Modern Architectural Ideas for Enclosed Carports

Complementary Materials

• The contemporary carport should forgo aluminum for materials that complement the house. Contemporary prefabricated metal carports typically look like they have vinyl siding, which blends well with homes that have vinyl siding. Alternatively, use wooden planks to build a rustic carport that resembles a log cabin. This look works best for homes with a rustic appearance, particularly homes that resemble cabins themselves. If you want your carport to have artistic flair, use wood or cement blocks to build the structure, then paint it your desired color. You can create a mosaic backsplash on the first two or three feet of the structure using colorful shards of pottery, glass beads and stones.

Solar Panels

• Using the carport's roof to generate energy also uses space wisely. This strategy will decrease your energy bill and make your home more environmentally friendly. Install solar panels on the roof to create a power-generating carport. Alternatively, set up a prefab solar-generating carport, as Alyssa Ford suggests in "Goodbye, Garages: 10 Carports Worth Craving."

Courtyard

• The carport and the house's walls can create a partially enclosed outdoor space. If you add an extra wall, you'll have a small courtyard. The partial enclosure creates a cozy outdoor space that you can use for barbecues, a garden or a tranquil yoga space, for instance. Use a trellis for the extra wall to create a less solid look. Adding a series of stepping stones from the carport entrance to the courtyard will help to create a sense of connectedness between the spaces.

Two-Story Carport

• Similarly, to fully use the space encompassed by the carport, design the top as a deck. The structure must be strong enough to support everything that will sit on it. Prefabricated carports may not be sturdy enough to use as the base for a deck; check with the manufacturer. Install a railing around the top and stairs leading up to the deck from the back or side. A roof garden with ivy hanging down the side would also serve as an attractive use of the space.

Storage Space

• A pitched roof allows for storage space above the car. Plus, the pitched roof creates a more finished look for the structure, making it resemble a small cottage. Simply add a small entryway on the outside of the structure, and use a ladder to access the space. Alternatively, create the opening in the back and use built-in steps or ladder rungs to access the space.