Learn how to bring the outdoors in with these screened-in porch ideas. This post has all the inspiration you need for your own screened-in porch reno!
The more time we spend outdoors, the more we feed our souls. It’s said that immersing ourselves in nature can bring us calm, creativity, and joy. And this isn’t just fluffy mumbo jumbo–science supports it!
There’s no wonder that so many home designers are looking for more ways to bring the outdoors into their living spaces.
With trends like floor-to-ceiling windows and plant collections that are bordering on jungle status, one thing is for sure: we are craving a little more nature in our everyday lives.
I bring you an easy solution: screened-in porches!
In fact, I’d argue that screened-in porches are the perfect way to bring the outdoors in.
These covered spaces are awesome for making the most out of your home, turning an under-utilized porch into a zen sanctuary.
In this post, I’m sharing 17 screened-in porch ideas along with beautiful inspirational photos to fuel your design creativity!
Curious what my own porch is like? You’ll see pictures of our new screened-in porch below. And you can check out our front porch right here.
Benefits of a Screened-in Porch
Screened-in porches can add a ton of charm to your space. But their benefits actually far surpass aesthetics! Here a just a few ways screened-in porches are a great call:
- They help connect you to nature – We know that being outdoors gets your happy hormones going, and with a screened-in porch, you can get these benefits without leaving your couch!
- You can stock up on vitamin D – A little bit of sunshine can do wonders, and a screened-in porch provides ample light as well as fresh air.
- They’re all-weather appropriate – If you live in a rainy or cold climate, a traditional porch can only be used a few months of the year. A screened-in version, however, has a year-round function! That’s particularly true if you add in elements like a ceiling fan or space heater depending on your climate.
- They bring people together – Cozy, screened-in porches are natural gathering places, with the outdoors calling to the entire household. Use these spaces for parties, holidays, and family nights.
- Bugs can’t bother you – Look, I had to throw this one in there. If there are any other fellow mosquito magnets out there (UGH), this is reason enough to screen your porch ASAP!
Oh, and before moving on, if you’re the type who loves decorating your home BIG time, but on a small-time budget? Then you’ll want to grab a free copy of “Builder-Grade To Beautiful: 10 Totally Transformative Home Decorating Solutions, All Under $100!” Click here or on the image below. Your copy will be sent right away!
Simple Screened-in Porch Ideas
Are you itching (hah) to add a screened-in porch to your home? Start with these simple screened porch ideas.
These ideas could fit just about any home and design preference!
1. Create a green feature wall.
We recently finished our own screen room, and I won’t lie…on the whole this project cost a lot of money. That said, one of my favorite features in this new space is one of the more budget-friendly features. The DIY boxwood wall.
One issue that many people have with their new porch is that the interior wall (the part of your new space that abuts your home) often ends up looking like a big, blank, boring wall of siding. And if you have high ceilings because of an A-frame roof shape, like we do, that wall can be massive!
Creating a green wall creates a beautiful (and affordable) focal point that can shrink that “dead zone” and create a cozy feel.
Our new outdoor living space is the perfect place to sit, enjoy a good book, or a nice glass of wine at the end of a long day. I couldn’t love it more!
2. Embrace painted concrete.
To give the space a finished look while remaining fairly budget-friendly, Young House Love ripped out some old carpet, and stained the concrete floors. Then, to add a pop of personality, they opted to paint a fun design on the concrete, too.
The rest of this soothing sun room…heck, it’s really more like a second living room, was achieved through comfortable days beds, joyous pops of aqua blue, and a sky blue ceiling that makes the ceiling look tall and airy – just like the blue sky above!
And check out those breezy, sheer curtains. A good choice for outdoor spaces to cut down on direct sunlight when needed without trapping too much heat.
This screened-in porch is proof that a few small changes can make a huge difference in the time you spend in a room. And floor paint is the best choice for an outdoor flooring upgrade that doesn’t break the bank!
3. Add a bar cart.
This multi-purpose porch from Our Fifth House has it all – a woodsy outdoor rug, a blue ceiling to add height, and an amazing fireplace to gather around.
What could be more fun than sitting around the fire with family while enjoying a drink or two? Whether you stock your bar cart with sparkling water or liquor, this screened-in porch is perfect for enjoying time with friends and family.
