Small Porch Decorating Ideas That Won't Break The Bank
Do you have a tiny porch that feels neglected? Decorating a small outdoor living space on a budget can seem challenging. But with some creativity and smart shopping, you can transform your modest patio or screened-in porch into a cozy oasis without spending a fortune.
Read on for innovative ideas to add shade, seating, storage, and personality with budget-friendly finds and a little elbow grease.
Clever Ways to Add Shade and Privacy on a Budget
One issue with small porches is lack of protection from sun and prying eyes. Installing permanent awnings or storm windows can get pricey. Luckily, there are inexpensive DIY options to add adjustable shade and privacy.
Install Outdoor Curtains for Filtered Light and Seclusion
Outdoor curtains let you control sunlight and seclusion. Stretch reclaimed fabric like heavy drop cloths, shower liners, or tablecloths from clips on the ceiling or over PVC pipe frames. Curtain panels allow breezes to flow through while blocking harsh sun rays. Close them fully when you want privacy or leave gaps for filtered daylight. DIY porch curtains are an easy, customizable way to add shade and seclusion on a budget.
Mount Window Awnings for Protection from Weather and UV Rays
Installing fixed awnings above your windows prevents rain drizzle and sunlight from entering. But shop-bought awnings can be expensive. For a budget option, build your own from salvaged wood, scrap metal sheets, or even heavy canvas. Lean the panels against exterior walls or secure with brackets. For adjustable shade, mount your DIY awnings on hinges. Add canvas drop cloths or solar screens to help insulate your porch against intense sun and light rainfall while letting in fresh breezes.
Upcycle Materials Into Custom Sun Shades
With a little imagination, you can upcycle all sorts of scraps into functional sun shades. Old wooden pallets or lattice panels make charming slatted coverings when leaned against railings or fences. For a flexible solution, stretch burlap, mesh netting, or fabric remnants across block frames. Install hooks along the roofline to hang your custom shades. Moving and angling your upcycled sun barriers creates adjustable shelter from harsh glares.
Inexpensive Seating and Relaxation Ideas for Your Small Porch
Limited square footage should not limit your ability to lounge comfortably outdoors. Use these crafty tips and DIY projects to create budget-friendly seating areas perfect for unwinding alone or socializing with friends.
Make a Hanging Chair from an Old Hammock for Sky-High Relaxation
Transform an old hammock into a breezy hanging chair with wood blocks supporting the edges. Hang your upcycled aerial seat from hooks in the ceiling or porch rafters. Pile on machine-washable cushions and pillows to create a comfortable nest. Add a wooden base suspended underneath for extra stability if needed. DIY hanging chairs maximize relaxing swing motion while floating above ground clutter.
Fashion a Daybed from a Futon Frame for Versatile Lounging and Guest Sleep Space
Pick up a used futon frame for cheap or make your own simple platform base. Outfit it with weather-resistant pads and bolsters for an adaptable daybed. Move your thrifted futon couch to shady areas as needed. Stack and store cushions when not in use. Set up a canopy with PVC pipe and canvas drop cloths to create a sheltered nook on hot summer days. At night, your makeshift futon doubles as an outdoor guest bed.
Craft Unique Porch Swings from Salvaged Wood for Breezy Relaxation
Create your own custom porch swing with reclaimed lumber and a dash of paint. Cut salvaged wood into bench shapes and install hanging chains or ropes. Add colorfully woven or upholstered seat cushions for comfort. DIY swinging benches maximize relaxation as you sway gently in the shade. Install multiple upcycled porch swings so the whole family can enjoy the soothing, budget-friendly features.
Smart Storage Solutions to Contain Clutter in Small Spaces
When dealing with compact square footage, organized storage is essential for keeping porches looking neat. These clever storage hacks prevent clutter without breaking your decor budget.
Use Decorative Baskets to Add Flexible Storage for Odds and Ends
Inexpensive wicker or plastic baskets are perfect for wrangling porch clutter on a budget. Use washable fabric bins to store outdoor cushions and blankets when not in use. Stash toys, sports equipment, and gardening tools in lidded baskets to keep your porch tidy. Labeling helps everyone put items back in their place. For extra mobility, attach caster wheels so you can roll storage bins around your patio with ease.
Install Wall-Mounted Shelves for Bonus Storage Without Sacrificing Floor Space
Take storage vertical with wall-mounted shelving on your porch. Repurposed wooden boards, metal railings, plastic milk crates, or plastic bins can all become budget-friendly floating shelves. Mount them at different heights to store lanterns, books, extra cushions, trailing plants, and quirky flea market finds. Wall shelving adds storage capacity without taking up valuable floor area in a compact porch.
Upcycle Old Drawers and Crates Into a Vertical Organizer to Keep Essentials At Your Fingertips
Make use of awkward vertical spaces by installing an upcycled crate or drawer organizer. Paint a series of salvaged wooden drawers or plastic crates in cheerful hues. Secure them vertically to the wall studs with heavy-duty brackets. Use your repurposed vertical cubbies to store frequently used items within arm's reach. Label each drawer to keep sunscreen, gloves, small tools, and other porch necessities tidy but accessible for the whole family.
Inexpensive Touches to Personalize Your Small Porch
Even if your budget is tight, you can customize your petite porch with charming handmade accents and thrifty finds that showcase your style.
Make Your Own Wall Art to Brighten Dreary Corners
Painting inexpensive canvas panels, wood slices, or plywood scraps in your favorite bright colors creates cheerful custom art for your porch walls. Or grab old window shutters from a salvage store and attach them in fun patterns. Display your family photos and kids' artwork outdoors in plastic picture frames. Creating your own wall art is an easy, budget-way to add pops of color and personality.
Add Pops of Color With Planters Filled With Succulents, Herbs, and Flowers
Upcycling cans, buckets, and wooden crates into planter boxes lets you show off your green thumb on the cheap. Paint terra cotta pots or thrift store teacups in glossy colors for additional flair. Arrange low-maintenance succulents, herbs, and seasonal flowers in your upcycled planters. Cluster smaller containers on shelves, or hang larger vessels from ceilings, railings, and fences. Vivid blooms and cascading greenery liven up compact porches visually without breaking the bank.
String Up Affordable Bistro Lights to Set the Mood
Create a twinkling hideaway on warm evenings with strands of bistro lights. Solar-powered options run on natural energy instead of electricity bills. For fuller coverage, zigzag multiple strings of LED cafe lights from hooks along your ceiling and railings. The dreamy glow helps set the mood for relaxing or entertaining. Outdoor bistro light strands add ambiance to any small space affordably.
Don't let a petite porch prevent you from creating your ideal outdoor oasis. With clever usage of reclaimed materials, budget-friendly lighting, smart storage solutions, and pops of handmade style, you can decorate a small porch that delights without depleting your wallet.
The next time you feel discouraged by an awkwardly shaped nook or tiny patio, remember these innovative ideas for maximizing every inch. A modest outdoor space has plenty of potential for becoming a beloved relaxation spot. Just add a dash of creativity and thriftiness!