Home is more than four walls and roof. Home is a door opening to you, your family, your pets, your lifestyle, your neighborhood, your community, your city. It’s all encompassing on so many levels.
Harvesting the Porch Hang
As the weather gets crispier, our porches become less frequented, but here are a few tips to enjoy it even during the colder months.
I grew up in the deep southern suburban residences of Louisiana. As a child, I recall my walks home from school and to Miss Sweeney’s candy shop up the road. Every day there was a Mister or a Miss “So & So” on their front porch primed and ready for countless waves, ‘hey shas’, or an invite for iced tea or lemonade. That’s just how it is there. A home without a porch in the South is like Ted Lasso without a ‘stache or the Arctic without glaciers, it just doesn’t feel the same.
Wrap arounds and full frontal country porches are never overlooked on my personal home searches. It gives me an added bonus of being social without having to go out out. It allows me to say hello and chat with my neighbors in the fresh air. Lastly, let’s not forget how badly most of us want to shout our personal style and seasonal decor creations off the front stoop. All you Cottagecore people, kudos to you and the time it’s taking to get that perfect Farmhouse Fall look. I’m literally thinking on how much pumpkin and gourd sales have gone up in the last 10 years.
Although I spend a majority of my eves and morns on the front porch all year round, I have grown to love the Fall hang the best. I take this outdoor nook hangage seriously, and with lots of comfort, saying hello to passerby as the whiskey leaves my lips, knees pressed up to my chest, fuzzy blanket wrapped around me — ah, my favorite time of year has arrived.
There are some things that are required for this type of porch hang. Sure, mums and pumpkins all damn day long, but I’m talking about the other things. For instance, a good porch for hanging out on in the Fall is going to have good seating, warm lighting and a place to put your blankets. I suggest having some sort of table as well, because there needs to be some nosh. So, of course I gathered some ideas on how to make your porch more inviting.
Lighting
Lighting is everything especially in an outdoor setting. Give it a little mood swing into the season by adding your traditional string lights to railings and ceilings or give a touch of character with lighted birdcages or floor lanterns. Put some in your front trees for added effect or add a table lantern for those late night reads. Also, consider putting some soft lighting under your stairs that will make it easier for you and your guests to find their way home.
Seating
You can go traditional and have a nice chair set out there with the warm colors of fall (reds, oranges, yellows) or you can really get comfortable with a day bed swing adorned with warm knitted blankets and pillows or if you have a smaller porch, single swings and blanket draped rocking chairs are cozy. Adding an outdoor rug with large seating pillows can give you a loungey outdoor effect as well. Invest in some seat warmers! Just make sure it’s comfortable.
Added Touches
An old trunk is ideal for storing and protecting your blankets in addition to using it as a table. Add a ladder to place blankets on for a decorative look. A small fire pit or small heater will bring some nice warmth to your portico. Get some nice fall themed curtains to add some insulation and create a dramatic effect.
Don’t forget to make your favorite warm cocktails and beverages to complete your Fall/Winter porch hangs! Purchase a small bluetooth speaker or break out the acoustic to provide some great holiday or seasonal tunes to mix.
The significance of the porch in American culture runs deep:
Time Will Tell
“Closing walls and ticking clocks, Gonna come back and take you home…” Clocks have adorned homes for ages and the sound of ticking meditates the home…
It was tall, dark and handsome. The solid oak had intricate designs lacing its body as though it told the story of its roots, and whispered the name of whatever forest embraced it once before. The ticks were distinct and gave me solitude in the large house I visited throughout my youth, but it was the pendulum which kept my gaze as I awaited the deep bellow of it’s chime.
I’ve always had an affinity for clocks and watches. The artistry which goes into the wood carvings or the details of a clock face fascinate me, but for me these ticking relics of old bring me the lull to the deepest of sleeps. There is something about a home that is completely silent except for the ticking of a clock. Time is but both a slave and a luxury. I yearn daily to have more of it but only to do the things in which I enjoy, like being lulled to sleep. Old World design has been showcasing its antiquities in home trends as of late and I could not dismiss its allure without mentioning clocks.
Before clocks were common, the words “clockwise” and “counterclockwise” used to be known as “sunwise” and “widdershins,” respectively. The contraction “o’clock,” on the other hand, comes from the 15th-century phrase “stroke of the clock” which refers to the medieval mechanical clocks. - Home Stratosphere
Grandfather Clocks
Named after Henry Clay Work’s diddy “My Grandfather’s Clock” in 1876, the Grandfather clock demands respect and is a stately piece in any home. I like seeing these statuesque time keepers adorning hallways and corners. I have found estate sales are a great way to obtain these and am a fan of the modern versions as well. Don’t want such a ticking tower taking over (say that 10 times real fast), you can always choose the Grandmother. Shorter and often times slimmer, these don’t take up as much room, but can be just as beautiful. It’s the chimes for me!
The Wall Clock
It was the highlight of my day to see the hand reach 3:45pm in high school. There’s something nostalgic about the round school clock in all it’s aesthetic minimalism, yet the significant punctuations they instilled. Nothing fancy, but fit nicely in home offices and kitchens. In addition, it is a great clock to teach time on, wait…they still teach kids what the “little hand” and the “big hand” do right? I however, love wall clocks in all their myriads of designs. From vinyl records to carved wood to molded metals, the more unique the better.
