There’s nothing like enjoying the lazy hazy days of summer from the comfort of a screened-in porch! Whether you’re considering screening in an open porch or you’re looking for design ideas for the screened porch you already have, today’s featured photos are packed with inspiration. When it comes to furnishing this cherished space, sometimes less is more, but then again, it never hurts to go all out. Not sure which design philosophy you align with? These screened-in porch ideas should help clarify your vision…

Less Is More

We begin with a less-is-more approach, which is often applied to modern porches (especially when they reinforce the contemporary architecture of the existing house). A spiral staircase and minimal furnishings can be seen through the screen of the stunning porch below. [photo by Bill Sumner, from Julie Moir Messervy Design Studio]

If your porch has a view, why would you want to clutter it with ample furnishings? You can see right through the Vermont porch below, which means you can probably feel a nice breeze from the comfort of those lounge chairs! Rough-sawn hemlock is the wood of choice for the exterior, and the architect provides many more details on how this porch was built via Houzz. [photo by Susan Teare, from Jean Terwilliger Architect] 

Here’s another view of the porch, this time from the back of the house. You can see how the structure of the porch is the perfect complement to the angles of this rustic-modern home:

If your porch has a deck, you can add punch to a minimal aesthetic by going for color. These vibrant chairs are the perfect functional accent for the deck in the next image! [from Tom Hurt Architecture]

When it comes to filling your porch, consider the function of the space. Choose a furnishing or two that meets your goal, then try to limit unnecessary clutter. It’s all about napping for The Fern House by Robert Swinburne, a screened-in sleeping porch that provides the perfect place for a rest in the woods or an overnight crashing spot for guests. [via Remodelista]

This two-story Austin home from Lake Flato Architects features a porch that celebrates height, as well as a lovely view of the trees. And given the ample mosquitoes that can be found in Texas during the warmer months, a screened-in spot for lounging is of utmost importance, especially during the summer.

Modern seating, a coffee table for resting drinks, and a snake plant for a dash of greenery are all that’s needed inside this porch, especially since the architecture itself takes center stage. Let’s hear it for concrete, wood and metal:

Living Room Style

On that note, let’s take a moment to explore screened-in porches that offer an extra living space for the home. If you’re looking to create a true living area, consider including a sofa, a chair or two, and a coffee table. Bonus points if you add a rug! [photo from Albertsson Hansen Architecture, Ltd.]

Just because you want comfy pieces for a space that celebrates the best of the indoors AND the outdoors doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style. This screened-in porch featuring interior design by Jenny Miller showcases some colorful and textural additions, such as the patterned ottoman cubes, the bright orange coffee table, and the sheepskin chair cover. [photo from SPACE Architects + Planners]

Don’t forget that color can also be added through accents such as throw pillows, blankets and tabletop decor. Fuchsia, bright yellow and orange are the colors of choice for eye-catching focal points in the porch below. [from Claire Paquin of Clean Design, photo by Donna Dotan, via House of Turquoise]

A porch is also the perfect place to showcase unusual decor or conversation pieces that add fun and interest to the room. Below we see traditional furniture complemented by a unique standing lantern. The result is a space that has a look and feel entirely of its own. [from Lonny]

Room for Dining

Speaking of unique decor, the screened-in porch below is full of unforgettable pieces. There’s also space for dining, which is a popular activity for porch settings. Why wouldn’t you want to enjoy nature from a bug-free environment while you eat?! [photo from Lonny]

For the next featured porch, it’s all about the dining! The warm and soothing tones of the room are brought to life by a vibrant geometric rug that lightens the mood and stimulates the appetite! [photo from Lonny]

If there’s no room for a dining table but you’d still like a place to nosh, consider bar seating, as seen in the porch below. Pull up a couple of colorful chairs for a bold statement, and let the snacking begin! [photo from Red Bird Blue]

Did any of the porch design ideas above grab your attention? Tell us about your favorites by leaving a comment below. Until then, we’ll be catching a quick snooze from the comfort of our porch daybed while the breeze filters through the screen…