I figured I would keep with the entry theme I've started and go with porches for this post.
One day I hope to be sitting on my front porch, in some classic vintage rocking chair, looking out and watching my kids, and eventually grandkids, skipping around the front yard. Hearing their laughter, basking in their youth, while I sit back and sip some delicious chilled hibiscus tea. It's a bit cliche, but a girl can dream right?!
Architecture
Don't fight your home. You can add bohemian touches to a classic Cape Cod, or a rustic shelter to a modern sleek lined adobe, you just want to make sure you can tie it all together. This can be done easily enough through the use of colors, textures and materials. Of course, there's nothing wrong with keeping it all in the same theme. This classic Americana style home is far from boring.
In this design, the entire second level is closed in with operable shutters. To balance it, the entry level is kept open with minimal furnishings. The bold red pops against the muted saffron colored siding, while the black doors and windows are "capped" by the black underside of the porch roof.
Function
Is it a small front porch simply decorated to accentuate the facade details, a side porch which will serve as a retreat from your daily grind or a back porch meant to entertain and hold parties? The purpose you want your porch to serve will dictate whether you will need to extend utilities, completely close off, or simply screen in the space.
This screened porch and it's enclosed dining space is perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine at the end of a long day, or having friends and family over for brunches year round. The serene and neutral color tones, and flood of natural light, make the space seem much deeper than it actually is.
Keep it open and dine al fresco in a rustic setting.
Small Space, Not a Problem
Don't get bummed about having a small square footage to work with. Make the most of your space by adding personal charm.
The wood flooring, siding and ceiling all help make this space seem as though it's part of the outdoors. The dainty scale of the bistro table and chairs help to anchor the space without overwhelming it.
Keep it simple, two classic adirondack chairs and a small side table is all you need when you have a view like this.
I love this space. If you have a little garden, have a sink and counter installed on your back porch. You can rinse off and organize your flowers, veggies and fruits without needing to go inside. I also adore the crisp white walls serving as the background to well loved furniture and flea market finds.
Add Color
You just can't go wrong with an almost all white space accented by bright colors. Mango margarita's? Yes please!
A tropical oasis, why not? Who wouldn't want to come home to this everyday?
And now to go try and find a home with the perfect outdoor shelter. Ciao!