Ideas for a Sitting Area on a Front Porch

Conversation Set

• A conversation set combines all the elements of furniture essential to outdoor entertaining. Depending on the size of the set you get, a conversation set may include a coffee table, end table, sofa and two outdoor chairs. These sets are usually constructed of wicker or wrought iron. The table may have a glass insert top or be constructed entirely of wicker. Seats usually come with large cushions made of weather-resistant material ideal for outdoor use. This type of seating arrangement would be ideal for hosting a brunch or afternoon tea party. Look for conversation sets for sale at your local lawn and garden center or home improvement store.

Swings/Gliders

• Swings and gliders are favorite choices for a sitting area on a front porch because people can relax outdoors with the rhythmic motion of swinging back and forth. If you want to install a porch swing, you must have a sturdy roof over the front porch from which to hang the swing. Ideally, the swing should be hung from overhead floor joists or strong beams to support the weight of people swinging. If your porch doesn't have a roof or a balcony above, a glider is the alternative option. A glider moves back and forth like a swing but is suspended on its own frame so it can be placed anywhere. The typical construction material for swings and gliders is wood, but you can find some with metal frames and soft cushions.

Bench Seating

• If you have a small front porch, you can optimize your space by installing bench seating around the perimeter of the porch, which leaves the center of the porch open for a small table. You can further increase the utility of your front porch by adding a hinged lid on the benches so you can store things like gardening supplies. The hinges can easily be disguised with pillows or long cushions that also make the benches more comfortable. You can purchase cushions or make your own by sewing fabric covers for thick pieces of foam.

Rocking Chairs

• Rocking chairs are a timeless feature of front porch sitting areas. Literature and films are filled with images of people relaxing on a front porch rocking chair on hot summer days. Although they may carry an association with the past, there are actually rocking chair styles that can fit with contemporary decorating styles. In addition to the classic wooden ladder-back rocker, you can find Adirondack-style rocking chairs, wicker rocking chairs and even glider-style rocking chairs. Two rocking chairs on the front porch, perhaps with a small beverage table between them, will give your guests the impression that your home is relaxing. You can use rocking chairs separately or combine them with a bench or outdoor sofa to complete the sitting area.