Dining on the Porch: Spend a Bit of Time Outdoors this Summer

It is that time of the year again when we are happy to spend time outside than indoors; especially early and late in the day. Even those who live in tropical regions want to enjoy the coolness of air outside after taking refuge indoors all day long from the harsh sun. This makes dining on the porch the perfect experience where everyone in the family can come together, interact and take in some fresh air as they enjoy a lovely meal. This need not be a special event as such and with the right outdoor décor and lighting, this can be your daily dining room for the next few months!

Lovely and spacious porch with custom wooden dining table and seats that add to its shabby chic style [From: IntEx Imaging]

Dining on the porch can feel even more liberating in current times when a global pandemic has forced many of us to stay indoors and avoid most, if not all, social contact. From the extravagant and beautiful dining rooms that can easily host 10 to 12 people to compact dining area where only two or three people can enjoy a wonderful dinner, this is a look at some of the best and most beautiful outdoor dining ideas on the porch as you head into summer months.

A Style for your Porch

The best way to start planning for al fresco dining on the porch is by choosing a style and color scheme for the space. The porch is a natural extension of the house and very rarely does it stand far away from the main house. This automatically means that style of the home exterior is the one that defines that of the porch as well. But for those looking or ways in which they can shape a staycation-like setting outdoors with a different theme, you can try out style like beach, coastal or tropical for a more holiday-inspired and exotic look. Natural wood dining tables are a great choice for these setting where they add warmth to the beautiful outdoor space.

Spend some time safely outside this summer with a dining space on the porch [From: Leandra Fremont-Smith Interiors]

Turn the space next to the porch into a cool hangout that is perfect for entire family

Dining on the porch does not get more beautiful than this with stunning views to add to the setting

It is hard to find a more comfortable screened-in porch where you are happy all year long! [From: J. Hall Homes]

Modest outdoor beach style dining space is perfect for a lovely gathering on cozy summer evening [From: Jessi Eve]

Bit of Color and Contrast

The covered porch outside can host much more than just evening dinners. You can add a fireplace in the corner to ensure it feels as inviting in the winter months ahead as it does in the summer months right now. Floor pillows, lighting fixtures and cushions can all add color and contrast to this al fresco dining area while drapes and rugs are admittedly not for everyone. Even potted plants and a dash of greenery in the form of the garden outside create a livelier outdoor dining space.

Beautiful chairs in yellow and rug in blue bring color to this modern industrial porch dining space [From: Laura Lee Home]

Combine color and creativity for that perfect porch dining space where your whole family feels welcome

Farmhouse style covered porch with heavy wooden dining table and lovely dark chairs [From: Devin Kimmel of Kimmel Studio Architects]

A spacious porch like the one here can be perfect for a staycation where you have everything you need

Maximize Available Space

Even the smallest porch can be turned into a lovely outdoor dining area with the right décor. The small, round outdoor table along with a couple of chairs is all you need in here and you can combine this with the right outdoor lighting for an intimate and relaxing dining experience. You can use custom built-in seats on the porch and integrate them into the dining area setting to create additional sitting area for members in the family. If you have a grill next to it, things can get even better as you enjoy the long summer evenings outdoors.