Guest Author - Donna Coogan

A porch is almost an American tradition. It stirs up thoughts of warm afternoons sipping lemonade or cool evenings enjoying the fresh air. Porches are where we can cozy up in a rocking chair to read a book, where we can watch birds in the garden or where we can visit with friends.

If you are thinking of designing a porch for your home, here are some considerations. First of all make sure it matches the architecture of your home. Do you want narrow columns or wide rounded columns or squared off columns? What kind of posts will your railings include? Will your porch preclude a railing in favor of a half-wall? Or maybe you want an open porch without any railing or wall enclosure.

A porch should be both functional and beautiful. It always should enhance your home’s appearance. The roof should complement the main roof. The trimming should match the home’s style. The stairs should be welcoming and easy to climb. It should have lighting so that it can be used at night. Recessed lighting is a great alternative. For southern flavor, consider lighted ceiling fans.

How deep your porch is will most likely be determined by your home’s architecture. For the best appearance, the roofline of your porch should tie into the front façade of your home as if it was always there. You don’t want your porch to look like an afterthought. Depending on where the roof attaches to the house will determine how far out the porch will be built.

For a porch to be truly functional, it should be at least 6’ deep, but 8’ or even 10’ is better. You want to allow room for people to walk around furniture. You may be able to design a gazebo at one end or a higher portico over the front door. If you have the space, a wrap-around porch is also worthy of consideration.

Speaking of furniture, make sure you decorate your porch just like you would a sunroom or other outdoor area. Arrange outdoor furnishings such as wicker or adirondack chairs in casual conversational arrangements. Always make sure there is a small table next to each seated area to set down a drink or book. A swing at one end with pretty pillows and some hanging plants are stereotypical of porches, but they really do add to the ambience of the space.

You can have fun decorating your porch by painting the floor or ceiling in pretty colors or patterns. Make a faux rug for the floor and a beautiful mural up above. Include an attractive container near the door for muddy boots or wet umbrellas. And add your address to the porch in a decorative way by painting your name and number on a plaque.

Don’t forget the approach to your porch, too. Line the path and stairs with lighting for visitors to see at night. Add some decorative flowers or garden accents that welcome those who draw near. Landscape the area in front of your porch with attractive plants. You may want to avoid those that attract bees so that you aren’t seeking refuge inside from stinging insects.

Adding a porch to a home is an involved home improvement project. Once your porch is complete, however, your home has instant charm and a welcoming embrace to all that visit you there.