perfect porch addition

When you love your house but still want more space, adding an outdoor room may be the best solution.

you are on a game show and have to quickly list 10 things that can boost your home's curb appeal. Some obvious answers might be: A New Front Door! Cool Light Fixtures! Better Landscaping! And you'd be right, but let's not forget the most important one of all-a front porch.

the bigger, the better

Technically, there was nothing wrong with Michael and Debbie Abdoney's two-story brick home in Tampa, Florida, but it didn't have a porch. That was a hot button for Debbie. She wanted one that was wide and about as long as the house. This way, the space wouldn't be just a resting spot for a potted fern and a welcome mat. A dining table and chairs can fit on one end, while a seating area can be arranged on the other. "Everyone likes to be outside in our neighborhood," says Debbie.

decorating details

To give their porch character, the Abdoneys chose reclaimed brick for the floor and beaded board for the ceiling. For seating, weather-resistant wicker and cushions save the day. Debbie and Michael also took their sweet time choosing a railing style; they worked with interior designer Carrie Lister to create a look that no one else in the neighborhood had. The final result was a Chippendale-style framework mixed with vertical slats.

With a new porch also came a new paint job for the entire house. After testing several hues, Debbie and Carrie decided to mix their own cream color that combines a bit of yellow, tan, and white. Sometimes, you have to take matters into your own hands, which makes the reward so much sweeter. -SARA ANDERSON

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation May 2006
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