The term porte cochére has two architectural meanings. It can refer to a passageway through a building, which allows vehicles to pass through to an interior space on the property; or a roofed structure extending from the entrance of a building over its driveway, designed to protect arriving guests from inclement weather. Its literal translation, from French, is the gateway or entrance (porte) for a carriage or coach (coche).
Porte cochéres are used liberally for commercial buildings but are less common in private homes. Only certain architectural styles and a large enough footprint make the inclusion of this gracious feature an option for residences. Admittedly, a porte cochére is a tad grand, however, it is always welcoming. When repurposed, as in the case of Ellis and Mary Johnston’s home, it becomes a luxurious outdoor spot for a breezy respite.
The Johnston’s in-town home, perched atop 11 acres, is such an estate for the architectural component. Built in the 1930s, it’s reached via a winding driveway which traverses a stone bridge and rises to a magnificent home site. This iconic residence was designed for automobiles to pause between home and garage, with the front door facing the porte cochére.
Mary knew she didn’t want the driveway passing through this appealing space. Citing a fear of conveniently leaving her car in what should be a treasured outdoor spot, she hired Arbor Engineering to help conceive a new master plan for the area surrounding the home’s entrance. The brickwork in a herringbone pattern found within the porte cochére was preserved. One particularly beautiful tree bends into the archway when heavily laden with blooms.
Two matching buffet-size tables now flank the interior of the porte cochére, which at times serves as a gathering spot for friends. The bar can be set up here, but on many evenings the Johnstons take advantage of the sheltered space to relax in the rocking chairs it holds. A lovely breeze is the norm, Mary explains, in the space some of her southern friends understatedly refer to as “the dog run” (although we think this particular dog run is perhaps the most luxurious in Greenville).
by Libby McMillan Henson / photography by Chelsey Ashford
