5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer Porch

     

 

Hit the flea market. Digging for treasures at outdoor flea markets and summer yard sales is always an adventure. Folding chairs, vintage wicker and small wood tables are natural choices, but keep an eye out for interesting containers for plants, mirrors and artwork, too. Imperfect finds you might pass up for the living room could be splendid on a summer porch, so keep an open mind.

 

 

Set up an outdoor dining space. Meals are always more pleasant outdoors in the summer. Or even just a space to sip coffee with a loved one while catching fresh air is a great start to your day. Add some comfy cushions to your table chairs and string lights overhead for the ultimate appeal.

 

Channel your inner Hamptons. Natural wood, sandy beige and blue make a classic beach house combination that will work on any porch. Unfinished furniture fades to sandy gray as it weathers, so it will look just right with this color scheme.

Hang a porch swing. Nothing is more soothing than a porch swing in the  summer and some of most people’s best childhood memories. Be sure to get help safely hanging a porch swing so it has the proper support.

       Cool down. If the sun and heat are keeping you from enjoying your porch as much as you could, an outdoor ceiling fan or a set of outdoor drapes could help. Bonus: The moving air from a fan can help discourage mosquitoes, too.