Country house plans with wrap-around porches are a popular design choice for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the comfort of their home. A wrap-around porch is a porch that extends along two or more sides of a house, providing a continuous outdoor living space. This type of porch is perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or simply enjoying the views. One example of a country house plan with a wrap-around porch is the “Willow Creek” plan from Houseplans.com. This plan features a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house with a wraparound porch that spans the front and side of the house.
Country house plans with wrap-around porches offer a number of advantages. First, they provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors. A wrap-around porch is the perfect place to relax on a rocking chair and read a book, or to entertain guests with a barbecue. Second, wrap-around porches can help to improve the curb appeal of a home. A well-designed porch can add character and charm to a house, and it can also make it more inviting.
In the following section, we will discuss some of the different features that you should consider when choosing a country house plan with a wrap-around porch. We will also provide some tips on how to design and decorate your porch so that it is both beautiful and functional.
When choosing a country house plan with a wrap-around porch, there are a number of important factors to consider. Here are 9 important points to keep in mind:
- Size and shape of the porch
- Location of the porch
- Materials used for the porch
- Roofing style for the porch
- Railings and balusters
- Steps and landings
- Lighting
- Furniture and accessories
- Landscaping
By considering all of these factors, you can create a wrap-around porch that is both beautiful and functional.
Size and shape of the porch
The size and shape of the porch are two of the most important factors to consider when choosing a country house plan with a wrap-around porch. The size of the porch will depend on how you plan to use it. If you want to use the porch for entertaining, you will need a larger porch than if you just want to use it for relaxing. The shape of the porch will also affect its functionality. A rectangular porch is the most common shape, but you can also find porches with L-shaped, U-shaped, and even circular designs.
**Here are some things to consider when choosing the size and shape of your porch:*** **How will you use the porch?** If you plan to use the porch for entertaining, you will need a larger porch than if you just want to use it for relaxing.* **What is the size of your house?** The size of your porch should be in proportion to the size of your house. A small porch on a large house will look out of place, and a large porch on a small house will overwhelm the house.* **What is the shape of your house?** The shape of your porch should complement the shape of your house. A rectangular porch will look best on a rectangular house, and a curved porch will look best on a curved house.**Here are some tips for choosing the size and shape of your porch:*** **If you are unsure about the size of your porch, it is always better to err on the side of caution and choose a larger porch.** You can always add screens or curtains to a large porch to make it more private, but you cannot make a small porch larger.* **The shape of your porch should complement the shape of your house.** A rectangular porch will look best on a rectangular house, and a curved porch will look best on a curved house.* **Consider the flow of traffic when designing your porch.** Make sure that there is enough space for people to move around comfortably, and that the porch does not block any windows or doors.
Location of the porch
The location of the porch is another important factor to consider when choosing a country house plan with a wrap-around porch. The location of the porch will affect its functionality, privacy, and views. Here are some things to consider when choosing the location of your porch:
**Sun exposure:** If you want to use your porch for sunbathing or relaxing, you will need to choose a location that gets plenty of sun. However, if you prefer to use your porch for entertaining or dining, you may want to choose a location that is shaded during the hottest part of the day.**Privacy:** If you want your porch to be private, you should choose a location that is not visible from the street or from neighboring properties. You can also add privacy screens or curtains to your porch.**Views:** If you have a beautiful view, you may want to choose a location for your porch that takes advantage of the view. However, keep in mind that a porch with a view may also be more exposed to the elements.**Accessibility:** Make sure that the porch is easily accessible from the house. You should also make sure that there is enough space for people to move around comfortably on the porch.**Here are some tips for choosing the location of your porch:*** **Consider the sun exposure.** If you want to use your porch for sunbathing or relaxing, choose a location that gets plenty of sun. If you prefer to use your porch for entertaining or dining, choose a location that is shaded during the hottest part of the day.* **Consider privacy.** If you want your porch to be private, choose a location that is not visible from the street or from neighboring properties.* **Consider the views.** If you have a beautiful view, choose a location for your porch that takes advantage of the view.* **Consider accessibility.** Make sure that the porch is easily accessible from the house. You should also make sure that there is enough space for people to move around comfortably on the porch.**
Materials used for the porch
The materials used for the porch will affect its durability, maintenance requirements, and cost. Here are some of the most common materials used for country house porches:
**Wood** is a popular choice for porches because it is relatively inexpensive, easy to work with, and can be stained or painted to match the style of your house. However, wood requires regular maintenance, such as staining or painting, to protect it from the elements. Cedar and redwood are two types of wood that are naturally resistant to rot and insects, making them a good choice for porches in areas with harsh weather conditions.
