A Southern House Plan with a Wrap Around Porch is a type of house plan that features a porch that extends around at least two sides of the house. This type of porch is often used to create a welcoming and inviting outdoor space that can be enjoyed by family and friends.
Wrap around porches are a popular feature of Southern homes. They provide a shaded and comfortable space to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and they can also be used for entertaining guests. Some wrap around porches even include a fireplace or a grill, making them a great place to spend time year-round.
If you are considering building a new home in the South, a wrap around porch is a great option to consider. It will add value to your home and provide you with a beautiful and inviting outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.
When designing a Southern house plan with a wrap around porch, there are several important points to consider:
- Size and shape
- Location
- Materials
- Railings
- Roofing
- Screening
- Furnishings
- Landscaping
- Orientation
- Privacy
By considering these factors, you can create a wrap around porch that is both beautiful and functional, and that will add value to your home.
Size and shape
The size and shape of your wrap around porch will be determined by a number of factors, including the size of your house, the amount of space you have available, and your personal preferences. A larger porch will provide more space for entertaining and relaxing, but it will also be more expensive to build. A smaller porch will be more affordable, but it may not be as spacious or inviting.
The shape of your porch will also affect its overall look and feel. A rectangular porch will be more traditional, while a curved porch will be more modern. You can also choose to have a porch with multiple levels, which can add interest and visual appeal.
When choosing the size and shape of your wrap around porch, it is important to consider how you will be using it. If you plan on entertaining large groups of people, you will need a larger porch. If you are simply looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, a smaller porch may be sufficient.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you can begin to narrow down your choices and choose the perfect size and shape for your wrap around porch.
Location
The location of your wrap around porch is important for both aesthetic and practical reasons. You want to choose a location that will maximize the porch’s potential for use and enjoyment, while also complementing the overall design of your home.
One important factor to consider is the orientation of your porch. A porch that faces south or west will receive more sunlight, which can be desirable in cooler climates. However, a porch that faces north or east will be more shaded, which can be beneficial in hotter climates. You should also consider the prevailing wind direction in your area, and choose a location that will be protected from strong winds.
Another important factor to consider is the proximity of your porch to other parts of your home. You want to choose a location that is easily accessible from the main living areas of your home, but you also want to avoid placing your porch too close to your neighbors’ property.
Finally, you should consider the overall design of your home when choosing a location for your wrap around porch. You want to choose a location that will complement the style of your home and create a cohesive overall look.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose the perfect location for your wrap around porch.
Materials
The materials you choose for your wrap around porch will affect its overall look, feel, and durability. There are a variety of materials to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Wood
Wood is a classic choice for wrap around porches. It is relatively affordable, easy to work with, and can be stained or painted to match any dcor. However, wood requires regular maintenance to protect it from the elements.
- Vinyl
Vinyl is a low-maintenance option that is available in a variety of colors and styles. It is also resistant to rot and insects. However, vinyl can be damaged by extreme heat or cold.
- Composite
Composite is a newer material that is made from a combination of wood and plastic. It is durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to rot and insects. However, composite can be more expensive than wood or vinyl.
- Brick
Brick is a durable and attractive option for wrap around porches. It is fire-resistant and requires little maintenance. However, brick can be expensive and difficult to install.
When choosing materials for your wrap around porch, it is important to consider your budget, your personal preferences, and the climate in your area.
Railings
The railings on your wrap around porch are an important safety feature, but they can also add to the overall look and feel of your porch. There are a variety of railing styles to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Wood railings are a classic choice for wrap around porches. They are relatively affordable and easy to install, and they can be stained or painted to match any dcor. However, wood railings require regular maintenance to protect them from the elements.
Vinyl railings are a low-maintenance option that is available in a variety of colors and styles. They are also resistant to rot and insects. However, vinyl railings can be damaged by extreme heat or cold.
Composite railings are a newer material that is made from a combination of wood and plastic. They are durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to rot and insects. However, composite railings can be more expensive than wood or vinyl.
Metal railings are a durable and attractive option for wrap around porches. They are fire-resistant and require little maintenance. However, metal railings can be expensive and can rust if they are not properly coated.
When choosing railings for your wrap around porch, it is important to consider your budget, your personal preferences, and the climate in your area.
Roofing
The roofing on your wrap around porch should be durable and weather-resistant, as it will be exposed to the elements year-round. There are a variety of roofing materials to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for wrap around porches because they are affordable, durable, and easy to install. However, asphalt shingles can be damaged by high winds and hail.
Metal roofing is a more durable option than asphalt shingles, and it is also resistant to fire, wind, and hail. However, metal roofing can be more expensive than asphalt shingles, and it can be noisy in heavy rain.
Tile roofing is a beautiful and durable option for wrap around porches, but it is also the most expensive option. Tile roofing is also heavy, so it may require additional support.
When choosing a roofing material for your wrap around porch, it is important to consider your budget, your personal preferences, and the climate in your area.
