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Small Screened-In Porch Ideas

Screened-in porch with patio furniture.

Seven solutions for maxing out the space you have

A screened-in porch offers the best of both indoor and outdoor living. You get to enjoy fresh breezes and natural light, while avoiding insects, the sun’s harsh rays, and afternoon rain showers. Plus, you don’t need a large sunroom to kick back and enjoy. Just like other rooms of your home, it’s not how much real estate you have, but how you maximize it, that counts. Looking to make the most of a smaller-sized space? Check out these tips for a bit of inspiration.

  1. Size it right. A small bistro table and chairs doesn’t take up a lot of room, but still gives you a place to enjoy a drink or a cozy dinner date. However, if you plan on using your porch solely for dining, then devote the space to a larger table and chairs.

  2. Fold things up. Tables and chairs that fold up come in handy if you need to free up space. Simply store them out of the way when you don’t need them. You don’t have to forgo aesthetics, either; you’ll find plenty of fashionable folding bistro patio sets available at a variety of retailers. 

  3. Go with an L. If the layout of your space allows, consider an L-shaped sectional, which takes care of seating with one piece of furniture. Then amp up the comfort level with lots of throw pillows and a seasonal throw blanket or two. 

  4. Make it multi-purpose. Ceramic garden stools are terrific multi-tasking accessories. They work great when you need extra seats, but also serve double-duty as a place to set drinks or snacks. Plus, you’ll find them in neutrals as well as colors that pop, making it easy to complement your décor. 

  5. Consider a banquette bench. Is your screened-in porch narrow? If so, swap chairs for a dining or banquette bench. You’ll be able to seat more people around a table on a bench than you would with a side of chairs. 

  6. Give new life to old furniture. A repurposed hutch or dresser is an eye-pleasing way to store all those extraneous odds and ends that come in handy for entertaining or enjoying some “me” time. Think linen napkins, coasters and candles, or even non-perishable snacks such as chocolates. 

  7. Double up. No room for a hutch or a dresser? A storage ottoman works just as well for keeping oft-use items within reach. Even better? It can double as a coffee or side table.

Small bistro furniture set. A bistro set is charming, functional and doesn’t take up a lot of room.
Small wooden foldable chairs and coffee table. Need more space? Use furniture that folds up.
Sectional sofa. An L-shaped sectional checks off all your seating needs.
Small side table with flowers sitting next to a patio chair. A pretty garden stool works as an accessory or a place to sit.

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