**Vinyl** is another popular choice for porches because it is low-maintenance and affordable. Vinyl is also available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find a vinyl porch that matches the style of your house. However, vinyl can fade over time, and it can be difficult to repair if it is damaged.
**Composite** is a newer material that is becoming increasingly popular for porches. Composite is made from a combination of wood and plastic, and it offers the best of both worlds: it is durable like wood, but it is low-maintenance like vinyl. Composite is also available in a variety of colors and styles, and it is resistant to fading and rot.
**Stone** is a beautiful and durable material for porches, but it is also the most expensive. Stone porches are typically made from flagstone, slate, or brick. Stone porches are very durable and require little maintenance, but they can be slippery when wet.
Roofing style for the porch
The roofing style for the porch should complement the style of the house and the overall design of the porch. Here are some of the most common roofing styles for country house porches:
**Gable roof:** A gable roof is a simple and classic roofing style that is suitable for a variety of house styles. Gable roofs are typically made from asphalt shingles, but they can also be made from other materials, such as metal or wood.
**Hip roof:** A hip roof is a more complex roofing style that is characterized by its four sloping sides. Hip roofs are typically more expensive to build than gable roofs, but they are also more durable and can withstand high winds. Hip roofs are typically made from asphalt shingles, but they can also be made from other materials, such as metal or wood.
**Gambrel roof:** A gambrel roof is a type of barn roof that is characterized by its two sloping sides that meet at a peak in the center. Gambrel roofs are often used on country houses and farmhouses. Gambrel roofs are typically made from asphalt shingles, but they can also be made from other materials, such as metal or wood.
**Shed roof:** A shed roof is a simple roofing style that is characterized by its single sloping side. Shed roofs are typically used on small porches and sheds. Shed roofs are typically made from asphalt shingles, but they can also be made from other materials, such as metal or wood.
When choosing a roofing style for your porch, you should consider the following factors:
- The style of your house
- The overall design of the porch
- The climate in your area
- Your budget
By considering all of these factors, you can choose a roofing style for your porch that is both beautiful and functional.
Railings and balusters
Railings and balusters are an important part of any porch, and they can add both beauty and safety to your wrap-around porch. Railings help to prevent people from falling off the porch, and balusters help to fill in the space between the railings. Railings and balusters can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and vinyl. Wood railings and balusters are the most common, and they can be painted or stained to match the style of your house. Metal railings and balusters are more durable than wood, and they are also less likely to rot or warp. Vinyl railings and balusters are the most affordable option, and they are also low-maintenance.
When choosing railings and balusters for your wrap-around porch, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to decide what material you want the railings and balusters to be made from. Second, you need to decide what style of railings and balusters you want. There are a variety of styles to choose from, so you can find a style that matches the style of your house. Finally, you need to decide how high you want the railings to be. The height of the railings will depend on the height of your porch and the height of the people who will be using the porch.
Once you have chosen the railings and balusters for your wrap-around porch, you need to install them. Installing railings and balusters is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Once the railings and balusters are installed, you can enjoy your wrap-around porch for years to come.
Here are some additional tips for choosing and installing railings and balusters for your wrap-around porch:
- Choose railings and balusters that are made from a durable material that is resistant to rot and insects.
- Choose railings and balusters that are the right height for your porch and the people who will be using the porch.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing the railings and balusters.
- Inspect the railings and balusters regularly and make repairs as needed.
Steps and landings
Steps and landings are an important part of any porch, and they can add both beauty and safety to your wrap-around porch. Steps provide a way to get on and off the porch, and landings provide a place to pause and rest. Steps and landings can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, concrete, and brick.
- Choose the right material for your steps and landings. Wood is a popular choice for steps and landings because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. However, wood is not as durable as concrete or brick, and it requires regular maintenance. Concrete is a more durable material than wood, and it is also less likely to rot or warp. However, concrete can be more expensive than wood, and it can be difficult to work with. Brick is the most durable material for steps and landings, but it is also the most expensive.
- Design your steps and landings to be safe and accessible. The steps should be wide enough to walk on comfortably, and the risers (the vertical part of the steps) should not be too high. The landings should be large enough to provide a place to pause and rest, and they should be well-lit.
