14 Must-Have Items for a Chic Summer Porch

By Olivia Rahim | June 29, 2021

Summer is the right time to enjoy a cool drink on your porch. Whether you’re hosting guests or just looking for some time alone, summer porches are an essential part of life in the south. Unfortunately, many people don’t maximize their potential by making it a functional and stylish space. If you’re ready to design your dream summer porch, these must-have items will help!

Outdoor Furniture 

An assortment of seating will make your porch feel like home. Choose a mix between lounge chairs, chaise lounges, and rocking chairs to accommodate all types of guests. Make sure to include some cozy pillows and soft area rugs for the ultimate relaxation experience! An outdoor area is incomplete without a proper seating arrangement. You can’t enjoy the outdoors if you’re uncomfortable.

Combination of Furniture 

Decorating your porch can get expensive, so mix and match furniture pieces to maximize the style for your space. For instance, consider combining a traditional outdoor sofa with an antique coffee table or rustic bench for a unique look that’s still budget-friendly! You’ll be surprised how amazing your porch can look with a few simple adjustments. Moreover, most people will purchase outdoor chairs to accompany their lounge chairs or chaise lounges, but they overlook the coffee table’s most important part! Choose one that complements your other furnishings, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful porch design.

Hanging Planters 

Dress up any space with hanging planters! They are perfect for pots of herbs, flowers, or even succulents that need little water and care. Hanging plants will add life to the porch’s décor when it needs some TLC – no watering required! Also, hanging baskets of seasonal flowers on the porch will add color and life to space.

Outdoor Lighting

It’s important to feel safe when you’re outside at night, especially if you have children or pets that like to explore the outdoors after dark. A lantern with an adjustable light is a great way to illuminate your porch without using electricity. This will keep everyone both visible and happy! Having trouble deciding on what type of outdoor lighting to buy? Check out some amazing ideas on Pinterest.

Benches and Cushions

The porch is the perfect place to spend a summer evening with family and friends. It’s time for some backyard fun! You can easily convert your front or back yard into an outdoor living area by adding cushioned chairs or benches, oriental rugs, pillows – anything that will make you feel comfortable. No porch is complete without a set of comfortable chairs or benches! And don’t forget the cushions, either! Position them around your porch, so it’s easy for you and guests to have conversations when they first arrive. Also, setting up an area for games like corn hole or bocce will make your outdoor living space a lot more inviting.

Hanging Lights

Every porch needs lights! We recommend installing some hanging string lighting for ambiance and safety. You will be safe from tripping over anything on the steps at night with these beauties around. String lights and fairy lights are the best decorative items for your porch. Also, these lights create a romantic feel that will most likely be perfect for late-night porch parties.

Porcupine Tree

 Consider investing in what we like to call the “porcupine tree.” You’ll never forget this name because these trees have spikes on them. We recommend using one of these beauties as your focal point when designing an outdoor living space. They add some greenery, and they are a bit different from the normal, plain trees.

Ornamental Grasses

If you want to add a little life to it, then ornamental grasses are your answer! These will provide some greenery on your porch, and they can even be planted in containers as well. They give off an air of natural beauty that is just perfect for a porch. Also, this type of grass is ideal if your porch is small and confined.

Fountain

If you want to add some character and style to your porch, then a fountain is the way to go. These are ideal for tiny spaces as they provide entertainment, freshwater for pets, and plenty of aesthetic value! Plants are available everywhere, so it’s easy to find one that will work with your space. A fountain with running water soothes your tired nerves. Also, the sound of water brings a fresh and cool vibe to your outdoors.

Porch Swing

Spending time outside is always good for the soul. You can do it in style with a porch swing! These come in both single and double varieties, and they are all made from high-quality materials that ensure long-lasting use. They’re also built to be durable, so you won’t have to worry about them breaking or going out of style.

Outdoor Solar Lights

There’s no need to bother with charging your lights or turning them on and off manually when you have solar-powered ones! This is a great solution for people who don’t want to spend too much time away from their porches during the day since they can automatically turn themselves on at nightfall. However, You need to make sure you get the right type of light for your needs. For example, if you have a big porch with lots of space and want soft lighting that won’t attract bugs or hinder outdoor activities in any way, then spotlights are a perfect choice!

Porch Shades

Porch shades are a must-have to keep your space cool during the day. Most of these screens also offer some protection from rain, snow, or other inclement weather! Also, they are a great way to add a little privacy for those who like some peace and quiet but still want natural light. Before buying, you should consider what style of porch shades will work best with your house design. You can find these in many different styles, including traditional, contemporary, or even more modern designs such as bamboo, metal, or fabric.

Plants

Plants can help give you that fresh outdoorsy feeling in your small area. Outdoor decor is incomplete without plants. You can find a huge selection of different houseplants great for the low-light levels and heat outside, including ivy, succulents -(most varieties), cacti (most varieties), ferns, agave or aloe vera, as well as many others!

Hammock 

A hammock on your porch is a must-have for those hot summer days! Hammocks are perfect for lazing all day long, reading, or even catching some zzzs in this beautiful weather. If you’re feeling extra creative, make an oasis of sorts with a vintage rug and colorful cushions. It is the perfect idea to give your porch a boho-chic look.

On a Final Note

Summer is a time for relaxing on the porch with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting an outdoor party or want to enjoy some fresh air, your porch should be well-equipped with these 14 essential items. From rugs that match your decor style to a good set of speakers for music, we hope this list helps make summer even more enjoyable! With these best unique home decoration and design ideas, you will be able to find ways to make your house and outdoor area look classy and stylish. Who doesn’t want that? Check out RugKnots for the latest trends in rugs!