Design 101: A Study on Small Porch Spaces

Let’s talk about Design 101. A study on small porch spaces. I chose this picture ((it is from Better Homes & Gardens) because it represents the creative use of elements in a small porch space. Many people think smaller, matching furniture, using fewer pieces of furniture, and using a single color is the way to go. But that isn’t necessary. For example, this picture shows us that a large sofa, multiple furniture pieces, bright colors, non-matching fabrics, and floor details help to harmonize and visually enlarge the whole space. To clarify, I have lettered the points to the porch space photo. Let’s explore and study small porch spaces:

A. Notice the details of this sofa – 

• It is not a trendy large modular unit; it has an open bentwood frame. By seeing through the arms and legs to the floor, it allows the eye to perceive more “space.”
• Painting it white flows with the house color and siding, so again, it does not appear “solid” and an object to walk around to get to the door. Even though it is larger than the space between the house wall and the door edge, it doesn’t appear as an obstacle.
• The darker-colored cushions do help anchor the sofa without overwhelming the space.

B. The other places to sit – 

• Open arms and legs allow the eyes to flow through the porch area again.
• It adds some presence by being a darker natural-colored Rattan/Bamboo Chair that is taller than the sofa without adding weight to the space.

C. Take note of the side tables – 

• First, one is not just a table. It is an ottoman, providing an extra place to sit; just lift the tray.
• Note, that the ottoman is outdoor wicker in two colors, navy and white, that pull the two prominent solid seating colors together. 
• The other side table has a lamp for task lighting and a place to hold a cup of lemonade.

D. Remember my lesson on coordinating color; this porch shows that in action –

• A single pillow was the jumping-off spot for the color palette. It has the blues, whites/creams, and corals in it.
• The other pillows, blankets, and flowers all have the colors from the inspiration piece while being different patterns and tones. 
• Working with color and pattern brings interest. The porch doesn’t look busy because the colors are all present and repeated throughout the space.
• The plants and flowers show restraint. The flowers and fruit are the same color as in a few cushions. Three of the same plants and planters are repeated and placed to help define the space.

E. Attention was paid to the flooring – 

• The rug is neutral and textured like the siding, so it balances the colorful seating area.
• Notice the seating is placed on top of the rug – at least the front legs from the picture.
• A painted floor under the rug adds a pop of color.

F. Additional elements to note – 

• The repetition of the natural color of the chairs and the flower pot baskets again draws the eye through the space, contrasting and complementing the wood shake siding.
• The reflective mirror on the wall and a shiny metal lantern add a metal element to the porch without shouting for attention. Do you notice the lamp base is also glossy? These items balance the glass doors and windows.
• The mirror hangs above the line of the chairs, balancing the door’s height.

In conclusion, this photo shows us that with furniture consideration, color, pattern, and texture in a small space, we can create a beautiful porch no matter its size. Carefully paying attention to detail makes a small porch a welcoming outdoor living room. As a result, our study on small porch spaces shows how to pique interest, draw the eye in as one approaches the porch, and make the visitor want to sit down.

Finally, if you have questions about coordinating color, you can sign up for a downloadable worksheet here. Then, I have a blog explaining it. Also, we are having a Facebook Chat about Porches in May, including a study on small porch spaces. Please jump into our Facebook group for more information. 

I offer a Home Design Roundtable Class every few months if you have any questions or need direction on porches. During the Zoom class, we discuss solutions to your questions. There are a limited number of spaces to discuss each person’s questions. Lastly, May’s Time to Bloom eBook has a Home Curation section with information and a Porch and Patio Design checklist.