- Install your steps and landings according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It is important to install your steps and landings correctly to ensure that they are safe and durable. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and make sure to use the correct materials and tools.
- Inspect your steps and landings regularly and make repairs as needed. Steps and landings can deteriorate over time, so it is important to inspect them regularly and make repairs as needed. Look for cracks, loose boards, or other signs of damage. If you find any damage, repair it immediately to prevent further damage and injury.
By following these tips, you can choose, design, and install steps and landings for your wrap-around porch that are both beautiful and safe.
Lighting
Lighting is an important part of any porch, and it can add both beauty and safety to your wrap-around porch. Good lighting can help you to see where you are going, and it can also create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here are some things to consider when choosing lighting for your wrap-around porch:
- Type of lighting
There are a variety of different types of lighting that you can use on your wrap-around porch, including overhead lighting, wall-mounted lighting, and path lighting. Overhead lighting is a good choice for illuminating the entire porch, while wall-mounted lighting can be used to highlight specific areas of the porch, such as the steps or the seating area. Path lighting can be used to illuminate the path leading to the porch, and it can also be used to create a decorative effect.
- Brightness
The brightness of the lighting on your porch will depend on how you plan to use the porch. If you plan to use the porch for entertaining, you will need brighter lighting than if you just plan to use it for relaxing. You should also consider the amount of natural light that your porch receives. If your porch is located in a shady area, you will need brighter lighting than if it is located in a sunny area.
- Style
The style of the lighting on your porch should complement the style of your house and the overall design of the porch. There are a variety of different styles of lighting available, so you can find a style that matches your taste. For example, if you have a traditional-style house, you may want to choose traditional-style lighting. If you have a modern-style house, you may want to choose modern-style lighting.
- Energy efficiency
When choosing lighting for your wrap-around porch, you should also consider energy efficiency. LED lighting is a good choice for energy efficiency, as it uses less energy than traditional incandescent lighting. LED lighting also lasts longer than traditional incandescent lighting, so you will not have to replace it as often.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose lighting for your wrap-around porch that is both beautiful and functional.
Furniture and accessories
The furniture and accessories you choose for your wrap-around porch should be comfortable, durable, and stylish. You will want to choose furniture that is weather-resistant, as it will be exposed to the elements. You should also choose furniture that is comfortable to sit on for long periods of time.
There are a variety of different types of furniture that you can use on your wrap-around porch. Some popular choices include rocking chairs, Adirondack chairs, and wicker furniture. You can also add a coffee table or side table to your porch to create a more comfortable and inviting space. If you plan to use your porch for dining, you will need to choose a table and chairs that are the right size for your space.
In addition to furniture, you can also add accessories to your wrap-around porch to make it more stylish and inviting. Some popular accessories include throw pillows, blankets, and rugs. You can also add plants and flowers to your porch to create a more natural and inviting atmosphere.
When choosing furniture and accessories for your wrap-around porch, it is important to consider the overall style of your house and porch. You should also consider how you plan to use the porch. If you plan to use the porch for entertaining, you will need to choose furniture that is comfortable and inviting. If you plan to use the porch for relaxing, you may want to choose furniture that is more comfortable and laid-back.
Landscaping
Landscaping is an important part of any country house plan with a wrap-around porch. A well-landscaped porch can provide a beautiful and inviting outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy. Here are a few things to consider when landscaping your wrap-around porch:
Choose plants that are suited to your climate and soil conditions. You will want to choose plants that are hardy in your area and that will thrive in the amount of sunlight that your porch receives. You should also consider the size and shape of your porch when choosing plants. You will want to choose plants that will not grow too large or block the view from your porch.
Create a focal point for your porch. A focal point is a central element in your landscape that draws the eye. This could be a statue, a fountain, or even a large tree. A focal point will help to create a sense of balance and unity in your landscape.
Use a variety of plants to create interest. You can use a variety of plants to create different textures, colors, and shapes in your landscape. You can also use plants to create different levels of interest. For example, you could plant tall shrubs in the back of your porch and shorter flowers in the front.
Add lighting to your porch. Lighting can help to extend the use of your porch into the evening hours. You can use a variety of lighting fixtures to create different moods and effects. For example, you could use path lighting to illuminate the path leading to your porch, or you could use overhead lighting to create a more festive atmosphere.
By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and inviting landscape for your wrap-around porch.
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