Verandahs, also known as porches depending on where you are from, serve as the entrance to a person’s cottage or home. But they’re so much more than that; they are a place to gather, to read, to people-watch, and even somewhere to nap. In fact, my favourite place to nap at the cottage is on the verandah in the glider that has been there since I was a baby. Along with some good naps we often have large dinners on the verandah, since its length far surpasses that of our dining room.
If designed with careful consideration, verandahs often function as an additional multi-purpose room in your home or cottage. The beautiful spaces featured in this gallery may just inspire you to create a gorgeous, functional outdoor space of your own.
Although this porch is large, the furnishings are minimal. While this could be boring, repeating the same chair over and over adds graphic impact. In addition, the natural wood plank floor warms up the look and the light blue tongue and groove ceiling adds an unexpected shot of colour.
Who says you have to paint the ceiling of your porch white or grey? Even blue seems safe compared to this high-gloss vermilion ceiling. This pattern isn’t only eclectic, but it also helps balance the weight of the ceiling. And the treatment of the room as an interior makes it so inviting.
This porch, tucked away under the house’s second story, is given instant coziness because of its’ lower flat ceiling. The square layout allows for a couple of different seating arrangements without interfering with the entrance to the house.
This verandah is classically styled with wicker and traditional furnishings. But the use of the black lanterns and black wicker adds a nice contrast to the lighter floors, railings, and ceiling giving it a more modern graphic appeal. The texture and movement of the curtains helps to soften the look while providing a bit of privacy.
These sofas positioned across from each other create the perfect space for socializing. Notice there are no occasional tables around—they would just get in the way of movement. Instead, there are very wide, flat arms on the sofa, which would be the prime place for a cup of tea or a cocktail.
This verandah really doesn’t have a lot on it, yet it still feels complete and lively. The mix of pattern and bold colours help fill the space and create a welcoming vibe while the oversized plant adds interest at greater heights.
This porch has a very laid-back and rustic vibe. It’s monochromatic scheme works well for blending in with the surrounding environment, and the installation of the outdoor fireplace means the porch can be used well past summer.
This verandah really mixes it up with a variety of materials, textures, and patterns. There are many influences here—Asian, modern, seaside, Victorian—but it all works together to create a warm and inviting place to relax. It’s treatment as an interior would also make the house feel larger due to the extra living space.
There’s no rule that says verandahs have to have four sides! Well, I guess if it’s circular it’s called a rotunda, so I take that back. This rotunda has ample space for great seating arrangements and the fireplace gives it such an amazing focal point. I think I’d be tempted to host dance parties here.
Instead of just storing your firewood on your verandah for the winter season, why not make it part of a seasonal expression? Leave the furniture out, change out some cushion covers, toss a plaid blanket on the table, and Voila! You have instant seasonal appeal. It will look so cozy you might actually want to sit outside in the winter with a hot cup of cider.
This one’s more of a glorified step, but they have treated it like a verandah and that’s what’s important. Everyone wants an outdoor space where they can sit and take in their surroundings, and you don’t need to have a sprawling verandah to get it—A chair and a few potted plants will do the trick nicely.
If you are lucky enough to have a large verandah, you don’t have to cram every corner full of furniture and décor. In fact, I think this verandah is successful because it has both an area for gathering and an area to read quietly on your own, with lots of space in between. This creates distinct areas for different activities, which is a lovely way for families to spend more time together.
Placing white furnishings in a white space gives a clean, crisp, and even formal vibe. The floor is painted in a high gloss, reflecting the light nicely and tying in the darker shade of the shutters. The only hits of colour are found in the surrounding greenery and potted plants.
With minimal decoration and a monochromatic colour scheme, this niche creates a serene spot for reading, pedicures, and sipping on tea. Plus, this simple approach allows the geometric styling of the railing to stand out.
This relaxed and comfortable verandah is the perfect place to flop down for a nap. The colourful textiles on the couch and the bright bunting pop against the blackness of the painted house. The metal roof provides great shelter and would sound amazing during a light rain (though it would likely be deafening during a downpour).
With views like this, not much else is needed on the verandah. Personally, I would add a thin mattress or blanket to the bed, but that’s about it. This is the perfect verandah is for all of the minimalists out there.
No matter what size or shape it is, I think it’s fair to say we all enjoy a little verandah time. Whether we read, relax, nap or congregate, it’s an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and welcome others into your home.
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