HGTV's Emily Henderson Unveils The Perfect Front Porch For An Outdoor Oasis

Warm weather means spending more time outside, and interior designer Emily Henderson has finished her front porch just in time to spend the summer relaxing on her luxe oasis. Henderson and her family enter their home through the back kitchen entrance or the mudroom, so the front door doesn't get much traffic. For this reason, Henderson confessed on her blog, it's a space she barely thought of over the years of living there.

The porch renovation included a few changes to the exterior, like painting the door a dusty blue from Sherwin-Williams called Mountain Pass. She also refreshed the exterior by painting the shingles white, adding a new railing, and extending the roof to cover the entire porch. There's also a hanging sofa and a wicker pouf ottoman, creating a comfy environment ideal for relaxing in the evening. A wicker side table and vintage chest allow you to set down your glass of lemonade or tea, the lush green plants add some texture, and the quirky bird statue adds an extra touch of personality. The finished product is a comfortable and cozy space that feels like an extension of the home's gorgeous interior.

Having a lovely space that allows you to enjoy the fresh air and relax outdoors has plenty of benefits, including increasing your home value. However, adding comfortable furniture is vital to creating that indoor-outdoor feel that best aids relaxation. Henderson added a hanging sofa, which allows her to swing while enjoying the outdoors. That said, this feature typically requires a roof. Luckily, plenty of stationary options like sofas and side chairs are perfect for providing no-hassle seating. The key is choosing durable, water-resistant materials and fabrics to prevent wear and tear from the elements. Teak is an excellent option because it's naturally resistant to water, rot, and pests. And when it comes to fabrics, polypropylene is a good choice because it's quick to dry and UV-resistant.

But to truly get the feeling of comfort, it's all about the accessories. Adding potted plants, as Henderson did, adds some life to the space. Lighting, through lanterns, string lights, or sconces, also enhances comfort and allows you to use a porch in the evening. Statues, wind chimes, and bird feeders can provide the perfect finishing touch.