How to make an entrance
When visitors step onto your porch, they enter the periphery of your world, standing on the edge of your inner sanctum. Architects treat porch design seriously. It is the face of your home, designed as the bridge between your property's interior and exterior. People often linger momentarily on the porch while they wait for the door to open, so it should feel welcoming.
The history of the porch–or porticus–goes back to the Romans, who knew a thing or two about statement buildings! The portico was usually an imposing columned entryway to a temple, later adapted as the vestibule in cathedrals and homes.
Porch design in the UK embraces every style, from grand Victorian gabled porches to boxy 1980s porches bolted onto the front of houses for additional insulation.
Walled-in or open-sided, flat-roofed or pitched, the porch frames the entrance to your home. Your porch should be practical and attractive; it is after all, the reception to your home.
Here are some tips to get your porch ideas flowing.
Different types of porch
The Enclosed Porch
A enclosed porch design gives ultimate protection from the weather and an extra layer of insulation for your home. Enclosed porches come in all shapes, sizes and budgets ranging from substantial porches with tiled roofs, solid walls and secure doors through to lean-to porches which resemble mini-conservatories usually installed by glazing firms.
An enclosed porch that is added to a property is a porch extension, and is an often overlooked opportunity to upgrade your home's appearance and enlarge your house.
Enclosed porch extensions fulfil many functions:
Storage: a natural place to stow everyday coats, shoes and dog leads.
Clean: they reduce the amount of dirt trailing into your house.
Energy-efficient: An enclosed porch is an efficient insulating airlock, preventing cold air from wafting into the house via the front door.
TIPS FOR PORCH EXTENSIONS
You may like the design of your porch to include storage and natural light. If you have the space, consider a larger, airy and bright porch with roof lights and/or windows. The natural light will help keep it warmer and make it feel more spacious.
Take advice from your Architectural Designer or specialist porch company about proportions and materials that will enhance the appearance of your house.
The Open Porch
An open porch or overhang porch provides shelter from the rain but still adds serious value to your property's aesthetics. However simple, remember that a porch is the ultimate finishing touch! Seek an architect or specialist porch design and installation company to recommend the perfect style of porch for your house.
Veranda-style porches
No one does a "wrap-around" or veranda porch like the Swedes and Americans. These long, skinny spaces can add visual depth and valuable extra areas for socialising. Whilst there are few opportunities for a wrap-around porch to a typical UK property, a small veranda-style porch may work well.
TIPS FOR VERANDA PORCHES
Consider a veranda porch that matches or enhances the design elements on your property. Regency style houses may include ornate metalwork; painted trellis work looks pretty on a cottage; timber framed structures sit well on Victorian homes.
No porch, no problem
It could be that your property simply can't accommodate a porch at your front door. Consider dressing the door to enhance the frontage instead.
With a fresh coat of paint or fitting stylish door furniture, makes a feature of your front door and can uplift the entire look at the front of the house. Create a warm welcome with a collection of carefully selected plants on your step(s).
If you have a suitable space near the front door, a climbing rose or jasmine not only frames and softens the entrance to your home but adds a welcoming scent for visitors.
Porch flooring
Porches are a fabulous opportunity to showcase your style and add character to your entryway. When it comes to flooring, instead of resorting to paving slabs or plain terracotta tiles, make a statement! The choice is vast, from Victorian-style monochromes, warm Moroccan geometrics… or opt for something more individual like these hexagonal floor tiles which have been laid in a custom pattern… or opt for something more individual such as polished concrete, bricks or timber decking.
Remember to allow for a finish that withstands the external weather.
Do you need Planning Permission for a porch?
Porches will require planning permission if your property is listed, or a maisonette or in a block. If in doubt, check your local authority’s planning department regulations or with your block managing agent.
Porch with a boundary over 2 metres from the edge of a public highway/pavement and with a height of less than 3 metres and a footprint of less than 3m² should not need planning permission as it would meet regulations under permitted development. It is worth getting a certificate of lawfulness to ensure compliance. Larger porch extensions may require permission. Learn more about planning permission here, or speak to your local Architectural Designer for further advice and direction.
A sample of specialist porch companies:
I hope this article has inspired and informed you.
I'm Julie Bliss. Bliss Interiors and Architectural Design is renowned for thoughtfully designed home refurbishments, extensions, and new-builds. I love my work, and I'd be delighted to discuss your project with you. Do get in touch.
Oxted, Tatsfield, Westerham, Caterham, Croydon, Sevenoaks, Beckenham, Bromley, London.
The information provided in this article is for general guidance only. Bliss Interior Ltd assumes no liability for any actions taken based on the content of this article.