As porch weather moves in, Chicago homeowners who are lucky enough to have a porch rejoice. Even if there’s still a chill in the air at times, it’s still lovely to be able to sit out on the porch with a sweatshirt or blanket and enjoy the fresh air. If you’re looking for some strategies to take your porch to the next level this year, here are some of my favorite suggestions:

Spring for a Swing

There’s nothing like a good porch swing. While this is something you’ll need to ensure is properly installed and safe, once set up, it can make for the perfect spot to relax. Adding a seat cushion and a throw pillow can help bring it all together. Your porch really can be an extension of your home, so don’t hesitate to bring those little touches outside as well.

Adequate Surface Space

Do you like to have dinner as a family on your porch? Or maybe enjoy a glass of wine with a neighbor? Make your porch as comfortable as possible by ensuring there’s enough space to accommodate. Picking up a few little tables can help you make sure that everyone has a place to set their things.

Rearrangeable Furniture

Maybe sometimes your porch is where you stakeout with a good book by yourself while other times it’s where you gather with a few friends. Going for furniture that can be easily rearranged can help you get the most use out of the space. This means picking out lighter pieces that are easy to move and of a size that works with your porch dimensions.

Go Green

While your porch might look out onto a beautiful yard, it’s still nice to bring some of that green up to you. Adding a few potted plants or a little herb garden can be a nice touch. Just like your porch is an extension of your home, it’s also an extension of your yard. Adding plants and touches of green keeps it feel natural.

Make it Cozy

Maybe you add a few lanterns or string up some twinkle lights. Adding these little elements can help you enjoy your porch into the evening hours and add a bit more ambiance to the space. The warm glowing lights can truly make your porch feel like its own little retreat.

Do you have a porch on your Chicago home? How do you set it up for the warmer weather? Are there any upgrades you plan to make this year? I’d love to hear what you think!