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How to Design the Perfect Porch

11 articles to help you create an inviting outdoor space that complements your home.

A porch, at its most basic, should achieve two goals: functionality and design appeal. There are a lot of factors that go into building the perfect porch. It should be aesthetically pleasing, be the right size for the way you plan to use it, and look cohesive with the rest of the house to which it is attached. When these objectives are achieved, a porch is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a summer day with friends, or watch the world from the nostalgic comfort of a front porch swing. Here, we have compiled 11 articles from our archives that will help you get the process of designing a long-lasting and beautiful porch started properly.

  • Design 1
    The Particulars of Porch Design

    Learn how to nail the details to build a beautiful and functional covered porch; 3 case studies and a checklist of essential questions will help you get the job done right.

  • Design 2
    Design an Integral Porch

    Explore four types of integral porches

  • Design 3
    porch with rooftop deck
    A Porch with a Rooftop Deck

    Designer Michael Maines identifies 12 areas to focus on when designing a porch with a deck above it.

  • Design 4
    Add a Screened Porch

    When the weather's right, there's no better place than a porch to enjoy a meal, to watch the kids play, or to entertain friends. Done correctly, a screened porch has plenty of daylight, and offers pleasant views and good ventilation.

  • Design 5
    Designing a front porch

    Although size and style are vital to a successful porch, don't ignore the importance of materials and craftsmanship

  • Design 6
    In Search of the Perfect Screened Porch

    Make the right design choices, and you'll have an outdoor room you can enjoy without battling the bugs.

  • Design 7
    A Screen Porch Dresses up a Ranch

    Wide overhangs and a wraparound stone patio keep this elegant outdoor-living area cool and dry.

  • Design 8
    Adding the Perfect Porch

    You can add a porch to almost any house, but only a well-designed one will look like it's always been there. In this excerpt from their book, "On the Porch," architect James M. Crisp and project designer Sandra L. Mahoney suggest several fundamentals for designing the perfect new porch for an existing home.

  • Design 9
    Classical Style in a Porch Addition

    Tips from a restoration expert on deck construction, column building, and weatherproof design.

  • Design 10
    A Screened-porch Addition

    Simple detailing and inexpensive materials provide a shelter from the swarm.

  • Design 11
    Adding a Sunroom With Porch

    Low-maintenance materials combine with traditional details in a light-filled addition.

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