Our front porch was a great selling feature for our house when we were looking.  We love the neighbourly feel of sitting outside in the evening and visiting with neighbours.  When we moved in, we plopped some chairs we had in the backyard at our old house that didn't work in our new place and said - "good enough for now".  And then we didn't do anything with it for 4 years and this year was the year!  After the longest winter ever, I really wanted to inject some personality and make it more of an outdoor room instead of a unused deck.  So, while the winter dragged on in epic proportions, I dreamed of sitting outside in some new chairs surrounded by colour and plants and basking in the summer sun.  While I waited, I made a moodboard - of course! 

Step one : Start with furniture

So, if you want a space to sit and relax, you need chairs and a table to put your drink, a book, or a snack.  I love these chairs from Ikea as they stack for easy storage in the winter and don't take a lot of space so leave plenty of room for us to walk around them.  The backs are nice and high so you can rest your head and yet they are open so don't block the windows.  They are also super affordable which is always a bonus.

Step two: Bring in accent colours with textiles

Once I had the chairs, I selected patterned cushions in a punch colour.  The seat cushions I kept neutral so they can be switched up when it's time for a change.  I had a black and white striped rug already so brought it out to anchor the space.  (Note: We don't get a lot of rain that will actually hit the rug as we are covered so didn't feel the need for an outdoor rug in this area) I also have had these pink planters for years in my backyard but once I had the toss cushions cushions, I knew I had to move them to the front. 

Step 3: Add interest with plants

I wanted to have a lush full feel on the deck.  For years I have seen ferns as outdoor plants rather than flowers so wanted to try them out.  So far, I love them!!!   In the fall, I'll bring them inside and cross my fingers they survive so I can put them outside every summer.  I did bring in flowers as well and have also potted a lavender plant which I will enjoy the beautiful scent and as fall draws near, I will plant in the garden.  

Step 4: Finish off with accessories

A blanket ladder adds height as well as a place for a light blanket for the chilly nights.  I added a few lanterns for colour and texture and these mushrooms are possibly my favorite find.   

And I just had to add this welcome mat.  Something to make you smile when you arrive at my front door.  We had a small dark mat there and it was underwhelming.  I love the trend of layering your front door mat and with the black and white pattern and the natural coir your eye is drawn to it.  

There you have it, at some point this summer, I plan on painting the front door and staining the deck but for now, I am so enjoying the space and sit out there daily.  It is a great spot to enjoy a morning coffee.  

Are you looking to update a space in (or outside) your home but not sure how or where to start?  Contact me today to discuss how I can help.  

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