How to Plan and Design for the Screen Porch of Your Dreams

Whether you dream of a screen porch that meshes seamlessly with the outside or brings the outdoors in, some planning and preparation go a long way. Adding a screen porch to your home isn't as huge an undertaking as adding interior living space. However, it still deserves forethought before you jump right into construction. Here's what to consider before a screen porch addition.

Three steps to a perfect screen porch

See, we told you it was just a little bit of planning and preparation. With these key considerations, soon you'll be enjoying your outdoor space from the comfort of a screened-in oasis.

1. Location

Thankfully, most homeowners don't have to worry about moving walls or rearranging their entire space to add a screen porch. Because they exist outside your home, landscaping is often the only thing you might need to relocate. Nevertheless, the placement of your porch is important. Depending on where you live, you'll want to consider the weather and climate your space will be exposed to. A porch on the south side of your home will get a lot of sunlight, which is great for cooler climates but can be brutal for those who live where it is hot.

Similarly, northern exposed porches might be too chilly for colder climates but offer sought-after shade for warmer environments. Another tip when considering the outdoor environment is to survey the area around your home. Is your porch a secluded retreat or too close to the street or neighbors? Does it mesh well with your other features, including a pool, grilling area, or landscaping?

However, it's important not to forget the inside of your home either. A screen porch should allow activity to flow from the indoors out, meaning it's best situated right off of high-traffic areas like the living room or kitchen as long as it still allows for natural light and air circulation.

2. Design

Screen porches don't have to be composed of only screens and frames. You can also use windows and doors. But each design has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, windows that can be closed or adjusted offer more climate control, which can increase the amount of use your screen porch will get. However, they may limit you in terms of design and offer a less outdoorsy feel than their all-screen counterparts.

Once you've nailed down materials and construction, think about the interior design of your screen porch. Do you want a space to gather with friends and family for a meal? Or, maybe you prefer a seating area where you can curl up with a good book. The purpose of your porch can help determine the size, layout, and number of openings required. Depending on your climate, you might want to consider additional elements, such as a wood-burning fireplace or vaulted ceilings with a fan.

3. Decor

Finally, one of the most enjoyable steps! It's fun and exciting to decorate your screen porch, but it's wise to not deviate too far from the atmosphere of your home. Start with the room's primary purpose, such as dining, and work from there. Plan for cozy seating, storage space, and a dose of warmth with accessories like rugs, throw pillows, or cushions. Including houseplants is a great way to make your porch feel even more one with nature. Whatever elements you choose to include, ensure they are safe for the outdoors and inclement weather.

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