American sunken courtyard in reality

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A sunken courtyard, also known as a sunken garden, is a landscape feature where the garden is at a lower level than the surrounding ground. This design creates a more intimate and secluded space. American sunken courtyards often feature lush greenery, hardscaping elements like stepping stones or paths, and may include a water feature. They are commonly used in residential landscaping to create a peaceful retreat from the outside world.