The Farmhouse Porch

The farmhouse porch provides shade and plenty of opportunity for relaxing and entertaining. It also calls to mind an idyllic, slower-paced lifestyle. See what other design elements set this porch-style apart from the rest.

If the porch is elevated, a decorative lattice can keep the house looking neat while deterring animals from nesting in the crawl space below. Lattice is inexpensive, plentiful, and available at almost every lumber yard and home center.  

A farmhouse porch can be screened-in, allowing for virtually bug-free outdoor living and dining. This porch is located in the rear of the house, where it is convenient to the kitchen and privacy of the backyard.

The oft-overlooked ceiling can benefit from a variety of treatments, from pressed tin to a vibrant color. This ceiling is finished in beadboard and painted light blue to contrast the stained wood floor. 

Nothing aids relaxation and reflection quite like time spent on a porch swing. This graphic black swing looks modern next to retro armchairs. For similar items, try Home Decorators for the classic swing and Crate & Barrel for the chairs. 

To learn more about the history and architectural elements that distinguish the Farmhouse porch, click here. For more porch styles, consider:

The Queen Anne Porch

The Colonial Porch

The Bungalow Porch

Even if you've got your heart set on hardwood flooring, it's worth considering the alternatives. Sometimes, materials that only look like wood can be just as good as—or even better than—the real thing. Explore your options now!