Front porch sofa
10 stylish, functional spaces |
(Image credit: Gray Malin)
Your front porch furniture ideas determine how this prime outdoor space gets put to use, so it's important to choose a setup that works for your lifestyle and your personal style.
While rocking chairs and porch swings are the quintessential furnishing choices for a wide, covered porch, they aren't the only options. Outdoor conversation sets are just right for entertaining neighbors on a summer evening, while a bistro set can take dinner for two outdoors.
However you plan to use your space, there's a front porch idea to suit it, so long as you have the right furniture setup.
Front porch furniture ideas that blend style and function
Why not sit and stay while? These front porch furniture ideas will encourage you to do just that. Perfect as outdoor living room ideas, they will make your space purposeful and beautiful.
1. Create conversation
(Image credit: Serena & Lily)
A ring of outdoor armchairs fosters conversation, turning the front porch into a go-to gathering spot for summer catch-ups with friends and neighbors.
'In the South front porches are more than a place to drop a package or be protected from the rain passing to the front door,' says Atlanta-based interior designer Tish Mills. 'The front porch is a gathering spot to watch neighbors go by or watch the children play in the front yard. I typically include some sort of seating whether it be a full seating arrangement or a bench. It not only welcomes a visitor and sets the tone for the home, but also serves as a place to sit a while.'
2. Create symmetry
(Image credit: Gray Malin)
On a traditional home, create symmetry by choosing the same furniture setup for either side of your front door, which reflects the refined nature of classic architecture.
At the former home of Gray Malin , the artist chose a rattan Serena & Lily bench for each side of his front porch, adding a touch of variability with mismatched pillow sets.
3. Choose rocking chairs
(Image credit: Grandin Road)
There's a reason for the term 'rocking chair porch.
' A large front porch just begs for a row of rockers (for a small front porch idea, one or two chairs works just as well) that can be used to take in the neighborhood or admire the gardens on a summer evening. For added comfort and style, finish the look with cushions and lumbar pillows that complement the colors of your home.
4. Incorporate wicker
(Image credit: Serena & Lily)
Wicker is the classic choice for outdoor furniture, and has been a front porch staple for decades. It's beautiful and durable, and suits a variety of porch styles.
For a more modern look that doesn't feel like something passed on from your great Aunt, choose wicker pieces with clean lines and streamlined silhouettes, and pair them with contemporary accent furnishings.
5. Hang a porch swing
(Image credit: Kate Anne Designs)
Besides rocking chairs, a porch swing is the quintessential choice for front-porch furniture. For a uniform look, choose a swing style that suits the architecture of your home.
'My favorite layouts [for front porch furniture] would be a simple lounge area with either of the following pieces, Adirondack chairs, swinging chairs which hang from the home, or two chairs and one sofa with cushions,' says Kate Anne Gross, of Kate Anne Designs , who used this rope-style swing for a client's California porch.
6. Try bamboo furniture
(Image credit: Evans Architects)
Bamboo furniture is another outdoor classic, with distinctly vintage vibes. It adds character and contrast to a new construction home, like the one by Evans Architects, above. At the same time, the look can easily complement a boho craftsman cottage, a classic Georgian home, and various porch paint ideas and colors by choosing cushion fabric or throw pillows that suit your home's style.
7. Hang a daybed
(Image credit: The Fox Group / Scott Zimmerman)
Give the classic porch swing an upgrade with a hanging daybed, instead. The larger space invites lounging (perfect for summer afternoon naps), and creates more room for decorative throw pillows and cushions, which helps turn the swing into a style feature, too.
For a nautical look, skip the chains and hand the swing by sturdy rope, instead.
8. Use Adirondack chairs
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Want to enhance your beach house decor, cabin decor ideas or a rustic Craftsman house? Then you can't go wrong with Adirondack chairs. Adirondack chairs are comfortable, long-lasting, and low maintenance on a front porch. Plus, you can tailor the look to your home's exterior depending on the color of chair you choose.
Unfished wood options work well for cabins and craftsmen, while white or blue suits coastal homes.
9. Create a dining area
(Image credit: McGee & Co)
Traditionally, front porches are used for small conversation areas or rows of rocking chairs, but if your front porch is your best outdoor living area, there's no rule that says you can't use it as a dining space.
Looking for advice for outdoor dining ideas? For a larger area, opt for an all weather, full size dining table, and for smaller spaces, try a bistro table and a pair of coordinating chairs.
