Design of the Courtyard-Space in Colleges

Courtyard space is a part of the outside space in colleges, and is important in-between space which connects indoors to outside. On the one hand, it meet the needs for communication which between humans , between human and nature. On the other hand, as the outside space to buildings it not only has a close relationship with buildings and outside environment, but also a standing point to improve the buildings environment and surrounding environment.First, this Paper explains briefly the courtyard-space in colleges. Second, based on studying on its function, character, basic types and composing elements, ect, principles and theories, methods of design are analyzed and summarized.Last, factors which influence the design are pointed out, and different design for different type courtyards in colleges are studied. How to creat communicational space and design with history and culture are emphasized. Several design practices are analyzed in the end of paper.With all of the study, the paper hopes to provide some help to further study and practice.