13 Breezeway Design Ideas

A breezeway is a covered passage between two detached buildings or running through the middle of a single building. Throughout their history, breezeways have had many decorative and practical purposes.

Breezeways can take on many forms. But you’re probably most familiar with this architectural element in the form of enclosed hallways running to and from a detached garage.

There are plenty of reasons to add a breezeway to your house. Keep reading for our favorite breezeway ideas that could change the way you think about remodeling your home!

1. House-to-Shed Breezeway

Connecting your home to a shed with a breezeway not only provides sheltered access but also expands your living space. Consider a design that complements both structures, using materials and architectural details that unify the space. For added functionality, line the breezeway with built-in storage or a potting bench for gardening tasks.

Farmhouse-style breezeway with a covered walkway connecting a white modern farmhouse to a rustic wooden outbuilding, set in a lush green landscape — Source: @farmhouse_to_farmhouse via Instagram

2. Brick Breezeway

A brick breezeway offers durability and a timeless aesthetic that can suit any home style. Lay bricks in a herringbone or basketweave pattern for a touch of sophistication. Surrounding the area with lush greenery or hanging plants can soften the look and create a tranquil passage.

Rustic breezeway with exposed wooden beams and brick walls leading to a garage with wooden barn-style doors, creating a warm and inviting entryway

3. Dogtrot Breezeway

The dogtrot breezeway, a traditional design originating from the Southeastern United States, features an open-air hallway between two living spaces. This layout promotes airflow and can serve as a comfortable, shaded gathering spot. Use screened sections to keep out pests while maintaining the breezy atmosphere.

Abandoned dogtrot-style house with a central breezeway, weathered wooden siding, and a rusted metal roof, surrounded by autumn leaves and trees — Source: @abandoned.south via Instagram

Historic dogtrot-style cabin with a central breezeway, yellow wooden siding, and a steep shingled roof, nestled in a wooded landscape

Dogtrot breezeway — Source: @architectureroadtrip via Instagram

Elegant dogtrot-style home with a covered breezeway, light gray shingle siding, and a metal roof, featuring an arched passage and second-floor balcony — Source: @markwesleyparsondesign via Instagram

Rustic dogtrot breezeway with a wooden deck, corrugated metal siding, colorful lounge chairs, potted plants, and a relaxed black dog enjoying the cozy outdoor space — Source: @gidgeesmithbags via Instagram

4. Enclosed Breezeway

An enclosed breezeway can be a versatile addition to your home, acting as a sunroom, mudroom, or even a greenhouse. Install large windows to flood the area with light and provide views of the landscape. Insulation and climate control can make this space functional year-round.

Bright enclosed breezeway with large windows, an arched doorway, wood-accented steps, and a black metal chair, leading into a warmly lit living space — Source: @leahhudsonrunyon via Instagram

Modern enclosed breezeway with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, black trim, and a snow-covered metal roof, connecting two white-paneled buildings — Source: @emilywunderdesign via Instagram

Modern enclosed breezeway with black French doors, large windows, slate tile flooring, and a minimalist console table, leading into a bright living space — Source: @mainspringhomes via Instagram

5. Go Classic with White Columns and a Beadboard Ceiling

For a touch of elegance, align white columns along the breezeway and finish the ceiling with beadboard. This classic combination exudes charm and can make the space appear larger and brighter. It’s particularly effective for homes with a colonial or craftsman architectural style.

Charming open breezeway with white columns, brick flooring, elegant chandeliers, and glass-paneled double doors, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces — Source: @frontporchpartnersrva via Instagram

6. Add an Outdoor Seating Area

Transform your breezeway into a social hub by introducing a seating area. Select weather-resistant furniture and add cushions for comfort. Strategic lighting and a coffee table can turn the space into an ideal spot for evening relaxation or morning coffee.

Cozy covered breezeway with yellow siding, string lights, a ceiling fan, and a navy wicker dining set, creating a relaxing outdoor seating area — Source: @swayvacationhomes via Instagram

7. Breezeway With an Outdoor Kitchen

For those who love to entertain, a breezeway with an outdoor kitchen is a perfect choice. Equip the space with a grill, refrigerator, and ample counter space for food prep. Durable materials like stainless steel and stone countertops will withstand the elements.