10. Swing in style
(Image credit: Serena & Lily)
A bench-style porch swing might be the classic choice, but a bamboo hanging chair offers just as much fun with an updated look. The popular porch chairs are guaranteed to the coveted seat when guests come over, so hang a few in a row to accommodate your crew, and create greater visual impact.
What furniture looks good on a front porch?
There are a few key considerations that will help you choose the best looking furniture for your porch.
For one, your front porch furniture should be proportionate to the scale of your front porch. So, if you're looking for small front porch ideas, you'll want furniture that is more compact, like a bistro set, or a rocking chair with a small side table.
If your porch is larger, then you'll want to go for pieces that fill out the space. A single bistro set would look insignificant in this case, but a row of three or four rocking chairs, a dining set, or a set of cushioned arm chairs placed in a ring will match the scale of your space.
Additionally, you'll want your porch furniture to go with the architecture of your home, as well as your front porch lighting ideas and porch railing ideas. If you live in a midcentury ranch, traditional Adirondack chairs will feel clunky, for example. Instead, you'd opt for an Acapulco-style chair, or an outdoor bench with tapered legs.
For a traditional home, classic wooden rocking chairs or a shaker-style porch swing would be a natural fit.
What color front porch furniture should I get?
Aside from the size and style of your front porch furniture, you'll also want to consider color. The color of your porch furniture should complement the colors found on your home and in your yard. If you have a black front door and a white front porch you might choose black rocking chairs to give the porch some contrast while also playing up the color of the door.
On the other hand, if you know your front porch flower beds bloom in shades of purple and red, choose furniture and accent pieces that tie in these hues.
Another option? Choose colors from inside your home to bring out onto the front porch. 'I tend to accent the front porch with a main color from the home to give a glimpse of what’s to come,' says Mills.
Kaitlin Madden Armon is a writer and editor covering all things home. Her work has appeared in Real Homes, Architectural Digest, Martha Stewart Living, Refinery29, Modern Luxury Interiors, Wayfair, The Design Network, and lots more. She graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in journalism and currently lives in Connecticut with her husband, three kids, and black lab.
Front porch furniture ideas: 11 chic setups
(Image credit: OKA UK)
If you're looking for front porch furniture ideas, we're here to help. There are plenty of practical and pretty options that will instantly up the curb appeal of your home.
These spaces at the front of our plots can be a little overlooked, and definitely under-utilized, but that shouldn't be the case. There is no reason why you can't make the most of your entranceway for watching the world go by, perhaps with a morning cup of coffee in the sunshine.
As with patio furniture ideas, there are lots of designs available, so you've got plenty of choices when it comes to picking the best porch setup for you. We've rounded up some of our favorite ideas to help you get inspired.
11 ways to make a stunning first impression with front porch furniture ideas
From rocking chairs in statement hues to playful hanging sofas, you're sure to find a look you love for your porch ideas in this edit.
1. Add bright accessories to porch furniture for a summery vibe
An uplifting setup for summertime relaxing
(Image credit: David Brittain/Styling: Selina Lake/Future)
This garden table is the perfect size for a compact porch. Topped with a vase of freshly-picked blooms, it's guaranteed to give a warm welcome, but is useful for perching a drink on, too.
Slimline seating neatly lines the space – and note how the bench has extra shelving beneath – ideal for storing muddy boots or soft throws.
Whatever type of front porch furniture ideas you go for, don't forget the importance of accessorizing.
Bright, summery shades and layers of patterns lift this zone, contrasting boldly against the white backdrop. We love the addition of a hot-pink pelargonium in a vintage-style planter, too.
2. Watch the world go by from a timeless bench
You can't go wrong with a classic garden bench
(Image credit: Dominic Blackmore/Future)
Investing in one of the best garden benches for your plot is always worthwhile. They're one of those pieces that will simply never go out of style, and make an ideal addition to a small front porch.
A timber design like this offers a natural, laid-back look, and pairs well with decking underfoot. However, there are plenty of alternative styles to go for, including powder-coated metal pieces in an array of vibrant colors – perfect for contemporary spaces.
Add oversized lanterns, cushions in a tonal scheme, and a stylish wall light overhead and you'll have a super-chic nook for enjoying throughout the warmer months.
3.
