settings, to wedding venues set in spacious grounds, while schools or other public buildings can similarly benefit. These elegant structures keep people dry as they wait for transport to arrive or fumble for keys; they can even provide a grand setting for those bridal pictures taken in a downpour. Also, according to Homebuilding & Renovating, the UK’s number one website for self-builders and home extenders, porticos add significant value to a property.
As well as offering design guides to assist the architect, homeowner or builder select the right portico, Haddonstone can provide a list of independent contractors trusted to offer a comprehensive installation service anywhere in the country.
Also available is the Gibbs range of classical porches. Inspired by Georgian architect James Gibb, the range was designed by Hugh Petter of ADAM Architecture and contains five porches suitable for both new and historic buildings.
For further information, call 01604 770711 or visit www.haddonstone.com