There’s something magical about summer evenings on the porch—the fireflies, the twinkle lights, and the occasional marshmallow roast make this space our new favorite place at home. Over the years the back porch has evolved from a simple entryway to what truly feels like an outdoor living room: an extension of our house where we relax, entertain, and unwind.
We bought this house in 2013, and from the first walkthrough the large back porch stole our hearts. It took time—almost a decade of weekend projects and slow improvements—but each update brought us closer to the vision we imagined. Now, after years of small changes and a few major updates, the porch feels finished and intentionally designed.
Rug | Furniture Set | Outdoor Coffee Table (similar) | Day Bed | Mosquito Net Curtains | Outdoor Ceiling Fans | Fire Bowl | Solar Lamps | Outdoor Pillow Covers & Inserts
Recently I installed mosquito net curtains on tension rods to keep bugs at bay and to add a soft, romantic layer to the porch. The moment they were up, I sat down with an iced tea and realized the transformation was complete. If you want to build your own outdoor living room, here’s what we did—step by step.
Our DIY Outdoor Living Room Makeover Projects
1. Painted the Porch Ceiling – Benjamin Moore Palladian Blue
We began at the top. A soft “haint blue” ceiling opens the space and gives the porch a calm, airy feel. Palladian Blue is subtle and adds that classic southern porch vibe while visually expanding the area.
2. Limewashed the Brick – Romabio Bianco White
The original orange brick felt too heavy for the light, relaxed look we wanted. A limewash kept the texture visible while toning the color down, creating a timeless, cottage-like backdrop for the space.
3. Painted the Doors and Windows – Behr Cracked Pepper
Painting the doors and window trim in a deep, moody tone created contrast and definition. Behr Cracked Pepper is close to black but softer, so it anchors the space without feeling harsh.
4. Refinished the Deck – Behr Taupe Stain
We sanded the deck boards and applied a driftwood-inspired taupe stain. This neutral finish ties the seating area to the rest of the home and allows furniture and textiles to stand out.
5. Built a DIY Outdoor Electric Fireplace
For a focal point we built an electric fireplace. It provides instant ambiance with the ease of a remote-controlled insert—perfect for cool evenings when we want the porch to feel cozy and inviting.
6. Repurposed a Daybed With a Waterproof Cover
We wanted a bed swing but the ceiling structure couldn’t support it, so we brought in a daybed and protected the mattress with a waterproof cover. Now it’s a dreamy spot for naps, reading, or lounging.
7. Added Rattan Furniture
A long-lasting rattan conversation set created a U-shaped seating arrangement around the fireplace, making the porch function like a true living room—ideal for conversation and gatherings.
8. Upgraded the Outdoor Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans keep the air moving, reduce humidity and bugs, and make the porch comfortable on warm evenings. Function meets style with the right outdoor-rated fans.
9. Hung String Lights for Ambience
String lights are a quick way to add warmth and charm. They create soft, flattering light that makes every evening feel a little more special, whether we’re hosting a dinner or just hanging out.
10. Rolled Out an Outdoor Rug
An outdoor rug helps define the seating zone and makes the space feel complete. It’s also a small luxury underfoot when I step outside with my morning coffee.
11. Tossed in Some Outdoor Pillows
Colorful, weather-resistant pillows add pattern and comfort. They’re an easy, affordable way to update the look seasonally and make the seating more inviting.
12. Added a Fire Bowl
A fire bowl gives extra warmth and creates a focal gathering point. It’s perfect for marshmallow roasts, keeps bugs away, and extends our time outdoors into cooler nights.
13. Brought in a Few Plants
Potted plants and ferns soften edges and add life to the porch. Even a few well-placed planters create a lush, welcoming atmosphere.
14. Hung Mosquito Net Curtains
Light, gauzy curtains mounted on tension rods were the finishing touch. They block insects while lending an elegant, resort-like feel to the space—one of those small upgrades that makes a big difference.
15. Added Solar Lamps
Solar floor lamps provide soft, sustainable lighting that reads like indoor lamps outdoors. They add a cozy glow and extend the porch’s usability after sunset without wiring.
Design Tips for Creating Your Own Outdoor Living Room
- Think in zones. Define seating, dining, and lounging areas with rugs and furniture to make the space feel like a true room.
- Blend comfort with durability. Use waterproof covers, fade-resistant fabrics, and insect-friendly features to keep maintenance low.
- Layer textures and materials. Combine rattan, wood, metal, and textiles to add depth and personality.
- Prioritize function. Design the porch around how you’ll use it—morning coffee, evening gatherings, or quiet reading nooks.
Rug | Furniture Set | Outdoor Coffee Table (similar) | Day Bed | Mosquito Net Curtains | Outdoor Ceiling Fans | Fire Bowl | Solar Lamps | Outdoor Pillow Covers & Inserts
It took nearly ten years of small decisions and weekend projects to create this outdoor living room, but the result is a space where we gather, laugh, plan, and simply be. The best part is that it wasn’t purchased as a single room in a catalog—every element was chosen and added over time, which makes the space feel personal and lived-in.
If you’re inspired to create your own porch oasis, start small. Add a rug, a string of lights, or a comfortable chair. Gradually build the space that suits your lifestyle—one piece at a time—and you’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes your favorite room.
More Porch Decorating Ideas
- 6 Small Front Porch Ideas on a Budget
- Cheap DIY Outdoor Movie Screen for a Back Porch
- How to Keep Mosquitos Away from Your Porch and Patio