Up the sense of play with a hanging chairA hanging chair is on our list of garden furniture must-haves
(Image credit: Joanna Henderson/Future)
Have you got your hands on a hanging chair yet? The freestanding 'egg' designs have been a total must-have outdoor seating idea for a good while now. But, if you've got a sturdy cover over your porch, a design like this is a fabulous alternative.
It will definitely add a feeling of fun to the entrance of your home. And we're big fans of the neutral color scheme used here, for a soothing, Scandi-cool style.
All that's needed is a good book and you can gently sway your cares away.
4. Or, opt for a hanging sofa for your porch instead
A stylish hub for socializing
(Image credit: Tony Giammarino/Alamy Stock Photo)
Double up the fun with a hanging outdoor sofa – a dreamy place to chat away an afternoon with a loved one. Layer on all the cushions and blankets to keep things cozy, remembering to pick patterns and colors that enhance the theme you're going for.
This selection ties in nicely with the outdoor rug and potted plant nearby.
The duo of chairs provides a second seating option, turning the area into a stylish hub for socializing. 'Rattan is perfect for achieving a more traditional style,' says Jonny Brierley, CEO at Moda Furnishings , and outdoor-suitable designs are super on-trend right now.
5. Give your porch furniture a boost with a fresh lick of paint
This color palette creates a unique aesthetic
(Image credit: Tony Giammarino/Alamy Stock Photo)
When warmer weather comes around, it's always nice to freshen up your outdoor scheme. And one way to do so without breaking the bank is by painting garden furniture.
Whether you have existing pieces that need a little TLC or have found some thrifted treasures, giving them a lick of exterior paint can totally transform them. These rocking chairs – a classic when it comes to front porch furniture ideas – have been given a modern makeover in a sugar-plum hue.
We think they look stunning against the yellow backdrop and ditzy-pattern tablecloth.
6. Combine white and pink for a pretty-as-a-picture entranceway
Pretty planters complete this scene
(Image credit: Image Professionals GmbH/Alamy Stock Photo)
If you love the whimsical charm of cottage garden ideas, then perhaps a look like this is the perfect update for your porch.
A bright white bench and tiny-yet-still-practical table create a cozy space for a spot of peace of quiet. And the trellised panel behind is the perfect support for a scented climber, while providing a bit more privacy and shelter to the setup.
A pair of planters, brimming with pink pelargoniums, frame the doorway beautifully, upping the romance of the scene. We love the bunting up high, too, for a pretty finishing touch.
7. Add a stylish modular sofa to your porch
The OKA UK Terrazzin Corner Sofa and Armless Chair are top picks for this contemporary porch
(Image credit: OKA UK)
'It's always important to keep in mind the size of your space, and remember that the biggest size is not always best, especially when it comes to your porch,' says Jonny Brierley of Moda Furnishings.
'Choosing modular furniture is a very good option as it has the flexibility to fit into all sizes of spaces,' he adds.
Take this modular design for instance, which combines a durable teak frame with removable cushions in a cool, cream hue that pops against the inky black wall behind. And those giant urns are wonderful accents for tying the scheme together.
A setup like this would be well-suited for a small deck, too.
Soften contemporary furniture with lots of greenery
(Image credit: Johner Images/Alamy Stock Photo)
You can really make a statement with your front porch furniture ideas if you go for the right designs.
Take this table, for example, which offers a fun flair with its metallic finish and sculptural shape. And in terms of chairs, we've heard that rattan, peacock styles are the next 'big thing' – but we're big fans of these, too, which are similar in looks.
Mustard-toned accessories and lots of lovely container gardening ideas finish the space beautifully.
And the three-tiered shelving unit is a good addition here, too, for displaying extra plants while saving on floor space.
9. Oceanside? Add an outdoor shower for quick rinses
Outdoor showers can look super stylish, as shown in this space from Sadolin
(Image credit: Sadolin)
If you're lucky enough to live by the sea, then having an outdoor shower on your front porch for quick freshen-ups after trips to the beach can be super useful. It's practical for washing sandy or muddy shoes or dogs, too.
You won't want it right by your front door, but if you've got a large porch, it could be a great addition. And if you want a little more privacy, simply add some stylish garden screening.
10. Embrace boho vibes with a bistro set
We adore the eclectic feel of this small patio
(Image credit: Simon Scarboro/Future)
The best bistro sets are ideal for porches, especially if you opt for a foldable one that can easily be tidied away or popped into storage when needs be.
This pretty blue set paired with vibrant floral cushions fits with the artsy vibe of this home beautifully. Tumbling greenery on all sides adds to the relaxed, bohemian style while offering shade and boosting the privacy levels, too.
