Designing and remodeling an outdoor living space can seem daunting. With so many options for materials, furnishings, and features, how do you choose what will work best for your porch or patio? To find the top trends and must-haves for outdoor spaces, we consulted design experts across the country. Here are the porch and patio features they recommend this year.
Comfortable, Stylish Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture has come a long way from the old mesh and aluminum sets many remember from childhood. Today’s outdoor furniture offers both comfort and style for relaxing and entertaining outdoors.
“Outdoor sofas, sectionals, and deep seating chairs continue to grow in popularity,” says Los Angeles designer Jamie Gold. “They utilize thicker, weather-resistant cushions for comfort and are available in on-trend fabrics and frame finishes.”
All-weather wicker and woven resin are excellent choices, along with teak and aluminum for durability. Look for removable cushions in fade- and mold-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella. Make sure furniture is sized appropriately for the space. Scale down in smaller areas to avoid a crowded feel.
Don’t forget accompanying furniture like coffee, side, and accent tables, along with ottomans for extra seating. Materials like weather-resistant woods, aluminum, and concrete work well. Include lighting like pendant lamps or lanterns overhead and tabletop lighting for ambiance.
Outdoor Rugs for Style and Comfort
Rugs aren’t just for indoors anymore. When selected wisely, outdoor rugs can add style, comfort, and definition to porches and patios.
“Outdoor rugs help delineate seating arrangements and provide a soft surface underfoot,” explains Orlando designer Morgan Rexrode. “Choose natural fibers like jute, seagrass, or sisal, or polypropylene rugs made for outdoor use.”
Look for ones with non-slip rubber backing to avoid shifting. Make sure any patterns or colors coordinate with the overall design scheme. Neutrals are versatile and hide dirt well. Washable, easy-care rugs are key for heavy use areas.
Rugs also help protect floor surfaces underneath. Use them under and around furniture, especially on hard surfaces like concrete, tile and wood. Just take care to prevent tripping on any edges.
Stylish and Functional Outdoor Fabrics
From cushions to curtains to umbrellas, the right outdoor-rated fabrics take porch and patio decor to the next level. They protect furnishings while adding color, pattern and texture.
“Performance fabrics like Sunbrella and Outdura offer incredible design with UV resistance and durability,” says designer Becky Shea. “Reupholster existing pieces or purchase new cushions, pillows, curtains, and umbrellas to refresh the space.”
Pay attention to how much sun or shade areas receive and opt for fade-resistant material. Make sure fabrics are breathable and allow moisture to evaporate quickly after rain, rather than accumulating mold or mildew underneath.
Outdoor curtains frame spaces beautifully while providing shade and privacy. Hang them from rafters, beams, or hardware designed for outdoor use. Make sure fabrics have enough weight for wind resistance and include features like grommets to allow breeze flow.
Extended Living Space with Pergolas and Pavilions
A pergola or pavilion extends use of outdoor areas to three seasons or longer. These structures provide shelter from sun, rain and other elements while expanding usable living space.
“We’re seeing higher demand for covered spaces that allow for year-round enjoyment,” reports Dallas designer Carrie Contey. “Pergolas offer shade, and newer versions have sliding panels to act as ‘outdoor walls’ in cooler weather.”
Consider adding features like fans, heaters, and lighting for true four-season functionality. Surround the structure with climbing vines or hanging plants for natural coverage from sunlight and rainfall when desired. Just be sure the plants provide adequate clearance along walkways.
Wood, fiberglass and aluminum pergolas have an open roof design. Pavilions may incorporate clear or translucent panels in the roof and drop-down curtains on the sides. Get help from structural engineers for proper installation, especially in regions with heavy snow loads.
Statement Lighting for Nighttime Enjoyment
The right lighting transforms porches and patios from daytime relaxation spaces to spectacular nighttime hangouts. When designed and installed properly, it provides both beauty and safety outdoors after dark.
“Outdoor lighting is key for extending time spent outside, plus adds visual drama,” says California designer Janet Southwick. “I mix plentiful ambient lighting on dimmers with accent lighting of architectural features and landscape elements.”
Spotlights or floodlights illuminate exterior walls, paths through gardens, specimen plants, bodies of water and other unique features. Lanterns and pendant lights add flair while providing task lighting over dining sets. Wrap strings of LED lights around columns and railings. Use fixtures rated for exterior damp conditions, and consult local codes for any restrictions. Install lighting to avoid glare into neighboring homes.
Place lighting on timers or smart controls to turn off automatically and prevent shining overnight. LED choices use far less energy than traditional bulbs. Solar options remove wiring requirement for installation.
Tranquil Water Features to Soothe the Senses
Few things create a sense of peace and tranquility like the sight and sound of moving water. Adding a small water feature or fountain on porches and patios enhances relaxation and masks less pleasant noises like street traffic.
“The gentle gurgling of a tabletop fountain immediately reduces stress and enhances outdoor spaces,” says designer Mel Bean. “Freestanding ones make great focal points in garden areas.”
