10 Relaxing Porch Ideas for Lazy Entertaining

With a porch that’s the heart of my home in the summer, I spend most of my relaxing time out there. So it’s super important to me that I have a space that both looks good and is comfortable to be in.

Over the years of re-arranging my porch furniture (I do that a lot!), I’ve learned some decorating tips that help me meet both of those goals.

1. Outdoor Dining Table

dining table in porch — Don’t be afraid to create a full dining room on your porch, even if it feels unconventional. It’s the perfect way to enjoy outdoor meals while staying close to home. Just be sure to pair the table with comfortable chairs to create a truly blended indoor-outdoor space.

I think you should make the most of every square foot you have, so why not add an outdoor dining table and seating area? It’s a great way to bring your patio experience right to the front of your house.

You can create a dining vibe that makes the whole space feel intimate and personal to your home’s decor.

2. Go Symmetrical

symmetrical porch.jpg 2 — Symmetry just always works, especially when you’re trying to make a space feel more expansive. The key is to have identical pieces on both sides of your layout. You can add some pops of color with greenery to keep the space feeling natural and fresh.

No matter how you’re decorating, symmetry is always a smart move. It just looks so crisp and clean, and it really makes the porch feel put together.

The whole idea is to perfectly mirror one side with the other. Whether that means two chairs, a couple of accent tables, or matching lamps, you want both sides to be identical.

3. Porch Curtains

porch with curtains — A little extra privacy is never a bad thing, especially when your neighbors are close by. Curtains can add a touch of chic glam while still being a really simple update. I love how a simple space can be brought to life with some stylish curtains.

Just like you’d see in a pool cabana, having white curtains as part of your porch design is a fantastic way to bring summer vacation vibes straight to your home.

On top of that, adding curtains gives you a bit more privacy and intimacy right when and where you need it.

4. Hammock Chair

hammock chair 2 — Instead of just one hammock chair, think about adding a few to your porch. This works so well for smaller porches because they don’t take up a ton of room but still have a bold impact. Toss in some cushions and even a few small pillows for a charming, chic vibe.

I’m sure everyone can remember a time when lounging in a hammock felt like the most magical and relaxing thing in the world. Well, it’s time to bring that feeling back, but in a more “adult-like” way with a hammock chair.

Just add a few throw pillows and a soft blanket to get that relaxing feel that is both chic and fun.

5. Colorful Swing

coloful swing — A colorful swing doesn’t have to mean using the boldest shades. You could go with pastel tones that make sense with your decor. I love the idea of using soft wood hues to create a contrast without needing a lot of different colors. Just use color around the swing to get that vibrant appeal.

I love the idea of a colorful swing. It creates such a calming effect in the space, while still feeling modern with some traditional touches. You can pair it with rocking chairs and even a rug to bring your living room vibe right outside.

Add a few interesting pieces, like an accent table or even a lamp, to really get that interior feel.

6. Accent Table

accent table on porch — A small table placed between your chairs is perfect for those times you want to host but don’t want a lot of furniture outdoors. You could even think about getting a multifunctional table so it can do double duty as something else.

Bring your indoor style directly outside by adding a center accent table. I think center tables are great for outdoor spaces because of the warmth they provide in such a simple way.

Use a simple table that doesn’t take away from your other decor; it should feel like it’s part of the overall look, not the main focus.

7. Bring on the Lights

poch ligh fixtures — The light fixtures you choose really set the mood for the space you’re decorating. You might want to use two or more fixtures to bring cohesive lighting to the area. Pair them with smaller lights to brighten up the porch while keeping those charming little details.

Make your outdoor space feel brighter and more inviting by adding pendant lights as your porch lights.

You can always use smaller fixtures around the border of the space, but for an elegant appeal, pendants are just perfect, especially when they have a metallic finish.

8. Rustic Bits

rustic porch — Rustic decor is all about feeling “homey” while still being chic and stylish. The idea is to add cozy pieces that have that classic farmhouse vibe. And you should always have a blanket or two handy just in case you want to sit outside on cooler evenings.

Rustic is always in style and it’s perfect for an outdoor space. It works with so many decor options and brings a beautiful country aesthetic with touches of autumn, even during the summer months.

Add a bench, a swing, or some DIY rustic pieces and combine them all for a really well-rounded rustic look.

9. Mini Bar

Why go back inside for an ice-cold lemonade or a glass of wine when you can just add a mini bar right on your porch? The idea is perfect for those days when you want to entertain a few family and friends outdoors.

You could go with a smaller, transportable mini bar or a larger one that stays outside for everyday use.

10. Bench

bench on porch — The kind of bench you pick will depend on the look you want for your porch. If you’re going for a charming touch, add a swinging bench. The beauty of that is it has a softer feel than a traditional bench would. Pair it with a chair and a center table for a beautiful contrast.

A bench is always a good idea in any part of your home, but it’s especially great for the porch. Add a comfy bench and pair it with an accent chair for some extra seating.

You might also want to add some colorful accent pillows and a throw blanket for those cooler nights.

11. Hexagon Planters

If you’re limited on space and want to add some color and natural touches without taking up too much room, adding planters is the way to go.

Putting intricate hexagon planters along the wall will bring a seamless beauty that is also natural and chic, all without using up much space.

12. Comfortable Seating

comfortable seating.jpg 2 — Comfortable seating is always a great idea for an outdoor area since it lets you bring indoor furniture outside. You can add a few colorful pieces for style. Pair them with rocking chairs for that extra comfortable and chic touch.

To really make the most of your outdoor square footage, you’ll want to add comfortable seating.

It’s one of the best ways to not only take advantage of your porch’s size, but it’s also a great way to add furniture that will make you want to spend extra time outdoors.

13. Bring on the Color

colroful kitchen — The brighter the better! Color is perfect when you’re trying to add texture, visual appeal, and personality. Mix and match patterns that work well together. And use hues that blend with your outdoor greenery.

Color is so important in any home because it truly brings personality and aesthetics to the forefront of your decor.

Choose some bright hues and pair them with neutral pieces to create a traditional contrast between the daring pairing and the softer bits.

Which of these porch ideas do you like the most? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.