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14 Charming Wraparound Porch Ideas to Complete Your Dream House

Sometimes it's what on the outside that counts.

Headshot of Taylor AugustinBy Taylor Augustin
vacation home in maui, hawaii designed by breeze giannasio interiors upper lanai sofa and chairs rh tables crate barrel ottomans danish design store pillows ciscohome turquoise, rh lumbars, etsy diamond pattern, hollywood at home cream fan circa lighting
Stacy Zarin Goldberg

When we think of redesigning a space, our minds often go to one of the many rooms inside the house. But one of the best ways to breathe new life into your home is to start on the outside. The exterior of your house might feel impossible to change without building a new house, hitting the real estate listings, or hiring a landscape designer, but we have good news. There are many easy ways to elevate your home's street value without breaking the bank.

Love greenery? Decorate your porch with your favorite florals and plants. Does your idea of a perfect night involve hosting your family and friends? Create a welcoming space with functional furniture, hanging lights, and rugs. And if you prefer to enjoy your outdoor time sans company, you can buy a privacy screen or set up a reading nook for some serene solace.

Whether you live in a classic farmhouse-style home or something more modern or colonial, these wraparound porch ideas will elevate the look of your home and make you want to spend more time outdoors. Styling your porch is also a fun way to expand upon your interior design aesthetic. You can incorporate elements that allude to what's to come when your guests head indoors, or use the space to explore a totally a new side of your style. Our recommendations work for every budget and every style, whether your taste skews quiet luxury or more coastal grandmother. Just keep scrolling to get a look at 12 wraparound porch ideas to transform your space.

1

Add Colorful Accents

potted plants with flowers on the steps of a house porch
Linda Raymond//Getty Images

If you’re not a fan of neutrals, feel free to add loads of colorful accents! From beautiful potted plants to colored trim on the porch and even decorative pillows, adding in some color will transform your wraparound porch.

2

Hang Lights

stock photo showing ornamental japanese style garden with outdoor lounge area at night illuminated with fairy lights featuring crystal clear koi pond, whitewashed, grooved timber decking patio, japanese bonsai maples and hardwood, cushion covered seating
mtreasure//Getty Images

Whether you prefer a fairy light look or something more bulbous, we highly recommend hanging lights up around your wraparound porch. It will provide a sense of ambiance and romance that is truly unmatched.

3

Include Durable Seating

porch with gulf front view and porch swing
Cavan Images//Getty Images

If your wraparound porch is open to the elements, you should definitely invest in durable seating that won’t be tarnished by the weather. Opt for a porch swing or outside-safe furniture.

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4

Start with Simplicity

idyllic home with covered porch
JamesBrey//Getty Images

Wraparound porches don’t need to be gaudy or in your face. And if you’re more into the simple things in life, stick with a clean palette and decor. Neutral colors and minimal decor can be a great base to build your porch design around.

5

Implement Functional Side Tables

cottage front porch
Jon Lovette//Getty Images

If you plan on spending a lot of time outside and hanging out on your wraparound porch, implement functional side tables. After all, you’re going to want somewhere to place your cup of coffee or wine!

6

Consider a Privacy Screen

view through a screen window to a porch looking out over the chesapeake bay
Cyndi Monaghan//Getty Images

Whether you live in an area where you have cold winters or just want some extra protection from the elements, consider implementing a privacy screen. You will still be able to enjoy the beautiful views while having a buffer between you and the cold nights or sweltering days. Not to mention it will keep bugs out!

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7

Create a Coffee/Reading Nook

porch with garden furniture
MarioGuti//Getty Images

Whether you’re a sucker for a classic hardback book or you’ve gone over to the Kindle side, we think creating a reading nook on your wraparound porch is an amazing idea. Make sure to include a spot to place your coffee down, too, and definitely have lots of blankets and pillows at the ready.

8

Lay Out a Washable Rug

women on swing seat
Image Source//Getty Images

There’s nothing we love more than a rug moment, but since they’re often difficult to clean and manage, opt for one that’s washable. This will make keeping your outdoor porch pristine just that much easier.

9

Channel Coastal Bliss

vacation home in maui, hawaii designed by breeze giannasio interiors upper lanai sofa and chairs rh tables crate barrel ottomans danish design store pillows ciscohome turquoise, rh lumbars, etsy diamond pattern, hollywood at home cream fan circa lighting
Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Love the coastal vibe? Keep your decor simple and include coastal colors like blue and white to evoke waterfront vibes.

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10

Incorporate Plants

traditional style home with wrap around porch
Fuse//Getty Images

Plants are a natural way to blend your landscaping and porch design. Opt for hanging plants, florals, and lots of greenery, depending on your aesthetic!

11

Hang a Porch Swing

porch swing
Philippe Gerber//Getty Images

A wraparound porch won’t feel complete without the addition of a bench. We especially love the idea of a porch swing, and think it will add a fun touch to any home.

12

Make It Cozy

friends talking over drinks next to a campfire in the evening
AJ_Watt//Getty Images

When it comes to wraparound porches, the last thing you want is for it to feel stark and contrast your home. Instead, soften the space by including blankets, rugs, and plenty of room for enjoying conversations with loved ones. And as an added bonus, put a fire pit nearby for peak coziness.

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