Oh, and here’s an idea! DIY your bar cart using a potting bench. We did it, and I LOVE how it turned out!
4. Add sunshades
Depending on where you live, the summer sun can get HOT (looking at you, Texas!). In warm climates, it’s practically a must-have to add some sort of additional window treatment to keep the temps down.
This space by Kath Eats looks incredibly open and airy, highlighted by its vaulted ceiling. And because this porch is on the second level, it looks just like you’re nestled into the trees. Major treehouse vibes!
I also love how this screened-in porch uses shiplap perfectly, along with exposed rafters and tongue and groove composite flooring.
These mesh screens don’t have to bust your budget, either. We bought similar ones for our master bathroom and they were very affordable.
While the finished product may look simple – the design elements are far from it!
5. Set the room up for conversation.
This screened-porch space from Deeply Southern Home is practically begging you to pull up a seat and hang out for a while. The rattan furniture layout takes advantage of a longer, slightly narrow space and makes it the perfect spot to hang with friends and family.
Plus, I’m digging the black and white vibes here. While the black and white color scheme threatens to look stark when paired, this designer fixes that problem by using pattern and texture for more visual interest.
Wood accents add necessary warmth to the space, while green plants helps to make it pop!
And the hanging lights offer the perfect, twinkly finishing touch to this incredible space.
6. Turn your screened porch into a dining room.
Can you imagine a better place to enjoy a good meal than this screened-in porch from Cristin Cooper? This modern, bohemian wonderland is filled with extra special touches to make the most out of the space.
I adore the mix of patterns and textiles, like the fun geometric rug and coordinating throw pillows.
The seating area is complete with a stunning fireplace that anyone would be lucky to curl up in front of—just think of the cozy dinner parties in the fall!
As a whole, this space was made into a total sanctuary that feels like it is nestled right into the trees.
7. Add an area rug
This porch from Artsy Chicks Rule is so multi-purpose you could easily spend your entire day there.
Wicker living furniture and a set dining area is perfect for grazing throughout your day. White curtains surround the room, along with light blue accents that evoke a serene, beachy feel.
Adding an outdoor area rug that you can sink your toes into is a great way to make the space really feel like an extension of indoor living.
Small Screened-in Porch Ideas
If you’re dreaming of a functional, screened-in porch but lacking in square footage, never fear! These screened-in porch ideas can work in the smallest of spaces.
8. Use curtains instead of screens
Hack alert! Charming Ollie used tall, fabric shower curtains as a cost-effective solution rather than actually adding a screen to the porch. So smart, right?
The curtains were clipped onto cut and threaded galvanized pipe, so they can be opened or closed with ease.
The resulting screened-in porch is small but mighty, perfect for family dining.
9. Keep the color palette neutral.
This porch was transformed into a gorgeous, comforting nook to sit back and relax in.
Though on the smaller side, this space from Lynzy and Co actually looks pretty big thanks to the neutral creamy color palette, the large surrounding windows, and smart use of vertical space with hanging plants as the perfect addition!
Wicker furniture with white cushions keeps the space looking bright and open. And the indoor plants give a natural feel.
Finally, a touch of light blue adds a spark of joy – an effect only color can achieve!
10. Add a doggy door.
This screened-in porch, found on Fence and Deck Connection Blog, has the brilliant addition of a doggy door so your fur babies can enjoy the space too.
Plus, I really like how it connects right to an outdoor pool deck, so it feels kind of like your very own miniature pool house! This porch is a great place to sit and relax while watching others swim and play.
11. Corner Seating
Though limited in space, this porch from Charleston Crafted makes the absolute most of it!
The corner seating arrangement is perfect for dining or relaxing, with a wood dining table fitting seamlessly into the sectional. It’s one of my favorite screened-in porch ideas.
I love the combination of pastel blue with light wood; the effect is super dreamy! And against the red siding of the house, the pastel blue looks extra striking. Adding art to the porch is also a fantastic idea because it really gives the illusion of a true indoor-outdoor space.
12. Pile on the porch plants!
This screened-in porch designed by Megan Stokes is proof that any sized patio can hold a host of plant babies! This porch feels bright, cheerful, and spacious, complete with a fabulous dining set.
