Aren’t porches great? It’s like, you’re outside, but it’s okay that you’re in your pajamas because you didn’t actually leave your house.
Nice.
You’re at home and out in the world at the same time. You can sip your coffee in the early morning, while everything around you is still waking up, and wind down when the fireflies come out. And do you know what my favorite thing about porches is? You can switch it up all the time. No renovations, no going into debt, just a few little swaps, and your space is once again new and fresh.
If you’re into generic decor, this article might not be for you.
But if you enjoy changing things around with the seasons, stick around because I have some great ideas to share with you.
Start With a Porch That’s Easy to Restyle
The space you’re working with has to work with you.
In other words, you want a porch that doesn’t make you cram a cute fall arrangement on a tiny ledge because there’s nowhere else to put it, or realize you don’t have anywhere to plug in your new fairy lights.
Working with professionals such as Crafted Decks and Porches, or any other business that specializes in custom-built outdoor structures, will save you headaches like these because they know how to make these just… Work.
If you have a built-in bench, that’s great because all you need to do is swap out the cushions, and you have a whole new vibe.
A big, open floor plan can be the best place to sit with your friends in summer, but it can also have a dramatic pumpkin display in October. Of course, that only works if your porch isn’t a glorified walkway. If that’s the case, you need to think vertically (hangings, wall decor, and so on).
You’ve gotta work with what you’ve got. Is your porch a sun trap or a wind tunnel? This will tell you what your furniture can handle.
Is the flooring dark so it hides dirt or light and shows every little leaf?
Your goal here is to create a neutral base that looks okay when empty, but that can also take any kind of decor you want.
Seasonal Styling
Now let’s get into the fun part – decorating for each season.
Spring
You don’t need to buy anything big for spring decor. I’d suggest doing only a light refresh.
If you have dark, heavy pillow covers, swap them out for linen or cotton ones in lighter colors. Soft greens and pale blues are my favorites, but warm whites and floral prints are also ideal for spring. Toss a light blanket over the chair arm and add some plants.
You can’t go wrong with a pot of cheerful daffodils by the step and a hanging fern. I’d also put some fresh herbs in simple pots. Keep the colors soft and natural.
Also, spring can be pretty damp, so make sure the covers on your cushions can be washed.
Summer
The goal in the summer is to make your porch everyone’s favorite hangout.
Airflow is everything, so put in a ceiling fan if you don’t already have one. The furniture should be easy to move around, and an outdoor rug will help you define this space.
As far as fabrics go, look for something that was made to be in the sun so it doesn’t fade or get too hot. For the evening, you should have good lighting to set the mood. String up globe lights for a soft glow and use solar lamps on the steps. And for bugs, use citronella candles.
The candles will give off a beautiful glow, and bugs absolutely despise this herbal lemony scent.
Fall
Fall is all about warmth and texture, so I’d suggest making your porch feel like a fluffy sweater.
Layer fabrics, like a water-resistant throw on your chair, and swap out summer pillows with ones made of faux wool or velvet. For colors, deep oranges, burgundies, and olive green scream fall. A dense rug will make the space feel warmer.
Put a cluster of pumpkins by the door and hang a wreath of dried leaves or wheat.
I’d also put a basket of pinecones somewhere, but that’s only if you really love fall and want to make your porch look extra.
Winter
Winter doesn’t really allow you to lounge on the porch, so winter decor is mostly just for show.
A beautiful evergreen wreath on the door is a classic. Instead of arrangements, choose a pair of frosted branches in a heavy pot or a basket of birch logs. Lighting will do the most work, so think about putting a string of warm lights along the railing and a steady porch light.
Once the frost and the snow show up, the lights will make everything look like glitter powder.
Conclusion
See? I told you you wouldn’t have to spend a lot of money on decor. It’s just a few seasonal pieces here and there, nothing too much. After all, you don’t want clutter on your porch because then you won’t be able to use it.
I’m sure your porch is waiting for its new look, and I bet you are, too.