Front Porch Decorating Ideas

Front Porch Decorating Ideas

Why do you need decorating ideas for your front porch? A couple of reasons --Your front porch is the first thing visitors see. It makes the first impression and sets a tone for the rest of the house. The inside of your home could be the most gorgeous on the block, but if your front porch is sparse or barren that's what people will *think* the rest of your home looks like. Curb appeal makes a lasting impression.

What makes an inviting front porch?

Whether you have more of a stoop or entry way at your front door or a gorgeous wrap around porch, you can make it look inviting to your guests. Things like welcome mats, door wreaths or swags and a vignette or two to show off your chosen style will go a long way towards making your guests feel at home.

Large Porches

Here is a large front porch that is very inviting. Let's break it down:

via BHG Website

1. Seating - if you have room on your front porch, chairs or some sort of seating is a great way to say "Sit, stay and visit a while". You don't have to have a lot of seating options but at least room for two people.
2. Cushions and outdoor throw pillows are another option that gives you an immediate, homey feel.
3. Plants and flowers, just like indoors, are very welcoming and warm.
4. This porch has a couple of vignettes -- one is the small bench with a plant and seashell on it and the watering can beside it. All the elements are very outdoorsy. Put together in this grouping they add to the inviting feel of the front porch.
5. The other vignette is next to the rocker -- a porch table, plants, old wooden box, and watering can. Since you can't keep fresh lemonade on your porch at all times, consider replacing it with garden statuary, and old bird house or even an empty pitcher, tray and glasses set in your colors or style.

 Stoop or Entryway Porches

No discernible porch make things a bit harder but there are still ways to make it inviting.

In the example above -- a bold color has been added to the door. It is a great contrast to the stone of the house and says "Here I am, come on in". Paint is an inexpensive decor choice that is easy to do. Stand back and take a look at your door -- could it make a big difference if it were painted another color?

In the example on the right, the owners have used the iron scroll work to tie together the front door, the lighting and the house number for a cohesive and welcoming look. I both examples, plants/flowers have softened the hard lines of the steps and walkway.

Porch Design and Decor

For some great ideas for decorating your porch, try Country Porch World. Lots of suggestions and pictures!

Don't forget these elements when planning the decor for your front porch:

• lighting
• planters
• furniture
• statuary
• rugs and mats
• outdoor dishware

Create your own unique and inviting look for your front porch!

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