How to Choose Furniture for a Screened Porch

Take into account the size and structure of the porch. Consider the number of people in the home and how often they will utilize the porch furniture. Consult your friends and family for their advice. Look at the color of the paint of the house, as well as the porch. Look at the landscape design of the yard, because whatever furniture you purchase you want it to be complementary.

Go to the porch furniture area of a furniture store. Go to thrift stores and flea markets. Visit as many stores with furniture as possible in order to broaden your options. Speak with furniture sellers about suitable furniture for your screened porch. Carry a photo of the porch, so that they have an idea of the layout.

Purchase home decor books and magazines for creative ideas. Investigate pieces from various companies, so that you can determine who has the best quality. Ensure that the companies are legitimate by checking with the Better Business Bureau. Show the catalogs to your friends to get their opinions.

Create an account on a social networking site like Facebook or Myspace. Create a post or note asking for ideas on what furniture to buy for your porch. Attach a sizable photo to the post. Wait for people to respond to your post and consider the feedback. Respond to people's feedback or comments to generate further discussion. Ask people why they feel the way they do. You may learn some things you had not otherwise thought to consider.

Watch any TV shows that emphasize design and home decorating. Take note of how the designers complement one piece of furniture with another. Watch how the designers enhance a space's design by its furniture placement.

Buy your furniture and keep your receipts. Set up the furniture to see if you like it. Arrange the furniture in more than one way to see if it makes a difference. You might also re-use some furniture that you already have indoors--if it is weather-resistant--to see if it suits your porch.