What type of furniture is best for a front porch?

The best way to choose furniture for a front porch is to pick something that works with your home's style. Whether country or contemporary, opting for comfortable, durable furnishings that won't be damaged by rain or high temperatures is essential.

Can you put indoor furniture on a covered front porch?

You can, but treating the furniture before putting it outside is helpful. Wood furnishings can be coated with a polyurethane finish to protect them from the elements. Upholstered items will do best with waterproof fabrics . Valuable pieces and fragile items shouldn't be added to porch decor.

Do you need to secure front porch furniture?

There are two reasons to secure front porch furniture. First, securing the furniture will keep it from blowing away or getting knocked over if you live in an area with high winds. Also, locking down furnishings will prevent thieves from taking your items. You can use steel cables and a padlock or bungee cords, depending on how secure you want it to be.

7 Front Porch Furniture Ideas That Are Both Pretty and Functional

The front porch is an extension of your home and your design style. Since it's typically the first area guests see, it's natural to want to create a gorgeous, welcoming space to display to the neighborhood. But if you think you have to sacrifice comfort for style, think again. With so many options for front porch furniture available, it's easy to design an outdoor space that's both pretty and comfortable.

Make the most of every square foot of your front porch by styling a hangout that elevates your home's curb appeal, provides endless enjoyment, and leaves a lasting impression on anyone who steps foot on it—the mail carrier included. These front porch furniture ideas will help you create a welcoming outdoor space that's as beautiful as it is functional.

01 of 07

Maximize Space on a Small Porch

black rocking chairs on narrow farmhouse porch — Edmund Barr

Less space doesn't have to equal less style. It's all about optimizing your area by choosing furniture proportionate to your front porch's size. Avoid chunky furniture that makes your space look cluttered. Instead, look for compact porch furniture that fits your aesthetic, like a quaint bistro set or tall, slender rocking chairs.

02 of 07

Establish Zones on a Large Porch

sunhat hanging from rocking chair on porch — Adam Albright

Make the most of a large porch by separating it into multiple zones. Turn one corner into a cozy reading nook with a cushioned bench or a pair of cozy rockers. Add a side table or small ottoman to hold decor, potted plants, or a pitcher of refreshing homemade lemonade. In another corner, place a small table and chairs for easy outdoor entertaining. Make the front porch look and feel like one cohesive space by choosing patio furniture with a consistent style, finish, or color palette.

03 of 07

Create a Cozy Corner on a Front Porch with Furniture

Porch with swing seating and pillows — Marty Baldwin

Put your feet up after a long day in a cozy front porch seating area. A porch swing is the ultimate comfort piece, and you can enjoy it year-round by adding seasonal blankets when cooler temperatures hit. Soft textiles are the secret to cozy comfort, so don't be hold back when it comes to cushions and throws. An outdoor rug is another easy way to add a layer of texture, color, and pattern and anchor the space. Bring the inside out by embellishing your cozy porch furniture arrangement with decorative details, such as a mirror or outdoor wall decor.

04 of 07

Add Bright Colors

doorway screened in porch seating — Reed Davis

A splash of paint is a great way to freshen up existing front porch furniture or thrifted outdoor seating without making a big dent in your bank account. Choose colors that complement your house exterior or contrast the color of your front door. Or take inspiration from the blooms in your front garden and bring shades of pink, violet, yellow, or green to your porch. If you prefer a neutral palette, add color with accessories, like patterned cushions or vibrant planters.

05 of 07

Keep It Simple

Sometimes less is more, as proven by this farmhouse front porch. A simple bench is a pretty and practical piece of front porch furniture. It provides the perfect place to perch while you enjoy your morning coffee, and it's the ideal place to kick off your shoes after a long walk, preventing muddy trails through the house. Add a cozy throw pillow and some simple greenery for an inviting, homey look.

06 of 07

Create a Hosting Hotspot

screened in porch with high ceiling and lounging furniture — Kim Cornelison

Turn your screened-in porch into the ultimate entertaining spot by providing plenty of seating. Start by looking for furniture that matches your home's architectural style. Then choose one large seating element (like a bench or sofa) and add individual chairs as space allows. Next, incorporate a coffee table or ottoman into the center of the seating arrangement so guests can set down their drinks or rest their feet. For a long, slim front porch, look for a rectangular piece to keep the appetizer trays within reach of all the guests. Round tables tend to be better for traffic flow on a small front porch and can help encourage the easy flow of conversation as guests gather around.

07 of 07

Embrace Your Summer Style

chair and end table on porch — David Land

Your front porch likely gets a lot of use in the summer months, but it doesn't have to be a one-season attraction. Transport yourself to a relaxing summer evening every time you step out your front door all year. Get the feel of a warm-weather paradise with rattan or bamboo furniture and woven jute textures you can accessorize for each season. Vibrant, patterned textiles and abundant lush greenery, both potted and hanging, will create a space you want to spend time in, no matter the time of year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of furniture is best for a front porch?

The best way to choose furniture for a front porch is to pick something that works with your home's style. Whether country or contemporary, opting for comfortable, durable furnishings that won't be damaged by rain or high temperatures is essential.
Can you put indoor furniture on a covered front porch?

You can, but treating the furniture before putting it outside is helpful. Wood furnishings can be coated with a polyurethane finish to protect them from the elements. Upholstered items will do best with waterproof fabrics. Valuable pieces and fragile items shouldn't be added to porch decor.
Do you need to secure front porch furniture?

There are two reasons to secure front porch furniture. First, securing the furniture will keep it from blowing away or getting knocked over if you live in an area with high winds. Also, locking down furnishings will prevent thieves from taking your items. You can use steel cables and a padlock or bungee cords, depending on how secure you want it to be.

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