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Health & Fitness

Porch Design

The porch is one of the most important spaces in a coastal home because it’s where the family gathers to live outdoors.  When our architecture firm designs a home we regard the porch as an extension of the interior and allow enough square footage so it can serve as an outdoor living room and/or dining room.  An ideal location is near the kitchen and of course it should be sited to maximize views.  If the porch is elevated, consider locating a stair down to grade to connect the entertaining space to the seascape.

In an effort to reduce building costs for our clients we often recommend an “all seasons porch.” Innovative products such as the new folding double hung (patent pending) by HeartWood Fine Windows and Doors transforms a classic screened porch into a light-filled year round room.  The double hung folds up toward the ceiling reminiscent of windows on historic summer porches.

Another trend is to literally open up a beach house to the outdoor porch with doors that fold or slide into a wall pocket.  These doors can create openings that span up to 24-feet.

In the category of what’s old is new, the sleeping porch is making a comeback as homeowners embrace sustainable design.  The screened-in bedroom reduces the need for air-conditioning.

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For more design ideas visit our website: http://www.mckinleyarchitects.com/

or like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoastalHomeArchitects?ref=hl

Find out what's happening in Stonington-Mysticfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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