The Mantle Clock
These also remind me of a time of yore. I don’t love these as much. they remind me of being serious and lawyerly. I do prefer the more contemporary and baroque styled ones to put on a mantel or side table.
The Cuckoo Clock
I love good engineering and I love a good cuckoo clock. Our friends in Germany are well known for both of these talents, ask any avid car fan. These days it’s a novelty to have such a timepiece in a home, but these intricately designed clocks hailing from the Black Forest region of Germany, now has contemporary counterparts that fit nicely within modern decor. I love finding ones that have features like running water or dancing figures.
The Old School Twin Bell Clock
These are the best clocks to have on your nightstand. They tick real good and the alarm of the twin bells will make it hard to hit snooze. In my opinion, they are the VW Bugs of clocks.
No matter what your clock style, there is no denying the sound of time and what it can add to a home. It’s a comforting and peaceful antiquity from simpler times where we weren’t always powered by the dings and swooshes of alerts and messages our phones dole out daily.
For more ideas on how to fit clocks into your decor, visit my Pinterest Page:
La Flora Decora
I love getting flowers, but I love having them add to my home decor…
One of the things I miss about New York besides the unlimited fashion catwalk or the music venues or the drive by cocktails, it’s actually the flowers. I used to love walking briskly down the sidewalks and seeing men with bouquets of flowers running to catch the train, or watching women carry their groceries with a simple bouquet of lilies peeking out their bags. There’s something about fresh flowers adorning your dining table or a little assortment on an end table that just brings a little something. As Spring has sprung, this is a great time to enjoy some flower power inspirations, whether freshly cut or fauxtastic.
My only problem with fresh flowers is they die. Some are great dried, but others leave a heap of dead petals behind. Faux flowers used to put me off, they appeared chintzy and dull. Those days are gone. Now you have great choices for faux florals that you can also paint vibrant or muted colors depending on your style or mood of rooms. I collected a few bouquet ideas for you to celebrate the renewal of Spring and to give your home a fresh, floral makeover.
Wreaths
Wreaths are always a good idea to perk up any front door, choose from large Peonies to delicate Rhododendrons. I’m thinking about trying to make one of these, but I’m not the crafty type and if you’re anything like me, you’ll just give Cari a call, and have her make one for you.
Framed
This is an easy way to show off your artsy skill. An age old process of pressing flowers and turning them into framed art creates a whimsical, vibrant, or bohemian accent. I love seeing these framed bouquets as well, looks expensive but really easy to DIY your own.
But this Vazzzz...
I think it’s cool when you find flowers in unexpected containers. A classy vase is always nice depending on the bouquet, but I love seeing flowers hanging on the wall in test tubes, or coming out of a skull head. I also like when flowers are mixed with things like fruit or vegetables. I love putting my flowers in unique vintage bottles and I prefer small little ones around the house. Depending on your choice of flowers will most likely determine the type of display you’ll want and it can be as simple or as robust as you’d like.
Flower Power
Your display will only be as powerful as the flowers you choose, whether it’s faux or real. My favorite types to use are peonies, lavender, dahlias, and hydrangeas. Even roses are good for painting interesting colors. Tulips in the springtime are always lovely because they bring so much color, they look great in kitchens. Try putting some little arrangements in the bathroom or on your nightstand. You’d be surprised at how much it’ll add to your decor and you can do it all year round!
Arrangements
If you are anything like me and your crafty gene was lost in your creation, don’t worry, we have plenty of local floral experts who can arrange some mighty fine displays for your home or events. Whether real, silk, or paper, these local petalmeisters have a real knack for arranging florals, some even have workshops and subscription services.
Local Flower Farms
Don’t forget how many wonderful farms are in and around RVA to buy your fresh flowers. Some even carry dried flowers for your displays.
For more floral DIY projects.
Time to Shine
With just an inkling of rising temperatures, it’s the time when we emerge from our cocoons and start giving the outside of our homes the attention it deserves…
I do believe we will be spending another Spring / Summer in limited social capacity. Yes, I too am over it. While some of you will take the chance to leap onto greener pastures through travel or masked frolicking, others will now start to plan their warmer weathered activities.
As I stare at the dead plants upon which I adorn my stoop and porch with, I can fairly say my gardening skills are less than stellar. Cutting grass for me is quite enjoyable as I see it taking the place of my wasted gym membership (which I’m still paying for by the way). We broke down and forked out a stimulus check to get a pool worth wading in while basking in the Summer heat. It got a little messy in our backyard to say the least. This year, I want to create an inviting, pest free space. A space that doesn’t denote the hint of unemployed and overfilled recycling bins, one that says, “Hello, welcome to our Summer bubble, won’t you come in and enjoy this lavender flavored iced tea.”
