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Abstract
The residential entrance is the space between the street and the front door and includes such elements as the fence, the entry gate, the garage, the sidewalk, the front steps, and the front porch. In America, essentially all of the entrance elements have evolved as a result of attempts to accommodate the automobile. The sequential movement through the entrance space has been described in terms of both function and pattern language. While design of the entrance sequence is dependent on these practical considerations, individual needs of those residing within the house are often the most meaningful. These needs are determined by the narrative or narratives of the person or persons within the house in addition to the functional needs of the automobile and visitors. The narrative represents individual expression, social status, role of the automobile in the individual's life, regional factors and cultural or ethnic background of the individual or individuals within the house. Opportunities exist for improving the residential entrance based on a combination of symbolic and literal interpretations of the narrative.