It seems that the nostalgic architecture of yesteryear influences many of the homes built today. Charming styles… Arts and Crafts, Bungalow, Queen Anne and Old Charleston, particularly in Eastern Carolina.  Of course, many also restore the vintage homes in our long-lived cities and towns. This historic preservation is happening all around us right here in Wilmington. While the old and the new vary in architectural details, square footage and style—they all feature the front porch.

So, let’s talk about the revival of the front porch. No, let’s talk about the cultural revival of the front porch. Most of us just, shall we say, “stage our front porch.” We set out a nice bench (most likely uncomfortable) and some pretty potted flowers and call it a day.  Whom do we do this for? Certainly not for us to sit and enjoy, but to please the onlookers? What happened to the front porch? The front porch is a great place to read the paper while sipping your morning jo, watch a thunderstorm (or a soft rain shower for you nervous nellies), chat with your neighbors or relax with a glass of wine after a long day. So shouldn’t we consider creating a beautiful, comfortable, inviting space on the front porch?

The color scheme and style of furniture you choose should reflect the hues and architecture of your home’s exterior as well as your interior décor. Space plan your outside furniture like a cozy sitting room. Think about lingering, just hanging out on your front porch. Use a sofa or loveseat and a pair of chairs with comfortable cushions. Add decorative pillows in interesting and colorful patterns, keeping your interior color scheme and design concept in mind. Bring in a nice cocktail table and side tables. Kingsley~Bate offers an outdoor synthetic wicker furniture line that is sturdy, durable and charming—perfect for this Charlestonian feel and available at Paysage. An outdoor rug is a wonderful way to cozy-up your porch. Dash & Albert have great outdoor rugs, all different sizes and colors. Be sure to complete your space with lanterns and candles for lighting and ambiance (porch lights just attract bugs). And yes, add your pretty potted plants, after all it is an outdoor space.