Barrett Sotheby's International Realty
Mary-Lou McDonough, Barrett Sotheby's International RealtyPhone: (617) 947-9279
Email: [email protected]

Your decorative porch style guide: 3 Ideas to inspire

by Mary-Lou McDonough 11/20/2024

If you want to spend more time outdoors, a decorative porch is the perfect place to do it. Adding a bit of style to your front porch will make it more welcoming, increasing curb appeal and your own personal enjoyment.

Just like with interior design, it can be helpful to find a specific style to inspire your porch ideas. To help you get started, here is a quick guide to some of the most popular design styles to try:

Modern farmhouse porch decorating ideas

The cozy, homey and practical modern farmhouse style is a goldmine for front porch decor ideas. Classic wooden rocking chairs and a traditional porch swing are right at home in this style, providing comfortable yet simple seating for you and your visitors.

Try using a neutral, nature-inspired color palette for your porch decor, and include plenty of greenery. Consider using half-barrel planters for your container gardening, or hang a lush seasonal wreath on your front door.

Rustic porch decorating ideas

If you prefer more rough edges in your outdoor space, try going for a rustic front porch decorating scheme. Opt for traditional furniture made of heavy, natural materials like solid wood. Weathered finishes and natural wood grain are perfect accents, as are natural stone elements.


To add some major rustic charm to your front porch, try installing some stone veneer siding. The rough-hewn texture makes a rugged statement while costing less than natural stone.

Boho chic porch decorating ideas

For a softer and more whimsical approach, boho chic is an excellent source of decorating ideas. Instead of a traditional porch swing, try a cozy hammock. Rattan and wicker furniture work perfectly on a boho chic porch, especially when accessorized with plenty of eclectic cushions.

Don’t forget the plants. Potted plants in weathered terracotta pots add a comfortable, earthy feel to any front porch.

When searching for front porch decorating ideas, it can be helpful to consider the style of decor you use indoors as well. Many popular design elements can be brought outside to the front of the home, and these three ideas are an excellent place to start.

About the Author
Author

Mary-Lou McDonough

With strong connections to her community, Mary-Lou has held fund-raising events for The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, The Kids in Need Foundation and Dress for Success. This sense of personal responsibility extends to her professional life, and she continuously strives to exceed her clients’ expectations, empowering them throughout selling or buying process. "Only a well-informed client is prepared to make the best decisions on their own behalf, so the role of Market Expert is one I take very seriously.” It is this sense of personal accountability that drives Mary-Lou; keeping her focused on her clients and providing them with highest level of professionalism, solution-focused service, and sound guidance from start to SOLD!

Mary-Lou McDonough is Professionally Affiliated with The MASSACHUSETTS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® The GREATER BOSTON REAL ESTATE BOARD, THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, The Women’s Council of REALTORS®, The State and National Association of Certified Residential Specialists and The REALTORS® Political Action Committee

Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.