I love my front porch. Our house has a very cabin-like look to it, complete with a long porch on the front. We like sitting out there except for feeling that we’re on display. We’ve also wondered if the neighbors think we’re spying on them when we perch ourselves out there for a while with a cold beverage in hand. The thought would probably cross my mind. I’ve thought about hanging some fabric curtains to obscure the view or add a trellis at each end to give the feel of an enclosed room, yet keep it open and airy.
Got a porch? Create a living space. Make it your relaxation room. This is often a forgotten usable space that we don’t think about until the sun has gotten unbearable and we are seeking shade. Then everyone is scrambling for a place to keep cool. An excellent addition is curtains to keep the atmosphere cozy and inviting, yet open and airy. Wrought iron curtain rods will withstand the elements and provide a sturdy anchor as the fabric sways and poufs in the breeze. Our neighbor has done this on their back porch and it’s delightful!
If electricity is available take advantage of it and add a couple of wrought iron sconces. Flank a window or door with matching lantern wall lights. If you don’t have a window that is in a strategic spot, create the illusion of a window like we did and hang a piece of wrought iron wall décor. On each side you have the option to place electric wall sconces or a pair of Raleigh tavern candle lanterns from wrought iron wall hooks or plant hangers.
If your outdoor space is under a sun deck at ground level you can give the illusion of a wall with several Aldrich wrought iron trellises. They can be anchored in the ground at the edge of your patio or set in poured concrete in planters or tubs. You can even mount them upside down by bending the posts and suspend them from curtain rods.
I love to feel like I’m dining in a small Italian café. I’ve selected a Signature wrought iron flower box to mount under the window and chose a small table for two for my seating arrangement. I will complete the space with a couple of planters and a few candles and voila…we’re at a café in Florence!