11. Surround your porch seating with planters
Create a stylish divide between your porch and the outside world
(Image credit: Tony Giammarino/Alamy Stock Photo)
This rattan garden furniture is perfect for summertime lounging. And tempered-glass-topped tables are a good choice for easy wipe cleans. Plus, opting for matching designs like this is a failsafe way to create a smart and pulled-together look.
But our favorite thing about this scene has to be the wooden containers that surround the space. Not only do they present the opportunity for lots more planting potential, but they also create a distinguished divide, defining the borders of the zone.
And don't forget about hanging baskets, too, for adding even more blooms.
The garden was always a big part of Holly's life growing up, as was the surrounding New Forest where she lived. Her appreciation for the great outdoors has only grown since then. She's been an allotment keeper, a professional gardener, and a botanical illustrator – plants are her passion.
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Project 3419-1 Outdoor Living Space Screen Porch Deck Porch Bar Minneapolis
Castle Building & Remodeling
This modern home, near Cedar Lake, built in 1900, was originally a corner store.
A massive conversion transformed the home into a spacious, multi-level residence in the 1990’s. However, the home's lot was unusually steep and overgrown with vegetation. In addition, there were concerns about soil erosion and water intrusion to the house. The homeowners wanted to resolve these issues and create a much more useable outdoor area for family and pets. Castle, in conjunction with Field Outdoor Spaces, designed and built a large deck area in the back yard of the home, which includes a detached screen porch and a bar & grill area under a cedar pergola. The previous, small deck was demolished and the sliding door replaced with a window. A new glass sliding door was inserted along a perpendicular wall to connect the home's interior kitchen to the backyard oasis. The screen house doors are made from six custom screen panels, attached to a top mount, soft-close track. Inside the screen porch, a patio heater allows the family to enjoy this space much of the year. Concrete was the material chosen for the outdoor countertops, to ensure it lasts several years in Minnesota's always-changing climate.
Trex decking was used throughout, along with red cedar porch, pergola and privacy lattice detailing. The front entry of the home was also updated to include a large, open porch with access to the newly landscaped yard. Cable railings from Loftus Iron add to the contemporary style of the home, including a gate feature at the top of the front steps to contain the family pets when they're let out into the yard. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!
Stunning Outdoor Remodel in Alexandria VA
Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes
Stunning Outdoor Remodel in the heart of Kingstown, Alexandria, VA 22310. Michael Nash Design Build & Homes created a new stunning screen porch with dramatic color tones, a rustic country style furniture setting, a new fireplace, and entertainment space for large sporting event or family gatherings. The old window from the dining room was converted into French doors to allow better flow in and out of home. Wood looking porcelain tile compliments the stone wall of the fireplace. A double stacked fireplace was installed with a ventless stainless unit inside of screen porch and wood burning fireplace just below in the stoned patio area. A big screen TV was mounted over the mantel. Beaded panel ceiling covered the tall cathedral ceiling, lots of lights, craftsman style ceiling fan and hanging lights complimenting the wicked furniture has set this screen porch area above any project in its class. Just outside of the screen area is the Trex covered deck with a pergola given them a grilling and outdoor seating space. Through a set of wrapped around staircase the upper deck now is connected with the magnificent Lower patio area. All covered in flagstone and stone retaining wall, shows the outdoor entertaining option in the lower level just outside of the basement French doors. Hanging out in this relaxing porch the family and friends enjoy the stunning view of their wooded backyard. The ambiance of this screen porch area is just stunning.
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Stunning Outdoor Remodel in Alexandria VA
900 Michael Build02 & Homes Stunning Outdoor Remodel in the heart of Kingstown, Alexandria, VA 22310. Michael Nash Design Build & Homes created a new stunning screen porch with dramatic color tones, a rustic country style furniture setting, a new fireplace, and entertainment space for large sporting event or family gatherings. The old window from the dining room was converted into French doors to allow better flow in and out of home. Wood looking porcelain tile compliments the stone wall of the fireplace. A double stacked fireplace was installed with a ventless stainless unit inside of screen porch and wood burning fireplace just below in the stoned patio area. A big screen TV was mounted over the mantel. Beaded panel ceiling covered the tall cathedral ceiling, lots of lights, craftsman style ceiling fan and hanging lights complimenting the wicked furniture has set this screen porch area above any project in its class.
