innergård

Innergård, or inner courtyard, is a courtyard surrounded by buildings within a block. It is a common feature in Nordic urban housing, providing light, air, and a social space for residents. Access is typically from stairwells or corridors; some innergårdar are private to the residents of a property, while others are shared or publicly accessible.

Historically, innergårdar emerged in medieval and early modern city blocks to maximize daylight in dense streets and to create a secluded communal area. In the 19th and 20th centuries, multi-family housing often centered around inner courtyards with brick facades, arcades, and galleries. Today, such courtyards can range from simple paved spaces to landscaped gardens.

Architectural characteristics vary, but innergårdar are usually enclosed by surrounding buildings and may feature paving, greenery, trees, benches, and play areas. They serve functions such as recreation, laundry space, and social gathering spots, while also contributing to the microclimate and reducing street noise.

Management of innergårdar is typically handled by housing associations or property cooperatives, and accessibility varies by project. Modern concerns include safety, accessibility for people with mobility impairments, maintenance of green spaces, and balancing privacy with shared use. In some cases, historical innergårdar are protected as cultural heritage, while others undergo modernization or repurposing to fit contemporary housing needs.