Using this space not only can improve the look of our house, but can better the quality of our lives as we spend more time with family, friends and neighbors. Here are some ways to use the porch as it was originally intended.
Use your front porch to sit down and relax — the covered shape can provide a great deal of shade. Turn off the air conditioning in your home and relax with the family or your favorite book. Not only will you get quality time for yourself, but you'll conserve electricity.
A high perch can help you watch over the neighborhood, and a safe neighborhood is a happy and comfortable neighborhood. You've probably heard of Neighborhood Watch programs — a front porch allows you to be an active member. Parents know more than anyone how important it is to have a safe place for raising kids. Just by sitting on the porch you can help deter crime and unwanted activity.
It's easy to just pull into the garage after work and walk straight inside. Start walking through the front door when you get home instead. Not only will you get a little more exercise, but you'll get to see your front yard, too. It will give you the chance to see all the things you've been missing, like that small piece of trash that blew into the bush a month ago.
The best way to make sure you use the porch is to turn it into an outdoor room. If you have a large porch, it's easy to put out enough furniture that whole family can use. This is a great way to expand the house and create a new living room.
Even if you think your porch is too small, odds are that it can still suit you and some company just fine. Add a small rocking chair or sofa to a tiny porch for a perfect spot where you can read a book or drink a cup of coffee in the morning.
Turn off the TV and your iPod for a bit to enjoy the sounds of nature. Unplugging from life for a little while and basking in the outdoors helps us slow down every now and then.
You can start seedlings in the spring and grow fresh herbs right on your porch — whether in flowerpots, hanging baskets or planters on the railing. This creates an inviting, relaxing space and will help to keep the porch cool and fragrant in summer.
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