Wrought iron furniture makes dining in style a breeze. The lightweight, stackable chairs are weather resistant.
Hanging out on the front porch is a way of life in this family's neighborhood, whether it's watching the kids play in the yard, greeting friends dropping by for a chat, or having a candlelit dinner for two. "We love our porch and use it every day. But it needed a face-lift so we could continue to enjoy it."
The family began by choosing a fresh paint palette. Neutral-toned floors and a cool blue ceiling form a calm background for outdoor furniture, lighting, and accessories. Unique privacy curtains provide shade in high style, and a new front door with decorative glass completes the transformation. Now, the family loves their charming front porch even more.
A cedar swing and a love seat with plush pillows give the family a place to
relax. An outdoor area rug, coffee table, and ceiling fans add all the comforts of home.
Good To Know
Light blue is a traditional color for porch ceilings. It's reminiscent of the daytime sky and is believed to keep bugs away. In the South Carolina Lowcountry, folklore has it that this color, called haint blue, wards away evil spirits.
Curtain Call
1. Panels of pre-hemmed, ready-to-hang outdoor fabric in a neutral canvas color provide protection from the sun. Available through the millwork department, the fabric panels can be ordered with snaps or grommets already sewn in place for easy installation.
2. To secure the curtain, the homeowner uses a screwdriver to install the snaps in the desired locations. She ordered
additional snaps for more flexibility - the curtain can be gathered or hung straight.
You can order these outdoor curtains in the Millwork department at your local Lowe's. Ask for the Awnings & More catalog from Americana Building Products. Using the guide on page 23, you can choose from a variety of fabric, color, and hardware options. Remember to measure beforehand, and bring your width and height dimensions with you to the store. Lowes.com also offers similar pre-made outdoor curtains in two lengths. To view these options, click here.
Warm Welcome
1. The homeowners replaced the standard chain included with the cedar swing and created this jewelry-inspired option. Stainless steel rings and galvanized chain are connected with quick links from the hardware department. For a cozy touch, painted outdoor throw pillows welcome guests to the porch.
2. The decorative glass door lets natural light into the foyer. The homeowners painted the door dark brown and selected a handle set with an aged-bronze finish to coordinate with the outdoor furniture. Wall lanterns, new house numbers, and a pair of planters complete the look.
3. The homeowners chose a soft cottage blue shade for the ceiling to complement the home's exterior.
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