It’s that time of year again. When we turn to outdoor living, enjoying those summer breezes and dining al fresco. I’ve always been an outdoor girl and having a pretty spot to land is so enjoyable this time of year. I’m afraid those summer breezes are a distant memory here in the South right now. It’s downright sweltering!
Last year, I created my own outdoor oasis by redoing my plain deck into something a little more useful and pretty. You can read all about my Top 5 ways to create a nice outdoor space. I really did enjoy that deck space last summer, but of course, now I’m enjoying the new sun porch that we just finished. We are definitely spending a lot of time out there now. So, sit back and enjoy these breezy Summer porches from Southern Living. If you need some inspiration for this time of year for creating your own backyard oasis, these are just the ticket to get you enthused.
Rustic brick outdoor fireplace, wouldn’t this be nice?
I’ve always dreamed of a big front porch like this. Ahhhhh!
Swings are such a staple of summertime living. Love this graphic rug too.
These colors just scream summer, don’t they?
Simple. Elegant. Beautiful.Great idea for using shutters as a backdrop. So dramatic and pretty. And simple too!
This looks like a completely inviting space to relax. Love that zebra rug too.
Lanterns and cushions and plants, so pretty.
Wicker is so nostalgic and lends itself so well to summer living too.
Look up at that beautiful blue ceiling! How pretty is that?
Courtyard patio spaces are so inviting too. I love this type of look so much.
Now with that view, nothing else matters! Did you spot any that made your heart go pitter-patter? Yeah, me too. I love all of them.
And I hope you got some ideas of your own to make your outdoor spaces more cozy and comfortable for summer. Those temps are already plenty high and we all need a shady spot to relax.
Tell me, do you have a special outdoor space or are you looking to create one this year?
the freckled minx says
Thank you for the wonderful inspiration Rhoda. It’s winter here but I’m always planning (and dreaming!)…….B:) x
Nancy says
Hi Rhoda, “Summer breeze… makes me feel fine…blowing through the jasmine in my mind…” Seals and Croft 1972. When I sit on my little front porch, I think of that song. Thank you for sharing these pictures with us. I have a lovely oasis on my back patio that came together quite nicely after getting some cute pillows from Pier One. My front porch is enjoying the Summer Breezes here in OHIO…it is quaint and small but just right. I love it every morning when I have a cup of coffee. PS. Those older songs were just soooo wonderful!
princess says
The first two photos are awesome!!! Wow!!!!!!!!! Unfortunately, I leave in an apartment and I don’t have much space. Actually I have a narrow and long balcony. So such a house is only in my dreams … Have a nice day!!
Heidi @ Show Some Decor says
Gorgeous images, Rhoda! We love our back deck, but it’s been either too hot and steamy or storming lately. Weather in the ATL…
Jan @SouthernJunkin' says
Thanks for the tour of special outdoor places! We’re loving our screened porch, especially with the wonderful fans!!
Blessings!!
Marcy says
I love these porches! It’s hard to choose a favorite – I like something in all of them.
I featured your blog at stylesson.com today. Sending hugs to you, too. I’m so proud of how strong you are and what a talented and beautiful lady too!
Luciane at HomeBunch.com says
Oh… summer! yes! I love this time of the year! What a great time.
I dream with a porch. I miss it so much. Thanks for all the inspiration.
Have a gorgeous day!
xo
Luciane at HomeBunch.com
Dayle says
Last summer, we put together an outdoor gazebo and have loved it. Considering the wear it’s gotten (weather, etc.), it’s held up very well. The only problem is it’s just too hot to get out there and enjoy it much, but I do have my morning devotion and coffee out there. I can’t imagine not having an outdoor space as a sanctuary, even if it’s small and not at all fancy.
SheilaG says
Loving the one with the shutters!
laxsupermom says
Terrific inspiration pics! I’d love a front porch to enjoy my morning coffee, but sadly our house doesn’t have one. We’ve been working on our backyard, and it’s sort of a hangout spot, though not as pretty as your pics. Someday. Thanks for sharing.
Courtney says
Rhoda,
Quick question for you! We ordered beadboard wallpaper from you this past Monday and haven’t heard anything yet about shipping. Do you now about how long it takes for the item to ship?
Thanks so much, we’re just so anxious to get it up in our nursery 😉
Rhoda says
Hey, Courtney just emailed you back, you should be getting it any day! Let me know how much you love it too.
Becky in 'Bama says
All the pics look so inviting – but living in ‘Bama – a space like this is not very useful say after the middle of May. The sweltering heat and humidity are too much for me. I did purchase some beautiful rockers for my front porch about three years ago and enjoy those when I can, but every Fall when I put them away I have to scrub the mildew from them. Any ideas on how to do that best (without ruining the paint and wood)? And all that fabric out-of-doors is a fertile field for mold and mildew here in the dampness of the deep South. 🙂
Dana says
These are so gorgeous and envy-inducing! Rhoda, what are your tips and ideas for a small front porch? It’s just your average front porch with just enough space for a couple of chairs and maybe a small table. How can I make it special without looking too busy?
Rhoda says
Hi, Dana, I’d say keep it fairly simple. A cozy chair (s) to sit in, with a side table and plant in a pretty planter would make a small area look so much better. I love outdoor rugs too for making an outdoor space seem like a room. So many to choose from now, just get a small size that fits your space. Add a couple of outdoor throw pillows in some punchy colors and you will have yourself a cute outdoor sitting area. If there is room to hang something on the wall above, an outdoor piece would look great up there too. I stored my pillows & cushions away & didn’t leave them in the weather. They will last much longer that way.
Dana says
Thanks, sweet lady! You read my mind with the outdoor rug, that was I was thinking of and know it will make a big impact. I’m going to keep my eyes peeled at the yard sales/thrift stores for the chair/table. I also have some plants out there, including my herb pot with my oregano, parsley, and basil that is growing FABULOUSLY! Thanks for the inspiration 🙂
mary beth says
These are all so pretty! I have been blessed with a front porch AND a beautiful covered porch in back and once we have our landscaping done, I’ll be trying to figure out how to decorate these areas in ways that will withstand the Kansas wind and dust and rain! Every time I see one of these gorgeous porches, I wonder how does this hold up in a storm??? I think less will be more for me and I will just drool over your pictures for now! Thanks for sharing!
Jana Miller says
I adore the idea of hanging shutters off the side of a patio for privacy. We have curtains at present.
xo jana
Patricia says
I’m really enjoying my screened porch. We had it done last summer, I repainted the furniture, and added cushions and a rug (moved it from inside – thrifty me). We’re also enjoying our deck for the first time. I found cushions that I’d put back in the attic and even a matching tablecloth. We eat supper out there. Last, hubby thanks you very much for the hammock. You don’t remember sending it to him? I was fortunate enough to win your $100 amazon gift card and used it to buy that for his father’s day gift. I couldn’t find your email address to thank you so I’m doing it publicly. Thanks so much.
Alpine nancy says
I think I love outdoor rooms even more than indoor ones. Just wish I could enjoy it year round instead of a few short months.
Thanks for sharing.
~ ~ Ahrisha~ ~ says
Hi Rhoda~ ~
We have a huge pin oak tree that we sit under often during the day. The whole outdoor room or space is great content for a blog post. I think I will follow your lead. Thanks.
~ ~Ahrisha ~ ~
aubrey says
I SUPER adore outdoor spaces! 🙂 Your photos are inspiring!