Consider placement carefully, as fountains require plumbing access. Avoid positioning them too close to seating, as the noise near your ear may become irritating. Make sure pumps are sized appropriately for the fountain design and water flow.
Opt for fountains with built-in lights to enjoy at night. Provide a winter drainage system in colder climates so water can be removed when not in use seasonally. Keep water features cleaned out and well-maintained to prevent clogs and ensure proper circulation.
Cozy Fire Features for Chilly Evenings
As days and evenings get cooler in spring and fall, a fire feature can help extend outdoor living a bit longer. The warmth and ambiance are perfect for unwinding and spending time with friends and family.
“Fire pits, chimeneas, and tabletop fire bowls are growing in popularity for taking the chill off as seasons change,” remarks Pennsylvania designer Toni Sabatino. “Just be sure to check local regulations about open flames.”
Have a safety zone of at least 15 feet around any fire installation, clear of low-hanging trees and shrubbery. Never leave a fire unattended and completely extinguish flames after each use. Some neighborhoods prohibit wood-burning, so propane models may be preferable.
Look for durable materials like steel, concrete and natural stone for the longest-lasting fire features. Include seating nearby to enjoy the warmth and glow. Keep an eye on wind conditions and avoid building fires on overly dry, windy days in fire-prone regions. Consider adding a cooking grate over the flame to double as a grill.
Privacy Screens for Seclusion
From boundaries with neighbors to blocking views of utility areas, privacy screens help seclude porches and patios for peaceful relaxation and enjoyment. They come in a variety of materials to match any aesthetic.
“We love adding latticework, living walls, walls with cutout patterns, and privacy fences to conceal less attractive views,” says designer Debra May. “This allows people to unwind in comfort and tranquility.”
Living screens planted with vines, espaliered trees or evergreen hedges offer natural coverage that evolves over time. For immediate privacy, install wood, composite, PVC or metal screens alone or atop short knee walls. Ensure screens comply with height regulations and allow for airflow.
Movable accordion-style room dividers offer flexibility and customization as needed. Strategically placed planters, screens and other structures help delineate space into distinct functional areas without totally blocking sightlines and airflow.
Built-In Seating Nooks for Coziness
In addition to freestanding furnishings, built-in benches, banquettes and window seats maximize every square inch on porches and patios. These permanent features create ultra-cozy seating for relaxation or conversation.
“Tucked-away built-ins evoke a sense of homeyness outside by drawing visitors into the space,” says designer Deborah Martin. “They’re ideal for smaller areas that can’t accommodate much furniture.”
Use weather-resistant materials like stone, tile, pressure-treated lumber or cedar. Include weatherproof cushions for comfort. Built-in window seats are perfect for gazing out at the scenery with a cup of coffee or curled up with a good book on a rainy day.
Under-stairs spaces are ideal for built-in benches. When part of decks or stained wood porches, go for classic checkerboard patterns. Around the fireplace or grill zone, use brick, stone or concrete and incorporate storage for firewood, pellets or propane tanks.
Ceiling Fans for Cooling and Style
A gently whirring ceiling fan encourages relaxation on even the hottest days. These fixtures circulate air to make shaded porches and patios more comfortable on warm days. They’re highly functional yet also provide decorative flair.
“Outdoor ceiling fans not only keep you cool, but add great style when chosen thoughtfully,” designer Jennifer Turner says. “Look for wet-rated fans designed specifically for patio and porch installations.”
Wet-rated fans resist moisture, humidity and other outdoor elements. Mount them safely on porches and pergolas following all manufacturer instructions, at least 7 feet above the floor. Look for energy-saving LED light kit options to provide illumination right from the fan fixture as well.
Pick finishes like brushed nickel, bronze and rust-resistant materials to pair with your design aesthetic. Make sure blade sizes don’t exceed the proportions of the space. Add glass or metal light shades for ambiance during outdoor dinners or evening gatherings. Control speeds and lights from wall switches or remote controls.
Mist Cooling Systems for Instant Refreshment
As temperatures rise, a mist cooling system can provide a quick yet dramatic chill factor for your outdoor hangout. Within seconds, a fine spray of water droplets dissipates heat on even the most sweltering days.
“Misting systems are an excellent way to instantly cool down patios and porches,” notes South Carolina designer Blakely Gray. “They’re affordable and easy to install, operating via patio fans or stand-alone misting rings.”
These systems connect via garden hose to a tap or pipe into your main home water supply, so access to a water line is needed. Just avoid spraying near ceiling fans or standing underneath the misters too long, which can result in excessive dampness.
Consider handheld misting fans for more flexibility to target refreshing cooling power right where it’s needed most. Some attach right to patio umbrellas for a quick chill while shaded. The cooling effect may be brief, but offers immediate heat relief when temperatures peak.
Warming Features for Cooler Weather
To expand outdoor living into spring and fall, warming elements counteract chilly temperatures after the sun goes down. From small personal heaters to powerful mounted fixtures, supplemental heat encourages use of porches and patios even when the weather cools.
“As outdoor living spaces become true extensions of the home, heat is needed during cooler seasons,” says Shay Geyer. “Freestanding propane heaters provide whole-space warmth without permanent installation.”
