Small Front Porch Ideas You’ll Enjoy All Year
Looking for small front porch ideas to update your outdoor space? Check out the cool furniture and decor I’m obsessing over for our home!
If you’re fortunate enough to have a front porch it’s probably where you spend A LOT of time. When we remodeled our home almost twenty years ago adding one was high on the priority list.
There are so many benefits to having a front porch both practical and aesthetic. Not only will you enjoy the beautiful weather but you’ll be more social too.
For us, the front porch is an extension of the home. It’s a place to sit and relax while enjoying the outdoors no matter the weather.
Our small front porch is definitely in need of an update. We’ve had the same decor and furniture for way too long.
Now that our children are grown and out of the house it’s time for a front porch makeover. Check out these ideas and resources if you’re in the same boat.
This post is all about the small front porch ideas.
READ MORE>>> Home Design Inspiration On Inspired Design Talk
What are the benefits of having a small front porch?
There are many benefits to having a small front porch. Some are practical while others are strictly aesthetic.
The benefits of having a front porch are:
- Social space- to interact with neighbors, friends, and those who pass by
- Community- leads to strong neighborhood bonds
- Curb appeal- makes your home more attractive to onlookers
- Relaxation- great for reading, afternoon naps, and hobbies
- Connection to nature- fresh air, animals, plants, and trees all calm the nervous system
- Energy efficiency- provides shade and protects from incremental weather
- Additional storage- for dirty shoes, equipment, or seasonal decor
- Express personality- decorations and greenery to improve the aesthetic of your home
- Gathering space- for conversations, game night, and fostering connections
- Security- added space between the street and your home
- Shelter- allows you to have protection overhead no matter the weather.
- Increased home value- adds to your property value
- Architecture- adds character and charm to your home
With all those benefits if you don’t have a front porch I’ll bet you want one now!
How do you make a small front porch look nice?
Furniture and decor are just one way to make a small front porch look nice. When choosing your furniture it’s important to make sure the scale is appropriate.
Even though it’s a small space you still need to do a floor plan to know the furniture will fit. It’s especially helpful when deciding on your rug size.
Another way to make your front porch look nice is to keep it clean and clutter-free. Layer in textures and patterns the same way you would any other space.
You can go with a neutral color palette with touches of greenery or add a pop of color. Since you’ll get the most use during the warmer months a bright color scheme would be super fun.
What can you add to a small front porch?
You can add greenery and flowers to a small front porch for natural beauty and atmosphere. Hanging planters, wall-mounted shelves, or decorative artwork vertically will make the space appear larger and draw the eye up.
Soft lighting from string lights, lanterns, or candles is great for adding warmth and a cozy vibe. Decorative elements such as curtains, cushions, and pillows help set the theme of your small front porch.
Using small-scale furniture will help make your space appear larger. There are so many cute bistro tables, outdoor benches, and hanging chairs that’ll create a focal point.
An outdoor rug will define the sitting area, be soft underfoot, and can be used as a jumping-off point for your color scheme. Other things to consider adding are privacy screens, planters, seasonal decor, or holiday-themed accents.
The goal is to maximize the space available without making it feel cluttered or over-designed. These are just a few small porch ideas to express your personality and create a space you LOVE!
How to make a front porch on a budget?
To make your front porch on a budget you’ll want to be intentional with everything you buy. Remember the saying less is more and go for a clean minimalist design.
Little changes can make a big impact on your front porch makeover. You can hang drapes, add string lights, a rug, install a ceiling fan, and change the pillows or cushions.
Another way to make a big impact is with flowers and greenery. This will add color and life without breaking the bank.
Shopping Tips
No matter which furniture you’re shopping for it’s important to always start with a floor plan. I know I sound like a broken record but the floor plan will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Download your FREE how-to-measure guide today!
Once you have your measurements you’ll be able to order your furniture with confidence.
This video will help you create a floor plan based on the measurements of your space.
Small Porch Furniture And Decor
This post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra charge to you. Please read my full disclosure here. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Best Patio Makeover Ideas
The below list is everything I’m looking at for our front porch. Some items may be tweaked as we go through the process.
Here is a breakdown of the cost for each item:
- Chair Cushion Set $110-
- Black and Off White Pillow Covers (5)- $49
- Pink Lumbar Pillows (2)- $28
- Black Striped Border Outdoor Rug- $18
- Hand-Painted Doormat- $13
- Seagrass Round Ottoman (2)- $112
- Outdoor String Lights- $35
- Outdoor Accent Table- $100
- Wind Chime- $26
Small Front Porch Ideas Total: $491
Anything not on the list is because it will not be replaced. For example, we’re keeping the original wicker furniture, black corner table, fan, and planter.
For just under $500 we’ll be able to transfer this outdoor space into an undated sanctuary! It’s an investment that’ll have a big ROI in terms of peace and mental health.
1. Chair Cushion Set
This was the first thing purchased from the list above. I originally ordered a creme tufted set but it was too big and I was afraid the lighter color would not hold up with our family.
The black set has clean lines, no tufting, and looks more modern. I feel better about the darker color even though the size is about 2″ short on the wicker settee.
I’m probably the only one that’ll notice that so I need to just let it go because other than that it’s perfect! Since I like options (it’s a problem) I do have one more black tufted cushion set coming just in case.
It’s probably getting returned but we’ll see after I test it out. Stay tuned for that update.
2. Black and White Pillow Cover
Our old teal velvet pillows were used as the fill for this black and white stripe pillow cover. I ordered the 18″ pillow covers even though the fill will be the same size.
