Text by Bethany Adams
Vibrant hues and cool breezes make autumn the perfect season for heading outside with a hot drink and a cozy throw—and there’s no better place to do it than on a well-designed porch. Whether you use yours for hosting during the harvest season or simply unwinding on your own, let these seasonal favorites inspire your outdoor space.
Keep It Personal
Pumpkins and gourds may be classic autumn elements, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use them to mix things up a bit. This front door display piles them atop an antique railroad cart for a personalized touch that incorporates the homeowner’s everyday pieces.
A Place to Gather
With the weather cooling and the leaves changing, it’s the ideal time to set an outdoor table for family and friends. An intimate setting like this one benefits from plenty of layers, cheerful seasonal hues, and a smattering of floral displays.
Signs of the Season
Creating contrast is key in crafting an eye-catching porch, and this space nails it. Orange and white pumpkins mingle with multicolored mums around a pair of rocking chairs made for enjoying the view—and a fanciful sign adds a splash of personality for a fun finishing touch!
Cozy in the Country
Rustic woodland elements and a crackling fire are always welcome, but they’re especially inviting when there’s a chill in the air. Rough-hewn stone, a split log mantel, and collected antlers add a natural, masculine foundation to this covered porch, while classic wicker and a vintage rug contribute touches of cozy, comforting charm.
Thoughtful Touches
From the construction to the accessories, it’s all in the details when it comes to getting the most out of your porch. Clear sight lines and railings that incorporate natural branches highlight the view without obstructing or distracting from the changing foliage—and the experience is only made more memorable with the addition of a swing bench, cozy throw pillows, and a favorite mug filled with a steaming beverage.
Best of Both Worlds
Screened porches are all-time favorites for the way they offer access to stunning vistas while providing shelter from the elements. In this one, every space was thought out to make the season more enjoyable—from a swing placed for mornings spent admiring the foliage to the dining table that’s the perfect spot for hosting autumn gatherings.
A Different Shade
Ditch the ubiquitous orange tones in favor of a cooler palette—like the blues, greens, and grays that shine here. The neutral spirit of the space is naturally relaxing, making the fireside bed swing all the more alluring!
Just the Basics
If your porch features eye-catching architectural elements—like this home’s door shutters and floor planks laid on the diagonal—consider keeping things simple. A scattering of pumpkins and a seasonal wreath make use of the design’s existing beauty while injecting just enough seasonal personality.
