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A small porch makeover can turn an underused outdoor area into a comfortable place for family time and quiet evenings. This Brooklyn porch already offered a private outdoor retreat, but a gradual refresh with plants, rugs, seating, and lights helped make it feel more welcoming and personal.
Planning a Small Porch Makeover
Rather than tackling the porch in one push, the updates were made over the course of a spring. Plants and rugs were collected gradually, leaving room to consider how each addition would work in the space. Taking a steady approach can make a makeover feel less overwhelming and help keep purchases aligned with the overall plan.
The finished porch was designed to suit both adults and children. A useful starting point for a similar project is to think about how the space will be used: identify areas for play, relaxing, or growing plants before deciding where larger items should go.
Before the Porch Refresh
These iPhone photos show the porch before the changes. It was usable, but the arrangement did not create the inviting atmosphere the household wanted.
The original space had potential, even if it did not yet feel especially cozy. A few thoughtful additions can make an outdoor area feel more finished without changing its basic layout.
Adding Plants, Flowers, and Color
Plants and flowers brought color and softness to the porch. The selection included a strawberry plant and basil, giving the children a chance to help pick ingredients for meals and snacks. Edible plants can be a practical choice for a family space, while flowers and leafy plants add visual variety.
When choosing plants, consider the light and conditions on the porch, and group containers where they are easy to water. Make sure pots can drain so excess water does not collect around the roots or sit on the porch surface.
A Relaxing Seating Area
The other end of the porch was set aside for adult seating and downtime. A comfortable school chair found on the street was chosen for its ability to withstand inclement weather. A vintage Eames chair from Patina NYC added another seat and helped complement the patterns in the rugs and flowers.
For a small porch, choosing seating that fits the available footprint helps preserve room to move around. Before bringing a chair home, check that it can be used outdoors and that it does not block access through the space.
DIY Hanging Planters and Evening Lighting
Old coffee cans collected locally became hanging planters. To prepare each can, holes were drilled in the bottom for drainage and two holes in the back for hanging. The planters were displayed on a small fence purchased at Home Depot and an old window gate. Lights were added around the fence and gate for use in the evening.
Repurposed containers can add character, but drainage and secure attachment matter. Use suitable tools and take care with sharp metal edges, and check that hanging items are firmly supported. For outdoor lighting, choose products intended for outdoor use and follow the manufacturer’s installation guidance.
Enjoying the Finished Porch
The porch was functional before, but the changes made it more inviting and better suited to everyday life. The children now enjoy spending time outside, and the space also provides a comfortable setting for simple date nights after bedtime. In a city where outdoor space can be especially valuable, a thoughtful small porch makeover can create more opportunities to relax and spend time together.
Project and accompanying account by LaTonya.