The “rule” to follow is your fill should be 2″ larger than the cover for plump choppable pillows. But you know the saying once you know the rules you can break them.
Given the fact that the polyester covers would be over velvet fabric the 16″ cover would have looked way too small. I was correct in that and glad I went with the 18″ size because they look fabulous!
3. Pink Lumbar Pillows
If I decide to add a pop of color this medium pink lumbar pillow is perfect. It’ll tie back to Trade Joe’s succulent plants which I’m obsessed with.
I’m considering adding one pillow on each accent chair but the sette might need two as well for balance. I think this would be way too many pillows for such a small space so I haven’t pulled the trigger yet.
4. Black Striped Border Outdoor Rug Small Front Porch Ideas
There are so many pretty black and white outdoor rug styles to choose from. The perfect size would be 4’x8′ but I didn’t find any I liked.
This black and white rug from Rugs USA has a minimalist look and clean lines. It has a contrasting border that adds interest, pattern, and dimension.
The 5’x8′ rug would extend under the entire width of the porch and come in about a foot on either side. Given the fact that I’m not going custom, I think this is the best option for our outdoor space.
We’ve never had an area rug on the front porch so I’m interested to see how it’ll hold up. I’ve heard mixed reviews but I think it’ll make the patio feel even more like an extension of the inside.
That said I’m willing to give it a shot. We take our patio decor inside for this winter so I’m more concerned about how it handles getting wet. Stay tuned for the update.
5. Black and White Rug
Aside from the area rug under the outdoor furniture, I’m going for the layered look at the front door. This black and white stripe rug has an elevated pattern for a sophisticated vibe.
I went back and forth on whether to go with this one or the classic black and white stripe rug. In the end, I chose this one because it is less white and I think it’ll last longer.
I also just ordered a rug pad so it’s not directly on the pavers. I hope this will help it last even longer.
6. Goof Vibes Hand-Painted Doormats
In a perfect world, I’d LOVE to purchase the first door mat BUT to keep this project on a budget I went with option #3 for $13.
They all have a similar vibe and message. Anyone of these would work which is why I went with #3 the “good vibes only” doormat.
It’ll be layered over the black and white mat above for an elevated look. I can’t wait till this is delivered!
7. Seagrass Round Ottoman Small Front Porch Ideas
Right now we have indoor ottomans on the porch as a placeholder. We all love to relax with our feet up while chilling outside.
Since the space is narrow this ottoman will work perfectly. The 14″ width is just the right size for a plate, to put your feet up, or for extra seating.
There are multiple colorways and styles available depending on the look and feel you’re after. I plan to purchase a pair for the front porch makeover but they would look awesome inside as well.
8. Outdoor String Lights
String lights are great for adding personality and atmosphere to any outdoor space. These are awesome because they have shatterproof bulbs.
There are four lengths available depending on the size of your outdoor space. These are fabulous for creating ambiance and making a statement at the front of your home.
I’m thinking I would need the 25′ unless we add them across the entire front porch in which case I would go with the 50′ string lights.
***Photos will be updated once the lights are installed. Check back for updates regularly. ***
9. Outdoor Accent Table
This round side table would fit perfectly at the side of the sitting area. The rounded edge would create traffic flow and provide a cute spot to put down your drink.
It has a sculptural silhouette and sleek design that’s sure to make a statement. This accent table will be a conversation starter with friends and family.
10. Wind Chime
Love the sound of a wind chime blowing on a breezy day. This one has a modern design with mixed materials of aluminum pipe and pine.
The beautiful sound of the soft music will brighten your mood and soothe your soul. If you like to meditate outdoors this will make the experience that much better.
11. Pink Flamingo Planter Small Front Porch Ideas
In case you don’t have a local Trader Joe’s or you missed out on the flamingo craze this planter is for you. The super cute design is great for adding a pop of pink to your outdoor space.
By now you know I have a thing for pink and it’s fitting given all the Barbie Movie hype these days. If you’re looking to add personality to your small front porch makeover this is perfect!
12. Modern Front Porch Planters with Gold Stand
We already have a planter that’s from HomeGoods but this set would make an awesome addition to any outdoor space. The black and gold color story will add a modern look to your outdoor area.
You can add artificial or real plants depending on whether you have a green thumb or not. I do NOT but maintaining the garden is my husband’s superpower!
Small Front Porch Planter Ideas
13. Glass End Table
Add this table to the corner of your patio or next to your sofa for a convenient place to put down your drink. The beauty of the glass top is it’ll be super easy to clean and maintain.
14. Small Porch Furniture Wicker Chair Ideas
This is similar to the patio furniture that we’re keeping but updating. I thought about painting them black but in the end, they worked out as is.
The set of two chairs is available for just over $150 which is such a great value. They don’t have a settee option but if you love the look you can always go with four chairs for your small front porch design.
15. Small Porch Ceiling Fan
Last up is the ceiling fan which every outdoor space needs in my opinion. We have one that was replaced from the Airbnb which is awesome for cooling the space.
We’re out on the front porch morning, noon, and night so the fan is a necessity. If you need an option for your front porch this one is similar to what we currently have.
Front Door Wreath Ideas
Conclusion
Remember, a small porch doesn’t have to limit your creativity. With a touch of ingenuity and these inspiring ideas, you can unlock the full potential of your outdoor space and create a cherished corner that reflects your personality and welcomes both relaxation and connection. I hope these small porch ideas inspire you to design a home you love!
This post is all about the small front porch ideas.
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Last Updated on August 14, 2024 by Nicole DelaCruz
