Lifestyles: Your Front Porch


Quick Porch Decorating Guide

By Dave & Mary Morris


We get asked often the question "What can I do to decorate my porch without a lot of effort?" Decorating a porch is much like decorating any room of your home. Think color, theme, and focal point and purpose.
Color: You can do an amazing decorating job just by using color. Where to start? Try the front door. The front door can also serve as a focal point or it can be used to telegraph the color scheme for the rest of the porch.
Theme: Most of us have at least some type of look we'd like for our porch: country, Victorian, Southern, contemporary, southwestern, eclectic, etc. Or perhaps you want a seasonal look depending on the time of year. The theme will help determine the furniture and accessories you will to decorate your porch.
Focal point: A focal point can be anything from the front door itself or perhaps a wicker table, chairs, and colorful table cloth. Or, it could be beautiful hanging baskets, a work of art (painting or sculpture), or perhaps a favorite rocker or swing. Your porch focal point should also serve as a great conversation starter.
Purpose: How will you use your porch the most? Will it be a gathering place for relaxing in the evening? Perhaps you want a place to listen to music or share an intimate glass of wine? Will you be entertaining on your porch or do you want to create a private nook for reading or writing? Knowing how you will use your porch will help you select the right furniture and accessories.
Porch decorating need not be difficult. It’s a great space, no matter the size, to create both functionality and curb appeal. Have fun with it and see what you can create!
Dave and Mary Morris are the creators of www.front-porch-ideas-and-more.com. Check out their site for a free Porch Decorating Guide.