All that being romanticized, we have a large yard. Last year I broke down and got my own landscaper who mulches, weeds, and takes care of anything that will put us in the “trashy” category. I also recalled last year’s heavily booked schedules for landscapers, painters, gutter cleaners, powerwashers and roofers. So here’s your little reminder for all those wanting that luxurious looking curb appeal to get on the books now! Here are a few I’ve used who provide excellent service. I recommend one that provides a membership-like schedule.
Landscapers
Arborists
PowerWashers
Gutters
Handy Repairs
In addition to yard primping, Spring cleaning should be on the list as well. Think about how long you’ve been inside, living, working, playing in your home. Also, a great Mother’s Day gift *wink *wink. A good deep clean will refresh your home for the new season and what better way to eliminate any wandering virus potentials. These cleaners are Covid safe and will give your home that sun shiny clean it’s been waiting for!
In addition to yard primping, Spring cleaning should be on the list as well. Think about how long you’ve been inside, living, working, playing in your home. Also, a great Mother’s Day gift *wink *wink. A good deep clean will refresh your home for the new season and what better way to eliminate any wandering virus potentials. These cleaners are Covid safe and will give your home that sun shiny clean it’s been waiting for!
My Best Cleaners
Some other improvements/refreshes to make during this time:
Resealing/Painting of Decks
Painting the Front Door a New Color
Updating your Roof if Needed
Ordering Maintenance for Your HVAC Units
Buy your Above Ground Pool NOW
Get New Cushions for Your Outdoor Furniture
Paint your Fences
Call Me to Do a Walkthrough for Listing Your Home!
Let the beautification begin! For any all recommendations visit:
Quarantine Chronicles: Summer Rising
Summer is on the horizon and as sizzlin’ begins, we want our backyards to be on fire!
Welcome to Summer everyone! It’s definitely not the best intro into it and personally I am finding more peace at home despite the chaos on the outside. I mowed the lawn yesterday. I have quite a sizable treeless yard. I sat back on my small porch, looked out to my domain, and thought —now what? I have this outdoor space that is basically empty and since my pool is officially closed for Summer, what the hell am I gonna do to get my solar vitamin D?
Since most pools, including mine, are either going out of business or closed for the year, I am thinking real hard in investing in some sort of aqua relief. There’s also way too much green back here! So, maybe I’ll plant some vivid marigolds and zinnias. I also have a porch just dying for some pretty sun blocking drapes. It truly doesn’t have to take too much time or money to spruce up your backyard.
We are all trying to manage our money wisely at this time, but we also want to be able to enjoy the upcoming Summer months. It will also give you yet another project to work on whilst being homebound.
DIY DECKS/PATIOS
I don’t have a deck, but I’m seriously considering making this. It’s amazing what a little elevation can bring to a yard and even add resale value to it. It is also a perfect space to create something warm and relaxing.
Build This at Home Depot
I kind of love this. It’s simple, yet enticing.
Pallet Decks
Probably the most easily constructed and inexpensive instadeck!
Pea Gravel
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a nice clean space to lounge in. Pea gravel is inexpensive and virtually a simple install.
You can always buy inexpensive Stone Pavers for an easy install under $500.
OUTDOOR SEATING: TIRES
I’m amazed at how easy it is to utilize recycled tires. So many options! From planters to chairs to traditional tree swings, tires can create colorful and comfortable backyard options.
Whether I’m basking, sipping, or lounging, outdoor seating is a must for ultimate backyard hanging. Not only is it affordable to make, but they are easy to move around a yard, you can stack them for height, and you can make some pretty spectacular interchangeable cushions from chic to casual.
COLOR
Adding color to a backyard is easy. You’ll want to stay out there longer if you have some nice vibrant colors to enhance your outdoor time. Add a rug for some texture. Paint some planters. Paint some of your fence and/or pavers. Add a beautiful fabric to your pergola or canopy. You’ll be surprised at the effect.
Decorative Pillows
A very simple way to spruce up your patio furniture is to simply add some lively decorative pillows. World Market has some nice deals and patterns.
Stencilling Pavers
This is a very cool and refreshing idea. You can add stenciled patterns to otherwise ordinary pavers. You can find some very nice ones on Etsy.
Colorful Drapes
Colorful and patterned drapes/curtains on any pergola or porch will not only give you privacy and shade you from the sun, but will brighten your backyard for sure!
SCREENS
I love this idea for added privacy and shade. From recycled window shutters to pallets to organic bamboo, these screens will add that extra oomph to your rear end.
Cool and Modern
Add plants or paint for dramatic effect.
Recycled
This idea is fantastic. Find an architectural salvage yard and get you some old shutters. Bring them back to life with a little paint and voila!
Decorative
Choose decorative metal, wood, vinyl screens.
LIGHTS
Just because the sun goes down, doesn’t mean the outdoor hang is over. Lighting is just as important as any other outdoor decor. Check these cool ideas to lighten up the mood.
LightTape or LED Lighting
Have LightTape or LED lighting installed to light up deck and patio stairs, fences, and railings.
String Lights
I don’t think this trend will ever die. I love walking into a backyard and seeing it lit up by the soft glow of the strands across the yard or patio. Why put the umbrella down? Just add some small lanterns or string lights to it.
For more outdoor and summer yard ideas, visit my Pinterest page!
