If first impressions are everything, then it’s time to breathe new life into your tired entrance and add some much-needed curb appeal to your home. Just a few items and a Saturday is all your need to transform your porch from drab to fab. Here’s how.
Add Color
Start your porch makeover by clearing off everything in sight, giving it a good scrub-down (power washing is always a good idea) and heading to your local hardware store for some paint. A fresh coat on your front door, shutters, posts and railings will be the starting point of your new porch palette. If you’re not ready to commit to an entirely new color scheme, paint everything except the door one to two shades darker or lighter than their original hue, then go bold on the door. Adding this cheery pop of color will no doubt provide inspiration for an accent color you can use in accessories.
Try: Sherwin-Williams Paint Store | 3672 Route 378, Bethlehem | 610.865.5478 | sherwin-williams.com
Replace Fixtures
Upgrading hardware is another easy and inexpensive way to show your porch some much-needed love. Replace your mailbox, house numbers, front door fixtures including the knob, knocker and doorbell cover, and update lighting fixtures. To create uniformity, make sure that every new item has the same finish and fits the same design style. Mid-century modern, Shaker, Arts & Crafts–this is your time to change it up.
Try: Cantelmi’s Hardware | 521 E. Fourth St., Bethlehem | 610.866.0532 | cantelmihardware.com
Plant Flowers
You can’t freshen up any space without adding flowers. Find blooms that fit your porch’s new style and that will thrive in your space. Begonias and impatiens are ideal options for shaded porches, vinca and geraniums work for porches with partial sun, and marigolds and zinnia fare well with full sun. Arrange in hanging baskets, railing planters and pots to carry your floral color scheme throughout your space, and have fun changes plants with the seasons.
Try: Buzas’ Greenhouse & Farm | 3927 Newburg Rd., Easton | 610.252.5289 | buzasgreenhouseandfarm.com
Finishing Touches
Now that your porch is on its way to perfection, it’s time to add the final details. A wreath on the door, welcome mat and seating will create an inviting space you’ll want to use. Depending on the size of your porch, your seating arrangement could include cozy lamp lighting, an outdoor area rug and coffee table. Just be sure to select durable fabrics that can withstand the elements and bring indoors during colder months.
Try: Green Acres Outdoor Living | 1176 Mickley Rd., Whitehall | 610.439.8959 | greenacres.info
