PORCH: Creating Your Own Summer Retreat

It may be a Southern thing, but I am deeply rooted in idling away summer days on the porch, sipping iced tea and immersing myself in the pages of the latest novel. There’s something inherently soothing about the warm sun casting its golden rays while a gentle breeze rustles the leaves of nearby trees, creating a symphony of nature that perfectly complements the tranquility of the moment. The porch becomes a sanctuary where time seems to slow down, allowing for the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Each sip of tea is a reminder of the simple pleasures that summer brings, and it invites me to lose myself in the stories waiting to unfold in the book resting on my lap.

This beloved summer tradition is frequently enjoyed with family and friends, enhancing its significance. Every summer day serves as a treasured reminder of the value of pausing to appreciate the simple moments that bring us joy.

What is required to establish a setting where one can leisurely spend summer days? Let's delve into this together.

Setting The Mood On The Porch

When it comes to creating the right atmosphere, nothing is more crucial than color. Imagine your favorite color, one that soothes your soul. Is it light or dark and moody? Do bright colors bring a smile to your face, or do tranquil shades calm your heart? Whatever it is, that is your starting point.

Think about painting your front door a new color to align with your color scheme. Have you ever seen a blue ceiling on a porch? There's a reason for that. Painting the ceiling sky blue deters insects by making them believe it's the sky, prompting them to move elsewhere. Insects can't perceive blue, so they mistake it for the sky. While it's a nice touch, it's not an essential step to paint the ceiling.

Selecting Furniture For The Porch

Today, excellent outdoor furniture options are easily accessible, whether you prefer modern pieces or are a traditionalist seeking vintage items for your porch. Comfort should be your top priority. Rockers were the first to enhance traditional homes, and wicker remains a timeless choice. Remember to consider hammocks, swings, and benches as well.

To increase comfort, stack the pillows and select linens that complement your theme.. Who wouldn't want to lean back on soft pillows while reading a book, listening to nature, or just daydreaming?

The Importance Of Porch Floors

Whether concrete or wood, you have the option of leaving the porch floor as it is, painting it totally, or painting a design. Check out these ideas ...

If painting isn't your preference, simply select from the hundreds of beautiful, low-maintenance rugs available today.

Porch Lighting

Porch lighting serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. While string lights are quite popular these days, they are just one of the many options available. If you want to create a specific ambiance, lanterns with candles are another excellent choice.

Adding Privacy

Looking for more privacy or simply desiring it? Curtains offer a romantic way to manage sunlight as needed. Alternatively, you can opt for a trellis to create that unique atmosphere.

Bringing Nature To The Porch

What would a porch be without nature. Bring plants onto the porch, leading up the stairs and by enhancing nearly garden with beautiful, blooming plants and shrubs.

Attract wildlife by setting up birdhouses and feeders for birds, hummingbirds and small critters.

Accessories Make The Porch

If you're skilled in crafts, think about spending some of your summer creating unique art pieces for your porch. If crafting isn't your preference, vintage accessories can provide a timeless appeal, such as Grandmother's watering can or Papa's old wooden toolbox filled with plants. Consider adding a waterfall for a wonderful sound.

Time To Enjoy Your Porch

Whenever possible, Jeff and I begin our day on the porch with coffee and tea. This year, we added a growing collection of small hummingbird feeders to our porch, complementing our vibrant perennial garden.

We feel connected to nature while on our porch. I enjoy it when the hummingbirds approach and flutter right in front of us. There's even one that perches on a chair back, where we talk. Well, I talk, He's stares at me, but unafraid. The challenge with having numerous feeders on the porch is their territorial behavior. That's why we have so many.

Jeff has turned one end into a jungle by planting a Confederate Jasmine, which has become the residence of a very loud tree frog that serenades (or deafens) him every evening.

Our porch is not large, nor does it need to be. It has a traditional feel with two rockers, a swing, and a spring chair crafted by my grandfather, where he used to sit on his porch. I've lovingly adorned it with vintage treasures gathered when I owned my shop, Come Into My Garden, at Lakewood 400. This porch serves as our sanctuary, a retreat from the world, brimming with memories, both old and new..

Enjoy!

jan

For additional inspiration, don't miss my Pinterest Board: PORCH. 

It's challenging to feature all the amazing ideas in a single article.

You can also locate the photo credits for all the images above.

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Discover a wide range of treasures at Lakewood 400 Antiques Market, the perfect place to find everything you need to decorate your home, from furniture to fresh produce, handmade jewelry, fashion items, art and collectibles. With such a diverse selection, you'll always be surprised by the amazing finds just waiting for you! For additional details, Click Here!

Please Note: Beginning January 2024, Lakewood 400 Antiques Market will be open on the 1st weekend of every month, and no longer on the 3rd. From the website and you can add the upcoming dates to your Google calendar. For a reminder every month, sign up for their newsletter.

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Jan Jones is a Designer, Artist, and Author of

"Finding Me: A Motivational Journey of Discovery for Young People."

For more information Click Here