Modern breezeway with an open-air kitchen, vertical garden, wood pergola, and glass doors, blending indoor and outdoor living with sleek, minimalist design — Source: @rizkiadesign via Instagram

8. Pergola Breezeway

A pergola-covered breezeway strikes a balance between structure and openness. The lattice roof allows for climbing plants to weave through, providing natural shade and beauty. This design can create a romantic pathway that changes with the seasons.

Elegant covered breezeway with stone and stucco walls, a wood pergola, vintage lanterns, and a cozy seating area, connecting outdoor and indoor spaces — Source: @marianordlunddesign via Instagram

9. Contemporary Design with Clean Lines

Embrace minimalism with a contemporary breezeway that showcases clean lines and a sleek design. Use materials like wood, steel, and glass to achieve a modern look that connects the spaces without visual clutter. Recessed lighting can keep the focus on the architecture.

Modern open breezeway with a rich wood ceiling, retractable awning, and lush greenery, seamlessly connecting two structures with natural light and ventilation — Source: @sabi_design via Instagram

10. Transform it to a Cozy Outdoor Living Space

By adding elements like hanging swing, potted tree and hanging plants, a breezeway can become a cozy extension of your living room. Choose furniture that invites lounging and conversation. For ambiance, string lights or lanterns can provide a soft glow. The wide-open lawn and trees provide a serene backdrop to this peaceful retreat.

Charming open breezeway with a covered walkway, string lights, and a white porch swing, creating a cozy outdoor seating area with a peaceful wooded backdrop — Source: @thehouseonlakeview via Instagram

11. Embrace Rustic Elements

Start with robust timber beams and posts to frame the space, celebrating the wood’s natural grain and knots for an authentic touch. A vaulted ceiling with exposed beams expands the vertical space, while a simple globe pendant light can cast a warm glow that highlights the wooden architecture. Install floor-to-ceiling windows to create a seamless connection with the outdoors, and choose reflective glass to maintain privacy and energy efficiency.

Rustic enclosed breezeway with exposed wooden beams, stone flooring, arched windows, and elegant metal benches, blending natural elements with cozy charm — Source: @theroccoteamrealestate via Instagram

12. Classic Design with an Arched Opening

An arched opening can give your breezeway a grand entrance feel. This design element works well with both traditional and modern homes, offering a visual break from straight lines. Consider walls that are clad with horizontal siding painted in white.

Elegant covered breezeway with white arched entryways, wood beam ceiling, lantern lighting, and a stone walkway leading to a landscaped garden path — Source: @aronebrothers via Instagram

13. Trellis Breezeway

A trellis breezeway is both decorative and functional, providing a structure for climbing plants while also defining the space. It can be crafted from wood or metal, depending on the desired look. This option is ideal for gardeners looking to create a living, blooming walkway.

Charming arched breezeway with a black lattice roof, string lights, lush greenery, and tall blue planters, creating a stylish and inviting outdoor passage — Source: @treylafave via Instagram

FAQs

What is an offset breezeway?

An offset breezeway is used to bridge the gap between two buildings that aren’t perfectly aligned.

Because the anchoring buildings aren’t lined up, at least one side of the breezeways sticks out further than the buildings themselves. This extra space can be converted into a porch or patio.

Offset breezeways can also be enclosed. This layout is ideal if you plan to turn your breezeway into a functional living space.

Can you grow plants in a breezeway?

A breezeway can easily double as a makeshift greenhouse or sunroom! Enclosed breezeways offer protection from outdoor temperatures and harsh weather.

Be sure the space gets adequate light. Installing windows along the length of your breezeway will ensure your plants get the resources they need to thrive.

While potted plants are the easiest to grow without making a mess, it’s also possible to cultivate an entire garden inside a breezeway with an unfinished floor. You can do this within an open or enclosed breezeway.