17 Enclosed Porch Ideas That Bring the Outside In

Natural Texture

A screened-in porch provides great views of your surroundings; use them to guide your design choices. "We added in more texture than color, so that the greens from the yard took center stage beyond the screen," says Maggie Griffin, principal designer of Maggie Griffin Design. Comfortable, rustic seating was also a priority for the homeowners, which is why the space has a mix of chairs, a sofa, and swing bench. 

Steel-Framed Doors

Want something a little more industrial than a screen? Steel-framed glass doors are a luxurious, welcoming alternative. "Our Modern Italian Conservatory project boasts a gorgeous glass-enclosed solarium with steel-framed doors and expansive windows to act as a conduit between indoor and outdoor," says Julie Brayton, principal and co-founder of Brayton Interiors. The walls are covered with custom Venetian plaster to further the outdoor feel of this space. 

Nostalgic Touches

The inspiration for this project was drawn from nostalgic porches seen along a lake in Georgia, where this home is based. "The southern tradition of painting porch ceilings blue was reversed with the floorboards, and a classic technique of pickling was used on the rafters and planks above," says interior designer James Farmer. "In the deep South, porches are true extensions of the home. They are even used for sleeping and relaxing, as dining rooms, and places to play games or to grow your favorite begonias."

Blend Light and Dark Hues

When you think of a screened-in porch, a light color palette likely comes to mind—but if you prefer a moody aesthetic, consider opting for darker hues. "Since there was a lot of natural light and I wanted to make it moody, we painted every inch of this room Farrow & Ball Stiffkey Blue, then added light furnishings and window treatments incorporating the light and dark palette," says Mary Patton of Mary Patton Designs.

Open Views

If your porch overlooks a gorgeous view, let that serve as the focal point. "Our clients have a beautiful view of the hills of Austin, so we tried to make the interior of the screen porch reflect its surroundings as much as possible," says Shannon Eddings, the founder and lead designer of Shannon Eddings Interiors. "The stain color and furniture finishes are all a natural shade of brown with fabrics in greens, cream, and faded blue to reflect the trees and sky just outside."

Cozy Fireplace

One downside to a screened-in porch? It often isn't usable once winter hits. But don't let the weather keep you from using your space. "The addition of a fireplace transforms the porch into a year-round retreat, providing warmth and a cozy ambience no matter the weather," says Becky Shea, creative director of Becky Shea Designs. "We embraced a minimalist approach while infusing warmth into the space."

This enclosed porch idea also incorporates several elements that balance function and comfort. "Retractable motorized screens ensure comfort during insect season with the versatility to open up your porch to the great outdoors whenever convenient," says Shea. "Using natural materials, such as wood and stone, further enhances the connection with the outdoors, blending harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, especially with the screens retracted."

Functional Furniture

A screened-in porch serves many purposes—it's a place to read, spend time with family, and even entertain. For this reason, having furniture that suits all of these needs is ideal. "When designing porches, we like to design for flexibility," says Steve Kadlec of Kadlec Architecture and Design. "Here, we used a pair of teak sofas, which provide gracious seating during the day for reading or napping and convert into twin beds to become a sleeping porch in the evening."

Opting for furniture that is lightweight, movable, or dual-purpose is also ideal. "We recommend a table that can be both used for dining al fresco or playing a game of cards," says Kadlec.

Window Backdrop

Floor-to-ceiling windows are an effective way to make an enclosed porch even more compelling. "These stately windows make a striking backdrop for a classic wicker [scene] set in this timeless screened-in porch," says interior designers Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto of Park & Oak. "We wove in layers of blue, brass, and chinoiserie to add interest and coziness to the space."

Elevated Tree House

Using dark green paint and wood paneling in your porch will make it feel like a grown-up tree house—especially if it's tucked into the treetops, like this space is. "To play on that feeling of being outdoors, we added rich wood panels on the ceiling and lots of natural textures in the furnishings," says Samatas and DiSanto. "Multiple seating arrangements mean this room can be used for dining, relaxing, or visiting with friends."

Fold-Up Windows

Adding windows to an enclosed porch ensures that you can use it for multiple seasons. "Fold-up windows add a lot of versatility to this grand three-seasons room," says Samatas and DiSanto. Not only do they let more fresh air in, but fold-up windows also add a unique touch to the space.

Container Plants

In the spirit of bringing outside in—which is the overall ethos of an enclosed porch—welcome greenery into your space with container plants. "A screened-in porch should always include plants to help amplify the feeling of being outdoors," says Samatas and DiSanto.

Bold Colors

While natural materials and earth tones are a great way to make your enclosed porch feel connected to the great outdoors, don't be afraid to go bold. "I wanted this room to be fun and playful yet warm and inviting given the amount of natural light," says Virginia Toledo of Toledo Geller Interiors. "As for the purple couch—I wanted something big, bold, and beautiful. It's a little bit unexpected, but lends itself to the space given its connection to the floral print of the chair and other small accents."

Multiple Access Points

The benefit of a screened-in porch is that it is simultaneously an indoor and outdoor living area. "This space, in particular, has multiple access points so the kids can play outside while parents enjoy the shade, keeping a close eye," says Mark Danuser, the CEO and owner of Tatum Brown Custom Homes. "The concept of the space is also very functional and can open up on days with beautiful weather.”

Interior Inspiration

Your screened-in porch should feel like an extension of your home, which is why choosing outdoor fabrics that are consistent with ones indoors is key. "I wanted the space to have the same layered, cozy feel as the inside of my home, but with durable fabrics with cheerful color," says Griffin. "I used much of the original furniture left by the previous owners, but added in preppy fabrics to update the look."

Conversation Area

Creating a comfortable retreat suitable for entertaining was top of mind for the designers working on this project. "This has become a space for entertaining and enjoying the outdoors bug-free," says Laura Hildebrandt of Interiors By LH. "Lightweight aluminum furniture that is comfortable is a welcome addition when providing dining and seating options."

Colorful Ceiling

A screened-in porch is the perfect opportunity to play with color. In this room, designed by Hildebrandt, a blue ceiling reminiscent of a summer sky adds a welcome brightness. The contrasting white pillars frame the verdant shrubs growing in the background.

Cozy Accents

Elements you use inside your home to make it feel more comfortable, like throw pillows, area rugs, and blankets, should also be featured in your enclosed porch. "There are so many great options for outdoor rugs and pillows that are textural and feel elevated enough that they could be in your living room," says Alicia Murphy of Alicia Murphy Design Design.