THE AUTUMN FRONT PORCH

October 7, 2019

 

Autumn is well underway and one of my favorite things to do is take in all of its beauty while exploring neighborhoods and seeing how people incorporate the season into their front porches.  Pre WWII, the American front porch was a symbol of gathering and community; it really was the living room space of the day.  Almost everyone had a front porch and that is where you congregated to find cooler temps and engage in activities. The porch was a place to relax and be with your people; it was inviting and warm.

As a design element, front porches all but disappeared post war as society became more dependable on the automobile for transportation and many preferred to gather privately in the backyard or inside. Today porches are again finding their way back into modern architecture and it makes me so happy.  I love the front porch and all that is symbolizes. There are plenty of easy and beautiful ways to bring Autumn to your porch making people want to linger.

No matter the size, styling your porch does not have to be complicated or expensive.  Invest in quality pots that you can use all year while changing out the plantings. Hardy Mums, kale and spinach are just a few plantings that bring awesome color and texture to your exterior and will last for months. If you have a chair or bench, incorporate it into your porch. It instantly encourages visitors to sit and rest. Grab a favorite throw or blanket and put it in a place someone can easily find it.  Add in a few pumpkins and unusual gourds and layer a few outdoor rugs to ground the space and you’re done.

Design by Lindsay Hargens Design

 

There is plenty of inspiration out there to celebrate the front porch in every season. Here are a few of my online Autumn favorites. Happy lingering and happy Autumn!

Design by Jeanne Oliver

Photo by The Front Door Project

Design by Boxwood Avenue

Design by Liz Marie

Photo by The Heart of the House

 

Photo by Sincerely Marie Designs