Porch styles range from the basic to the elaborate.
Front porch styles have changed dramatically over the last several hundred years. They range from basic front porch designs to multi-level extravagant settings with decorative molding. If your next DIY project is to remodel your porch, many styles are available to choose from. Select the style that best matches your personality, style of your home and decorating sense. Does this Spark an idea?
Wraparound Porch
A wraparound porch is a porch that continues along at least one other side of the house. Wraparound porches are common with Victorian homes and plantation homes. Part of the elegance of a wraparound porch is the materials selection. Victorian homes often feature molding, gabled roofs, feminine decor and balustrades. Plantation homes will feature a more rustic look with metal roofs, windows with many panels and old rocking chairs sitting on the porch.
Screened Porch
A screen around the perimeter of the porch to block bugs and other pests is the main feature of a screened porch. They are usually decorated in a manner similar to a sun room with a couch, loveseat or fabric chairs. They work well during most seasons since the screen keeps most of the rain out and pests away.
Two-Tiered Porch
A two-tiered porch has two distinct levels to it. This type of porch is often featured as a back porch where the first tier serves as a general entryway. The top tier is typically more decorated, displaying chairs, patio furniture and wood or concrete flooring.
Four-Season Porch
Analogous to sun rooms, four-season porches offer comfort and convenience because there are four insulated walls to block any negative components from the outside while large windows let plenty of sunshine in. They are typically part of the square footage of a house, are decorated like a living room or den and are insulated and maintained under the same heating and cooling system as the rest of the home.
Balcony Porch
A balcony porch is a porch that extends the space from an interior room, such as a master suite. It overlooks the grounds and is usually comprised of a decorative railing. The railing can be wooden or wrought iron, as well as rectangular in shape or round. This type of porch adds a sophisticated and regal touch to the architecture of the home.
Greek Revival Porch
A common form of architecture during the 19th and 20th centuries, Greek Revival architecture featured imposing entryways meant to intimidate and command respect from guests. The porches of this architectural era follow suit with a large porch divided by large columns. A gable is often set atop the columns and a second porch may be on top of the gable. Decor is simple so as not to take away from the focus on the columns and architectural grandeur.
Italianate Porch
Italianate porches are one of the more decorative styles of porches. They feature painted roofs and elaborate and decorative columns or posts. Lattice and decorative hardware are also common with Italianate porches. Decor is typically bright and festive to reflect the Italianate porch style.
Tags: common with, from basic, Greek Revival, Italianate porches, porch porch
