Before-and-after transformation

Love of the nearby lake and the outdoors inspired this family's double-porch addition.

Then Ann and Mike Morrissey purchased their 1950s Orlando duplex, they were not so much buying a stellar piece of architecture as a prime piece of lakefront property. Still, the couple saw potential in the plain, bare-bones house. Together, they were able to convert the one-- level structure into a gracious Southern home that belies its humble origins.

Great Gathering Spots

Much of the charm of the Morrisseys' new residence can be attributed to a rear twostory addition, which includes identical upper and lower porches. Slender white columns and railings add to the traditional appeal. Now the house opens out to embrace the refreshing lakefront views.

Mike, an architect, designed the porches to be roomy. These spaces also are outfitted with deep overhangs that shelter occupants from sunlight and wind. "The first-floor porch is the centerpiece for breakfasts, holiday parties, or gatherings of family and friends for dinner after a wonderful day spent on the water," says Mike. By contrast, the second-level porch, leading off from the bedrooms, creates a more private retreat. He adds, "We hesitated about enclosing our porches with screens because we wanted a direct connection with the yard and water. After living with the open porches for a while, we found that the benefits far outweigh any problem with insects."

Traditional and Durable

The homeowners selected building materials that are both authentic in appearance and relatively maintenance free. While using red cedar for the trim, they settled upon fiber-cement clapboard for the siding. The smooth surface of the fiber cement even resembles redwood planks.

Though the remodeling involved intensive efforts, the Morrisseys bask in the fruits of their labor every day by soaking up the scenic views and sipping lemonade on their porch. "Ann and I lived here during all phases of construction and did much of the work ourselves, with the help of many friends and family members. The experience was unforgettable, and I encourage others to become involved in their remodeling on such an intimate scale," says Mike.

From this endorsement, it sounds like a shady porch is the way to go.

ROBERT MARTIN

PORCH POINTERS

* For comfort and ease of use, porches should be at least 8 feet wide. In fact, 10 or 12 feet is an even better width.

* Typically a porch consists of five components: columns, foundation supports for the columns, flooring (and framing), railings, and a roof. Of these five, the type of columns and their properly sized supports are the most important visual elements.

* To get ideas on what type of porch would best suit your home, be on the lookout. Take pictures, collect clippings, and when you see a nice porch, ask yourself what you like about it. The answers don't have to be scientific. Also, a few good pictures can relay much to a builder. A contractor needs to cover the requirements of building codes and permitting.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Sep 2002
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