When you look at a Craftsman-style house, you can’t miss the expansive front porch, which has become a well-known feature of this home style. And if you’re lucky enough to have one of these porches, then you know the best part about owning a Craftsman house is enjoying the front porch on a nice, sunny day.
To best enjoy the front porch, you need to ensure it’s comfortable and styled in a way that’s not only functional but also indulgent. You want to sit back and relax on your Craftsman porch, soaking up the good weather and spending some time outdoors. So, we’re sharing some of our best tips on styling the porch so you can make the most of the space. Here are some front porch ideas to consider.
Comfy outdoor seating is a must
You can’t expect to enjoy the front porch if there’s no place to relax in a comfy seat. Comfortable outdoor seating is a must-have on your Craftsman porch. Patio chairs, outdoor sofas, benches, and rocking chairs are all fantastic choices for comfortable seating. Consider using materials resistant to harsh weather conditions or purchasing chair covers. Though these seats will likely remain on your covered porch all year long, you’ll want to protect your cushions and chairs from tears or fading over time.
The color palette should complement the home’s color
As you style your front porch, you’ll want to choose furniture that complements your home’s color. For example, is your Craftsman-style house blue with white trim? Consider adding white furniture with dark or pale blue tones. Or, opt for lovely green or yellow hues to spruce up the look of the space. Just be sure to limit the palette to around three colors. This will allow your porch to look more sophisticated and put-together.
Repaint your front door
Repainting your front door can generate a lot of visual interest on your porch while creating a focal point in your exterior design. Don’t be afraid to go bold with a sunny yellow or crisp red hue. Make sure your front door color blends with the colors of the brick or siding on your house or creates a zesty pop of color on your exterior design. A newly painted front door can be a statement on your porch and help you draw inspiration for your porch color palette.
Add a rug
Rugs are another cozy feature to add to your front porch. They’re a great way to include more texture in the porch design and create a functional, comfortable space for walking. Some days, we can’t help wanting to walk outside and enjoy a cup of coffee in our house slippers, and a rug gives you the proper cushioning for your feet that you might need. Outdoor rugs are made of durable materials, making them an excellent porch addition. Choose one with a unique pattern that suits your color palette and allows it to tie together your porch design.
Opt for a hanging swing
Hanging swings are a classic addition to Craftsman-style front porch designs. They’re a great way to add functional and relaxing seating to the space without taking up too much square footage. The great thing about these porch swings is that people of all ages can enjoy them. Additionally, they add a unique touch to the porch design that makes the space feel cozy and welcoming.
Don’t forget potted plants
Plants make a huge difference in front porch designs. Potted plants by the door, larger leafy biophilia tucked in the corners, and small shrubs can make the space feel more lively, calming, and aesthetically pleasing. You’re outside for a reason, so feel free to introduce more natural elements to your porch design to savor nature’s simple joys. For homeowners who want to try gardening or decorate with plants that suit the seasons, adding potted herbs, shrubs, flowers, and other plants to the porch design is a great way to work on that green thumb.
Hanging plants look stunning
Aside from potted plants, hanging plants also look stunning on Craftsman front porches. Ferns are a classic option, though you can use several different flowers, succulents, or leafy vines, depending on the weather in your area. These plants add more biophilia to your outdoor area and also save room for other decorations by not taking up ground space on the porch. If your porch is smaller, consider hanging plants instead of opting for large pots so you can maximize the space available for seating, tables, or outdoor decor.
The Craftsman-style porch is a beloved home addition and perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or reading a good book outside. Be sure to focus on making the space feel comfortable and relaxing, while also curating a style that blends with your home’s exterior.
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