A screened-in porch creates an extension of your indoor living area while providing the feeling of being outdoors. While you sit protected from pests and bugs, the gentle breeze can still pass through the fine screening to keep you comfortably enjoying the fresh air. To make a perfect enclosed indoor-outdoor living space of your own, check out these unique screened porch lighting, flooring, furniture and decor ideas to build one you’ll never want to leave.

Create the Perfect Setting

Aside from the obvious elements necessary for a functional design, like screening and seating, there are plenty of extras that can take your porch to the next level and have it feeling like a second living room. Here are a few additions that will quickly make your screened-in patio everyone’s favorite hangout spot:

• Fireplace: Bring the roar of a fire to your screen porch so you can enjoy it year round, not just during the warm summer months. Kids and adults alike will be thrilled to bundle up and watch the flames.
• Dining table: Create your own al fresco dining space without the nuisance of pesky bugs by adding a dining table and chairs. You won’t have to worry about keeping your food and drinks covered!
• Plants: Just because you’re technically inside doesn’t mean you can’t surround yourself with outdoor elements. Create your own forest, jungle or desert with plants galore — they will love the fresh air! If floor space is tight, try hanging baskets for a similar effect.
• TV: Take your entertainment “outdoors” by installing a TV. Since it will be in an enclosed area it should be protected from the weather, but it may be smart to invest in an outdoor-specific TV just in case
• Surround sound: Complement a TV and make movie night even more special with a surround sound system in your enclosed porch, or simply use it to pump your favorite tunes throughout the space.
• Window treatments: Make your screened-in patio feel more inviting with window treatments, like curtains or shades. Both can provide shade and/or privacy when you want it, as well as adding a touch of style.
• Swing: To experience ultimate relaxation, invest in a porch swing. If you aren’t able to hang anything from the ceiling, look for a gliding type; even a few rocking chairs will get the job done.
• Skylights: Depending on the direction your room is facing, it may not get as much light as you’d prefer. Installing skylights is one way to create a bright space without knocking down any walls.
• Hot tub: Get the benefits of a late night soak without having to run across the yard in your swimsuit. Put a hot tub right on your screened porch or deck to enjoy easy access to its soothing warmth.
• Ceiling fan: When the breeze just won’t cut it, a ceiling fan can provide the air flow you need. Keep your porch cool by circulating the air with an overhead fan that’s both stylish and functional.

Get the Right Screen for Your Enclosed Porch

The porch screen you choose can mean the difference of keeping bugs out or letting them sneak in, depending on the area you live in. The size of the screen, or mesh, you choose will determine what does, or doesn’t, get through. Common screen mesh used on porches is 18 x 14, meaning 14 openings in one direction and 18 openings in the other direction per square inch. 20 x 20 mesh is slightly tighter and keeps out smaller bugs, like those pesky no-see-ums. Here are the most common screening materials:

• Aluminum
• Brass
• Bronze
• Copper
• Fiberglass
• Stainless Steel
• Vinyl-coated polyester (also called pet screen)

Some screen mesh materials, like brass, are not suitable for coastal areas, while others, like aluminum, bronze and stainless steel are not affected by marine climates. Fiberglass and vinyl-coated polyester are both great for all climates, however fiberglass is easily torn and vinyl-coated polyester is rather strong, making it ideal for pets and kids. Choose mesh for your screened-in porch according to your budget, climate and functionality.