In addition to the roofing material, you will also need to choose a roofing style. There are a variety of roofing styles to choose from, including gable roofs, hip roofs, and shed roofs. The style of your roof will affect the overall look and feel of your porch.
Screening
Screening is an important consideration for wrap around porches in areas with insects or other pests. Screening can help to keep these pests out of your porch, making it more enjoyable to use.
- Insect screens
Insect screens are the most common type of screening used on wrap around porches. They are made of a fine mesh that allows air to pass through while keeping out insects. Insect screens are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
- Solar screens
Solar screens are a good option for wrap around porches in sunny climates. They are made of a mesh that blocks out the sun’s rays, helping to keep your porch cool and comfortable. Solar screens can also help to reduce your energy bills.
- Privacy screens
Privacy screens are a good option for wrap around porches that are located close to neighbors or other buildings. They are made of a mesh that obscures the view from the outside, giving you more privacy on your porch.
- Wind screens
Wind screens are a good option for wrap around porches in windy climates. They are made of a mesh that blocks the wind, making your porch more comfortable to use on windy days.
When choosing screening for your wrap around porch, it is important to consider the type of insects or pests that are common in your area, as well as the climate. You should also consider your budget and your personal preferences.
Furnishings
The furnishings you choose for your wrap around porch will have a big impact on its overall look and feel. You want to choose furnishings that are comfortable and inviting, and that complement the style of your porch.
One important consideration is the size of your porch. If you have a small porch, you will want to choose furnishings that are relatively small and lightweight. If you have a large porch, you can choose larger and more substantial furnishings.
Another important consideration is the climate in your area. If you live in a warm climate, you will want to choose furnishings that are made from materials that can withstand the heat and humidity. If you live in a cold climate, you will want to choose furnishings that are made from materials that can withstand the cold and snow.
Finally, you should consider your personal style when choosing furnishings for your wrap around porch. You want to choose furnishings that reflect your taste and personality. If you prefer a traditional style, you may want to choose furnishings made from wood or wrought iron. If you prefer a more modern style, you may want to choose furnishings made from aluminum or plastic.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you can begin to choose the perfect furnishings for your wrap around porch. With a little planning, you can create a beautiful and inviting space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
Landscaping
The landscaping around your wrap around porch can have a big impact on its overall look and feel. You want to choose plants that are attractive and easy to care for, and that complement the style of your porch and home.
One important consideration is the amount of sunlight your porch receives. If your porch is located in a sunny spot, you will want to choose plants that can tolerate full sun. If your porch is located in a shady spot, you will want to choose plants that can tolerate shade.
Another important consideration is the size of your porch. If you have a small porch, you will want to choose plants that are relatively small and compact. If you have a large porch, you can choose larger and more substantial plants.
Finally, you should consider your personal style when choosing plants for your wrap around porch. You want to choose plants that reflect your taste and personality. If you prefer a traditional style, you may want to choose plants with classic shapes and colors. If you prefer a more modern style, you may want to choose plants with more unusual shapes and colors.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you can begin to choose the perfect plants for your wrap around porch. With a little planning, you can create a beautiful and inviting space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
Orientation
The orientation of your wrap around porch is an important consideration, as it will affect the amount of sunlight and shade your porch receives, as well as the views from your porch.
- South-facing porches
South-facing porches receive the most sunlight throughout the day, making them a great option for people who want to enjoy their porch in the sun. However, south-facing porches can also be hot and uncomfortable in the summer months.
- North-facing porches
North-facing porches receive the least amount of sunlight throughout the day, making them a good option for people who want to avoid the heat and sun. However, north-facing porches can also be cold and dark in the winter months.
- East-facing porches
East-facing porches receive sunlight in the morning, making them a great option for people who want to enjoy their porch in the morning sun. However, east-facing porches can also be hot and uncomfortable in the afternoon.
- West-facing porches
West-facing porches receive sunlight in the evening, making them a great option for people who want to enjoy their porch in the evening sun. However, west-facing porches can also be hot and uncomfortable in the summer months.
When choosing the orientation of your wrap around porch, it is important to consider your personal preferences and the climate in your area.
Privacy
Privacy is an important consideration for many homeowners, especially those who live in close proximity to neighbors or other buildings. A wrap around porch can provide a great deal of privacy, as it can be enclosed with screens or curtains to create a secluded outdoor space.
One way to increase privacy on a wrap around porch is to plant trees or shrubs around the perimeter. This will create a natural barrier that will help to block the view from outside. You can also add latticework or other decorative screens to the railings of your porch to further increase privacy.
If you are concerned about privacy from above, you can install a shade sail or pergola over your porch. This will create a covered area that will be protected from the sun and from prying eyes.
Finally, you can add curtains or drapes to the windows or doors of your porch. This will give you the option of closing off your porch completely for maximum privacy.
By following these tips, you can create a wrap around porch that is both private and inviting. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space without having to worry about being overlooked by your neighbors.
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