I also dig the fun pops of orange and royal blue. They add a lot to the space and can be easily changed out based on the season or rotating design preferences.
Fun Screened-in Porch Ideas
Ready to take a bit of risk with your screened-in porch? These ideas range from cute to creative, with fun colors, unique themes, and daring design choices.
13. Wicker Pastel Screened-in Porch
This screened-in porch design from Beck with Treasures is made perfect for two, with sweet wicker chairs, pastel accents, and gorgeous exposed brick.
The seafoam green cafe table is TOO CUTE. And I love the personal elements, including fun knick-knacks, abundant florals, and decorative signs.
14. Outdoor Play Area
Okay, where was THIS idea 5 years ago??? This outdoor play area from Oh Happy Play is safe and secure – such a brilliant idea for using a screened-in porch!
Using a covered porch like this lets kids play outdoors, rain or shine; it’s also a great solution for climates with intense weather conditions.
Artificial grass and play furniture keep the space looking fun and child-focused, exactly like a backyard (but better!).
This idea also helps protect your outdoor furniture, shielding it from the elements and preventing sun bleaching and other decay.
With this fun screened-in porch idea, kids can safely play outside any time of year without needing to ask for permission.
15. Green Bohemian
Now this porch is my kind of space! Dream Green DIY gave it so much character with fun furnishing, funky light fixtures, and cleverly incorporated color.
The dining area is both modern and welcoming, with egg dining chairs and a circular table. Though you may forget to think about shape when you’re designing, don’t discredit it!
Shapes can make a huge difference in a space. For example, roundness is the universal shape of fun, joy, and play. This totally fits with this eclectic collection.
Other fun elements include a teal statement couch, a wicker hanging chair, and exposed brick.
Finally, antique touches like an old record player ties this porch together to create a truly special space.
And if you LOVE that hanging chair, girl…me too. We got one for our daughter’s room, and wrote a whole post on the best hanging chair options, if you’re on the hunt!
16. Outdoor Escape
This screened-in porch belongs in a magazine – the design from Turquoise and Teale is amaaaaazing.
I adore the fun elements, including hurricane lanterns and a blue striped rug that bring life to the space.
String lights add a ton of life and speak to summer nights spent on the porch, entertaining and enjoying the space. And the outdoor drapery curtains add a wistful element that I can’t help but covet!
17. Seasonal Screened-in Porch
Calling all festive fanatics – you’re going to go crazy over this Easter-inspired screened-in porch from The Ponds Farmhouse.
The design is so cute and celebratory, with incredible touches of pastel, moss, florals, and of course… rabbits!
There’s a comfy seating area, perfect for snuggling in, with ample themed pillows and throw blankets.
There’s also a dining area set for holiday celebrations; it’s basically begging for a party!
While this image shows how to highlight Easter, why not make your screened porch festive for every holiday? Just think of all the possibilities.
18. Colorful Boho
If you’re looking for a subtle way to add color to your screened-in porch, this design by Maggie Overby Studios has done just that!
There is a ton of color in this space, though it isn’t overpowering. This is because it’s paired with plenty of natural elements like bamboo accents, exposed brick, and plenty of houseplants.
The designer brings in fun pops of aqua, orange, and green through colorful shag pillows, furniture, and more. The fun, vintage rattan sofa is particularly thrilling!
DIY drop cloth curtains finish off the space with a kitschy touch that vibes so well.
Well, that’s all she wrote – 17 (ok, you caught me…18) fun and functional screened-in porch ideas to inspire your home design. I hope you’ve enjoyed these fabulous projects and use them to create the screened-in porch of your dream.
On the hunt for more simple home improvement ideas, and DIY home decorating inspiration? Be sure to check out these articles, too!
Pin this post for later! And if you use any of these screened-in porch ideas to design your own space, leave a comment (or better yet, a photo) on the pin! That helps others know whether they want to try this project, too!
Pssst…before you go, I sure would love to hang out with you again really soon! Sign up now and get a FREE copy of “Builder-Grade To Beautiful: 10 Totally Transformative Home Decorating Solutions, All Under $100!” Click here to enter your email or on the image below. Your copy will be sent right away!
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