Shirley's Tip for Spring

Is it screened porches or screened-in-porches?  Either way, they are a wonderful outdoor enclosure.  You are protected from bugs, the elements and they can be used year round in most cases.

Decorating a screen porch is another matter.  Sometimes a porch is square or rectangular or small, oblong and narrow.  The latter is the most challenging to furnish.

When a room (or outdoor space) is narrow and oblong, it's hard to create a seating area for conversation.  One side of the room must stay unfurnished, as your back will be against the view (such as a beautiful yard, acreage or lake).  So, that leaves one side of the room facing the view, along with the ends of the room, depending on the entryway. 

The pictures to the right show options for decorating to give a good traffic flow and a conversational setting.  There are a lot of choices in what type of furniture to use, but remember, the width is narrow, so you are limited.

The featured porch is very narrow, but has a lovely view of Cedar Creek Lake.  I chose to use a small table with two swivel chairs at the end.  This gives a good conversation area and a great place to have a cup of coffee or casual meal.  With swivel chairs, you can rotate to the table or guests and still have the view of lake.

The wicker settee is centered in the room so you can enjoy the view and conversation.  With a small table placed in front of the settee, snacks and drinks can be placed on the table for easy access.

The two Costa Rico leather rockers have a table between them, creating a very relaxing atmosphere.  The chairs can be moved in any direction depending on the situation.  A small lightweight yellow folding chair is placed in a corner and can also be mobile in any part of the room.

Color and accessories are important in a small area.  Heavy on color and light on accessories are in order for just the perfect look.  Note the area rugs have been used to give a sense of unity for the furniture.  A small water fountain is placed in another corner for a peaceful and soothing sound.  Bright cushions and pillows along with flowers complete the look.  Relax and enjoy!

Keep in mind that Shirley's Touch decorates all rooms, even porches!