Summertime Spaces

Decorating Your Porch and Deck

Hit the Ground Running.
Power wash the floor. If it’s wood or cement and needs to be painted, consider a color that correlates with the exterior finish of your house. Go chocolate brown, green, gray, beige, or even black. You can also use tile, set stone, or even wood deck tiles. A nice floor really helps improve the space. Add an outdoor woven area rug for a finishing touch.

Light up Your Life, and Porch.
Lighting is a must-have for spending evenings on an outdoor porch. Recessed lights placed an equal distance apart will provide balanced light. Outdoor wall sconces create a nice ambiance at night.  And a decorative light fixture placed or even a ceiling fan with a light compliments recessed lighting. Need to light your steps? Try solar powered lighting, which doesn't need to be wired.

Pull up a Chair.
There are many sources for outdoor furniture of all kinds of styles and functions.  If you are going to be doing a lot of outdoor dining, a table and chairs are a must. If you have the space, create outdoor rooms within your porch. Put a dining area on one end, an outdoor sofa with tables on the other, with possibly a few lounge chairs in the middle.  If space allows, consider a swing or hammock.  Building a pergola over head as well as a patio umbrella creates an interesting space as well as some much needed shade. 

Cover Up.
If you do have openings and want privacy, you can always have outdoor window coverings made (or purchased). Drapery panels or roman shades provide shielding from strong rays, privacy and a nice decorative touch.  Sunbrella fabrics are fade, mildew, UV and weather resistant and are water repellant. These are perfect for drapery panels and for furniture cushions.

Add Splashes of Color.
Lastly, add several pots and planters filed with your favorite flowers and herbs to make a focal point with color.  Add some good friends, great food, and you have your perfect outdoor space!