For targeted heat at seating areas, low-mounted electric heaters connect to your electrical system. Make sure circuits can support the added wattage, and avoid overloading. Install units at least 7 feet off the ground with protective covers. Hardwired systems provide the highest output, while freestanding units allow flexibility.
Look for newer infrared and quartz models offering instant, feeling-is-believing comfort without drying the air. Ensure sufficient ventilation and air exchange for healthiest use. Never leave outdoor heaters running unattended or while sleeping due to fire risks.
Weather Protection with Storm Doors and Panels
Full exposure to the elements can make porches and patios unusable at times. Strategically placed storm doors, screens and panels provide protection from wind, rain, snow and more, allowing outdoor areas to stay open most of the year.
“Lots of clients want to use their porches and patios in cooler months, so weather protection is key,” notes designer Jackie Jordan. “Temporary panels close off spaces without permanently converting them into interior rooms.”
Look for panel systems designed specifically to fit your porch or patio structure. Acrylic, polycarbonate, fiberglass and laminated glass are durable, transparent materials that withstand weather yet allow daylight to filter through. Ensure UV protection and impact resistance as well.
For a more affordable option, install retractable screens that roll down when needed. Look for powder-coated aluminum frames that won’t rust over time. Make sure screens are sized properly for full coverage of each opening but allow adequate airflow to prevent condensation issues.
Outdoor Kitchens for Alfresco Dining
The popularity of outdoor kitchens continues rising, with seemingly every design showcasing sizzling grills, beverage stations, storage and more. Create your own stay-and-eat experience right on the patio or porch.
“Outdoor kitchens extend living and entertaining space seamlessly from the home’s interior,” says designer Carla Aston. “Even smaller installations like built-in grills make outdoor cooking and dining more convenient than ever.”
Look for durable stainless steel cabinets, counters and appliances rated for outdoor installation. Include landing space on either side of grills and at least 24 inches of counter frontage for food prep and serving. Use weather-resistant surfaces like tile, concrete, or stone.
Incorporate amenities like sinks, refrigerators, cocktail stations and storage for everything from grilling tools to dishes and glassware. Make sure necessary electrical is in place with GFCI outlets near surfaces. Keep fire extinguishers and blankets on hand.
Stylish Deck and Porch Railings
Deck, porch and balcony railings provide important safety and fall protection. But their impact goes beyond the practical, also making a strong visual design statement. Complement your home’s architecture with custom details or sleek modern lines.
“More clients want railings that act as decor as much as safety features,” reports Wisconsin designer Anne Decker. “A mix of cable, glass, and metal designs opens sightlines rather than blocking views.”
Make sure any railings meet code requirements. For decks and porches higher than 30 inches, balusters must be spaced no more than 4 inches apart. On lower surfaces, options like cabling and horizontal railings are permissible.
Railing height should be 36 to 42 inches for optimal protection and comfort. Pick durable, low-maintenance finishes that hold up outdoors. Solid pickets provide maximum privacy, while glass creates transparency. Accent with built-in lighting for a magical nighttime glow.
Smart Controls for Convenience
Technology enhances outdoor living spaces much like our indoor homes. With smart controls, easily customize your perfect lighting, temperature, music and more from a smartphone or voice.
“Automating shades, fans, heaters, and sound creates effortless ambiance control day or night,” says designer Rachel Amran. “Program scenes like ‘dinner party’ or ‘nap time’ for one-touch convenience.”
Make sure electrical is sufficient before converting standard fixtures to smart control. Hardwired options have the most reliable connectivity, with bulbs and plug-in accessories providing more flexible upgrades. Stick with a single platform for easiest universal control.
Use outdoor security cameras to keep watch over belongings left outside. Integrate porch and patio music seamlessly with whole-home audio for ambiance everywhere. Control heating, cooling and motorized screens right from your phone anytime.
Pet-Friendly Features
For households with dogs or cats, porches and patios should accommodate four-legged family members to keep everyone comfortable. Simple additions make outdoor hangouts pet-safe and hassle-free.
“We include pet-friendly details like outdoor pet showers, relief zones hidden behind screens, secure gates, and durable surfaces,” says Oregon designer Jon Bader. “Pets quickly feel at home in the spaces.”
Opt for easy-clean flooring like stone, concrete pavers, or composite decking without gaps where paws can get caught or injured. Rinse away accidents easily with a handheld shower, and limit grass access to designated pet relief areas.
Use screens to partition off play zones from relaxation areas. Pick sturdy outdoor furniture that withstands scratches or chewing. Provide shade and water to keep pets cool in warmer weather. Enjoy time together outdoors safely.
Conclusion
When designed thoughtfully, porches and patios extend living areas to the outdoors for relaxation, dining, and entertaining. Include features that match your climate, lifestyle, and priorities to create an ideal outdoor oasis. Pay attention to durability, maintenance, and safety along with aesthetics in picking materials and amenities. With this expert guidance, you can craft your dream porch or patio living space this year. Here’s to sunny days ahead enjoying the backyard scenery from your new favorite hangout spot at home.