I have always loved a good front porch (though I love a nice back porch as well). There is just nothing as enjoyable as starting the day sitting on my porch, sipping on a cup of coffee, and watching the sun fill the sky with the promises of another day.

The idea of not having either was an initial concern when I was first introduced to tiny homes and cottage homes. But after seeing dozens of different styles and types of tiny cottage homes in person, I’m delighted to say that even the tiniest of houses usually have at least one stoop to make into an outdoor sanctuary.

By exploring these unique cottage home porch spaces, I’ve learned some tips and tricks for creating a comfortable, quaint, relaxing outdoor area whether you have a simple concrete staircase and landing or a beautiful deck with ample seating room. So, grab your sketch pad and pen and start dreaming with me as we dress up our porch and get inspired with the ideas below!

#1: Front Door Planters

Something very simple and beautiful you can start with is front door planters. You can fill them with ferns for year-round greenery or plant a collection of annuals or seasonal blooms to give a pop of color. I prefer to use two identical flowerpots for a symmetrical look and place them one on each side of the door.

#2: Create an Archway

Another fantastic way to bring your porch to life is to build an archway where the stairs meet the porch. A colorful archway can serve as a grand entrance while also adding a degree of privacy to your space. Grow some honeysuckle up and around the arch to add fragrance and ambiance.

#3: Add a Comfy Entry Bench

While I am not typically a wicker fan, there is something so inviting about a well-seasoned, white wicker bench on the front porch. Besides just offering a place to sit, it adds an old world charm to your space, inviting people to sit for a spell.

#4: Put Another Log on the Fire

Granted, the addition of logs doesn’t look quite right at a beach house or a city dwelling, but they do wonders for the shabby chic porch or country cottage. Consider using a small bundle of birch to exude coziness and rustic charm.

#5: The Classic Brick

If your current porch leaves a lot to desire and you are considering a face-lift, think about using brick to build it. Brick is a stout material and also gives your entry a regal appeal. Whether it be red brick or white cream, a brick porch can be both cozy and classy.

#6: Color Me Jealous

I think one of the most interesting parts of a front porch can be the color of the front door. While I am no color psychologist, I’ve seen a new front door color totally change the walk-up appeal of a home. If your community allows it, try using a color that compliments your home and makes you smile.

#7: Add Chairs for Your Favorite Guests

If your porch has a small landing and you are unsure how to best use the space, add a couple of chairs that can be stored on the side and moved to the center. A moveable seating area can transform even the smallest porch into a space to entertain guests, meet your neighbors, or peruse your favorite magazine.

#8: Leave a Message

I grew up in a home that had a welcome mat at every door. While the saying was a bit generic it still shared an authentic sentiment with all who entered. That one word meant so much about my family, our home, and the memories we were quick to create.

Consider dressing up your porch with a mat that shares a message or a meaningful word, add a small garden flag at the base of your steps, or – if you feel so bold – use cut vinyl letters to add a welcoming word to your front door.

#9: Not So Secret Garden

What is more fun than a porch with fresh food of all sorts? Be it an herb box, a potted banana tree, or some grape vines on the archway, use your porch to pacify your green thumb.

#10: Roll Out the Red Carpet (or Rug)

I love a porch space that has a decorative rug. It really ties the space together and makes it feel like an outdoor extension of your home. Depending on where you live, you may want to look for an indoor/outdoor rug that can withstand the elements, or you can opt for a more decorative rug that is easy to roll up and take indoors in the case of inclement weather.

There are so many ways to style your porch so you can socialize, entertain, and relax. Combine these tips or try some of your own to make this first-impression space a reflection of who you are and a true extension of your home.

How do you use your own front porch? What inspired you to decorate it the way you did? What is one aspect of your porch you just couldn’t live without?