The Charm of Country Porches

Also called open or wrap around porches

Country porches bring back nice memories to me. I clearly remember sitting on my Grandma's porch in Fremont, Ohio, as a kid.

My grandma and I would sit on the swing and talk.

That love has stuck with me; Dave and I love country-style porches.

They are one of our favorite styles. How about you?

Country Farm House Wrap Around Porch

More pictures of country porches

Country porch plans and home plans

The characteristics of wraparound and country porches

• Simplicity in design, wide and functional for guests and games
• Expansive spans on the front and/or sides of a house. Most are wrap around porches.
• Usually no fancy trim. Depending on the height of your porch, porch railings and balusters are optional.
• Furniture: A few porch rocking chairs or perhaps a porch swing is all you need (and a sleeping dog, of course)!
• Accessories: wicker furniture, rugs, wind chimes, a country curtains, rustic mementos, and perhaps a table and chairs for a game of checkers
• Check out the many options for entertaining, decorating and furnishing.
• Our country decorating ideas will give you some great country decorating tips.

What is an open porch?

Open porches allow a complete view of the surrounding area and are usually easily accessible. They generally have wide stairways and only a few steps; however, due to topography open porches may be more elevated and therefore would need railings.

Historically, open porches were popular in the late 1800s and were designed for social interaction.

Wrap around porches

Advantages of a wrap around porch

• You can use your porch during different times of the day to retreat from wind and sun (we think this is one of the best reasons to have a wrap around porch)
• Gives you the option for an additional entrance into your home
• Offers different views from your home
• Part of the space could be turned into a privacy porch.
• You have the flexibility to decorate portions of the porch differently depending on your needs. One section may be more formal (like a sitting area) while another portion may be styled for entertaining.

Design considerations for country porches

• This is not usually an issue if you live in a rural setting; however, most subdivisions have restrictions regarding how much distance you need between your home and the street.
• We wanted to add on to the front of one of our homes but quickly discovered we had a 50 foot setback requirement. So no add on for us!

Consider lot lines.

• You may have space in front but not necessarily to the side.
• Check your covenants.

Make sure that additional entrances complement the flow of traffic.

• Doors leading to a master bedroom, dining area, or perhaps a separate apartment are good examples.
• Make sure the main entrance to your home is obvious so as not to confuse visitors. Most additional entrances are private.
• The walkway and stairs should lead directly to the front door to alleviate any confusion.
• Problems occur when the driveway is adjacent to the side of the porch that contains a private entrance door. Confusion can be alleviated by adding an additional sidewalk or path leading back to the front.

• Consider using natural materials and colors that complement your home and that are pleasing to the eye.
• Select quality furniture pieces as they will be visible to the outside world. Because open porches have no visual barriers, have fun picking out just the right functional and decorative items. You can really show your personality!
• Pay attention to the front of your home (or whatever side the porch is on). Coordinate shutter, trim, and door colors.
• Dress up your front door with decorative moldings. Paint your door a vibrant color! Then use these colors for cushions, swings, chairs, tables, and planters!
• Use complementary storage containers for cushions, games, and other sensitive items.
• Planters have a dual purpose. Not only do they hold your favorite flowers placed strategically they can mark the edges of the porch thereby providing a safety measure.

NOTE: Be sure to contact your local building codes department to see what height your porch can be from the ground before railings are required.

Open porches are easy to design, build, and are less expensive than other porches. Consider dressing up your open porch with larger supporting posts (4x6s or 6x6s) or use decorative porch columns. Bases of the supporting posts can be covered in faux stone to give them a warm and inviting look.

Backyard open porches are also very popular for those who want shade while enjoying their yard.

Return from Country Porches to Front Porch Designs