Before You Begin
To get a good idea of the materials you are working with, make sure that your porch is clean. Power wash your side of the house if necessary. This will allow you to paint when you are ready.
After everything is clear, you can decide on the aesthetic and budget that you want to use before you begin your project. Although decorative dissonance may add intrigue, your porch will not look like grandmas overstuffed trinket box.
Decorations
Simple decorations can be used to update your space for a new season or whenever you are tired of the look.
Plants
You can choose from a range of sizes and shapes to add greenery to your space. You can add height to your decor by using tall or squat plants, as well as hanging ones.
If you want to attract butterflies or hummingbirds, you can choose from simple green plants or more colorful flowers.
You can grow ferns and begonias in a shaded area. Consider tropical plants if your porch gets a lot of sun.
Furniture
Rocking chairs, benches, and swings are the most popular furniture for front porches. Any of these can be used to create a simple seating area.
You can also consider getting a small sidetable to place between two or three larger chairs. You may find it more convenient to have a bigger table and chairs for afternoon or morning chats, as well as snacks.
Odds And Ends
You have many other options for decorative choices. These are just a few of the options that you may want to consider depending on where you live and what your vision is.
- Wreaths
- Lanterns
- Squashes
- Pillows
- Rug for the Area
Just to name a few. Remember that less is often more. Don’t overcrowd your space with decor.
Paint
You can update your porch with paint, which is surprisingly affordable and easy. You have the option of painting your porch in a neutral color, such as brown or grey. Or you can make it more exciting by using a bolder hue like blue or green.
It is best to avoid anything too loud or bright. You may be criticized by neighbors and will probably get bored of the bold colors very quickly.
You can change the trim or door color if you don’t feel like painting the entire exterior. These details can be used to do something different.
Floors And Ceilings
The flooring and ceilings are two of the most important elements in a porch space. There are many outdoor-specific flooring options available, including vinyl, wood and stain. Tiles can also be used. This update is relatively cost-effective, as porches are smaller than the entire room.
DIY-ers can also change the ceilings on their covered porches. To add an interesting element to your space, you can paint or add wood details.
Structural
This category can be quite expensive. Before you dive in, make sure to talk to a professional.
Columns
You can do this yourself, but it is better to hire a professional to ensure that the columns you choose are safe and appropriate for ventilation and weight bearing. If done correctly, adding or replacing columns can give your front yard a grand look.
Railing
It is easier to make railings than columns. You can either stain or paint existing posts or create a new look with new materials. Railing can bring together a particular aesthetic vision.
Doors And Windows
Switching out your windows and doors is one of the easiest things you can do to transform your facade. Your space can look completely new by switching from a door with a windowpane to one that has one, or from one with intricately designed doors to one that is simple and minimalist.
Here are 75 porches that will help you to solidify your vision.
Front porch with rocking chair, swing and porch swing
