Descended from ancient Roman homes, the atrium can typically be found in large-scale public spaces like office buildings, hotel lobbies, and even some large apartment buildings. On a smaller scale, atriums—central, skylit spaces—are a literal breath of fresh air in modern homes, bringing light and nature indoors. Take a look as we review some of our favorite atrium homes that have taken this traditional layout to new heights.

1) A Neoclassical Gallery Home in Belgium

2) A Sustainable Family Cabin Surrounds an Open-Air Atrium

ancouver architects Heather Howat and David Battersby of BattersbyHowat Architects revolves around a rocky outcropping lush with life that acts as the home’s central atrium. The granite was left intact in order to serve as the nucleus of the courtyard, and the walls of windows draw a wealth of natural daylight into the back of the building." layout="" credit="Photo by Misha Gravenor" photoUserId="6133429956601688064"/>

3) A Home in Croatia With a Stair Winding Around an Atrium

4) A Restored Eichler Home With a Central Atrium

5) This Light-Filled Industrial Renovation Plays Host to Live Music

6) An Impressive 20-Foot Skylight Transforms a Jumbled Chicago Home

7) A California Home With Clean Lines and a Bright Atrium

8) A Warm, Luxurious New York City Duplex With a Dramatic Catwalk

Michael Moran
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9) A Spacious Home in Miami Beach With a Bright Central Patio

10) A Central Atrium In a Former Jam Factory in Melbourne

11) A Skylit Atrium Brings In the Outdoors

12) An Updated Eichler Designed for Indoor/Outdoor Living

13) An Undulating Italian Villa with a Circular Atrium Stretches Toward the Lakeshore

14) A Family-Centric Home in India Connected by Bridges Across an Atrium

15) A U-Shaped Sanctuary in Japan Wraps Around an Atrium

16) An Eicher Home With Clean Lines and California Vegetation in the Atrium

17) An Atrium in Beverly Hills With a 100-Year Old Olive Tree

18) An Atrium With a Curved Wall in the Czech Republic

Related Reading: 10 Homes With Large, Well-Ventilated Courtyards