Home Garden

Wrap Around Porch Ideas

Wrap-around porches add to the overall architectural design of your home, while adding usable outdoor living space. Different styles of homes often feature different types of porches. For example, a porch may simply cover the front door, span the entire length of the front of a building or wrap completely around the house. The porch materials and design can be chosen to reflect the individual style of a building. Wrap-around porches allow homeowners to enjoy the outdoor views of their home from many different locations around the house.
  1. Two-Sided Porch

    • A porch that wraps around two sides of a home creates a variation of the classic front-facing porch. The two-sided porch is frequently seen on Victorian-style farmhouses and Shingle-style bungalows built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The front porch was designed for the watching of the street in front of the home, while the side porch offered privacy.

    Four-Sided Porch

    • Originally featured on Craftsman-era homes, porches that wrap completely around the four sides of a home are a popular feature in many modern architectural styles. Country-style homes often feature four-sided wrap porches without railings for an open and airy appeal. Victorian buildings may feature arches between posts and intricate porch railings.

    Screened Porch

    • Screening allows for comfortable enjoyment of the outdoors without the annoyance of insects. Even wrap-porches can feature screening, either entirely or in a section. Owners or builders often mount ceiling fans to provide additional air circulation in screened in areas.

    Three-Quarter Porch

    • A three-quarter porch wraps from the front of the building around the two sides. The back is often left open for a deck or patio area. Inspired by 19th century Classic Revival, the traditional three-quarter porch adorns a two-story home. The second story may include a balcony area just above the front door.