If you’re looking for simple screened in porch ideas, this small back porch might offer a bit of inspiration. The space is long and narrow, but with a few practical choices it became a comfortable place to sit, read, or enjoy a quiet cup of coffee. The goal was to keep everything easy and low maintenance so the porch could be enjoyed throughout the warmer months without a lot of upkeep.

These screened in porch ideas come from our Sutton Place home and remain some of my favorite ways to create a simple outdoor retreat. Even though the porch was small, it was one of the most peaceful spots in the house. Here’s how the space came together.

This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure statement.
Starting With A Clean Slate
When I began arranging this screened in porch, the only thing in the space was a white chest. It was truly a blank canvas. Instead of filling the porch with lots of furniture and accessories, I focused on keeping the design simple and functional.Sometimes the best screened in porch ideas start with a clean slate. Beginning with an open space makes it easier to see how everything fits together and allows the porch to evolve naturally.

Choosing Low-Maintenance Materials
One priority was choosing pieces that could easily handle outdoor conditions. Every item, from the rug to the furniture, was selected with durability in mind. The rug was made from polypropylene, which means it could be cleaned easily with a hose. The chairs were resin and aluminum, and the table was a sturdy metal that held up well in changing weather. If you’re collecting screened in porch ideas that will last from season to season, weather-friendly materials make all the difference.

Designing For A Narrow Space
Because the porch was long and narrow, arranging the furniture took a little thought. I created two simple areas: a small sitting space centered around the chest, and a dining area with a round table and bistro chairs. Adding a rug helped define the seating area and made the space feel more inviting. When looking for screened in porch ideas for a small or awkward layout, thinking in zones can make the entire porch feel more intentional and comfortable.

Keeping The Budget Simple
This porch came together by mixing a few new pieces with items I already had. The round table was the main investment, but the rest of the space was completed with practical choices and reused cushions and pillows. When considering screened in porch ideas on a budget, it often helps to invest in one or two sturdy pieces and build the rest of the space around them.

A Quiet Little Retreat
Even though this screened in porch was small, it became one of my favorite places to relax with a book or a quiet cup of coffee. A few simple pieces and a classic blue and white color palette made the space feel comfortable and welcoming. I hope these ideas have inspired you to create a space that fits your life and makes you happy. If you enjoy outdoor decorating ideas, you might also like these front porch decorating ideas or this guide to backyard patio design for creating simple spaces to enjoy at home.

Shopping Sources
set of white resin wicker chairs | navy gingham pillow covers (similar) | wicker chair cushions (similar) | bistro chairs (very similar) | fern wreath | round white bistro table | similar blue & white outdoor rug (choice 1) | similar blue & white outdoor rug (choice 2)





Your porch is beautiful!
I’m sure it’s your favorite place in the warmer months.
Can you tell me where you purchased the blue lamp shade or did it come with the lamp?
Thank you
Hi Carol…I actually covered that lampshade myself with leftover fabric. So I didn’t buy it. Thank you for your interest!
Thank you for the inspiration Ann, I have to do a porch makeover myself so this will help!
A beautiful space!! Love that you don’t “over-do” your spaces. I’ve always believed less is more. Enjoy your summer on the porch.
I am in love with the basket bee skep! I may have to go searching for one myself! Love your porch,
Ann, I just love that your are cost-conscious as well as thinking of easy maintenance. Your posts are always so useful for me. My parents had a screened-in porch and practically lived out there in the summers. Yours is just gorgeous.
Ann,
Your blue and white porch is classic. The maintenance free aspect caught my attention. Our back porch is open, not screened in, and everything gets dirty quickly.
I love all your blue and white home decor!
Judith
You are such a lovely person. You are so talented and I love all of your ideas! I just purchased a set of your Christmas tree pillows from Society 6 and I can’t wait to put them out on my front porch rockers for the Christmas season. And please keep those e-mails coming because It’s something I look forward to on my weekends.
Hello, I love On Sutton Place, you cover all the bases! I look forward to every e mail……..
Greetings from Vermont! new subscriber here. ..I’m decorating my front porch in blues and will study your blog till I get it right! LOL
Welcome Suzanne!