What is one feature that you can add to your home that will
definitely increase its value not only monetarily? There is the
ingredient of a “special place” to relax, to dream about
tomorrow, and to slowly sip a cool, smooth drink on a hot,
sticky day. Also, this is a great place to chat with the
neighbors or visiting relatives, to admire the seasons, nature
and its abundance of color and change, and to take a catnap when
the need calls for one.
All of the above relate to something as simple as a porch.
Whether it is on the back of the house, across the front of the
home, or even to the side - there is so much value in having a
porch. It can even do duty as a breakfast room where you start
your day and anticipate what the day will bring over a cup of
coffee.
It can be an elaborate structure with pillars and graceful
archways or it can be as simple as a screen enclosure where you
step out from the kitchen to the delight of the sunshine, the
sweet smell of morning, and the sounds of the birds. Taking into
consideration the type of home you have, you can then plan with
size, material, and style. Whatever the final outcome is, the
real statement will be the comfort and enjoyment a porch can
bring. And if you add a porch swing - then you do have the
makings of a wonderful place just outside of your home. If a
porch swing is not in the plans, then a padded rocking chair, a
few tables, assorted chairs, and plants will do the trick.
Porches are fun to decorate but they should never become just
another convenient storage shed. They should be uncluttered,
colorful and comfortable. There should be easy access to the
home so that food and drink can be easily brought it and out.
Porches can be three-season or year-round with a few extras
added.
Whatever your budget allows, inspiration and imagination in
decorating your porch take precedence. Wicker, wood, or other
natural features are the most soothing and relaxing. Bright,
beautiful colors and a lot of windows or screens, if enclosed,
to bring in the sight, sounds, and smells of the great outdoors.
Accessories can be anything that helps provide a relaxing,
comforting atmosphere.
There is one drawback to having a porch. The neighbors will take
notice and start stopping by as they take a stroll in the
evening breezes, and relatives will stay just a little bit
longer. A porch is a great place for children to play and to
entertain their friends. Small tables so that games, puzzles, or
other activities can be set up and a storage box for toys
provides a lot of fun and entertainment, and mom is just a step
away.
Whatever your budget or home style, a porch can be added that
will delight and give you hours of pleasure. The size of the
porch is not important, as long as there is space to stretch out
and wile away the hours sipping that cool drink, dreaming,
planning, or just taking in the beauty of your garden, your
flowers, or the trees that line your street.
A porch opens up the world just a little more, and allows
everyone to have the opportunity to stop, chat, and share the
latest. It is a gathering place of great friends, conversation,
and relaxation. It is well worth the time and effort because it
will bring back more in home value, and personal value. It adds
charm, comfort, and inspiration. It will become that special
place where family and fun can be relished and cherished in a
relaxed and soothing atmosphere.
Hope there’s a porch in your future! ENJOY! ©Arleen M. Kaptur
2002 June 1
