Perfect Porch Style

This addition combines elements of the past with a few modern conveniences.

When Sadie and Rob Pariseau added a screened porch VV to their home, they created a second living room. Thanks to mild Tampa weather, it has become the family's favorite spot many months of the year.

The couple wanted this new area to tie in seamlessly with the rest of their house. After all, they are only the third family to own this home since it was built in 1911. To accomplish this they repeated architectural features of the original home in the addition. For example, the star motif at the base of the screened wall is also found on the front of their house.

Durability Is a Plus

Sadie and Rob have three boys ages 13 to 18 and one 9-year-old girl, so these porch screens have been hit with a football or two. Luckily, those accidents don't call for a complete replacement. Each section was individually screened so that in case one area is damaged, the entire wall doesn't have to be redone.

Sadie's brother used the same idea when he screened in his porch in Atlanta, but he carried it one step further. To extend the time his family enjoyed their porch, he outfitted each section with acrylic plastic panels to use during the cooler months.

Place To Chat

A wicker settee and matching chairs create a cozy seating area for enjoying warm Florida evenings. Pillows give a punch of color to the furniture, but it's the interesting coffee table that strikes up conversation.

Sadie combined an iron sewing machine base with an old printer's typecase drawer to make a unique piece. Instead of pieces of type, she filled the tray with different seashells the family has collected and topped it off with a piece of glass.

Additional Elements

A ceiling covered in lightly stained beaded board and hardwood floors painted a cool gray-green color give the space additional character. Ceiling fans placed throughout the porch provide a cool breeze on humid days. JULIE FEAGIN SANDNER

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Mar 2004
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